I was just sitting here thinking, “What kind of jewelry should I ask for for Valentine’s Day?” It’s not really a holiday my husband and I celebrate (not formally, anyway—we might indulge in an extra chocolate at the end of the night, using Valentine’s as an excuse). But with so much beautiful jewelry out there just waiting to be gifted, I’m wondering if we should take it up.

To start, I’d want something representative of our relationship (my goodness, he’d hate this. We are not the sentimental type). Rare, bright—certainly nothing too perfect, but beautiful and made to last. A simple heart pendant just won’t do.

Aside from the sappy stuff (that was almost too much, even for me), I’d want something ethically made, and I’d be honored to be acquainted with the jewel’s designer.

Debra Navarro‘s Gee rings are just perfect for such an occasion (or any occasion, come to think of it—my birthday isn’t that far off, either). Not only are Navarro’s pieces responsibly made, but the particular collection that these rings belong to—the Watu collection—supports Gem Legacy, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting education, vocational training, and local economies in East African mining communities.

Founded by the gem cutter Roger Dery, along with his wife and daughter, Ginger and Rachel, Gem Legacy was born of Dery’s experience working with artisanal miners, orphanages, and gem-faceting education in East Africa for the last 20 years. Coincidentally, a launch party for the nonprofit is actually happening today at JCK Tucson!

So, with these Gee rings, not only would my fingers look fabulous in aquamarine, Malaya garnet, and spessartine garnet—each stone is hand-selected by Navarro herself, from East African mines—but I’d feel super loved and be doing some good. Five percent of every purchase from Navarro’s Watu collection is set to go to Gem Legacy.

The collection is also made up of a fabulous array of earrings, pendants, and bracelets, all of which can be seen at debranavarro.com.

Brittany Siminitz

JCK Contributing Editor