With the holiday season approaching, you’re probably looking for unique gifts for your friends and family members. One timeless gift that is always appreciated whether it’s the holiday season or in the middle of the summer, is beautiful jewelry; from statement pieces to subtle everyday items, you can’t go wrong when giving a piece of jewelry. I’ve compiled 7 Black jewelry brands to buy from this holiday season, so you don’t have to scour the internet to find that perfect gift. Enjoy!
Why Choose Black Jewelry Brands This Holiday Season?
As we’re well aware, throughout history, Black entrepreneurs have faced systemic racism and barriers as well as limited access to funds and resources to start their businesses. When we choose to invest in businesses like these Black-owned jewelry brands, we can create economic growth in our communities, help create jobs, and assist others with building wealth.
Mainstream brands tend to overlook or worse, misrepresent our cultural heritage. What better way to amplify the voices of the community; the ones who reflect our unique experiences, than to contribute to an inclusive and representative marketplace, where Black-owned businesses thrive?
Charleston SC Black Jewelry Brands To Buy From
Sisters Carlene and Cassandra Browner create stunning polymer clay art pieces by hand right in the lowcountry. This is one of two Charleston-based Black jewelry brands you’ll want to make sure is on your must-shop list this year. The sisters – one a teacher, the other a registered nurse – incorporate their different styles to create BR Design Co. From neutrals to light, vibrant colors, their clay pieces are versatile and easy to wear no matter your preference.
Geechee Originals is a one-stop shop utilizing beads, fabrics, and more, from Africa. Featuring not only jewelry, you’ll find sweetgrass baskets, as well as Gullah handbags and tote bags. From a Ghanian sea glass and brass statement necklace to hammered gold brass Fulani half hoop earrings, there’s something for everyone on your gift-giving list.
Jewelry Brands That Go Beyond Face Value
Jenni Kaufusi is the owner of Stella and Haas, a jewelry brand whose name has a significant meaning. Kaufusi, mother to her beautiful daughter Taylah, and her husband hoped to expand their family. However, due to fertility issues, have been unable to have any more children. Stella and Haas are the names she and her husband would have chosen for their future children. So, in essence, this jewelry business is like her baby. From charms, necklaces, bracelets, and ear huggies, Stella and Haas offers something for everyone.
Hayet Rida blends her love of sculpture with her eye for jewelry. Her company KHOI Jewelry is a blend of the two. Born in Ghana, Rida moved to the States to attend the College of Wooster in Ohio where she studied advertising. Later she launched KHOI which in her own words, she says of her jewelry, “each technique has a deeper meaning than just a material choice, and each product becomes art.” There is no question, her pieces are true wearable art.
Sasha V. Flynn is the designer behind Adore Adorn Jewelry, where she blends forgotten family stories and voices through her work. “I wanted to develop tangible products, keepsakes that can be passed down for generations to come,” Flynn explained. Her jewelry incorporates a made-to-order system that helps eliminate waste and is well worth a look. You’re sure to find something that speaks to you.
Experiences People and Places Reflected Through Jewelry
If you’re looking for meaningful and thought-provoking jewelry designs, Mahnal is one of those Black jewelry brands you’ll want to experience. It’s unique storytelling is evident throughout. For example, The Akirah Collection is all about resilience and new beginnings. Using the design of the Fibonacci sequence to relay the message. In Arabic, Akirah means, “what comes next,” so if you have someone to buy for on your gift list who is about to embark on something new, this is the collection for them.
Not only can you shop in this coastal cozy brick storefront in Essex, Massachusetts but the designs from We Dream in Colour are available for online purchase as well. This Black-owned jewelry brand was founded by Jade Gedeon. It focuses on sustainability and quality with minimal impact on the environment. Gedeon who was born in the US, and raised in Trinidad and Tobago, has lived all over the world. She now makes her home on the North Shore just outside of Boston.
Supporting Black-owned jewelry brands is more than just a shopping choice; it’s a powerful way to foster economic empowerment, celebrate cultural diversity, and promote social equity. Each purchase helps break down systemic barriers. By putting money back into the community, we can feel confident that we’re positively contributing to our futures.
