Summer is here, and that means a whole whack of events to attend (hello, wedding season). You’re going to need some great accessories to complete all of your #ootd-worthy summer ensembles, and what better way to do it than with some Canadian-made designs? It turns out that Canada is a hotbed of great jewelry designers, so treat yourself with locally-made baubles and show our great artisans some love. We’ve rounded up 9 Canadian jewelry brands to add to your must-have accessories list.
Goldeen
As far as I’m concerned, anything Beyoncé-related is an obvious must-have. Goldeen jewelry seems to share that sentiment with these ID bracelets that have lyrics from some of Queen Bey’s greatest hits. If you’re not a Beyoncé fan (impossible, but nonetheless), you can also order a personalized ID bracelet with your own favourite phrase or lyric.
ID bracelet, $45
Cloud and Lolly
Cloud and Lolly designer Cheryl Currie (a former graphic designer) works out of her studio in rural Alberta to create beautiful, minimal-meets-boho-chic pieces incorporating semi-precious stones and vintage elements. Each piece is lovingly handmade with meticulous attention to detail, and the prices are pretty outstanding considering the workmanship involved.
Triangle Druzy Quartz Necklace, $45
UP & ARMED
If you’re looking for a statement necklace, look no further than UP & ARMED. Located in downtown Toronto, you can shop their designs, which range from super delicate to dramatically ornate, either in-store or online. The store, which caters to both men and women, also offers other great accessories to choose from, including a killer sunglasses collection.
Argento | Alessandra VI necklace, $95
Jenny Bird
Most people who love Canadian jewelry have a piece (or several) from Jenny Bird. Now available in 600 stores worldwide, Jenny Bird designs each piece in her Toronto studio with a focus on minimalistic, architectural jewelry that still makes a bold statement. If you’re into subtle accessories that are going to last, her collections are definitely what you’re looking for.
Risen Cuff, $95
Anastassia Sel
If there were ever a time to hint at an engagement ring to your S/O, I’d say it’d be right now. There are so many great designers creating stunning pieces for brides who are fans of non-traditional designs (such as the stunning black diamond engagement ring above). Anastassia Sel has a wonderful collection of fine jewelry for brides and non-brides alike, all of which is made to order and handcrafted in Toronto.
Unconventional Divine, from $3,175
CAPTVE
This made-in-Montreal jewelry collection is like wearable art. So many of CAPTVE’s pieces, which use the lost wax process (designs are first hewn in wax, then cast in sterling silver, bronze or gold) look like whimsical, fairytale-inspired sculptures. Although some of the the prices can be steep depending on your choice of design (the bracelet above is hand carved and made to order), these pieces are definitely one of a kind.
Manus Cluster Bracelet, $2,300
Carli Sita
If you’re a fan of quirky jewelry with a sense of humour, the Vancouver-based line Carli Sita is for you. The ‘Famous Fingers’ collection features some great hand gesture charms cast in sterling silver or bronze, such as the peace sign, the “whatever” symbol, and even the middle-finger for your inner rebel.
Clueless, $80
Betty Barbs
Founded in Toronto in 2014 by Kristin Elizabeth Barbaree, Betty Barbs has quickly made a name for itself with its bold, edgy yet minimal aesthetic. Although a bit higher in price than some of the others on this list, the pieces boast high quality, cool design, and are made to order using precious metals and pearl and diamond accents.
Two Circle Ear Cuff With Pearls in Rose, $335
Fine and Good
Fine and Good is the kind of jewelry you can wear every day with any outfit. Its delicate, geometric designs will complement a tailored wardrobe as well as add interest to more casual attire.
Hammered diamond earrings, $65
Featured image by Brent Goldsmith, courtesy Jenny Bird