As I get older and I feel more like my true self, my style has very much started reflecting that. And one thing I had been wanting to incorporate more is jewelry that sticks with the story that I’m trying to tell: Sustainability.
During my early 20s I had the most obnoxious taste in jewelry. Everything had to be over the top, and honestly the quality was sub par. My mom and I used to go spend hundreds of dollars in jewelry store in Downtown LA, because we wanted MORE. But now, focusing on my minimalist way of life, I want jewelry that I can use everyday.
I also think long gone are the days of super fancy jewelry for special occasions only. Personally now want to have jewelry that works for everyday life and that can work for the 2 special events I have during the year. I think it makes more sense that way.
And so with that in mind, I started looking for jewelry that served with this purpose. Also, I personally don’t mind gold plated jewelry as long as it is made right. What I do wanted to focus on, was on the sustainability aspect of the brand. And it was not only until last year that I started discovering brands that I fell in love with.
Here I showcase some of those brands and what makes them sustainable. I’m sure you will find at least one that you will fall in love with.
ANA LUISA
Ana Luisa is the first jewelry brand to go carbon neutral. They use 100% recycled 14k gold and Sterling Silver, and their diamonds are lab grown not mined.
Aside from this, all of their pieces work great together, but also don’t need to. You can basically create your very own jewelry capsule that will look amazing no matter what you pick. I have a pair of earrings, a ring and a bracelet and they all look amazing together, but also look great on their own.
Their simple style makes my heart so happy, and I love how the gold color is not super yellow, it really gives the pieces a great quality look. They look more expensive than they are.
As far as taking care of the pieces, there is really not much you need to do. You need to avoid contact with water and perfumes or sleeping with them on, which is not really an issue for me since I already do all these things.
You can check their collection of beautiful jewelry here.
MEJURI
They focus on quality of both their products and the conditions they are produced. They partner only with whoever aligns with their values, ensuring fair labor and safe working conditions. They are also working to prioritize materials that can be fully traced. They also work with family-run businesses.
They source their materials from different sources, some are recycled, some fair traded and traceable. Their diamonds are ethically and conflict free sourced.
I find some of their products very similar to Ana Luisa, but also carry some other that are a bit more “extra” and playful.
You can check their website here.
APSE
Apse has to have some of the most unique and freakingly cool pieces that I’ve ever seen. Their designs are so different and they way they use gemstones makes them look so cool and zero old fashioned.
But aside from that their message is so important. Apse means “all people’s shackles exchanged” and if that is not clear enough, they support organizations working to end human trafficking, sexual exploitation and other dehumanizing industries that impact the oppressed. Such an important issue that it is not addressed enough I think.
And not only they support such an important issue but also they focus on sustainability and waste. They make all of their pieces in Washington, and the make what they need so that there is no excess waste produced. They use mostly recycled materials sourced responsibly and most are most are mined or manufactured within the US.
What I really like also is that they will always repair your pieces for as long as you have them, and all returns and exchanges are recycled back into production or repaired and resold. How sustainably cool is that?
You can check more about their pieces here. I have eyed my next ring 😉 or two.
jewels & aces
Have you heard of a capsule wardrobe? Well, J & A came up with something similar but with earrings. You mix and match interchangeable studs, jackets and chains to create the perfect earring for every style. It is so fun right?!
Their pieces are made with recycled gold and sterling silver, and lab created gems. They also work with a facility that properly treats the water before it enters the water stream again. They also work directly with jewelers who share their values and craftsmanship.
Their designs are a treat, simple and elegant, but when mixed you can create the most stunning and unique pieces that really stand out. You have infinite possibilities with just a few pieces. I love that.
You can check more of their stunning pieces on their website here.
I honestly wanted to find more brands but in my research I found brands that weren’t really my style or where too expensive. As much as I love jewelry I also won’t pretend I have unlimited budget to buy a $200 huggie. That is not how it goes. So I will leave it here for now. What did you think?
