More and more women are now looking to where their jewelry comes from and if there’s more to it than just looking good.Whether you need a sophisticated look for the office or prefer a bohemian beach babe look, there are some fabulous really cool brands out there just for you.
2.00ct Emerald Cut Pink Quartz
There is now a wide variety of eco-friendly jewelry out there as well as crystal jewelry which can eliminate your stress, anxiety, and negative energy, and there’s something for all tastes. For example, the above ring by Alexander Sparks is rose quartz- a stone has been used in love rituals and ceremonies for centuries, and remains the stone of the hopeless romantic. It’s my favorite crystal and has perfect symbolism for an engagement ring, don’t you think?
Lovebullets recycles by using old artillery and bullet casings to create their jewelry including art pieces, necklaces, and rings – how cool is that? They launched at Glastonbury Festival in 2008 and created a considerable brand buzz when they converted an old army tank into an amazing DJ booth, they have returned to the festival every year since.
If you’re a fan of delicate and feminine jewelry then have a look at Melissa Joy Manning who’s pieces are crafted from recycled gold. Or take a look at Ana Katarina who creates modernized jewelry from her clients’ inherited pieces, as well as making classic fine jewelry using only sustainably sourced diamonds and gems, recycled gold and petrified walrus tusk to do so. Get your everyday jewelry suitable to wear to work from Ecolustre who offer a range of jewelry that is eco-friendly and affordable; they offer lovely pieces which are not too ‘bling’ or glam.
If you are a vintage lover, check out jewelry designer Anne Bowes who recycles vintage treasures and adds semi-precious materials to modernize the pieces, while still retaining their vintage feel.
A fan of A Beautiful Story? Well, this brand only has their jewelry made in countries where the communities are facing economic hardships. The company, aptly named ‘A Beautiful Story‘ employs and trains the unemployed in the community and teaches them to hand make their jewelry. The company then rewards its recruits with a fair wage. Not only does the brand help communities, but they also use recycled materials in their jewelry, to help the environment too.
Similarly, Made Jewellery use only reclaimed metals and locally sourced materials from near their workshop in Kibera, a slum in Nairobi, Africa. They get their materials from locals and pay them a fair price ensuring that they are helping Kibera’s local economy and strengthening small businesses, helping them to thrive.
If you’re a sporty girl, you’ll want your jewelry to be hard wearing and waterproof. Check out Paguro which makes all their designs from recycled inner tubes, resulting in bold, laser-cut cuffs and earrings that last through any activity imaginable and don’t cost a fortune.
And finally, for those Latin lovers, Fernando Jorge uses locally and ethically sourced gemstones and minerals to create pieces that are ingrained with Brazilian sensuality, energy, and movement.