In the wake of George Floyd’s murder at the hands of the Minneapolis police and the subsequent rise of anti-racism protests worldwide, we’re collectively looking for ways to consistently pull up and support for the Black community. Let’s start with our spending habits by being mindful of where we’re putting our hard-earned dollar bills, be it in the restaurants we frequent, the workout classes we join and yep, the brands we choose to support. And while we’ve highlighted some killer Black-owned fashion and beauty companies in the past, might we turn your attention to some sparkly offerings from a crew of chic Black-owned jewellery brands? Because honestly, you can never have too many shiny things.
Whether you’re in the market for something fun and quirky (check out Humans Before Handles) or are looking to elevate your wardrobe basics with accessories that are chic yet simple (say hi to Yam), this list is filled with special goodies. Be sure to scroll through and discover a fave new Black-owned jewellery brand to support today, tomorrow (and low-key yesterday).
BRB, off to spend my whole damn paycheque!
Omi Woods
The Single Coin Necklace Stack II, $229, omiwoods.com
Toronto’s very own Ashley Alexis McFarlane is the founder/angel behind the line Omi Woods, a collection of delicate, ethically handmade jewellery that celebrates her connection to Africa and the diaspora. The line is filled with gorgeous pendants and elevated basic jewellery, all made with conflict-free fine metals so you can feel good about this purchase.
White Space
Pearl Continuity Necklace, $904, whitespacejewelry.com
If you’re looking for something classic to add to the rotation, look no further than White Space. Khadijah Fulton’s elegant designs are the epitome of wearable chic. Their delicate pearls, hoops and chain necklaces are also peak gift-giving options.
Read this next: Five Canadian BIPOC-Owned Beauty Brands to Know About Now
Khiry
Khartoum Bangle, $632, khiry.com
When it comes to luxury no one does it quite like Khiry; every piece is so classy and SUCH a vibe! Founder Jameel Mohammed’s designs honour the African diaspora and deliver a modern take on everyday hoops, rings and necklaces. TBH, discovering Khiry will go down as one of the greatest things to happen to me in 2020.
TISH Jewelry
Rose Quartz Versa necklace, $55, etsy.com
Originally from Hamilton, Ont. and living in Calgary, Alta., Lateisha is the crafty, self-taught designer and founder of TISH Jewelry. Her pieces include everything from dreamy necklaces perfect for layering to bold tasselled earrings that’ll wow a crowd. Don’t sleep on this homegrown talent, these stylish staples are a whole mood!
Third Crown
Prizm Drop Earrings, $489, thirdcrown.com
Sleek yet bold is the name of the game when it comes to Third Crown jewellery. Founded and co-designed by real-life partners Kristin and Kofi Essel, the pair specialize in creating high-end pieces that seriously stun. Plus, the couple knows how to pierce the celeb stratosphere—I mean, our lord and saviour Beyoncé Carter Knowles has donned their designs on more than one occasion and their pieces are regularly featured on Issa Rae’s hit show Insecure.
Goldiie Shop
Binti Shete, $69, goldiie.nl
Goldiie Shop is made in the Netherlands with a Caribbean touch and is such a source of joy. Their newest collection includes super fun, hand-crafted, clear resin earrings and bracelets filled with real flowers which means no two pieces are the same. Unique much?!
Read this next: 7 Indigenous Designers Redefining Traditional Accessories
Mateo
Duality Pearl Danglers, $1,019, mateonewyork.com
Forget Cartier, Mateo is the new gold standard for luxury jewellery design. The brand’s Jamaican-raised, self-taught founder and designer Matthew Harris is a leader in simple, minimalistic pieces with a modern twist. Did we mention he has a fan base that consists of Michelle Obama, Zendaya and Kerry Washington?
Edas
Ada Ring, $133, edas.store
Handcrafted in NYC, designer Sade Mims’s goal is to make women feel beautiful, one accessory at a time. And with a line that offers staples like cool architectural earrings and sick stackable rings, consider that mission complete. Oh and bonus, she designs stunning bags as well.
Wild Moon Jewelry
Amazonas, $40, wildmoonjewelry.com
Founded in 2010, Wild Moon Jewelry is the magical creation of Toronto-based designer, Asia. Her handcrafted line is made with eco-conscious materials including, but not limited to, recycled silver, recycled glass and repurposed brass. Get lost in her sunny, one-of-a-kind designs, or if you’re feeling extra saucy you can have her custom make a piece all your own!
Humans Before Handles
Corrina, $51, humansbeforehandles.com
Humans Before Handles is the ultimate destination to find your next playful pair of chunky earrings. After all, founder Ashley Sims created the line specifically, “for all those who wouldn’t dare leave the house without the perfect statement earring.” The collection incorporates fun textures, interesting shapes and unique motifs without being more than about $50USD a piece.
Read this next: As a Black Woman, Doing My Hair Has Been Helping Me Cope
Yam
One on One Choker, $42, yamnyc.com
Remember Lizzo’s “Good as Hell” music video? You might have spotted a pair of Yam earrings dangling from the singer’s ears—no big. With a sustainable line filled with pearl chokers and baby heart studs crafted from recycled metal and vintage and upcycled glass, count us all the way in!
Oma the Label
The Zoë Earrings, $107, omathelabel.com
If you aren’t familiar with Oma The Label, you might want to buckle in. Not only does the line offer mesmerizing jewels you’ll want to wear on the reg, but founder Neumi Anekhe started the brand to both represent people of colour and help women feel empowered and confident, a.k.a. there’s no going wrong here. Plus, it doesn’t hurt that ultimate cool girl Zoë Kravitz sports their pieces and even has a pair of earrings named after her.
Beads Byaree
Cloud Earrings, $61, beadsbyaree.com
Just one look at Beads Byaree’s array of animal-inspired earrings or exciting ring selection and you’ll be hooked. Designer Areeayl Goodwin’s whimsical, one-of-a-kind designs are all handcrafted in Brooklyn, New York and are sure to become your next cherished piece.