Mother and daughter duo and practicing Buddhists Nancy and Dakota Badia started making bracelets as a way to raise money for a Buddhist center, and in 2009 Buddha Mama was born. Nancy abandoned the family spice business to step up production, and Dakota joined her full time in the venture after college. Now, their spirituality strongly influences high-end jewelry designs with Buddhist motifs and Eastern influences, which are recognizable throughout the line in 18k yellow, pink, and white gold, 20k yellow gold, and some sterling silver. “My daughter and I sketch designs together and have them made in Miami and also in our factory in Bangkok,” explains Nancy. Components and chains are handmade, as are one-of-a-kind and limited-edition styles. Sapphires and diamonds, among other precious stones, top off robust silhouettes of Buddhas and Sanskrit-theme styles, and a portion of monthly sales are given to two different Miami-based charities.

Dakota Badia with Suda, her rescued Shar-Pei and Rhodesian ridgeback mix

Starting retail price: $1,000 in 18k white, pink, and yellow gold and 20k yellow gold, and $250 in silver

Accounts: Two domestic—Levinson Jewelers in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., and Albert’s Fine Jewelers with two locations in Miami.

Trade fairs: None to date

Retailer buy-in: About 25 pieces

Contact: 305-213-2107; buddhamama.com

Sanskrit “Love” ring in 20k gold with 1.295 cts. t.w. colorless diamonds, $6,100

Marquise Beaded Hoop earrings in 20k gold with 4.2 cts. t.w. colorless diamonds, $14,900

Large Rosary necklace in 20k gold with 5.26 cts. t.w. black onyx, 0.59 ct. t.w. colorless diamonds, and 0.31 ct. t.w. black diamonds, $18,200

The Style 360 blog is your editorial source for the newest jewelry, trends, market analysis, trade show insights, designer profiles, and more.

Follow JCK on Instagram: @jckmagazine
Follow JCK on Twitter: @jckmagazine
Follow JCK on Facebook: @jckmagazine