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I used to joke that Coco Chanel’s advice to take one item of jewelry off before leaving the house would leave me sans any jewelry at all.
Though I enjoy a bit of eccentricity in my outfits, I have tended to pick out only one special jewelry item each morning to finish off my look. I don’t usually wear earrings and a necklace at the same time, for instance. And I avoid bangles and other statement pieces around my wrists.
But over the years, I’ve added a couple pieces that I never take off, including my engagement ring, a nose piercing and a simple gold-plated cross bracelet from Alex & Ani. By my high school self’s assessment, I’ve become a bit of a jewelry maximalist. But the key is keeping things simple, classic, and streamlined so that the everyday pieces accentuate rather than distract from what I value and how I live.
Without further ado, here are the…
5 Sustainable Jewelry Pieces I Wear (Almost) Every Day
1 | Nose Ring or Small Stud
By: Metal Lotus
Sustainable because: Artisan made in the USA with recycled and sustainable materials. Many items are made to order for added sustainability (less waste!).
Why I like it: There are tons of customization options, from metal type to gauge to backing style – you can even choose your nose ring circumference – which means you can get a comfortable piece that works best for you.
My Favorites: Tiny Gold Dot, Gold Nose Ring
DISCOUNT: Get 15% off with code, STYLE15
2 | A Classic Watch
By: Nordgreen
Sustainable because: Timeless designs made with materials sourced from countries with good labor laws, Nordgreen partners with 3 NGOs that contribute to clean water, kids’ education, and rainforest conservation.
Why I like it: The quality in person is exceptional, and the minimalist Danish design feels right on-trend without being trend driven. You can customize for the watch face design and size, metal, and band color, which means you’re getting a product you don’t have to settle for. Now I don’t have to incessantly check my phone to know what time it is!
My Favorites: 32mm Infinity, 36mm Philosopher (vegan bands available)
DISCOUNT: Get 15% off with code, LEAH15
3 | Button Earrings
Sustainable because: Made by fair trade artisans using brass from old bomb casings.
Why I like it: I have learned a lot about the value of listening to my intuition over the last year, so I like the symbolism of the guiding star, a reminder to trust the path before me.
My Favorites: Guiding Star Earrings, Other Bomb Casing Jewelry
4 | Gold-Plated Bracelet
By: Alex & Ani
Sustainable because: Made in Rhode Island, with many items produced using recycled metals.
Why I like it: I bought this bracelet right before I began my formal discernment process for ministry in the Episcopal Church. It serves as a reminder of my values of justice, grace, and inclusion.
My Favorites: Cross Pull Chain Bracelet, Spoon Ring
Button Earrings & Tiny Gold Dot Nose Piercing
5 | Engagement and Wedding Rings
By: N/A
Sustainable because: I’ll wear them for a VERY long time. I wasn’t thinking about ethical production way back in 2010 when Daniel and I got married, so I don’t beat myself up about this “unethical” purchase.
Why I like it: The subtle scroll design and flat band on the engagement ring makes it easy to wear everyday without worrying about it snagging on something.
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The Shallows: What The Internet is Doing to our Brains – I got mine from Thrift Books
