Pretty as you please

Yamin: Crafting ethical elegance through exquisite jewellery

What they make:

Earrings, pendants, necklaces.

Where to buy:

 www.yamin.in

At the core of Yamin, a distinctive jewellery brand, beats the spirit of a remarkable woman—Yamin Hazarika, the trailblazing police officer from Assam, later a decorated officer in the Delhi Police. The brand serves as a poignant tribute to her enduring legacy, skillfully blending elements from artistic movements of the past with a contemporary flair. And, using their profits for the benefit of our furry friends.

Yamin is more than just a collection of exquisite adornments; it is a manifestation of timeless artistry that seamlessly intertwines with the modern aesthetics of the 21st century. Each piece narrates a story, capturing the essence of heritage while embracing the dynamism of today. In crafting this slow jewellery brand, Yamin’s daughter, founder Huma Hazarika celebrates her mother’s indomitable spirit, inviting individuals to don not just jewellery, but an embodiment of history, culture and resilience.

In its very first year of existence, Yamin is at the forefront of a captivating narrative, creatively directed by Huma’s brother Vikram, and driven by a dedicated core team. Operating primarily through its website, yamin.in, and in collaboration with esteemed platforms like Pernia’s Pop Up Shop, the brand has already begun weaving its tale of elegance and sustainability. Their exquisite pieces, crafted in collaboration or sourced meticulously, boast 18k gold plating, delicate enamel work, and the graceful embellishment of freshwater pearls. Ethically produced in a workshop in Jaipur, the brand adheres staunchly to principles of sustainability and fair trade. As Yamin ventures into the realm of eco-brass for upcoming collections, the inspiration drawn from the ancient art of lost-wax casting unfolds. This age-old technique, dating back over 6,000 years and discovered in artefacts worldwide, resonates with Yamin’s commitment to heritage, echoing the brand’s dedication to timeless craftsmanship and ethical sourcing. The journey has just begun, and Yamin’s exploration of materials and techniques promises an exciting evolution in the realm of contemporary jewellery.

PRETTY FOR
THE PLANET

4.5/5

With a commitment to environmental responsibility, Yamin meticulously manages its inventory, manufacturing less than 100 pieces a month, and ensuring no piece is discarded. In the pursuit of minimising waste, the brand cleverly repurposes unsold items into new, innovative pieces for future collections. The brand strives to ensure their jewellery lasts their customers a lifetime, offering free replating for the first year, and at a minimal fee post the first year. They also offer repair services, for a minimal fee, making sure you never have to throw away your Yamin treasures. The brand embraces minor differences in pieces, arising out of the fact that they are handcrafted, and no piece is ever discarded in the name of quality checks. That’s a big win for the planet!

Yamin’s dedication to animal rights is evident not only in their principles but also in action—10% of all sales contribute to the Yamin Gives Back initiative. This impactful programme supports the feeding, vaccination, sterilisation, and medical care of a diverse array of animals, including dogs, cats, cows, birds, and reptiles, through partnerships with shelters, clinics, hospitals and independent rescuers. Embracing the ethos of ‘reduce, reuse, and recycle,’ Yamin sources raw materials judiciously, avoiding excess and ensuring minimal wastage. Their sustainable packaging, featuring recycled postcards and sturdy, reusable cardboard boxes, encourages customers to participate in the brand’s eco-conscious journey. By championing ethical practices, Yamin not only adorns individuals with exquisite jewellery but also leaves a positive, lasting imprint on the planet.

PRETTY FOR
THE PEOPLE

4/5

Yamin exemplifies commitment to the well-being of its workers and of the broader community. Operating from its manufacturing unit in Jaipur, which has company-based certifications like the GJEPC, RCMC, IEC, GST & MSME, the brand ensures a humane work environment for its skilled artisans, with guaranteed Sundays off and a policy of 1 paid leave and 1 casual leave per month, along with flexible, additional casual leaves when required. With 8 to 10 people employed in their manufacturing facility, at any point, on a per-unit payment basis, Yamin restricts weekly work hours to 56 hours. The price paid is determined by the artisans, as opposed to a market price or a bulk order price. The brand supports its employees with a Diwali bonus and helps them file their income tax returns. 

Yamin’s inclusive ethos extends beyond its manufacturing practices. The brand collaborates with artistic individuals, promoting a culture of acceptance and celebrating diverse perspectives. Sourcing brass locally, and personally engaging with small family-run establishments in Jaipur’s markets, Yamin ensures fair compensation and collaboration in the design process. The brand’s commitment to ethical practices transcends industry norms, making Yamin not just a jewellery brand with flair, but a responsible contributor to a socially conscious and inclusive society.

PRETTY FOR
YOU

4.5/5

Yamin redefines the jewellery landscape with its limited but gender-neutral, artisanal pieces that effortlessly bridge the gap between casual and formal wear. The brand’s commitment to accessibility is evident in its thoughtfully-priced collection, ranging from ₹2,199 to ₹10,499. Yamin’s dedication to durability is showcased through meticulous craftsmanship, featuring 18-karat gold plating, e-coating, and a commitment to providing free replating service for the first year, ensuring each piece lasts a lifetime. They also offer lifetime repair services, for a minimal fee. 

Yamin’s customer-centric approach extends to its transparent policies, allowing order cancellations within 24 hours and exchanges and repairs for damaged items. The brand takes pride in offering free repairs for transit damage, reinforcing its commitment to customer satisfaction. With a unique quality assurance process that includes individual inspections and incorporation of feedback, Yamin ensures the durability and distinctiveness of its handmade pieces, while embracing their inherent variations. Yamin works around their still-nascent collection that may not cater to diverse tastes, by offering customization as well, positioning itself as a brand that not only creates stunning jewellery but also prioritises affordability, durability and individuality for its discerning clientele. All, while you support a cause!

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