meunster's ball

Jewelry designer Kirsten Muenster is an unyielding believer in the Kimberley Process. Meaning, she uses stones naturally found in the U.S., instead of designing her wares with "blood" diamonds. Her pieces often include vintage stones and chains from the 1940's, 50's, and 60's.


Kirsten Muenster Montana Agate Ring
$500


Kirsten Muenster Owyhee Jasper Necklace

The agate used in her designs, like ring above, comes from gravel deposits and lakeshores, mostly along the Yellowstone River. Since it comes from a federally protected area, corporations are prevented from inflicting large-scale mining on the area. Traditional corporate mining practices have left stretches of Montana's riverbeds nearly devoid of fish and clogged with tons of sediment.

Ms. Muenster's collection satisfies my unrelenting lust for large rings. Particularly those that I can wear all day without feeling like Lady Macbeth.

You can find more info on Kirsten and her entire line at www.kirstenmuenster.com.

The NRDC has supplemental info on mining practices.