Shine In Pieces By This Vancouver-Based, Female-Owned, Sustainable Jewelry Brand (Win!)

Sepi Adelkhou is the founder of and designer behind jewelry brand Shine Gallery, based in Vancouver. Her designs are special because they are all ethically handcrafted with 100 per cent recycled silver and gold, ensuring environmental conscientiousness, beauty and durability. Plus, all pieces are tarnish-resistant and allergy-free. Sepi’s latest designs are inspired by the most current fashion trends, and are perfect for anyone who is looking to elevate and refresh their style. We chatted with Sepi to learn more. —Vita Daily

What inspired you to start Shine Gallery, and how did you develop your unique design style?

I was inspired to start Shine Gallery by my passion for creating dainty and delicate jewelry that also respects the environment. The idea of combining artistry with sustainability was a driving force, as I wanted to offer pieces that people could cherish while knowing they were made responsibly. My design style developed through a blend of personal experiences and professional growth. Drawing inspiration from fashion, nature, and art, I began experimenting with recycled metals, having designs that reflect both timeless elegance and contemporary trends. My commitment to sustainability and my passion for jewelry designs allowed me to have pieces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also ethically made.

How do you stay updated with the latest fashion trends, and how do these trends influence your jewelry designs?

As a jewelry brand founder, staying updated with the latest fashion trends is crucial to ensure my pieces resonate with contemporary tastes. I monitor fashion runways, attend trade shows, and follow influential magazines and blogs to capture emerging trends. Social media platforms like Instagram and Pinterest provide real-time inspiration. Networking with fellow designers and participating in fashion forums also helps. These trends guide my choice of materials, colors, and overall aesthetic. Blending current trends with my unique vision keeps my jewelry fresh, stylish, and appealing.

Can you elaborate on the importance of using 100% recycled silver and gold in your pieces, and how does sustainability impact your design process?

Using recycled materials in my jewelry pieces is crucial to me as both a founder and environmental steward. The jewelry industry impacts the environment significantly, and recycled materials help reduce the demand for destructive mining practices. By crafting jewelry from recycled materials, I offer stunning designs and the assurance that their purchase supports environmentally responsible practices, fostering a deeper connection between the wearer and the piece.

Sustainability significantly shapes my design process by guiding material selection and production methods. I prioritize eco-friendly materials, like 100% recycled metals and collaborate with trusted suppliers to ensure responsible sourcing. This commitment leads to innovative design techniques that minimize waste and focus on creating timeless, durable pieces. Sustainability also means staying informed about new eco-friendly technologies and being transparent with customers about the environmental impact of their purchases. Ultimately, it drives me to offer beautiful, high-quality jewelry that respects both the planet and ethical standards.

As a female-owned and operated business, what challenges and opportunities have you encountered in the jewelry industry?

One of the main challenges has been breaking through the traditionally male-dominated business networks and gaining equal recognition and opportunities. However, this has also driven me to build a strong, supportive community of like-minded women entrepreneurs who share resources and mentorship. On the opportunity side, being a woman in this industry allows me to bring a unique perspective to my designs and business approach, which appeals to a diverse and growing customer base that values authenticity and female empowerment. Additionally, there is a growing market for women-led brands, and many customers actively seek out and support businesses like mine. Overall, while the journey has had its obstacles, it has also been incredibly rewarding and has allowed me to make a meaningful impact both through my jewelry and my role as a female entrepreneur.

What are your goals for the future of Shine Gallery, and how do you plan to continue innovating and expanding your brand?

My goals for the future of Shine Gallery include expanding our presence by opening retail stores across Canada, which will allow us to connect more directly with our customers and provide them with a personalized shopping experience. Additionally, we will leverage technology by enhancing our online shopping platform and integrating virtual try-on experiences to make our jewelry accessible to a broader audience. By maintaining our focus on quality, sustainability, and customer engagement, Shine Gallery will continue to grow and evolve.

What do you predict to be the top 5 jewelry trends for summer? How about holiday gifting?!

For summer, I anticipate the top five jewelry trends will be:

• Bold Color Statements: Vibrant, colorful gemstones and enamel pieces will be popular, adding a lively pop to summer outfits.
• Chunky Chains: Oversized chain necklaces and bracelets will dominate, offering a bold, statement look.
• Layered Necklaces: Delicate, layered necklaces in various lengths will remain trendy, allowing for personalized and versatile styling.
• Natural Elements: Jewelry incorporating natural materials like shells, pearls, and raw gemstones will be a favorite for a beachy, organic vibe.
• Sustainable Pieces: Eco-friendly jewelry made from recycled materials and ethically sourced gems will continue to gain traction as consumers prioritize sustainability.

For holiday gifting, the top trends are likely to be:

• Personalized Jewelry: Customizable pieces, such as initial necklaces, birthstone rings, and engraved bracelets, will be popular for their sentimental value.
• Timeless Classics: Timeless designs like diamond stud earrings, solitaire necklaces, and classic gold hoops will be favored for their enduring elegance.
• Mixed Metals: Jewelry that combines different metals, such as gold and silver, will appeal to those looking for versatile, everyday pieces.
• Statement Earrings: Bold, eye-catching earrings, from chandelier styles to large hoops, will make perfect festive gifts.
• Stackable Rings: Delicate, stackable rings that can be mixed and matched will be a hit, offering a fun and customizable gift option.

Win! A Shine Gallery Jewelry Trifecta!

Congrats Michelle C. of North Vancouver, BC, who will receive a necklace, a pair of earrings and a ring of their choice from Shine Gallery’s current collection! Please note: if you are the winner, you will receive a DM (direct message) in Instagram directly from @vitadailymedia. Please be wary of fake accounts, which often use similar handles with an extra or missing letter, number or symbol. We will never ask for a payment or for your credit card number, and we will never ask you to click through a link. If you are unsure whether you have been contacted, via Instagram, by us or a fake account, email us before responding.