Meet Lara Lamsam of Washed Ashore in South Bay

Today we’d like to introduce you to Lara Lamsam.

Lara, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
My background is actually in archaeology and art history, I truly thought that I would be working in museums or excavation sites somewhere, but life took a whole another turn. Through the studying of the ancient artifacts, I was exposed to the art of metalsmithing and gemology, leading me to the path of jewelry.

Jewelry has always held a very important place in human history, not as an accessory, but I have always been fascinated by the way there is always a story or meaning behind each piece and the sentimental values of them to the wearer. For some people and cultures, they also act as talismans, possessing a more magical meaning rather than simply something as linear as a form ornament.

Once I entered the realm of jewelry and the modern-day jewelry manufacturing, I was appalled by the damage the industry has on the people and the planet. I set out to seek alternative ways to make the jewelry pieces that would not have to sacrifice the mindfulness of the environment and the health and well-being of the workers. That is how Washed Ashore came to be.

Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
It has definitely been quite a journey. The saying “if it doesn’t challenge you, it doesn’t change you” could not be more relatable to me. I am grateful for the experience that this journey has brought me. I think the biggest struggle for me is to be able to stay true to who I am and operating in the fashion world, which is pretty new to me.

Some examples being trying to push through even when the industry doesn’t always understand my approach and vision. It’s important to stay focused and positive and not let the outside noises rob me of my true identity. Being a Buddhist, trying to stay on “the middle path” and striking a balance in everything has definitely been the principle that has helped and kept me going.

Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Washed Ashore – what should we know?
We are a purpose-driven-jewelry line. The jewelry pieces tell stories and allude to legends and lore from the past, all in the while being ethically handmade and environmentally conscious. I am proud to say that sustainability is the very core of Washed Ashore. We draw inspiration from Mother Nature, so I think it’s very important for us to also keep her in mind and take care of her.

What sets us apart from others is definitely our sustainability initiatives. We manufacture ethically from 100% recycled metals, post-consumer upcycled stones, and recycled packaging. Our shipping emissions are also offset. Instead of the traditional linear business, we are a circular business, meaning we keep reusing our resources as much as their life cycle will allow. By reusing, recycling, and regenerating without using new raw materials, we are able to produce less waste and eliminate any means of having to obtain new raw materials, in this case being mining. We also invested in our production partners and making it possible for them to finance renewable energy and water recycling systems. Our motto when it comes to our production is “transparency, traceability, and accountability”. I am proud to say that we check all these boxes and will continue to keep raising the bar.

How do you think the industry will change over the next decade?
I hope that the jewelry industry will make a big shift and move towards sustainability. It seems to be going that way already with many more people caring about the planet, the condition and treatment of the people making the products, and the impact of our footprints. I’m hoping that in the next decade, we will all turn to focus on being conscious consumers, which will make brands want to focus on the story behind how the products are made and the people who made them. We all want to do better, and I think it’s looking like it is going this way.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.washedashore.co
• Email: [email protected]
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/getwashedashore
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/getwashedashore

Image Credit:
Ava Alexis, Torrey West

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