Exquisite Jewelry From Our Favorite Eco-Designers
Why It's Good:
Almost every piece is one-of-a-kind and handmade with care. Each designer masters a particular style that stands alone. One of these pieces is bound to sing out to you and suit the unique individual that you are.
Why It's Green:
These selected jewelers keep a footprint that's as small and delicate as their materials. Vintage watch faces, recycled gold, salvaged belt buckles, sustainable crystals wrapped in organic silk—every piece is constructed with care and waste-free integrity.
Where To Get It:
Click on the above collection names to purchase items.
Affordable Heirloom Jewelry
What makes someone decide to buy jewelry? My two-part theory: curiosity and regret. The aesthetic of these strong yet accessible pieces inspires curiosity—it feels like there's a story behind every one. And each is so artistically unique that you just may regret not hitting PayPal. There's something here for everyone; why not tell us about your favorite eco-chic jewelry designers in the comments box below?—Allison Reynolds
Jill Alberts:
Mysteries seem to be contained within this found vintage locket ($235; pictured in front of blue walnut, left), which hangs on a vintage gold-filled chain.
T8Designs:
Designer Samantha Tate is not short on invention. We were digging on many of her great recreations on her Etsy.com store, but we especially liked her "Steampunk Enchantress Necklace With Backwards Watch" ($66; pictured hanging on test-tube vase, left). We also couldn't resist her ingenious deco buckle necklace ($48; pictured behind blue walnut, left). Finally, the Locked in Green charm bracelet is better than any jewel bought after breakfast at Tiffany's($39; pictured hanging on left planter).
Toby Pomeroy:
A master goldsmith who works with recycled metals, Pomeroy used his trademark EcoGold to make this simple and elegant cuff. He says he does due diligence to ensure that the smattering of diamonds throughout were ethically mined (comes with a lifetime guarantee; pictured in front of feathers).
Jodi Busby Design:
This beautiful crystal pendant ($250, pictured in front) emanates a certain chic romanticism. Mined in Arkansas, the quartz is sustainable, the chain is vintage and the silk crocheted encasing the crystal is organic. To order, call (845) 679-5565.
Reverie:
Alison Woodward's designs draws sighs, I've seen it happen many times before in boutiques. Check out her pocket watch bracelet ($175; pictured in front of planter, right). Who knows whose watch this once was, perhaps an Eleanor Roosevelt-type from a bygone era.
Pyrrha:
Reminiscent of a coat-of-arms, these leopard crest ($211) and stag rings ($172; both pictured in front of pug dog, right) are cast from 19th century salvaged wax seals.
Origami Bijou:
An origami necklace shaped like a windmill symbolizes a return to good luck ($60; pictured hanging from right planter). Designer Cindy Ng wastes not a sliver of silver; she uses every last scrap.