Local gems we know you’ll love.
The jewellery industry has changed so much over the past decade. No longer just for special occasions, or something to be gifted in a bow-wrapped box, contemporary pieces are now designed and priced to be worn year-round. Canadian jewellery designers have taken this freedom and run with it—creating everything from simple staples with a personal bent to art-inspired sculptural statements. No matter your personal style, there is a bijoux maker out there for you. And luckily, you don’t have to look far to find that perfect match—here are 8 incredibly talented Canadian jewellery designers to shop right now.
Biko
Contemporary meets classic in Biko’s striking designs. Founded by Corinne Anestopoulos in 2005, the Toronto-based brand is known for sculptural silhouettes that always make a statement. The brand also makes a point of collaborating with other Canadian companies—most recently a trio of abstract earrings for designer Andrew Coimbra and a rose gold collection in support of RETHINK Breast Cancer.
Liquid Cuff in Gold, $105 at ilovebiko.com.
Sarah Sears Jewelry
Metalsmith and designer Sarah Sears brings an earthy element to her jewellery through the use of stones, warm metals, and an exploration of patina. Unique “waveee” sculpted metal is a signature in her work, playfully turned into pendant earrings and used as design details on necklaces. Based in Halifax, Sears also takes on custom orders to make your jewellery dreams come true.
Mermaid Studs in Bronze, $150 at sarahsearsjewelry.com.
Jenny Bird
Self-taught designer Jenny Bird has an innate understanding of how to create cool pieces that cool girls love people to wear. Her signature necklaces and chokers are instantly recognizable with their modern, curved lines, while the rest of her edgy-meets-feminine collection follows suit. It may have been founded in Toronto, but this brand has definitely gone global.
Trust Collar in Silver, $150 at jenny-bird.ca.
Poppy Finch
Poppy Finch has made a name for itself by offering timeless, socially responsible jewellery. The clean and playful designs are handcrafted in Vancouver from precious materials like 18K gold, diamonds, and pearls that are either recycled, repurposed, or ethically-sourced from conflict free zones. It’s jewellery that looks good, and lets you feel good, too.
Four Stacking Ring Set, $495 at poppyfinch.com.
Dolorous
When Danielle Singer founded Dolorous, she set out to create elegant accessories that could be worn whenever, wherever you want—and her understated yet eye-catching designs definitely fit the bill. And with all pieces crafted in Toronto from sustainably-sourced or repurposed vintage materials, they also give eco-chic a whole new meaning.
Uma Jade Drop Earrings, $124 at dolorousjewelry.com.
Leah Alexandra
Feminine and finely crafted, Vancouver-based Leah Alexandra’s designs are all about making jewellery personal, and her love of gems and high-quality materials are evident in every flawless piece. Birthstones are found on rings and necklaces, pendants are inscribed with quotes or honour patron saints, and a line of lockets are family heirlooms in the making.
Petite Round Spark Locket with Diamond, $475 at leahalexandra.com.
Patricia Wong
Conceptual and clean, Toronto’s Patricia Wong creates jewellery that is best described as wearable art. Off-centre rings, mobile-like earrings, and necklaces that connect to brooches are just a few examples of the whimsical and technically impressive designs Wong dreams up. If creativity and colour excite you, then this is definitely the jewellery for you.
Tinted Ring, $120 at patriciawong.ca.
YUUN
It all starts with a concept for YUNN’s Lina Hu, who designs her jewellery as collections with distinct points of inspiration and aesthetics. Spring sees a juxtaposition of the architectural and ultra-modern Harmonics against the organic shapes of Surfacing’s imperfect pearls. Handcrafted in Montreal, these are distinctive pieces of jewellery that are more than meet the eye.
Marea Bracelet, $186 at yunn.studio.