Innovative Jewelry Designer, Brand Charles Albert
Charles Albert, Inc. was founded in 1990 and over the years the brand has evolved into one of the premier designers & manufacturers of unique, high quality jewelry. Every piece is meticulously handmade, using a wide variety of remarkable stones from every corner of the globe. A continuous search for rare and exotic materials has helped the brand become one of the leading trendsetters in the industry.
As a teenager, Charles always had an entrepreneurial spirit and knew he would start his own business. While still in high school, he enlisted in the U.S. Army National Guard and continued to serve his country for the next 14 years. Shortly after graduating from the University of Scranton with a Bachelor of Science degree in business management and a minor in both philosophy and history, Charles launched his company with just $60 and a dream—first selling costume jewelry and then gradually transitioning into manufacturing fine sterling silver. Within a few years he met his wife, Beth, who would later join his company. Together, they have transformed Charles Albert® into the fashion-forward brand it is today.
Recognized for the past 21 years for its fine sterling silver jewelry, Charles Albert® has launched its newest collection, Alchemía, which features an innovative metal that simulates the appearance of 18K gold but at an affordable price point.
The new metal coined “zero karat gold” is created through a process called base metal infusion. Common non-precious metals are blended in specific proportions to create the look of gold. The color of the metal is through and through. Alchemía is nickel free, lead free and lacquered, thus making it hypoallergenic. A strong and flexible lacquer is used to protect the metal from turning or tarnishing, while still allowing the rings and cuffs to be easily adjusted.
The inspiration for Alchemía’s color palette is derived from nature’s organic beauty. From vivid pinks and bright purples inspired from the tropical flowers of Brazil, to soft browns and muted gold tones that are reminiscent of the sandy landscapes of Egypt, Alchemía evokes inspiration from around the world. The collection comprises of numerous stones such as opals, turquoise, pearls, quartz, blue topaz, agate, amethyst, kyanite, and obsidian.
Alchemía by Charles Albert® remains consistent with previous collections and retains the brand’s edgy, contemporary design aesthetic. The hand selected gemstones, minerals, shells and fossils used in the collection are sourced from around the world, designed in Florida and hand-crafted by artisans in Mexico.
All Charles Albert® designs are created using stones that reflect their unique characteristics to complement a woman’s personal style and enhance her individual natural beauty. Alchemía features couture necklaces as centerpieces that inspire the collection’s statement rings, cuffs, bracelets, pendants and earrings, with prices ranging from $30 to $750.
[Images and information courtesy: Charles Albert and Charles Albert Lookbook]