6 Black & Brown-Owned Ethical Jewelry Shops
Celebrating shops created by women of color. Etsy has opened up the doors for artisans and creatives to showcase their products without having to own storefronts. And the level of talent across the platform is wonderful to see. Today we are highlighting the jewelry shops that cater to women from different cultural backgrounds and life.
Each shop prides itself on making ethically sourced materials and metals to create their jewelry. It is impossible to talk about all of them but the hope is that by talking about these specific sights, not only will you add more jewelry to your collection but support a group of women proud of their cultures.
Here are the 6 Black & Brown owned ethical jewelry shops:
1. Omi Woods
Omi Woods was highlighted in an Artist of the Week column on Etsy's webpage detailing the back story on how the shop was created and the motivation behind creating jewelry showcasing the artist's cultural background. Not only is the jewelry itself breathtaking but the wonderful quality of the pictures taken of the products amplifies the shop even more. Everything is handmade with ethically sourced fine material and African gold.
Omi Woods was created by Ashley Alexis McFarlene as a homage to her African heritage and other countries from the African diaspora. The company initially was started as a tribute to the founder's Grandmother who left behind heirloom pieces to be passed down to the women in the family. And thus gave McFarlene the idea to create handmade a collection of heritage pieces so women all across the globe could pass down these jewels to their own family members.
The shop caught my eye as the jewelry is exquisite, the details in the coin necklaces which are personal favorites of mine are unparalleled. The shop offers necklaces, earrings, pendants, and even hair jewelry as well.
2. LenoreLenoreStudio
Radiant. Unique. Bold.
Is the tagline for LenoreLenoreStudio's beautiful handwoven jewelry. The jewelry pieces are all exquisitely beautiful and the details of each one are well documented. The owner Diana Corredin, got inspiration from her Columbian heritage and wanted to display those traits in her jewelry line. The woven jewelry is made from Japanese glass beads and is so intricate it could take a few weeks to complete each pair.
What caught my eye about this particular shop is the colors of each one. You can tell the artist appreciates where she comes from with her usage of color and pattern within the beads.
3. Aisforavery
Aisforavery is the absolute cutest shop! The shop has everything for women's different tastes like the minimal aesthetic look and a bolder look for those who want to change their style up. The "Ear Art" as the creator Avery calls them, is made from polymer clay which makes them incredibly light and makes no sounds.
4. Maisolorzano
Contemporary jewelry shop that makes their products from recycled composites. The more natural the better! Mai Solorzano, the artist behind Maisolorzano, is inspired by nature around her and used those details to craft the jewelry seen below. Using reused materials and keeping with an ethical production model, she keeps things natural but eye-catching. The jewelry is beautiful and nothing like you've ever seen before. Solorzano's Mexican heritage plus her travels around Europe and South America helped create the intricate jewelry that is displayed in her shop.
5. LinguaNigra
Love of nature and metal. Ethereal.
Just a few words to describe the shop LinguaNigra created in 2003 by artisan Alicia Goodwin. The pieces were created with elements of nature entwined into the design. Goodwin uses specific techniques such as acid etching and metal reticulation to creature texture which can vary depending on the time and details. Romantic and ethereal, the jewelry ranges from earrings, necklaces, and pendants.
Opinions and Perspectives
Started following all these shops on social media. Their process videos are fascinating
It's refreshing to see jewelry that celebrates different cultural backgrounds
These pieces are perfect for people who want jewelry with meaning and history
It's amazing to see how Etsy has enabled these artists to reach global audiences
The cultural elements make these pieces so much more meaningful than regular jewelry
Love how each piece feels one of a kind, even in the same collection
The prices reflect the time and skill that goes into each piece. True artistry isn't cheap
These artists are really redefining what ethical jewelry can look like
Been wearing my Omi Woods necklace for months now. The quality is outstanding
The way they blend traditional techniques with modern aesthetics is so skillful
I'm impressed by how they maintain quality while using sustainable materials
The color combinations in LenoreLenoreStudio's work are absolutely brilliant
Anyone else fascinated by how LinguaNigra creates those textures? The process must be intense
The recycled materials in Maisolorzano's pieces don't compromise the luxury feel at all
I love seeing these artists get recognition. Their work deserves more attention
Just ordered from Aisforavery. Their customer service is amazing and they included a sweet personal note
The Fula Earrings are gorgeous! Anyone know the significance behind the design?
These pieces might be pricey but they're investment pieces that will last generations
I appreciate how each artist brings their heritage into their work while keeping designs contemporary
LinguaNigra's beetle earrings are so unique! Not something you'd find in regular jewelry stores
The photography of these pieces is stunning. Really helps showcase the intricate details
I can't get over how lightweight the polymer clay earrings are. Perfect for sensitive ears
The level of detail in these pieces is remarkable. You can really see the cultural influences in each design
Yes, they do! I ordered to Europe and the shipping was quite reasonable
The Egyptian Coin Necklace Stack is incredible! Anyone know if they ship internationally?
I love that they're all ethically sourced, but I wish there were more affordable options for younger buyers
These artisans really prove you don't need a physical storefront to create a successful jewelry business
Maisolorzano's nature-inspired pieces speak to me. The Seed Dangle Bracelet is now on my wishlist
The blend of cultural heritage with modern design in these collections is simply masterful
I've had mine for over a year and they're holding up great! Just need to be careful not to drop them on hard surfaces
My concern is with the durability of polymer clay earrings. Has anyone worn them long-term?
The story behind Omi Woods really touched me. Creating heirloom pieces that can be passed down through generations is beautiful
I actually prefer supporting small businesses like these over big jewelry chains. The personal touch makes each piece special
The Japanese glass beads in LenoreLenoreStudio's work create such vibrant pieces. I can see why they take weeks to complete
These artisans are really breaking the mold in jewelry design. It's refreshing to see such unique perspectives
I have their Canyon Bangle. The texture is amazing and each piece turns out slightly different due to the etching process
Anyone tried LinguaNigra's pieces? I'm curious about the acid etching technique they use
The Ethiopian Hair Combs from Omi Woods are absolutely gorgeous. I love how they blend functionality with cultural artistry
The prices reflect fair labor and quality materials. I'd rather invest in one meaningful piece than buy ten mass-produced items
While I appreciate the ethical sourcing, I find some of these prices a bit steep for my budget
What impresses me most is how Mai Solorzano incorporates recycled materials. We need more sustainable approaches in jewelry making
I'm particularly drawn to Aisforavery's minimal aesthetic. The polymer clay earrings look so light and comfortable to wear
Yes! I actually purchased a pair of their beaded earrings. They mentioned it takes 2-3 weeks to complete each piece due to the intricate patterns
The craftsmanship in LenoreLenoreStudio's beadwork is incredible. Anyone know how long it typically takes to make one piece?
I absolutely love how Omi Woods pays tribute to African heritage through their jewelry. Those coin necklaces are stunning!