Up-and-Coming Actress Sofia Boutella on the Powers of Making Your Own Jewelry
Apparently it can even ward off bad guys.

Off set, Algerian actress Sofia Boutella makes jewelry meant to ward off bad guys—like her villainous character in this month's spy caper Kingsman: The Secret Service. Here, we chat with the 32-year-old actress about her therapeutic pastime.
On making jewelry: I started 10 years ago, at age 22. I wanted a choker and couldn't find one I liked, so I thought, I'll just make it.
On its cathartic effects: In Kingsman, I play a killing machine. I worked with an amazing stunt team who taught me boxing and Tae Kwon Do. I was way too busy to make jewelry. I work on it at home when I have the day off. The repetition gets you into a trance. It's therapeutic.
On where she shops supplies: In L.A., I go to generic bead stores like Bead Source, on Beverly. I've never bought real gold or real silver. I've never worked with diamonds. I would love to.
On her signature pieces: I make body chains that come from the neck, cross in the middle of your chest, then go around your waist. I mix them with feathers for a gypsy, bohemian style.
On gifting jewelry: When I give my jewelry as a present, I feel like I'm giving protection to someone I care about … I've given pieces to my mom, my aunts, my friends. I've even made bracelets for my dad and my uncle. They were like, "What?"
On why she'll never sell out: People started telling me, "Oh, my God, you should sell these." I said, "I'm not making a business out of this." It's very sentimental.
Stay In The Know
Get exclusive access to fashion and beauty trends, hot-off-the-press celebrity news, and more.
On the secret behind secondhand jewelry: When I was little, I went to the Sahara desert and met an older woman with beautiful earrings that came all the way down to her stomach. She told me, "For us Tuareg, jewelry is not meant for decoration. It absorbs negative energy that comes your way." So think twice when you buy a vintage ring!
This article appears in the February 2015 issue of Marie Claire, on newsstands now.
You should also check out:
Girl Spies Are Having a Moment, and It's Freaking Awesome
The Conversation Around Better Roles for Women in Hollywood Is Heating Up Big-Time
-
Queen Mary Forced to Cancel Engagements Due to Illness
"Her Majesty The Queen, like many others right now, has become ill."
By Amy Mackelden Published
-
Why Princess Kate and Prince William "May Need a Referee"
Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis could get caught in the middle, according to one royal expert.
By Amy Mackelden Published
-
Kate Middleton Pairs a Sleek Navy Coat With $100 Earrings
The Princess of Wales debuted the brand new pair of hoop earrings at the sporting event.
By Amy Mackelden Published
-
13 Hailey Bieber Outfit Formulas Defining Her Laidback Personal Style
Copy and paste to your closet.
By Lauren Tappan Published
-
How Juju Vera’s Shell Necklace Reeled in a Cult Fashion Following
The $500 statement piece has become an Internet status symbol in its own right.
By Emma Childs Published
-
8 Women Over 60 Share Their Age-Defying Fashion Wisdom
These eight style icons prove that age-appropriate fashion is a myth.
By Emma Childs Published
-
Margaret Qualley's Backless Chanel 2025 Oscars Dress Secretly Nods to 'The Substance'
The backward necklace is the cherry on top.
By Emma Childs Published
-
Embrace 2025’s Cherry Red Color Trend With These Delectable Accessories
Try the tart shade with accessories like glossy handbags and sweet slingbacks.
By Lauren Tappan Published
-
I’m Copying These Street Style Outfits I Spotted at New York Fashion Week
They're low-effort and high-impact.
By Lauren Tappan Published
-
Here’s What Marie Claire Editors Are Buying for Valentine's Day
From cherry red heels to sweet-smelling candles, we're oh-so in love with these products.
By The Editors Published
-
Dua Lipa's Rumored Engagement Ring From Callum Turner Is on Full Display in Her Latest Selfie
The singer gave fans a closer look at the huge diamond ring, which is allegedly worth $30,000.
By Amy Mackelden Published