Every VANLELES Diamonds creation is an homage to the beauty of Africa. Vania Leles started the jewelry brand to showcase the gemstones and diamonds of her home continent. Each ethically sourced piece is inspired by African history and landscapes, with precious stones transformed into stunning jewelry like dangle earrings, pendant necklaces and cocktail rings.
Leles was born in Guinea-Bissau and later studied in Lisbon and London. Her work as a model took her to Paris and New York until she settled in London. In 2003, she had the idea for a jewelry brand while on a fine jewelry shoot. Someone on set told her that Africa was the origin of some of the world’s most precious and semi-precious stones. Yet when she did some research, she discovered that there was a lack of fine jewelry African designers working with these stones.
Leles decided to establish her own African and female-led jewelry house, but her mother urged her to slow down. “She suggested I get ten years of experience before launching my own company,” Leles told Introspective. Taking her advice, she quit modeling, earned a gemology degree from GIA London and was hired as a gemologist by Graff. She later worked at De Beers and Sotheby’s.
In 2011, Leles launched VANLELES Diamonds. She opened a store on New Bond Street in London, a major center of the international jewelry trade. She began small, taking commissions for engagement rings and tennis bracelets. In 2015, a loyal client became an investor, and Leles relocated to the prestigious Brook Street.
When designing, Leles told The Study, she envisions her pieces for “a dynamic and elegant woman who isn’t afraid to wear grand jewelry with the same ease while in jeans and a white shirt or in a gown.”
Since the beginning, Leles has maintained a strict policy of only sourcing diamonds from certified conflict-free suppliers. This includes stones from all over the African continent, including Mozambique, Zambia, Botswana and Namibia.
On 1stDibs, find VANLELES Diamonds earrings, necklaces, rings and more.
18 Karat Rose Gold, Amethyst, Purple and Pink Sapphires and Diamonds Earrings
By VANLELES DIAMONDS
Located in Mayfair, London, GB
Drawing from the narrative of the “Dewdrops of the Desert,” the Fleur de Sable collection comes to life. Found in arid landscapes, desert rose formations symbolise resilience, silent...
Diamond, White Diamond, Amethyst, Pink Sapphire, Purple Sapphire, 18k Go...
$37,848 / item
18 Karat White Gold, White Diamonds Stiletto Earrings
By VANLELES DIAMONDS
Located in Mayfair, London, GB
Inspired by the enchanted atmosphere of African forests, by the majestic Baobabs and the richly intricate Acacia trees. Expanding on VANLELES’ iconic Enchanted Garden Collection, Aca...
Diamond, White Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
$24,321 / item
18 Karat Yellow Gold and White Diamonds Earrings
By VANLELES DIAMONDS
Located in Mayfair, London, GB
Featuring motifs from North African empires, VANLELES’ Nile Collection, is a meticulously crafted homage to ancient Egypt's spiritual Nile River, featuring opulent designs that celeb...
Diamond, White Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
$83,759 / item
18 Karat Yellow Gold, Emeralds and Diamonds Earrings
By VANLELES DIAMONDS
Located in Mayfair, London, GB
Drawing from the narrative of the “Dewdrops of the Desert,” the Fleur de Sable collection comes to life. Found in arid landscapes, desert rose formations symbolise resilience, silent...
Diamond, White Diamond, Emerald, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
18 Karat White Gold, Diamonds, Pink Sapphire, Ruby and Tsavorite Earrings
By VANLELES DIAMONDS
Located in Mayfair, London, GB
Step into a world of delight and magic, where flowers burst into bloom in a spectacular display of colourful gemstones and floral splendour. Inspired by vibrant African print, this c...
Diamond, White Diamond, Ruby, Sapphire, Pink Sapphire, Tourmaline, Tsavo...
18 Karat Yellow Gold and Sapphires Mini Hoop Earrings
By VANLELES DIAMONDS
Located in Mayfair, London, GB
The Nile Collection is an elevated and elegant take on the exotic theme of ancient Egypt. The Nile, the longest river in the world also called the father of African rivers, served as...
