About
I was living in Japan sketching jewelry designs during my free time and was inspired by vintage military medals I saw at a market, when I asked the question, "Why don't we have love medals?"
It took many years of life experience and growing older to see the idea of Love Medals not only as a gift in a moment, but also as core to my life story. From a young age, I understood how it felt not to be seen and celebrated for who I am. I believe that we're here to learn how to love in all its forms; love for ourselves, others, our communities, our planet.
Loving and believing in myself was my biggest personal love lesson to date. We all have these lessons and challenges to overcome, and it’s deeply fulfilling for me to make something meaningful that creates moments and keepsakes to honor ourselves and each other for our Victories in Love.
ACKNOWLEDGMENT
CHARITY
With the sale of every piece, a percentage of yearly profits is donated to Victoria Women's Transition House, who work to address and prevent partner violence, and abuse of women and children through their services. It is a personally important cause for me. I know how incredibly essential it is to have resources available for women and children in need.
SUSTAINABILITY
I continue to seek out new ways of improving sustainability and ethical practices, working not only to do less harm, but support good. Love Medals are produced using sustainably sourced materials, whenever possible, including all packaging. My production supports a non-toxic workplace. I recycle everything I can and make sure to have time for mindful practices. Below is an overview of the materials and suppliers used.
Material
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Source
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Certification
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Sterling Silver
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Hoover & Strong (Harmony Metals)
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SCS Responsible Source Certification
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Bronze
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Rio Grande
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*working on finding a more sustainable bronze source. Currently there are no certified recycled jewellery bronze suppliers.
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Chain & Findings
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Rio Grande
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Responsible Jewellery Council, 2015 Certified Supplier.
*While not 100% certified recycled metal, some of the metal used in the chain and findings is recycled.
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Ribbon
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Mokuba
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Ribbon classification: Oeko-Tex Standard 100, Class 1 (baby)
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Casting
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Corvus Casting
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Local artisan casting done here on Vancouver Island, BC.
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Boxes & Certificates
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Workhorse Press
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Local letterpress printing done here in Victoria, BC.
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Photography: Fragment of Light
Videography: Aaron Mallin