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The Restored by Design collection features salvaged jewelry and natural materials in truly one-of-a-kind statement pieces. Photo: Restored by Design via Facebook
The Restored by Design collection features salvaged jewelry and natural materials in truly one-of-a-kind statement pieces. Photo: Restored by Design via Facebook
Based in Providence, R.I., Restored by Design offers a new take on upcycling discarded materials.

Founder Martha Jackson, a well-dressed local with a red lip and a sing-song voice, calls the design studio and retail shop a “dream come true.”

She opened her doors more than four years ago, in hopes of building what she called an “‘eco fashion’ business to celebrate the art of creating by hand, which is often forgotten in this fast-paced, busy world.”

By combining found bits of vintage jewelry, bygone parts, industry excess and natural elements like leaves and flowers, Jackson creates truly one-of-a-kind accessories that you’d never believe were recycled.

The Restored by Design line also features lots of work with epoxy resin. Jewelry designer Cheryl Dias, who has been with Jackson since the beginning, is an expert at using the water-resistant adhesive to preserve leaves and flowers – which sit amongst recovered jewels without curling or wilting.

Last summer, the duo expanded the design studio to include a retail shop in downtown Providence. Moving beyond their flagship accessory designs, the new shop also includes clothing, scarves and home decor, as well as wedding styling services.

Already something of a sensation in the area, the brand has been featured on the cover of Providence Monthly and appeared in several regional fashion shows.

To catch an up-close look at Dias and Jackson’s stunning work, check out the Restored by Design online store, or visit the shop in downtown Providence.

By Mary Mazzoni

Mary is a lifelong vegetarian and enjoys outdoor activities like hiking, biking and relaxing in the park. When she’s not outside, she’s probably watching baseball. She is a former assistant editor for Earth911.