Norma Merrick Sklarek ~ The Architect ~

Often called the “Rosa Parks of architecture,” she was one of the first African American women architects in the U.S. After earning her B.Arch. from Columbia as the only Black student in her class, and became the first Black woman licensed in New York (1954) and California (1962).

Norma rose to major roles at Skidmore, Owings & Merrill and later Gruen Associates, helping deliver landmark projects like the Pacific Design Center, San Bernardino City Hall, the California Mart, Fox Plaza, and the U.S. Embassy in Tokyo. In 1980, she became the first African American woman elected to the AIA College of Fellows.

Norma later oversaw Terminal One at LAX and cofounded Siegel Sklarek Diamond, then the largest woman‑owned architectural firm in the country — making her the first African American woman to co‑own an architectural practice. She also contributed to major projects like the Mall of America.

A dedicated mentor and leader, Norma earned the AIA’s Whitney M. Young Jr. Award in 2008, and Howard University established a scholarship in her honor. Her legacy is one of brilliance, resilience, and groundbreaking achievement. SALUTE!!!

The Architect is a handcrafted piece of jewelry made with 10mm Black Labradorite and Sodalite .

The perfect piece to complement any outfit.