Hawaii Designer Spotlight: Jason Dow

Sometimes a tiny spark is all it takes to kindle a fresh design idea. In the case of fine jeweler JASON DOW, it was a lantern that provided the flash of genius for his latest collection, released this spring. Prakasa, which means light, or light of consciousness, in Hindi, is the local designer’s newest release. Taking inspiration from the exotic hanging lanterns of China and Morocco, it features solid 18K gold pieces handset with diamonds, pearls and moonstones.

In the mix are a handful of daintier styles, including a subtle-yet-stunning double lariat necklace and a pair of delicate drop earrings. And then there are the showstoppers, heftier pendant necklaces that wow from every angle. The Prakasa Hinged Pendant splits the lantern silhouette into moveable, diamond-trimmed sections that discreetly open and close to reveal smooth and complex cut-out side panels, while the fluid lines of the Prakasa Pearl Pendant perfectly set the stage for the drama of the 11mm Tahitian black pearl that they frame.

All of Dow’s pieces are crafted from start to finish in his Kaimuki studio, a source of pride for the G.I.A. graduate who launched his line in 2008. And, they all reflect Dow’s award winning signature style—clean and modern, yet intricately detailed, with an elegant play between positive and negative space.

View the full Jason Dow Jewelry collection at jasondow.com. Select styles available on Oahu at Hildgund Jewelers, Kahala Hotel and Resort, 808-737-8663, and JW Marriott Ihilani Resort and Spa, 808-679-0222.

Left to right: Prakasa Hinged Pendant in 18K gold with .80ct diamonds and royal blue moonstone, $11,500. Prakasa Duet Necklace in 18K gold with .96ct diamonds, $6,800. Prakasa Pearl Pendant in 18K gold with 1.06ct champagne diamonds and a 11mm Tahitian black pearl, $10,400.

Photos: David Croxford and Odeelo Dayondon