Our Story
Jewelry is the medium where I manifest visions and hopes into an artistic craftsmanship
Our Story:
WHAT DO YOU WANT?
I want every woman to ask herself this question. Not just as a passing thought, but as a real moment of self-reflection. What drives you? What ignites your fire? What do you stand for?
Jewelry is not just about beauty—it’s about meaning, about carrying a piece of yourself in the most tangible way. That’s why I design every bracelet, every piece, with intention. When you create yours, you are not just selecting colors or shapes; you are crafting a symbol of your own strength, your own journey.
Color is energy. It is a force that speaks to the universe. We have studied the meanings of colors so that each hue you choose is not random—it is a reflection of who you are and what you attract. Whether you mix contrasts to embrace duality or choose a seamless harmony of tones, your jewelry becomes a personal declaration of your power.
Do you seek courage? Choose fiery reds.
Do you seek wisdom? Let deep blues guide you.
Do you seek abundance? Gold will remind you of the limitless potential within.
Every piece is meticulously handcrafted in Istanbul’s historic Grand Bazaar, using only 14K-18K gold and natural diamonds, ethically sourced from Istanbul Gold Refinery—certified by COMEX, LBMA, and DMCC. Our commitment to sustainability ensures that nothing is wasted; every leftover material is reintegrated into future creations.
This is not just jewelry. It is a reflection of you. It is your power, your vision, your essence—worn on your wrist, carried with you every single day.
So, ask yourself: What do you want? Let Meri Lou Jewelry bring it to life.
— Meri Kohen Gershman
Founder & Creative Director
Designer:
From an early age, Meri had a deep passion for art and design. She pursued studies in Design and Performing Arts Management and went on to design for world-renowned brands like Zara, H&M, and Topshop. Her work is heavily influenced by ancient architecture and natural themes.
Meri Lou Jewelry has been featured in top publications such as Vogue, Vanity Fair, Glamour, Tatler, and Condé Nast Traveler. Several of our bestselling pieces have even graced the runway at New York Fashion Week.
OUR VALUES
Good For Planet: Sustainability Actions:
Meri Lou Jewelry is crafted from 14K- 18K gold sourced exclusively from Istanbul Gold Refinery, certified by COMEX, LBMA, and DMCC for excellence. We prioritize environmental responsibility at every production stage. Our jewelry-making process minimizes waste, as any leftover materials from castings are reintegrated into future creations. This ensures a sustainable approach, where each piece contributes to reducing our environmental footprint.
Mining for elements like nickel and cobalt, which are often used in brass, contributes to climate change through carbon emissions and can pose health risks as potential allergens and carcinogens. At Meri Lou Jewelry, we use only gold and natural diamonds to ensure high-quality products while actively seeking to minimize environmental impact. Our commitment to responsible sourcing reflects our dedication to both sustainability and the well-being of our customers.
Inclusivity:
Meri Lou Jewelry is designed for everyone, embracing each individual's unique style. We believe everyone deserves the freedom to express themselves in their own way. Celebrating diversity is at the heart of our mission, and we offer a wide range of styles that are both high-end and accessible for daily wear. With options from upscale luxury to everyday elegance, we ensure there’s something for every taste. Our commitment is to create jewelry that resonates with every member of our diverse community.
Artisanality:
At Meri Lou Jewelry, every piece is meticulously handcrafted by a team of five skilled artisans in Istanbul's historic Grand Bazaar. We oversee every step of production to ensure the highest level of quality and consistency.
Production:
1-Sustainable Sourcing
Gold: All gold used in Meri Lou Jewelry is responsibly sourced from the Istanbul Gold Refinery, certified by COMEX, LBMA, and DMCC, ensuring that the materials meet the highest standards of ethical and sustainable practices.
Diamonds: Meri Lou Jewelry uses only ethically sourced, natural diamonds, guaranteeing transparency in the supply chain and adherence to conflict-free practices.
2-Eco-friendly Material Use
No Nickel or Cobalt: Unlike many in the industry, Meri Lou Jewelry does not use metals like nickel or cobalt, which are common in brass jewelry and contribute to both environmental damage and potential health risks. By using exclusively gold, the brand avoids harmful mining practices associated with these metals.
3-Minimizing Waste
Recycling Gold: During the casting process, any leftover materials are reintegrated into new pieces. This circular process reduces material waste and ensures that each product contributes to a sustainable future.
Efficient Casting Process: The team ensures minimal material loss during each stage, maximizing the use of all gold and diamond resources, reducing the need for additional mining and refining.
4-Handcrafted Excellence
Each piece is handcrafted by a team of five skilled artisans in Istanbul’s historic Grand Bazaar. This artisanal approach not only ensures superior quality but also aligns with sustainable production methods that avoid the large-scale industrial waste associated with mass production.
5-Energy Conservation
Crafting in Small Batches: The jewelry is produced in small, carefully managed batches, reducing energy consumption and avoiding overproduction.
Artisan Expertise: Skilled artisans use traditional techniques that have a lower environmental impact compared to modern machinery, preserving both the craft and the environment.
6-Commitment to Quality and Longevity
Each piece of Meri Lou Jewelry is designed to be a long-lasting investment. By creating timeless designs with high-quality materials, the need for frequent replacements is reduced, contributing to sustainability by encouraging customers to buy less, but better.
7-Packaging
All packaging materials are sourced sustainably, with a focus on reducing plastic and non-recyclable waste. Boxes and pouches are made from recycled or eco-friendly materials, ensuring that sustainability is maintained even beyond the jewelry production.
8-Ethical Labor Practices
The artisans behind each piece work in a safe and supportive environment, with a commitment to fair wages and ethical labor standards. The focus on handcrafted production ensures that the jewelry is created with care, upholding both human and environmental well-being.
Giving back:
Giving back is central to our mission at Meri Lou Jewelry. Inspired by our founder's love for children, we donate 10% of every purchase to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, supporting the dream of a cure and helping children return to healthy lives at home.