Our team believes in high-quality craftsmanship with a sharp focus on ethically sourced materials and processes. We merge traditional handcraft techniques with the latest technology – utilizing everything from time-honored metalworking skills to computer-aided design and 3D printing. The core Aide-mémoire jewelry collection is carefully crafted in-house by our bench jewelers. Additionally, we collaborate with local master stone-setters and engravers who've honed their skills over a lifetime.

We work exclusively with a select few suppliers for our metals, diamonds, and gemstones; as part of the Ethical Metalsmiths Community, we collectively vet these suppliers. The precious metals we use are recycled, except for chains. Currently, there is no source for 100% recycled chains.

Our colored gemstones are either lab-grown, recycled, or fair trade. The diamonds we use are lab-grown, or recycled natural. At Aide-mémoire, we are more stringent in our diamond sourcing than the narrow scope of the Kimberley Process (KP). We acknowledge that the KP alone is not enough to make a conflict-free claim. Our strict sourcing limits the range of stones we offer; however, our priority is creating jewelry with integrity.

Aran enjoys volunteering with local organizations that uplift community voices and remind people to go vote! As a company, Aide-mémoire makes monthly contributions to the following organizations:

Lambda Legal “is a national organization committed to achieving full recognition of the civil rights of lesbians, gay men, bisexuals, transgender people and everyone living with HIV through impact litigation, education and public policy work.”

Higher Heights “is the only national organization providing Black women with a political home exclusively dedicated to harnessing their power to expand Black women’s elected representation and voting participation, and advance progressive policies.”

Duwamish Tribal Services The Duwamish Tribe are the First Peoples of Seattle. Their culture and identity are tied to this land. We pay rent to Duwamish Tribal Services and honor their stewardship of this land. Support the Duwamish people and learn more about actions you can take!

Dreams are in full bloom at Aide-mémoire with the opening of our new brick-and-mortar shop in Seattle's Phinney neighborhood. With equal parts love and determination, Aran's making her dream of opening a shop a rainbow-filled reality!

As a welcoming, safe space for all people, an essential part of our store's mission is to highlight makers in the LGBTQ, BIPOC, and female-business-run communities. Our hope is you'll experience the joy of bringing home a handcrafted or upcycled piece made with a creative voice and the power of the human spirit.

In addition to our Aide-mémoire designs, we'll feature accessibly priced jewelry from fellow artists, handmade ceramics, artwork, and delightfully unexpected gifts. Come by and treat yourself or spread the joy of the handcrafted with a thoughtful gift for the bridesmaids, groomsmen, or wedding attendants on your list.

Find out more about our Makers: visit our Maker Page to discover the artists who bring their creative spirt to our shop, or read our High Five Blog series for fun interviews with our Makers.