One can pretty much find them on every girl at Staples’ wrists. The shimmering gold and silver bangles embezzled with positive energy and charms ranging from four leaf clovers, to birthstones to peace signs: Alex and Ani bracelets.
Alex and Ani, created by Carolyn Rafaelian, is an eco-friendly jewelry company whose products incorporate powerful symbols and designs into each piece. For example, the bangles are each equipped with a charm displaying either a positive message or a meaningful emblem.
Just two months ago, an Alex and Ani store opened in 117 Post Road East in Westport.
“Business has been really good,” said Sarah Bonti, key owner and employee of the Westport store. “People are starting to trickle in and realize that we are here.”
While the company was launched in 2004, it just started booming in the past couple years. This year according to Inc 500, it was ranked in America’s Fastest Growing Companies, and it’s definitely been an emergent fad around here.
“The bracelets send a really cool message because it’s not just jewelry for looking good, it’s for feeling good too,” said Kathryn Bangser ’15.
For example, one of their most popular charms is the ‘Tree of Life,’ with the message, ‘Hope. Conservation. Growth.’ As described on Alex and Ani’s website, “The Tree of Life represents strong roots, consistent growth, and fruition. An acknowledgment of our commitment to nurture, love, and preserve the beauty of nature, wearing this charm evokes the eternal connection between mankind and Mother Earth.”
Not only are they great for people who want to create positive energy in their lives in the form of a cute-trendy accessory, but they are also great for people of all ages.
“We’ve had five year olds come in here and we’ve also had 95 year olds come in here,” said Bonti.
And since they are adjustable to any size wrist, they make great presents.
“I bought the seashell one for my girlfriend and she loved it,” said Cooper Boardman ’17.
