As someone who has become a conscious consumer, it is important to me that I wear my values. The nice thing is that I don’t have to compromise on style or elegance to do so.
I discovered one of Daria Day’s beautiful bracelets on Instagram while scrolling through a local hashtag. I’ve always been a big fan of gemstone jewelry and the intention that is signified by each stone. I was delighted to see that Daria Day was, in fact, an ethical brand committed to elevating the lives of the artisans behind their pieces. I began to dive deeper into their story.
About Daria
Working with NGOs in Pakistan, founder Farrukh Lalanigot developed relationships with women inhabiting poor and isolated northern communities. She created the brand to empower these women emotionally and financially. By purchasing something from Daria Day, you are supporting economically disadvantaged artisans and helping to break the cycle of poverty. Daria Day works with a group of local minors to source only the highest quality gemstones. Each design begins with a concept created by Farrukh and is then handcrafted into a limited-edition design. The meaning behind the name ‘Daria’ is prosperity which is what they hope you will enjoy with your purchase.
“Daria Day hopes to show a different side of Pakistan – a part that makes beautiful jewelry, a part that is beautiful and serene, rarely visited or talked about, but which once stood at the center of the silk road, where many different cultures, traditions, and languages blended to create the unique culture of this region.”
– dARIA DAY
Why does Daria Day make their jewelry in Pakistan? Something I didn’t know is that Pakistan has been exploited for its gemstones which have been smuggled out of the region, so local communities are unable to profit from their own natural resources. By processing these gems and making jewelry in the region, the local population can benefit from their own resources.
Daria Day is dedicated to using fairtrade practices. They’re able to uplift and empower their artisans through continuous support and high wages. Their sustainable and ethical practices are helping entire communities rise out of poverty.
Why Gemstone Jewelry?
Every gemstone has a meaning attached to it which is why they make such great gifts. But, whether or not you believe in the healing properties of these ancient stones, you will notice that each stone is unique and beautiful. The way I explain the intentions behind my favourite gemstone jewelry is that even if you do not believe that the bracelet will bring you positivity (for example), you are still harnessing that intention every time you look down at your wrist.
When I wear my Pink Chalcedony bracelet from Daria Day, I am reminded that the stones bring me calm, stability and optimism. I chose a bracelet with a chunkier bead to pair with my cozy fall sweaters and I like to use it to meditate. It’s common in meditation to use a mala but I also find that the practice is just as effective with a bracelet (you just have fewer beads). I like to hold my bracelet in one hand and breathe in and out as I move my fingers from one bead to the next. You can also repeat a mantra out loud to harness your intentions. Breathe in. I am good enough. Breathe out. I am capable of great things.
As we head towards the holiday season, it’s now more important than ever to support our local shops and communities. If you’re interested in checking out Daria Day’s website or social media, please view the links below.
Leave a Reply