Let’s talk jewelry today, shall we? A self-proclaimed tomboy, I never used to be one for sparkly things or wearing accessories. But once I had The Man in my sights, he helped me to realize my more feminine side was screaming to be let out! And 5 years into marriage, when we had our first girl after 2 boys, the real me started to emerge even more! Daughter #2 in 2012 sealed the deal – I am an accessory addict!
There are a lot of great jewelry companies out there that provide some beautiful pieces – some at low prices (Hellooooo Dollar store!), others at high prices with a higher standard of quality (such as Stella & Dot). Many of us can’t afford to buy jewelry of any kind, or we may see it as a frivolous expense. Definitely, it is a personal opinion matter, and if your boite a bijoux (that’s French for jewelry box, IF Google translate is correct :D) consists of nothing more than an earring or two and a string of beads, then that’s just fine!
While The Man and I were on our anniversary cruise, there was a jewelry shop set up in the “shopping centre”. I pretty well ignored them the whole trip, until the 3rd last day where they put all their sets on a huge discount! Stepping inside I started browsing through them and putting aside interesting looking pieces. The sets were $20 for a necklace, bracelet and earrings, all matching. Pretty good deal, and APPARENTLY they were sold for $99 before that! However, upon closer examination, I realized that these were cheap, shoddy, and really quite ghastly pieces. Not something that was worth $20, let alone $99. This disappointing jewelry encounter led me on a search for better quality, better priced pieces, which then landed me here – smack dab in the middle of becoming a #fairtradefashionisata.
If you could buy jewelry that was stylish, made of good quality, at good prices and buy less, but more classic pieces while supporting global artisans and communities, would you?
Well, I’m here to tell you, you have options! MANY, many options. Too many to list even in one post (so I’m counting on y’all to help me out in the comments :D). Here are some of my favourites in the realm of Fair Trade Jewelry.
The Sparrow Project
Raising awareness for orphans around the world.
Funky Fish Designs
Supporting work with orphans in Zeway, Ethiopia, and Project Hopeful (a volunteer-led ministry that supports HIV+ widows and orphans), as well as Women of Destiny, Ugandan artisans who make the jewelry.
PuraVida
PuraVida provides jobs for local artisans in Costa Rica and gives back to charitable organizations. They also have lots of other accessories available. (Want a PuraVida discount? Use code MIRECKI10 for 10% off, any time!)
Mercy House Kenya
Items sold in the store benefit Mercy House Kenya, an organization that exists to raise funds to provide alternative options for pregnant girls living in the streets of Kenya. The Mercy House will aid them in education, nutrition, housing, prenatal care, Bible study, counseling and job skills for sustainable living.
The Root Collective
You already know I love The Root Collective for the work they’re doing in slums and ghettos, fighting gang violence and poverty, while employing local artisans and giving back to organizations!
Dignify
I introduced you to Dignify and their beautiful Kantha blankets earlier, but the artisans also make gorgeous jewelry!
Beautiful & Beloved
Beautiful & Beloved is a crazy sweet boutique offering not just jewelry, but other accessories and apparel as well! They partner with organizations and artisans all over the world to bring you unique, hand-crafted items in one place, and an opportunity to change the lives of those freed from slavery.
Global Mothers
I love what Global Mothers has to offer and the work they do with women and communities in the Global South. Word has it they have some amazing changes on the horizon, so keep your ear(rings!) to the ground!
Noonday Collection
Noonday Collection is a team of ambassadors for economic opportunity for the vulnerable, empowering them to create sustainable businesses in the developing world.
Johari Creations
Johari Creations is a marketplace for handcrafted items (and not just jewelry!) from artisans all over the world. They believe in coming alongside the artisans and artisan partners to work for fair wages, safe environments, shared work and responsibility. A percentage of all Johari Creation sales is given towards adoption, community based orphan care and/or clean water.
Work of Worth
Work of Worth employs men and women all over the world to give them a hope and a future, as well as the confidence and ability to pour into their families and communities. Check out other great pieces in my special Curated Collection with WoW.
Subsidy Shades
Though not technically jewelry, I couldn’t pass up mentioning one of my favourite accessories! A purchase from Subsidy Shades provides as family with help in the overwhelming cost of adoption.
Now I need your help! Where do you shop for ethical, fair trade jewelry?
