Ethical Brand: Introducing Rich Earth Jewelry from Manila, Philippines

All images courtesy of Rich Earth Jewelry

During my recent visit to my home country of the Philippines, I finally got the chance to meet Rica Banares Manuel in person, the Manila-based boss babe and creator behind Rich Earth Jewelry. Rich Earth Jewelry is particularly special to me, not only because of their gorgeous, hand-crafted jewelry, but because of their mission to promote sustainable luxury and social good. 

Rich Earth Jewelry is made with 24K gold plated aluminum metal and devastation free, semi-precious stones sourced through socially responsible procedures. According to their website: 

Aluminum is Rich Earth Jewelry's metal of choice for its dedication in promoting a conscious effort on protecting the environment and passion for social responsibility. This type of metal is highly sustainable for it is 100 percent-recyclable, without compromising quality. It is currently the third most recycled material in the world. Aside from its lightweight feature, Aluminum is a non-toxic metal. It is lead and nickel free, so it won't tarnish nor cause skin discoloration.
 

In addition to their partnership with Save Philippine Seas, Rich Earth also seeks to give back to communities through partnerships with other individuals and organizations committed to bringing more good to societies across the globe. 

Intrigued? Check out Rich Earth Jewelry on their website, and prepare to be mesmerized. 

Smart Shopping Habits I Learned from Parisian Women

Ah, the Parisienne—the most revered and idolized woman in the world. Her elegance, her nonchalance, and her famed je ne sais quoi attitude has hypnotized men and women alike forever. But those perfectly masculine-inspired outfits and chic frocks don't just fall out of the sky. Women in Paris shop for their clothes, too. They just do it differently. 

As an American living in France, I’ve noticed a distinction between the way a French woman shops versus the way Americans do. And I'm not alone. Iconic fashion legend Christian Dior noticed it. According to his personal memoir, the designer, upon his first visit to the United States, noted significant differences. Among them was the observation that the American woman was often more likely to choose quantity in her shopping, while the Frenchwoman would naturally value quality.

To explore her allure just a bit further, let's look at how the Parisiennes make even the practice of acquiring goods stylish, smarter, and more sustainable.

Read the rest of my new article on Verily Magazine, a magazine encouraging women to be 'less of who they should be, and more of who they truly are'.