EMBLM Jewelry: An Ethical Heirloom

The older I get, the more I am drawn to jewelry that radiates timelessness instead of following the ebb and flow of passing trends, I collect jewelry that acts as an ethical heirloom that speaks to me, through both design and brand. So it’s no surprise that I’ve fallen for EMBLM, a brand that prides itself on classic designs, high quality, and sustainability — a triple threat, if you will.

Mariko Enkoji-Busch and Emily Landers established EMBLM in 2019. They had a desire to create distinct fine jewelry that had a timeless quality to it. The Co-Founders envisioned their pieces becoming heirlooms with personal significance to the wearer. They both had backgrounds working for high-end designers and jewelry but were seeking to create something different, to elevate simplicity.

EMBLM was founded with a steadfast commitment to sustainability: the rare stones and metal are all ethically sourced. Because they draw inspiration from the natural world, EMBLM  resolves to honor the earth through every tenet of branding. Each EMBLM piece is handcrafted in downtown Los Angeles, prioritizing craftsmanship, quality, and ethical labor. They utilize mostly recycled gold and re-refined precious metals to cast each design, while their diamonds are sourced respectfully to end the trade of conflict diamonds.

A conflict or “blood” diamonds are illegally traded to fund conflict in war-torn areas, especially central and western Africa. Women and children in countries such as Sierra Leone are used as slaves to extract diamonds in back-breaking methods, not to mention the innocent people that get caught up in conflicts that the trade fuels.

EMBLM jewelry is made-to-order in LA in an effort to minimize waste. The brand ethos is committed to creating fine jewelry with the highest quality — without compromising sustainability. This is a delicate dance and one to be commended for. Each step of their process has been thoughtfully constructed to consider their impact on the environment. From the design inspiration to the very way it’s made, EMBLM jewelry is dedicated to giving back and honoring the planet.

Elegant iterations of everyday pieces, that’s the backbone of EMBLM. With an appreciation of classic style and quality craftsmanship, I know these pieces will be in my possession for many years to come — the evolution of an ethical heirloom.