Sapphire, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
18 Karat White Gold, Black Diamonds and White Diamonds Chandelier Earrings
By VANLELES DIAMONDS
Located in Mayfair, London, GB
Legends of Africa, Our iconic heritage collection. Vania celebrates the beauty and strength of her African homeland with intricate designs, infused with the intensity of the finest ...
Diamond, White Diamond, Black Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
18 Karat Yellow Gold, Emeralds and Diamonds Small Earrings
By VANLELES DIAMONDS
Located in Mayfair, London, GB
Drawing from the narrative of the “Dewdrops of the Desert,” the Fleur de Sable collection comes to life. Found in arid landscapes, desert rose formations symbolise resilience, silent...
Diamond, White Diamond, Emerald, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
$15,850 / item
18 Karat White Gold and White Diamonds Bow Earrings
By VANLELES DIAMONDS
Located in Mayfair, London, GB
Lyla’s Bow is the first collection designed by Vania Leles. Embodying the spirit of VANLELES’ design, this collection is feminine and timeless, which are a must have for jewellery lo...
Diamond, White Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
18 Karat White Gold and White Diamonds Earrings
By VANLELES DIAMONDS
Located in Mayfair, London, GB
The most exquisite diamonds and timeless designs created with superior craftsmanship. VANELELES Diamonds’ Bridal Collection offers an extensive selection of engagement rings, showcas...
Diamond, White Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
$20,495 / item
18 Karat White Gold and White Diamonds Ribbon Earrings
By VANLELES DIAMONDS
Located in Mayfair, London, GB
Lyla’s Bow is the first collection designed by Vania Leles. Embodying the spirit of VANLELES’ design, this collection is feminine and timeless, which are a must have for jewellery lo...
Diamond, White Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
$1,366 / item
18 Karat Yellow Gold Mini Hoop Earrings
By VANLELES DIAMONDS
Located in Mayfair, London, GB
The Nile Collection is an elevated and elegant take on the exotic theme of ancient Egypt. The Nile, the longest river in the world also called the father of African rivers, served as...
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
18 Karat Rose Gold, White Diamonds and Rubies Large Heart Shaped Earrings
By VANLELES DIAMONDS
Located in Mayfair, London, GB
O CORAÇÃO AFRICANO Collection Love, my African heart, is a passionate love letter to Africa. A place of great generosity, beauty and opulence and a nod to VANLELES Founder and Creat...
White Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, Rose Gold
$30,333 / item
18 Karat Yellow Gold and Diamonds Earrings
By VANLELES DIAMONDS
Located in Mayfair, London, GB
Drawing from the narrative of the “Dewdrops of the Desert,” the Fleur de Sable collection comes to life. Found in arid landscapes, desert rose formations symbolise resilience, silent...
Diamond, White Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
$46,047 / item
18 Karat Rose Gold and Diamonds Earrings
By VANLELES DIAMONDS
Located in Mayfair, London, GB
Drawing from the narrative of the “Dewdrops of the Desert,” the Fleur de Sable collection comes to life. Found in arid landscapes, desert rose formations symbolise resilience, silent...
Diamond, White Diamond, 18k Gold, Rose Gold
$16,806 / item
18 Karat Rose Gold and Diamonds Mini Earrings
By VANLELES DIAMONDS
Located in Mayfair, London, GB
Drawing from the narrative of the “Dewdrops of the Desert,” the Fleur de Sable collection comes to life. Found in arid landscapes, desert rose formations symbolise resilience, silent...
Diamond, White Diamond, 18k Gold, Rose Gold
$97,012 / item
18 Karat White Gold, Yellow Gold and Diamonds Earrings
By VANLELES DIAMONDS
Located in Mayfair, London, GB
Drawing from the narrative of the “Dewdrops of the Desert,” the Fleur de Sable collection comes to life. Found in arid landscapes, desert rose formations symbolise resilience, silent...
