It sounds like it’s impossible, but ethical jewellery company LeJu have pioneered the use of ‘vegetable ivory’  to create fabulous  jewellery in stunning vibrant colours.

So what exactly is vegetable ivory? Well vegetable ivory is a seed is harvested from a palm tree species called Hyphaene Phytelephas, found in the Amazonian rain forest.  Vegetable ivory resembles elephant ivory in both colour and hardness and is the only 100% sustainable alternative.

LeJu’s rich colours are created by staining and dying it with natural plant extracts and oils. Use of vegetable ivory provides an alternative to cutting down rain forests for farming, and prevents elephants from being killed for their tusks.

Founded by Lenny Trines and Juan Munoz, LeJu is the inspiration of jewellery designer, Lenny, who discovered her desire to craft jewellery using nature’s elements while on a journey through South America.

The majority of LeJu’s designs are assembled in their London workshop, maintaining the highest standards in quality and ensuring that each piece of jewellery is a matchless work of wearable art.  LeJu is stocked in over 175 boutiques and galleries throughout the UK and Europe and is available from several online boutiques, making it accessible to everyone everywhere.  Fans of Leju include Erin O’Connor

Oversized jewellery has been in fashion for a while and lots of colour is starting to come into the designs.  LeJu’s Turtle Rings (pictured) are very on trend and the fact they are ethical makes them even better.  The turtle ring is made from a whole, single vegetable ivory seed, carved into a ring!

I really do love these, every piece is unique and the imperfect and rustic charm makes a real difference from the perfectly polished, mass produced jewellery on the high street.

You can get a full list of stockists or shop online at the official LeJu website by clicking here.

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