Alkemie is a jewelery design studio that focuses on the transforming the ordinary into the precious. The designers are husband-and-wife Ashley Lowengrub and Dara Gerson. Their unique, one-of-a-kind designs are forged from 100% reclaimed materials to make artful personal adornment accessories and include earrings, necklaces, bracelets, rings, belts, and cuffs. The cuffs are particularly beautiful bits of small sculpture.
Many of the pieces use a metallic blend of sterling from old silverware and coins, copper from electrical wires and zinc from zincograph printing press sheets. Custom pieces can be made from reclaimed gold and silver. The initial ‘green’ design was made completely from recycled non-conflict bullet casings.
All designs are made by hand in downtown Los Angeles, California.
Key Themes Behind This Trend
- Reclaimed Materials
- Opportunity for businesses to create eco-conscious products using reclaimed materials.
- Handmade Jewelry
- Disruption can be found in the market for unique, artisanal jewelry made by hand.
- Sustainable Fashion
- Industry can explore sustainable fashion options through the use of recycled materials.
Where This Applies
- Jewelry Design
- Innovative opportunities exist within the jewelry design industry to utilize reclaimed materials for eco-conscious pieces.
- Fashion Accessories
- Disruptive innovation can occur for fashion accessory brands by incorporating reclaimed materials into their designs.
- Artisans and Craftsmanship
- The artisans and craftsmanship industry can benefit from the demand for unique, handmade jewelry made from reclaimed materials.
