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Best Local Reclaimed Materials Jewelry Artists

A strong commitment minimizing waste and harmful chemicals motivates this short list of artists and designers who channel their passion for the earth into their jewelry.
East Fourth Street
(credit: http://mnartists.org/)

East Fourth Street
Website

Socially responsible materials including conflict-free diamonds are paired with reclaimed materials for this sustainable collection. Pieces include reclaimed metal and leather that are refashioned into artistic pieces beautifully designed by Susan Crow.

eKate Designs
(credit: http://www.etsy.com/shop/ekate)

eKate Designs
Website

This charming collection is inspired by artist Erin Kate Duinick, who also happens to be a singer/songwriter. Music runs through her pieces -- sometimes literally with her message pieces and other times figuratively rhythm found in shapes, images and colors. Find her necklaces and earrings throughout the Twin Cities including Parc Boutique, I Like You, Picky Girl as well as her own shop Orchard Art House in Excelsior.

Gayle Thorsen
(credit: http://www.etsy.com/shop/gemnorde)

Gayle Thorsen
Website

Go big or go home with these one-of-a-kind statement pieces made with "unusual vintage findings" inspired by global and historical references. Gayle began making pieces for herself and discovered she had so many pieces, it was time to start sharing. Her necklaces and bracelets are available at Quince Gifts, LaRue's and Etsy.

Lefthand Originals
(credit: http://lefthandoriginals.com/)

Lefthand Originals
Website

Artist Larissa Loden brings reclaimed pieces from all over the world to her eclectic jewelry collection. She was invited to participate in the 2011 Voltage Fashion Amplified and is committed to keeping her jewelry accessible with affordable pricing. Necklaces, earrings and rings available at Etsy.

Starry Night Beadworks
(credit: http://www.etsy.com/listing/66950808/swiss-and-blues)

Starry Night Beadworks
Website

Jewelry artist Megan has evolved through a variety of materials including handmade beads, bead stitches, loom weaving and wire. Her current work stops time with tiny gears and watch plates paired with natural stones for pieces like "Timely Bluebird" and "Time Bound Agate." Necklaces and earrings available at Etsy.

Strings And A Dare
(credit: http://strings-andadare.com/)

Strings & A Dare
Website

Music lover Xavior started this jewelry collection after a dear friend's funeral. Today, an impressive collection of necklaces, rings, bracelets and pins give new life to retired guitar, bass, violin and piano strings acquired through local businesses. These pieces are more than a novel idea -- they are wearable art. Available for purchase at Strings-AndADare.com.

Tippy Maurant
(credit: http://tippymaurant.com/)

Tippy Maurant
Website

Tippy creates pieces that she describes as "sentimental, anthropological and simple … with a bit of a wink." Her pieces come from a personal place with a strong commitment to sustainability and our environment including no soldering, casting or chemicals. Necklaces, earrings and pendants available through TippyMaurant.com.

Tea Tree Designs
(credit: http://www.teatreedesigns.com/)

Tea Tree Design
Website

Erika Backberg centers her "ecojewelry" business around community and social responsibility. Her one-of-a-kind pieces mix sustainable materials with trendy designs for a win-win combination - from the jewelry to the packaging to the marketing materials. Earrings and necklaces available locally at Cliché, The Wedge Co-op and online at TeaTreeDesigns.com.

Witt and Lore
(credit: http://www.etsy.com/shop/WittandLore)

Witt & Lore
Website

Sisters Whitney and Lauren inspire each other to create jewelry from repurposed materials including keys and vintage buttons. Their "unique but modern styles for unique but modern people" can be found on display at I Like You. Earrings, cuffs and necklaces can also be found at Gallery 360, SaBelle and Etsy.

-Sasha Westin is a local image consultant specializing in helping people learn how to dress in their best colors and styles. She shares client makeovers, style basics and outfit ideas on the Fabuliss blog, hosts an open discussion called #stylechat Sunday nights on Twitter and is passionate about helping everyone have success with style.

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