Jewelry shopping used to be limited to two extremes – high-priced fine jewelry and affordable costume jewelry. Yet research shows that standard is no more. It seems that more than ever, the jewelry category has seen an uptick in young labels that aim to offer something new to a sea of consumers hungry for just that. From trend-driven jewelry lines to brands that offer fine jewelry at affordable prices, the market truly has something for everyone. Take a look at our favorite under-the-radar brands that are shaping the jewelry industry with their unique designs.
The brand – which counts Gigi Hadid as a super-fan – is the perfect mix of kitschy cool with its charming pieces that incorporate unique materials such as pearls, shells, beads in a contemporary design that is equal parts playful and modern.
After working in the fashion industry for several years, Morgan and Jaclyn Solomon took a leap of faith in 2016 when they left their jobs to start their jewelry line. Since then, they have created a brand has deeply resonates with modern shoppers. Agmes stays away from trends and instead opts for a timeless aesthetic with clean lines and architectural silhouettes. Consider them mini works of art.
The up-and-coming label offers luxury, timeless pieces for the modern customer – but with a twist. With a minimal aesthetic, designer Francesca Grosso creates sculptural designs that feel like wearable works of art.
Katherine Kim discovered her love for jewelry by chance while at Central Saint Martins. Now, her label is adored by Lady Gaga and Rihanna. It’s not hard to see why. The Los-Angeles based designer uses only the finest materials for her elegant designs that merge clean lines with unexpected silhouettes. The brand also champions sustainability and ethical production practices, using ethically sourced diamonds and relying on the work of local artisans.
The Last Line has disrupted the fine jewelry industry by operating with a direct-to-consumer business model for rainbow-hued diamond tennis bracelets and neon-colored enamel heart pendants – think luxury made fun and approachable.
Jameel Mohammed launched his jewelry line during New York Fashion Week while studying political science at the University of Pennsylvania with money from a Kickstarter campaign. Khiry draws inspiration from the African Diaspora, celebrating the rich heritage and culture through luxurious vermeil jewelry designs.
For Kelly and Mark Shami, jewelry was a natural step. Inspired by their father who owned a jewelry store in Midtown Manhattan, the siblings branched out on their own to create their line. They have since established a cult-following –from Dua Lipa to Beyonce – with modern jewelry pieces that include custom nameplate necklaces and oversized hoop earrings.
Co-founded by husband and wife Murat and Beth Bugdaycay in 2015, Foundrae utilizes a myriad of symbols that make her profound designs feel like heirlooms you’ve had in your jewelry box for generations.
Connecticut-based mother-daughter duo Brinker and Eliza Higgins’ line of bold statement pieces – think chunky gold chokers, mushroom pendant earrings, and oversized pearl necklaces – are eye-catching in ways that make jewelry feel fun.
Agmes
Brinker & Eliza
Eliou
Kat Kim
Last Line
Shami
Sorelle
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