British designer Anabela Chan is redefining the essence of opulence through her innovative approach to jewelry crafting. Instead of relying on natural diamonds, she champions sustainability, opting for laboratory-grown gems and recycled materials sourced from aluminum cans.
Chan’s decision to diverge from conventional practices stems from a firsthand encounter with the harsh working conditions prevalent in diamond mines. She remarked, “These are some of the most precious and valuable commodities in the world, that just didn’t make any sense to me.”
The core elements of her designs encompass lab-grown diamonds, recycled aluminum derived from cans, and pearls cultivated through regenerative farming techniques. This distinctive blend of ethical materials not only challenges the traditional notion of luxury but also aligns with an evolving consumer consciousness that prioritizes sustainability and ethical sourcing.
While Anabela Chan’s company has not disclosed specific sales figures, it reports a surge in demand, particularly since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. The designer’s commitment to sustainability and innovation was acknowledged when she clinched the “Game Changer” category at the prestigious British Luxury Awards in November.
The global market for lab-grown jewelry has witnessed remarkable growth, averaging 20% annually, resulting in cumulative profits reaching $15 billion, according to Edahn Golan Diamond Research & Data. As more players enter the market, prices for lab-grown diamonds have seen a decline, prompting brands to distinguish themselves through innovative design and sustainability initiatives.
Major retailers like Pandora, represented by Head of Diamonds Joshua Braman, recognize the potential of lab-grown gems to provide additional avenues for creative jewelry design. Beyond aesthetics, sustainability has emerged as a crucial point of differentiation for brands in this evolving landscape.
Anabela Chan’s commitment to sustainability extends to her choice of suppliers, who employ technology to capture carbon dioxide emissions during the diamond-making process. By transforming a potential environmental negative into a positive, Chan exemplifies a conscientious approach to luxury that resonates with a growing segment of socially and environmentally aware consumers.
