Joy Joy Melissa Joy

Melissa Joy Manning is one of my favorite jewelry designers for many reasons. Not only are her handcrafted jewelry unique and gorgeous with nature inspired designs, but she also maintains beautiful, ethical and green business practices and gives back to the community. All her gold and silver pieces are handcrafted by trained metal smiths earning a living, working wage in Oakland, California, with profit sharing and other employee-friendly benefits. Melissa purchases 100% recycled metal and uses Kimberly Process certified conflict-free diamonds. She is committed to giving back to her community supporting various non-profit community organizations on a regular basis including Girls for a Change and Renaissance Entrepreneurship Center, both of which I've had the pleasure of working with in the Bay Area.

There's so much to love in her collection. I especially adore her necklaces like the made-to-order 14-karat gold collar necklace (above US$4,375) which she describes as a virtual waterfall of metal; it's so complex yet super delicate. Also, among her new collection is this "i love you" lower-case script necklace (Silver US$90; gold US$325) which would be a great gift for your Valentine or loved one any time of year. Ten percent of all sales from Melissa Joy Manning currently benefit the Red Cross Haitian Relief.

In addition, 100% of sales of this silver rainbow moonstone ring (US$200) benefit the Red Cross Haitian Relief.

It's hard to believe that it has already been one month since the devastating earthquake hit Haiti, and still more than 1 million people are in need of shelter. Organizations like the Red Cross are continuing to provide blood, food, water and shelter, and our support still matters to millions of displaced survivors.

Most of us have felt at one time or another that little flutter of joy when wearing something beautiful. With Melissa Joy Manning pieces you will surely reap a bounty of joy from also contributing to something meaningful.