Eco-Friendly Jewelry

Gem stones and metals are materials mined from the earth. There is a movement among designers and manufacturers to produce jewels using materials that minimize (or eliminate) harm to the earth’s natural resources. What I love is how several artists can approach the same dilemma and produce very different out comes.

I was introduced to the jewelry of Lauren Bergman of Aroc Urtu through Twitter. Lauren’s design resume is very impressive including some of the world’s biggest jewelry houses, but she has returned to her childhood love of rocks with her own collections. The jewelry of Aroc Urtu focuses mainly around found beach and river rocks, which are then set with small faceted diamonds or colored stones. The combination of naturally finished and machine finished stones is wonderful, and earth-friendly.

Other jewelers, such as Melissa Joy Manning, have taken environmental issues head-on. Starting with a Green Certified Workplace, which includes not only limiting any waste in production but also office recycling, energy and water conservation. Melissa explained her commitment to environmental protection in an interview with the Jewelry Brief in November 2010. Her designs have a distinctly organic and wearable appeal.

Monique Pean, designs fine jewelry inspired by global issues. The material in her designs is all sustainable and conflict free. This includes the gold, which is 100% recycled. A portion of the profits from several collections go directly to charity including clean water initiatives and the Native Arts of Alaska. Monique’s designs are bold and unique. She has fans from the White House to my house.

Jewelry Trends 2011

Colors are popping for 2011. Vogue magazine declared an end to “dark days” with their Spring 2011 Fashion Review. Yellow gold and colored, semi-precious stones are gracing outfits from the pages of Town and Country to Lincoln Road in Miami Beach.

Over sized, signature jewelry is still trending. A single large accent piece is the best compliment to any outfit; and can be worn along with your everyday jewelry. Cuffs, bangles, long chandelier earrings and cocktail rings are everywhere.

New for 2011 are multiple chains, both necklaces and bracelets, worn together as an alternative to one large piece. The style is very versatile using combinations of various link chains, some with colored stones or by giving new life to our favorite diamonds-by-the-yard necklaces. This necklace by Ippolita can be worn long, doubled or paired with other neck chains from your jewelry box for a fun, fresh look!