Bakunawa-inspired bracelets? Agimats? Look no further from these 7 local jewelry brands.
Early on in our SIBIKA books, we’ve been taught about how Filipinos loved their palamuti and alahas, which traces back to the pre-colonial period ’til the present age. Conversely, we talk about our ternos and barongs all the time, but we often forget to talk about how beautiful and rich in history our jewelry is. Thanks to these seven proudly local brands who work closely with our artisans, we finally get to know more about our culture and its impact on the modern times. Read up on this curated list of cool Filipino jewelry brands you should know more about.
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ANGKAN
Sustainably made in the islands, Angkan highlights how important it is to honor our tribes and connect with our identity. Case in point, their agimat necklaces, which is also known as the anting anting that’s believed to hold magical powers. They also have embroidered backpacks, tops and jackets made by different indigenous communities around the Philippines.
NAWA
Nawa is a local brand that constantly collaborates with the T’Boli tribes of Lake Sebu, South Cotabato. They ensure that the tradition of making brass jewelry is never forgotten, resulting to beautiful bangles, rings, and chokers. Nawa was even worn by Vice President Leni Robredo!
PRANCA
Pranca, a brand rooted in the Filipino word, “prangka,” meaning honesty, is known for their sophisticated and minimal take on pearls. Just take a look at their intriguing pieces like the stick earring, ear cuffs and anklets.
STONE RIVER
Made for the free-spirited soul, Stone River is one of the few local brands known for their bohemian, delicate yet edgy pieces. One look at their portfolio and you’ll see body chains, semi-precious stones, brass feather charms all handmade with love. A crowd favorite is their bakunawa-inspired cuffs that double as a necklace, or an anklet. They were also worn by Nadine Lustre for her Wildest Dreams visual album last year.
PUNG TO LUMAD
Pung To Lumad is a local brand that empowers the Lumad students from the Bakwit schools by selling their handcrafted accessories. Even after the community was forcibly shut down and destroyed, Pung To Lumad stands with them in solidarity. 100% of their proceeds go to their school supplies, food, water, and essentials.
AMAMI
Aside from highlighting the Filipino craftsmanship, Amami also puts a spotlight on the artisans they work with and tidbits of Philippine jewelry’s history in their platform. They have a range of accessories from necklaces, rings, and cuffs inspired by our heritage jewelry—pretty much like the heirloom pieces that were once worn by your mom or lola.
SESOTUNAWA
Sesotunawa is a T’Boli-owned local brand that amplifies the voices and art of the communities in Lake Sebu. The name is a combination of two T’Boli words “sesotu,” which means “to make one” and “nawa” or spirit. They sell rings, cuffs and home decor. Sesotunawa also shares their price transparency on their site, along with stories of their artisans
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