Diamond, White Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, White Gold
18 Karat White Gold and White Diamonds Butterfly Earrings
By VANLELES DIAMONDS
Located in Mayfair, London, GB
Stud Earrings crafted in 18K White Gold Round Brilliant Diamonds GVS + = 2.00 carats Earring size = 27 x 21 mm Made in Italy
Diamond, White Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
18 Karat White Gold, White Diamonds and Yellow Sapphire Chandelier Earrings
By VANLELES DIAMONDS
Located in Mayfair, London, GB
Legends of Africa, Our iconic heritage collection. Vania celebrates the beauty and strength of her African homeland with intricate designs, infused with the intensity of the finest ...
Diamond, White Diamond, Sapphire, Yellow Sapphire, 18k Gold, White Gold
$28,147 / item
18 Karat Yellow Gold and Diamonds Tassel Earrings
By VANLELES DIAMONDS
Located in Mayfair, London, GB
Drawing from the narrative of the “Dewdrops of the Desert,” the Fleur de Sable collection comes to life. Found in arid landscapes, desert rose formations symbolise resilience, silent...
Diamond, White Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
18 Karat White Gold and White Diamonds Large Heart Shaped Earrings
By VANLELES DIAMONDS
Located in Mayfair, London, GB
O CORAÇÃO AFRICANO Collection Love, my African heart, is a passionate love letter to Africa. A place of great generosity, beauty and opulence and a nod to VANLELES Founder and Creat...
Diamond, White Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
18 Karat Yellow Gold, White Diamonds and Emeralds Wing Earrings
By VANLELES DIAMONDS
Located in Mayfair, London, GB
A gold-rich collection that pays homage to the tidal sands of West Africa, the sand dunes of Mali, and the famous pilgrimage undertaken by Mansa Musa of the Mali Empire to Mecca . E...
Diamond, White Diamond, Emerald, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
18 Karat White Gold and White Diamonds Single Earring
By VANLELES DIAMONDS
Located in Mayfair, London, GB
The most exquisite diamonds and timeless designs created with superior craftsmanship. VANELELES Diamonds’ Bridal Collection offers an extensive selection of engagement rings, showcas...
Diamond, White Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
18 Karat Rose Gold, Diamonds, Amethyst and Turquoise Mini Earrings
By VANLELES DIAMONDS
Located in Mayfair, London, GB
Drawing from the narrative of the “Dewdrops of the Desert,” the Fleur de Sable collection comes to life. Found in arid landscapes, desert rose formations symbolise resilience, silent...
Diamond, White Diamond, Amethyst, Turquoise, 18k Gold, Rose Gold
18 Karat White Gold, Yellow Gold and Diamonds Small Earrings
By VANLELES DIAMONDS
Located in Mayfair, London, GB
Drawing from the narrative of the “Dewdrops of the Desert,” the Fleur de Sable collection comes to life. Found in arid landscapes, desert rose formations symbolise resilience, silent...
Diamond, White Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
B. Kieselstein-Cord 18 Karat Yellow Gold Diamond Ridge Earrings
By KIESELSTEIN-CORD
Located in Philadelphia, PA
B. Kieselstein-Cord's diamond and gold ridge earrings are a mix of diamonds and gold that effortlessly combine sophistication with a touch of edgy allur...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
$5,827
W 0.67 in L 1.82 in
Antique Victorian Amethyst Earrings with Natural Pearls, 14 Karat Rose Gold
Located in Berlin, DE
Antique Victorian Amethyst Earrings with natural Pearls. 14 Karat Rose Gold. We also offer the suitable enhancer/ pendant. Take a ...
Amethyst, Natural Pearl, 14k Gold, Rose Gold
18k Gold Sapphire and Diamond Earrings
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
Impressive ribbon wedged heirloom 18k gold clip-ons featuring a sparkling cluster of Montana sapphires enhanced by several diamonds. Additional ribbon wedges of textured gold form th...
Diamond, Sapphire, 18k Gold
$6,860Sale Price|20% Off
Pink Sapphire and Diamond Dangle Earrings
Located in Beverly Hills, CA
Gorgeous pair of hanging pink sapphire and diamond drop earrings. The greatest part is how perfectly the pink sapphires graduate in color from deep pink to light pink. The center sec...
