fair trade jewelry

Hanzi are characters used in Chinese writing. As early as the sixth century A.D., many of these characters began to be simplified and adopted into Japanese writing, where they're known as kanji, a term that is more widely used in the West. Artisans in Yiwu, China, create these pendants by using sterling silver and the lost-wax casting method. Each character emulates the sweeping brushstrokes of traditional calligraphy. Choose based on birth month, favorite color, or simply the symbol that resonates with you most.

January: Garnet/Beauty, February: Amethyst/Generosity, March: Blue Topaz/Affection, April: White Quartz/Love, May: Green Quartz/Sweetness, June: White Pearl/Longevity, July: Carnelian/Perfection, August: Peridot/Purity, September: Iolite/Protection, October: Pink Tourmaline/Happiness, November: Citrine/Artistry, December: Turquoise/Imagination.

Add a natural, earthy feel to your ensemble with this charming beaded stretch bracelet from Ghanaian artisan Catherine Offei Kwapong. The dark terracotta beads feature appealing designs, flanked by sese wood beads in brown and cream colors.

A couple from Cuzco, Peru, strives to build a better future while raising and educating their children. Their resilience and dedication take shape in these remarkable sterling silver dangle earrings by artisan Quipac. The abstract silhouettes capture their strength and love, with hands that tell the story of their daily labor. Dressed in traditional work attire—hats, pants, skirts and ponchos—they embody perseverance and heritage. The blackened finish accentuates every detail, making this design a striking choice for any occasion.

Armenia's Yanina Mirzoyan creates a cascade of classic elegance by working with petite glass beads. These waterfall earrings honor the region's traditional arts in their intricate motifs, adorned with a palette of green, red and ivory hues. Sterling silver hooks allow the earrings to dance with captivating movements, perfect for a graceful illusion.

Ornamented with traditional Armenian details and antiqued touches, this band ring by Aram Torunyan invites you to explore beauty in its regal form. The ring combines sterling silver, brass and copper in each of its classic motifs, also enhanced by polished and oxidized finishes.

A palette of crimson and black hues evokes the burning beauty of fire around these chandelier earrings by Mexico's Alejandra Gallardo. Wood and 24k gold-plated brass accents compose this bold pair, inspired by the region's pre-Hispanic culture. To complete the design with a sublime touch, natural agate jewels and silk tassels adorn the top and bottom.