6 Buzzy Asian-Owned Jewelry Brands To Add To Your Shopping Roster

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Photo: Courtesy of BONBONWHIMS.

We hold jewelry close to our hearts, and to close out the Lunar New Year celebrations with a bang, we’re sharing AAPI designers you can shop year-round. While we recognize that not all these designers observe the Lunar New Year, we are all in for any reason to celebrate AAPI-owned brands – whether it be AAPI Heritage Month or a random day in October. All the brands we’ve rounded up have collections that range from dainty to quirky, but each one is embracing the latest jewelry trends. You’ll find everything from nameplate necklaces to affordable wedding bands to pieces that embody Y2K maximalism.

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No matter the month, we’ll continue adding new buzzy Asian-owned jewelry brands to this roundup, so don’t forget to check back. Whether you’re in the mood for some whimsical rainbow baubles to pair with your colorful summer looks or you’re a pristine member of the “quiet luxury” era, scroll ahead to find five AAPI-owned jewelry brands to add to your shopping list.

Best Y2K-Inspired Accessories

Having previously worked as a trend forecaster, Jessica Tse created the celeb-favorite jewelry brand NOTTE as a way to spark joy with her thoughtfully crafted jewelry. Each colorful, graphic piece is a combination of “New York quirk with a hint of la dolce vita daydreams,” per the brand’s website. The Y2K-inspired line has everything from ribbon drop earrings to beaded chokers reminiscent of those seen in Johnny Kapahala Back On Board. In honor of this Lunar New Year, you can use code NOTTE150 for free U.S. shipping on orders +$150 or code NOTTE250 for free international shipping on orders +$250.

Best Everyday Fine Jewelry

Mejuri has become a household jewelry name among celebs like Selena Gomez and Bella Hadid and street style stars, and it’s all thanks to founder Noura Sakkijha. The Toronto-based brand is loved for its minimalistic styles like the famous croissant earrings, herringbone necklaces, and stackable rings.

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Best Heirloom Gemstone Jewelry

When it came to their jewelry company Amer New York, sisters Shreya and Avisha found inspiration from the gold and diamond heirlooms they were gifted growing up. The two strive to design timeless gemstone jewelry pieces that can be passed down to future generations. Gemstones have a special meaning to the siblings, as they believe in the powers behind certain stones.

Best Y2K-Inspired Chunky Rings

Look no further for the maximalist ring of your dreams with BONBONWHIMS. The jewelry brand’s founder and CEO, Clare Ngai, brings the nostalgia of neon colors and Y2K style to your doorstep with chunky baubles in a rainbow of hues and frosty pieces that have your initials

If you grew up never seeing your cultural name on nameplate jewelry, you can now. Kinn’s CEO and founder, Jennie Yoon, created a nameplate collection called Dear Kaia for people with Asian names as well as English ones. (The bracelet and necklaces can be customized with your Korean, Chinese, or Japanese name.) The dainty pieces are subtle enough to be worn daily and are a loving reminder to always be proud of where you came from. 

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Best Affordable Diamond Wedding Rings

Sisters Payal and Kajal Vitha are third-generation diamond experts. Growing up, they shadowed their father who has worked in the jewelry industry for over 30 years. Now, as the founders of Sonu, their mission is to assist every couple with the design of their forever rings without having to break the bank.

At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.

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