Semaki & Bird was conceived in a “eureka” moment on a cold November day in southeast Alaska. It was 1986 and I was working as a fisheries biologist. Semaki means fish in Swahili and my idea was to start a company which wholesaled fish and bird stationery, jewelry and artisan work. Along with my love for these two wonderful vertebrates, I had a lifelong interest in art and design. It seemed a natural fit. As the company grew, the lines expanded to additional flora and fauna. Ideas still spawn from numerous outdoor experiences. After designing the Track earring and Foot Note lines, it was nearly impossible to hike without looking at the ground for animal signs. Our Natural History jewelry line reflects this love of nature. An educational message about the species is on the back of the jewelry card. It is important to me that Semaki & Bird is an earth friendly company, using recycled materials whenever possible and supporting local and global environmental causes. We are a woman-owned and women run small business.