Columns

Bario Neal Fuses Organic Style with Environmental Impact

Published

9 years ago

August 31, 2015

Trace Shelton

Bario Neal Fuses Organic Style with Environmental Impact

TODAY’S JEWELRY CUSTOMER cares about gem and metal sourcing and how those things affect the land and the people they come from – but they also care about style. When a jewelry collection is beautiful and edgy while also using 100% reclaimed precious metals, Fairmined gold, and ethically sourced gemstones, you have a hit on your hands.

Such is the case with Bario Neal, a line created by designers Anna Bario and Page Neal in 2007. The two joined forces after discovering a common interest in the sculptural possibilities of jewelry and its potential for cultural resonance. The company promotes traceability, transparency and marriage equality, even donating a percentage of the profits to many environmental and social justice organizations, both local and global, including Delaware Riverkeeper, Ethical Metalsmiths, EarthWorks, Freedom to Marry, Human Rights Campaign, and Planned Parenthood.

It’s the type of story that resonates with consumers. But the story alone won’t do it – the look of the jewelry has to be fashionable as well, and it is. Most of the pieces included some asymmetrical element and have a rough, organic look, yet there’s also a precious, feminine quality in each one.

Bario Neal manufactures its pieces in Philadelphia and also has a showroom on the Lower East Side of Manhattan in New York City.

Bario Neal Fuses Organic Style with Environmental Impact

This Third-Generation Jeweler Was Ready for Retirement. He Called Wilkerson

Retirement is never easy, especially when it means the end to a business that was founded in 1884. But for Laura and Sam Sipe, it was time to put their own needs first. They decided to close J.C. Sipe Jewelers, one of Indianapolis’ most trusted names in fine jewelry, and call Wilkerson. “Laura and I decided the conditions were right,” says Sam. Wilkerson handled every detail in their going-out-of-business sale, from marketing to manning the sales floor. “The main goal was to sell our existing inventory that’s all paid for and turn that into cash for our retirement,” says Sam. “It’s been very, very productive.” Would they recommend Wilkerson to other jewelers who want to enjoy their golden years? Absolutely! “Call Wilkerson,” says Laura. “They can help you achieve your goals so you’ll be able to move into retirement comfortably.”