Diamond, White Diamond, Sapphire, Pink Sapphire, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
$32,320
W 1.15 in D 0.24 in L 2.07 in
Yellow Diamond, Onyx & White Diamond Earrings, 18K Gold, Austy Lee
By Austy Lee
Located in Hong Kong, HK
The Dance of Five Emperors Earrings from 'The Garden of Myth Collection' by Austy Lee. This dazzling pair of earrings is feature with Natural Yellow Diamonds, Onxy and White Diamond...
Onyx, Yellow Diamond, White Diamond, 18k Gold, Rhodium, Yellow Gold
$3,980
H 2.2 in L 2.2 in
Georgios Collections 18 Karat Yellow Gold Ruby Sapphire Emerald Long Earrings
By Georgios Collections Inc
Located in Astoria, NY
S.Georgios designer Earrings 18 Karat yellow gold all handmade and microscopically decorated with granulation workmanship and a unique velvet finish on the background. This stunning ...
Emerald, Ruby, Sapphire, Blue Sapphire, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Delightful 18K Rose Gold Earrings with Amethysts
By Pradera Irama
Located in Neguri, Vizcaya
18K Rose Gold Earrings with Amethysts Rose Gold 18Kt 10 Amethysts 16.2ct Weight 6.03gr. ALSO AVAILABLE Rose Gold 18Kt 6 Diamonds 0.39ct. 2 Smo...
Diamond, Sapphire, Amethyst, 18k Gold, Rose Gold
18 Karat Yellow Gold 0.50 Cttw Diamond "Mini "Huggy Hoop Earrings
By Campanelli & Pear
Located in Troy, MI
Beautiful split prong diamond earrings you can wear every day! Made from fine 18 karat yellow gold, these huggy earrings boast 0.50 Cttw. of VS clarity, G-H color diamonds. Being hug...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
$7,275Sale Price|25% Off
Burma Ruby and Diamond Earrings Studded in 18 Karat Rose & White Gold
By GEM PLAZA
Located in New York, NY
Magnificent Burma Ruby and Diamond Earrings Studded in 18 Karat Rose & White Gold These are an exclusive earrings with ruby & diamonds features 28 pieces of rubies weight 8.47 carat...
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, Rose Gold, White Gold
$7,576
W 0.79 in L 2.37 in
Pair of Ladies Diamond and Emerald Chandelier Earrings, 18 Karat White Gold
Located in Berlin, DE
Pair of Ladies Diamond and Emerald Chandelier Earrings, 18 Karat White Gold Set with 182 diamonds, total weight 1.86 ct. (VS, H...
Diamond, White Diamond, Emerald, 18k Gold, White Gold
10.7 Total Carat 18K Yellow Gold Diamond & Colombian Emerald Earrings
By SEAWAVEDIAMONDS
Located in New York, NY
10.7 Total Carat 18K Yellow Gold Diamond & Cabochon Cut Colombian Emerald Earrings SPECIFICATIONS: -Main Stones: Cabochon Cut Colombian Green Emerald 7.50ct -Side Stones: 3.2 Carat ...
Diamond, Emerald, Yellow Gold
14 Karat Yellow Gold 1.90 Carat Diamond Oval Hoop Earrings
Located in Great neck, NY
These Classic and Elegant Diamond Oval Hoop Earrings will frame your face beautifully! Crafted of 14K Yellow Gold these earrings feature approximately 1.91 cts of Natural Round Diamo...
Diamond, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
18 Karat Yellow Gold, White Diamonds, Turquoise and Sapphires Earrings
By VANLELES DIAMONDS
Located in Mayfair, London, GB
Featuring motifs from North African empires, VANLELES’ Nile Collection, is a meticulously crafted homage to ancient Egypt's spiritual Nile River, featuring opulent designs that celeb...
