Photo: Courtesy of Alkemie Jewelry

This month, Free People’s featured artist is design duo Ashley Lowengrub and Dara Gerson with their eco-friendly jewelry collab, Alkemie. The couple lives a life where sustainability is key (shouldn’t we all?), so imagine their dismay when they found out what goes into most jewelry making. Ever think that purchasing that pretty gem ring actually might be aiding in hurting the environment? Finding precious metals and gem stones sometimes means dangerous work environments for children, who are also exposed to toxic chemicals from mines. The couple couldn’t bear this thought but still wanted to create beautiful pieces, so using 100% reclaimed metal—or in other words, scrap gold and metal—the duo manufactures necklaces, bracelets, belts, earrings, etc. in downtown L.A. With their love of the environment, exploration, texture and nature comes Alkemie, the art of transforming something common into something precious. Check out some of their pieces after the jump!

Photo: Courtesy of Alkemie Jewelry. Peace Dove Rooster Feather Earrings, $99

Photo: Courtesy of Alkemie Jewelry. Wild West Ring, $154

Photo: Courtesy of Alkemie Jewelry. Delicate Starfish Cuff, $209