Actress Angie Harmon’s new Red Earth collaboration is no ordinary jewelry line. Her edgy, socially-conscious collection combines chic designs, unconventional materials and artisan craftsmanship that takes skull and bone baubles to a sophisticated new level.
Angie Harmon X Red Earth is a labor of love designed in partnership with Red Earth—an ethical lifestyle brand that creates “ruggedly elegant jewelry with a purpose.” The company employs talented artisans and craftsmen in rural, poverty-ravaged African villages who are enabled to sustain their own families through their hard work and creativity while also creating jobs for others in their community. Red Earth helps these artisans grow their businesses and, in turn, gives even more people in the region hope and opportunity through gainful employment. In this way, they tell a different story about Africa—one of beauty and entrepreneurship rather than of charity.
As a UNICEF ambassador, Harmon, who is best known for her starring role as Assistant District Attorney Abbie Carmichael on NBC’s Emmy-winning drama Law & Order, “was a natural fit for our first celebrity partnership,” notes Red Earth founder Travis Gravette. “Angie’s sense of design and fashion is totally in sync with our brand and she ‘gets’ that the heart of our company is to use business for good. We are so excited to have released this collection.”
And what an amazing collection it is, with each unique, hand-made piece exuding substance and character. In further alignment with Red Earth culture, all pieces in the collection are also notably created from recycled materials such as old locks, door knobs and ethically-sourced animal bone from Africa. The exquisite pieces are designed in the U.S. but are hand-crafted by the artisans in and around Kenya.
Then there are the designs, themselves. I am admittedly a sucker for edgy statement jewelry and the Angie Harmon X Red Earth line more than fits the bill. The collection features skull rings and bracelets, and black-beaded “refined bone” necklaces and bracelets as well as super sexy reverse choker necklaces, chain link necklaces and bracelets, stud earrings, and a simple yet striking brass ear cuff.
Angie’s “signature piece” also happens to be a personal favorite: the 17.5 inch-long, black-beaded Skull + Bone Necklace. It’s a truly memorable piece that commands attention everywhere. It's made by an artisan named Raymond in Kenya who works with his wife and employs four others just outside of Nairobi. Wear this piece in combination with the elegant Simple Reverse Choker, which is incredibly versatile for both day and night looks. Together they proffer an unexpected aesthetic that’s a true standout. Pair these with the Skull Cuff and Bone + Brass Bracelets along with the Skull Ring and Ear Cuff, and you’ll have yourself a cohesive, uber-cool look that’s sure to get you noticed time and time again.
Of course, if skulls and bones aren’t your thing, the Angie Harmon X Red Earth collection does feature other pieces that are quite delicate and feminine. Though not a hugely expansive line, there is enough design versatility to suit a wide variety of tastes and styles. And if all of the above-described do-gooding isn’t enough, cause-conscious accessory aficionados can also take heed that a percentage of all revenue from this collection is donated to UNICEF.
Angie Harmon X Red Earth is available online and priced from $30-$200.
