isabel necklace | opal, asana necklace | moonstone
armour necklace | gold, eclipse necklace | gold
bijou ring | amethyst, rainbow ring | gold, compass ring | pearl
starburst locket, cameo necklace | amethyst
mara chain necklace | gold
syd cuff | gold
Shot on a sunny afternoon in LA with photographer Brit Gill.
GET WITH THE TIMES
Known as the “queen of gems”, the pearl, with its warm inner glow and shimmering iridescence, has been one of the most highly prized and sought-after gems for centuries. Pearls symbolize wisdom acquired through experience. They are believed to attract wealth and luck as well as offer protection. Known for their calming effect, pearls can balance one's karma and strengthen relationships. The pearl is also said to symbolize the purity, generosity, integrity, and loyalty of its wearer.
Pearl ⚪️🐚June's Birthstone
Leah was recently featured on the #Babelist by Brunette The Label. The feature is an initiative they started as a way to create a community that is inclusive of all babes to inspire, strengthen and elevate each other. Here is the interview!
What does babes supporting babes mean to you?
Babes supporting babes means being confident enough in yourself to encourage and mentor others. We all started somewhere and it’s so important to make sure you’re contributing to the community of female entrepreneurs by nurturing new talent. It also means showing up – go to the pop-up opening or the stand at a local artisan’s market to show your support.
If you could choose your nickname, what would it be?
I’ve had lots of nicknames over the years but the one everybody always finds the most entertaining is LML (last minute Leah)….not that I’m a procrastinator or anything… ;)
What is your spirit animal?
I’ve had this discussion with my staff and friends many a times and the reoccurring answer is always a Lioness. I can be fierce when needed, especially if my pride (girl gang) needs defending.
What is your proudest babe moment or achievement?
It’s tied between the moment I got my first wholesale order 13 years ago when my business was based in my apartment’s living room, or the moment I bought my studio 4 years ago and got the keys to move my business into a dedicated space. Those were both huge affirmations that my passion was worth pursuing and it would all be worth it. Now my team is growing faster than ever and I sense some new milestones in the very near future…
What is the most unexpected thing you have in your purse or wallet?
Doggie treats for my pup Luca!
Tell us about a time where you were faced with a situation that you could have been unkind, but chose to be a babe instead?
I think especially in the jewelry/fashion industry it’s always easy to call out those who you feel have taken an idea from you or replicated your designs. That being said I’ve always chosen to shrug it off and consider it a form of flattery.
What product would you seriously stockpile if you found out they weren’t selling anymore?
Sunday Riley – Good Genes serum. That stuff is the real deal.
If you had a yacht, what would be the name of it?
DespaSEAto or Knotty By Nature
What was the best piece of advice you received when you were first starting your career?
Surround yourself with people who have the skills you do not possess & focus on your own strengths.
What is the best piece of advice you have received now that you are in your career?
Stay true to the vision for the culture of your company which you have created- do not compromise. It will cost you.
Red, white, or rose?
Red in the winter, Rosé in the summer
When I dance I look like….
I would say J Lo but my girlfriends might tell you otherwise.
Tell us about a Babe who has supported you?
Nancy Hill (founder of Blue Ruby) took a chance on me and my brand early on in my career and has always been a great supporter. She helped shape the direction of my company and how I operate my business.
Who do you channel when you’re about to do something that scares you?
I know it’s a bit cliché but I channel my mom. Her strength, entrepreneurial spirit, and zest for life have always been a source of encouragement. She took a huge financial risk to start her own business when she was a single mom with two teenaged daughters at home- when I’m nervous about taking a risk I think of her!
What is your favorite destination to visit?
Travelling is a huge part of who I am and I make a point of doing it often so that is tough. I love going to India for gem buying trips because the people and culture are so beautiful and I think it’s important to put yourself in environments different than your own to grow. And Paris is always a good idea.
What is your favorite meal to eat?
I’m a pizza gal through and through. If it’s on crust and has toppings I’m all about it.
What is the most fulfilling part of your career?
Seeing the workspace and roles I created for a group of amazing women. Visitors always comment on the “good vibes” we have in our office, and it’s fulfilling to know I’m behind that! On another note, running into a stranger in their everyday life who is wearing my jewelry still gives me butterflies after all these years. Jewelry can carry a lot of emotional weight and symbolism- whether someone is wearing our pieces every day or for a special meaning, we’re part of their life, and that’s very special to me.
Where is your favorite place to draw inspiration from?
Travel. Going to local markets, antique shops and well curated boutiques are where I draw most of my inspiration from.
What is your guilty pleasure?
Croissants! I live behind a French bakery so it’s hard to stay away!
What quality are you working on yourself right now?
Organization
What is the biggest hurdle you’ve had to overcome in business?
There are times in entrepreneurship where you feel like your business has taken over your every waking thought and I think it’s a hurdle to learn how to turn it off and be truly present in your personal life!
Coffee meeting or drinks meeting?
Drinks.
If you’re going out for a cocktail you’d order…
Tequila with lime and ginger ale!
If you had unlimited budget for 2 hours shopping where would you go?
What is your favorite movie?
Dirty Dancing. My mom, sister and I are all obsessed. Baby also serves as major style inspiration.
Check out our website www.brunettethelabel.com and put together your favorite outfit!
The Girls Chainstitch Tee in Nude, The Rosie Embroidered Blonde Crew in Dusty Rose and the Blonde Shorts in Dusty Rose!
Brunette The Label Interview
Gem Inspiration
Leah has a deep-rooted love for antique hunting.
Now for the first time, she's sharing her treasured collection of lockets she's acquired through her travels.
They are now available on our site and in-studio!
The estate collection of gold filled lockets range in date from 1870’s to 1940’s. From hand engraved inscriptions to pave set pearls, each one is unique and have all been put on new gold-filled chains of various lengths.
They are one of a kind so if you find one you love, act fast!
Locket love!
My jewelry designs begin with the gemstones. They are a daily reminder of the magical world we live in. Each individual stone is inherently unique. They also have a weight, texture, and translucency you’ll never get with manmade materials. Putting on a pair of colorful gemstone earrings is like wearing an amazing lipstick. They bring light to the face in a beautiful way. Gemstones speak for themselves.
For centuries, Jaipur has been the centre of the world for gem trade. There are thousands of tiny workshops where craftsmen cut, shape, polish the gemstones using traditions and techniques that are very much the same as they were 100 years ago. It’s a very ancient industry that keeps the city thriving.
From palaces to saris to fruits and vegetables, India is a stimulation of the senses on a grand scale. This culture of colour spreads to personal adornment and India’s rich tradition of jewels and opulence, including of course the coloured gemstones and bold enamel colours.
I recently got the chance to source some of our gemstones in India, and see firsthand the process of rough rocks becoming polished faceted gems. I roamed, explored, and searched- in the midst of all the tuk-tuks, scooters, goats and cows that roam the streets freely. We tried to capture as much on video as possible. I’m so excited to share it with you!
India Gem Stone
Top: Faithfull & Skirt: India