Over the last twenty years, I’ve been an avid admirer of Bario Neal and their stunning jewelry. This Philadelphia-based studio was established by two close friends — Anna Bario and Page Neal — and each creation is crafted using ethically acquired stones and environmentally mindful methods. Therefore, when I opted to design a ring to mark this new chapter in my life, I reached out to them…
The ring above was my engagement ring. It’s quite beautiful, but since my marriage concluded a couple of years back, it’s no longer on my finger. As I embrace this new phase — filled with friendship and fresh love — I aspired to redesign the ring to embody personal significance, sincerity, and a modern flair.
I was thrilled to converse with co-founder Page Neal (left), who was incredibly warm and delightful. Have you ever designed custom jewelry before? I felt both excited and a tad intimidated — after all, what did I truly know? — but Bario Neal ensures that every step is enjoyable and clear. To start crafting a piece from the ground up, you begin with a brief custom design questionnaire. You specify your preferred metal, style, gems, and budget, and then collaborate with designers on what comes next. (If you wish to add your personal touch to an existing piece but don’t want to start from scratch, Bario Neal offers an online customization platform.)
Next, Page invited me to put together a moodboard featuring various photos and vibes that resonated with me (here are some, above)…
…and to point out the rings on the website that caught my interest. This task was so enjoyable, and I found myself drawn to blues, asymmetrical clusters, and modern curves.
After reviewing my moodboard, Page sent an array of designs for me to consider. How amazing are these two?
Then I made a trip to Bario Neal’s Brooklyn studio to experience their jewelry up close. The gentleman who assisted me appeared as excited as I was, and we ended up trying on rings together! I wanted to linger there all day. I was enamored with their radial cluster diamond ring, which we chose to customize with sapphires and a few personal adjustments.
A few gemstones were left from my ring design, allowing us to create earrings as well. Page provided design concepts, and in-store, we could physically rearrange the tiny gems to discover the arrangement we preferred. Witnessing the design come together right before my eyes was truly incredible.
We were now truly underway! I thoroughly enjoyed collaborating with Page and her team. The process photos of the earrings and ring blow my mind. Bario Neal’s mission — to establish a jewelry company that honors human rights and environmental sustainability — radiates through all they do. Every metal and gem has a fully traceable supply chain and is sourced responsibly from miners who adhere to ethical, social, and ecological principles.
For my ring, the diamond was a sustainably certified carbon-neutral lab-grown diamond, the aquamarines were responsibly sourced from Brazil, and the champagne diamond was recycled. Isn’t that incredible?
So! Would you like to see the final ring?
Isn’t it stunning?! I love it so, so much — it feels both modern and timeless, reflecting the thoughtfulness and skill of women. Bario Neal’s jewelry emerges from their Philadelphia studio, and you can sense the love in all their creations.
The entire Bario Neal team made this experience incredibly meaningful, and I wholeheartedly recommend them to anyone in search of exquisite jewelry.
Thank you immensely, Bario Neal. This was an absolute delight. xoxo
Exciting news for Cup of Jo readers: Enjoy an incredible 20% discount on your build-your-own jewelry adventure with the code CUPOFJO20, valid until December 31st. If you’d like, view all the Bario Neal build-your-own styles here. Thank you so much.
(This post is sponsored by Bario Neal, a brand we’ve cherished for years. Thank you for supporting the brands that support Cup of Jo. Final images by Veronica Olson for Cup of Jo.)
**The Breathtaking Jewelry Studio That Stole My Heart**
There’s an undeniable enchantment in entering a space where creativity, skill, and passion intertwine. For me, that moment transpired when I stumbled upon a jewelry studio that not only captivated my senses but also left an unforgettable impression on my heart. It wasn’t merely the exquisite items on display that mesmerized me, but the entire experience—the artistry, the narratives, and the people behind the creations. Allow me to guide you through this enchanting jewelry studio that became a haven of inspiration.
### A Hidden Jewel in the Center of the City
Tucked away in a charming corner of the city, the studio appeared unpretentious from the outside. Its humble exterior gave no indication of the marvels that awaited within. However, the moment I stepped inside, I was whisked away into a realm of dazzling beauty and painstaking craftsmanship. The studio was a seamless fusion of contemporary elegance and vintage charm, with gentle lighting that made every piece of jewelry shimmer like cosmic dust.
The walls were embellished with sketches of intricate designs, illuminating the creative journey behind each masterpiece. Workstations lined one side of the room, scattered with tools, gemstones, and unfinished pieces, revealing the artisans’ commitment and expertise. It was evident that this was more than just a shop—it was a haven for creativity and self-expression.
### The Artistry That Took My Breath Away
What amazed me the most about the jewelry was its distinctiveness. Each piece seemed to narrate a tale, merging traditional techniques with modern aesthetics. From delicate necklaces bedecked with ethically sourced gemstones to striking statement rings that radiated confidence, the collection was as varied as it was breathtaking.
One specific piece ensnared my attention—a pendant shaped like a crescent moon, adorned with tiny diamonds that glittered like the night sky. The artisan shared that it was inspired by the phases of the moon and symbolized change and evolution. Learning the story behind the design rendered the piece even more meaningful, and I found myself captivated by its profound significance.
The studio also offered custom-made jewelry, allowing clients to collaborate with the artisans to craft unique pieces. Observing a client articulate their vision and witnessing it materialize in the hands of a talented jeweler was absolutely spellbinding. It served as a reminder that jewelry is not just an adornment but a deeply personal manifestation of identity and sentiment.
### The People Behind the Craft
What truly distinguished this studio was the people piecing it together. The artisans were not only remarkably skilled but also deeply passionate about their craft. They spoke with excitement about the materials they utilized, from responsibly sourced gemstones to recycled metals, and their dedication to sustainability was evident in every facet of their work.
I had the honor of engaging with the studio’s founder, a master jeweler with years of experience. She recounted her journey of launching the studio, her inspirations, and her vision for creating jewelry that resonates personally with individuals. Her words were a testament to the strength of pursuing one’s passion and the joy derived from crafting something significant.
### An Experience to Treasure
Visiting this jewelry studio transcended a mere shopping excursion—it was an experience that resonated with my soul. It celebrated the brilliance of human creativity and the narratives that unite us. Every piece of jewelry was a piece of art, crafted with love and attention, while the studio itself reflected the artisans’ commitment to their craft.
As I departed the studio, I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude for having encountered such a remarkable place. I walked away with not just a beautiful piece of jewelry but also a renewed appreciation for the artistry and dedication essential in creating something genuinely extraordinary.
If you ever have the opportunity to explore a jewelry studio like this, I urge you to take the time to discover, ask questions, and immerse yourself in the experience. You may just uncover a piece that resonates deeply with your heart—or, like me, you may stumble upon a place that turns into a fountain of inspiration and awe.
