WHETHER it’s an eco-conscious brand or an up-and-coming independent business, when Meghan Markle wears jewellery, it often has a special meaning.
And earlier this month, at the One Young World Summit’s round table discussion in London, the Duchess of Sussex highlighted a Canada-based jewellery line that directly benefits a UK conservation charity.
Meghan wore two of the brand’s rings earlier this month
Mum-of-one Meghan wore two gold rings from Vargas Goteoand not only is the brand based in a location very close to Meghan’s heart – Canada, where Meghan spent years filming Suits – but it also raises money for UK-based animal charity, Manta Trust.
The Duchess, 38, wore the Manta Kiss Ring, available for 106 for the gold-plated style or 350 for the solid gold design.
For every sale, a percentage is donated to the Manta Trust – a UK charity which aims to “conserve mobulid rays, their relatives, and their habitats, through a combination of research, education and collaboration.”
Meghan also wore the High Seas Bow Knot Ring, priced at 105, with each of the brand’s collections raising awareness and directly contributing to “carefully selected ocean and wildlife campaigns, including anti-shark finning, manta ray conservation, coral reef restoration, anti-ivory poaching and anti-rhino poaching organisations.”
The Duchess teamed the Manta Kiss Ring with the High Seas Bow Knot Ring
The High Seas Bow Knot Ring is 105
- High Seas Bow Knot Ring, 105, Vargas Goteo – buy now
The Manta Kiss Ring is 106 for the gold-plated style or 350 for the solid gold design
- Manta Kiss Ring, from 106, Vargas Goteo – buy now
Founder Alex Prijic Smith – who has no idea how Meghan came to own the jewellery – told PEOPLE: “To see my work out there and on such a remarkable woman really is a dream come true,” adding that over 180 has been raised for the Manta Trust so far, since Meghan wore the jewellery.
It’s believed that Meghan’s BFF and stylist Jessica Mulroney could be behind Meghan owning the pieces, with the fashion guru leaving heart emojis on the brand’s Instagram post.
Jessica – whose three children were page boys and flower girl at Meghan and Harry’s wedding – is known for highlighting emerging designers and is also based in Canada.
Although Meghan is from Los Angeles, Canada is thought to hold a special place in her heart, with the former actress having spent six years in Toronto while filming for Suits.
Meghan spent six years living in Toronto while filming Suits
The Duchess also wore Pippa Small’s Peepal Leaf Earrings
It’s not the first time the Duchess has worn an eco-conscious jewellery brand.
On a number of occasions, Meghan has worn ethical jewellery brand Pippa Small, including a triple-stone aquamarine necklace as well as the Small Rock Crystal Ring and the Herkimer Diamond Cup Ring – both by the same designer.
Another firm favourite in Meghan’s jewellery collection is i+i, which donates 10 per cent of all profits to Set Beautiful Free, an Indian charity that rescues women and children from sex slavery.
Alex added: “I think its apparent when eco-socio awareness runs deep, and Meghan is a shining example of that.
Whether in her actions, her words, or her choice of brands, she stays true to shining a light on the value of compassion and efforts made to create positive change.
In other royal news, we told you how Kate Middleton feels sorry for Meghan Markle and is doing her best to patch things up after Harry and Williams feud.
We also revealed Meghan Markles Suits dad said he hoped she was prepared for the ugly side when she married Prince Harry.
And we told you how the Queens dresser lifts the lid on Her Majestys style secrets from her love of bargains to her infamous EU hat.
