Kimai's Second Life service digitally redesigns unloved and unwanted jewelry into something unique and desirable. Many jewelry wearers own several pieces that they no longer wear or have never worn for stylistic reasons. This digital service aims to provide a second life for these pieces and ultimately encourage sustainability in the jewelry industry.
Kimai invites customers to create bespoke jewelry with pre-existing items. The customer decides how much input they have throughout the process. The founders are happy to supply mood boards and sketches to spark the customer's creativity.
The Second Life service was trialed with the founder's old pieces; a heart-shaped diamond necklace was transformed into a modern single dangling earring, which became a permanent design option in the brand's wider collection.
Upcycling Jewelry Initiatives
Kimai's Second Life Service Reimagines Unwanted Jewelry Pieces
Trend Themes
1. Digital Upcycling Services - Services that repurpose and redesign existing items using digital technology are disrupting traditional approaches to recycling and waste management.
2. Personalized Bespoke Jewelry - Customized jewelry services that invite customer collaboration and input are disrupting the traditional purchase of ready-made jewelry.
3. Sustainable Jewelry Fashion - Sustainable practices and materials, such as upcycling and eco-friendly sourcing, are disrupting traditional approaches to jewelry design and manufacturing.
Industry Implications
1. Jewelry Design and Manufacturing - The jewelry industry has the opportunity to incorporate digital upcycling and eco-friendly practices to appeal to sustainability-focused consumers.
2. Fashion Retail - Fashion brands can incorporate upcycling and customization services to increase customer engagement and appeal to the growing demand for sustainable fashion.
3. Waste Management - Digital upcycling services present an opportunity for waste management companies to partner with fashion and jewelry industries to reduce waste and promote sustainable practices.