Diamond, White Diamond, Sapphire, Turquoise, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
18 Karat Rose Gold, White Diamonds, Rubies and Rubellite Earclips
By VANLELES DIAMONDS
Located in Mayfair, London, GB
Inspired by the enchanted atmosphere of African forests, by the majestic Baobabs and the richly intricate Acacia trees. Expanding on VANLELES’ iconic Enchanted Garden Collection, Aca...
Diamond, White Diamond, Rubelite, Ruby, 18k Gold, Rose Gold
18 Karat Yellow Gold and Tsavorites Earclips
By VANLELES DIAMONDS
Located in Mayfair, London, GB
Inspired by the enchanted atmosphere of African forests, by the majestic Baobabs and the richly intricate Acacia trees. Expanding on VANLELES’ iconic Enchanted Garden Collection, Aca...
Tsavorite, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
18 Karat Yellow Gold and White Diamonds Large Hoop Earrings
By VANLELES DIAMONDS
Located in Mayfair, London, GB
The Nile Collection is an elevated and elegant take on the exotic theme of ancient Egypt. The Nile, the longest river in the world also called the father of African rivers, served as...
Diamond, White Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
18 Karat Rose Gold and Diamonds Mini Earrings
By VANLELES DIAMONDS
Located in Mayfair, London, GB
Drawing from the narrative of the “Dewdrops of the Desert,” the Fleur de Sable collection comes to life. Found in arid landscapes, desert rose formations symbolise resilience, silent...
Diamond, White Diamond, 18k Gold, Rose Gold
18 Karat Yellow Gold and White Diamonds Fringe Earrings
By VANLELES DIAMONDS
Located in Mayfair, London, GB
The Nile Collection is an elevated and elegant take on the exotic theme of ancient Egypt. The Nile, the longest river in the world also called the father of African rivers, served as...
Diamond, White Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
18 Karat Rose Gold, White Diamonds and Coral Hoop Earrings
By VANLELES DIAMONDS
Located in Mayfair, London, GB
New additions to our iconic Nile collection. This new edition features bold shapes and chunky volumes, adorned with our unique Nile arabesque motif. Hoop Earrings crafted in 18K Ros...
Coral, Diamond, White Diamond, 18k Gold, Rose Gold
18 Karat White Gold and White Diamonds Earrings
By VANLELES DIAMONDS
Located in Mayfair, London, GB
The most exquisite diamonds and timeless designs created with superior craftsmanship. VANELELES Diamonds’ Bridal Collection offers an extensive selection of engagement rings, showcasing a variety of stone shapes and settings for a truly one of a kind expression of commitment. Eternity rings are designed to flawlessly complement engagement rings to complete a magnificent bridal jewellery set...
Diamond, White Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
18 Karat White Gold and White Diamonds Chandelier Earrings
By VANLELES DIAMONDS
Located in Mayfair, London, GB
Legends of Africa Our iconic heritage collection. Vania celebrates the beauty and strength of her African homeland with intricate designs, infused with the intensity of the finest ...
Diamond, White Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
18 Karat White Gold, Yellow Gold and Diamonds Mini Earrings
By VANLELES DIAMONDS
Located in Mayfair, London, GB
Drawing from the narrative of the “Dewdrops of the Desert,” the Fleur de Sable collection comes to life. Found in arid landscapes, desert rose formations symbolise resilience, silent...
Diamond, White Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, White Gold
18 Karat Yellow Gold and Diamonds Mini Earrings
By VANLELES DIAMONDS
Located in Mayfair, London, GB
PLEASE NOTE THIS PIECE IS MADE TO ORDER. LEAD PRODUCTION TIME 4-5 WEEKS Drawing from the narrative of the “Dewdrops of the Desert,” the Fleur de Sable collection comes to life. Foun...
Diamond, White Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
18 Karat Yellow Gold and Diamonds Earrings
By VANLELES DIAMONDS
Located in Mayfair, London, GB
Drawing from the narrative of the “Dewdrops of the Desert,” the Fleur de Sable collection comes to life. Found in arid landscapes, desert rose formations symbolise resilience, silent...
Diamond, White Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold