Overview of Aurate New York Jewelry
Founded in 2015 by Sophie Kahn and Bouchra Essahraoui, Aurate is a modern luxury jewelry brand born, raised and handmade in New York City. With Sophie‘s fashion background and Bouchra‘s finance experience, the two set out to create high-quality yet affordable fine jewelry that didn‘t compromise on ethics or sustainability.
Today, Aurate offers collections of earrings, necklaces, rings and bracelets featuring recycled 14k and 18k gold, conflict-free diamonds and ethically sourced gemstones. Their timeless yet contemporary designs appeal to the stylish, socially-conscious consumer. The brand has gained notoriety through partnerships with public figures like actress Kerry Washington.
The Good
Through research for this Aurate jewelry review, several positives stand out:
- Unique minimalist jewelry designs offer subtle luxury
- More affordable price points than typical fine jewelry
- Ethical and sustainable – recycled metals, responsible gem sourcing
- Gives back to literacy programs for underprivileged US children
The Bad
A few downsides also surfaced around customer service and shipping:
- Some complaints of slow shipping times
- Difficulty contacting customer service
- A few negative product quality reviews
Overall according to this Aurate jewelry review, the pros seem to outweigh the cons for most consumers. Keep reading for an in-depth analysis of top-selling Aurate collections.
Aurate Rings Review
From modern minimal rings to eternity bands to statement stacked sets, Aurate offers unique 14k and 18k gold ring designs to fit any style.
Infinity Ring
One of Aurate‘s signature rings, the Infinity Ring features a continuous ridged band said to catch the light beautifully. Reviewers compliment its comfortable fit and versatility for everyday wear. This ring is available in 14k gold plate for $125, 14k solid gold for $950 or 18k gold for $1400.
Stackable Ring
Understated and dainty, Aurate‘s thin Stackable Ring was designed specifically for layering with other pieces. Wear above the knuckle for an edgy look. Options include 14k gold for $75 or 18k gold for $110. Multiple buyers comment these are perfect for stacking.
Aurate Necklaces Review
FromInitial necklaces topaperclip chains to diamond pendants, Aurate‘s necklace collection focuses on simplistic glamour.
Diamond Pendant Necklace
Featuring a dazzling 0.15 carat diamond, this adjustable 16-18 inch chain is understated enough for everyday while still feeling special. It‘s secured by a lobster clasp with two jump rings for adjusting length. Available in 14k and 18k gold starting at $450.
Gold Bar Necklace
Recalling ‘90s supermodel style, this slim gold bar pendant on a 15-18 inch chain epitomizes edgy-chic. Engravable for customization. Get it in 14k for $350 or splurge on the 18k version for $550.
According to reviewers, both these necklaces make go-to gifts and personalized keepsakes.
Aurate Earrings Review
While Aurate has standard studs and hoops, some of their most unique offerings are in earrings. These zodiac and chain drop styles display the brand‘s modern point-of-view.
Zodiac Stud Earrings
For the astrology enthusiast, these demure studs feature your sign etched onto a small gold disc. Layer them with other earrings or wear alone. Sets available in 14k gold plate for $70 or solid 14k gold for $180. Many happy buyers in the reviews!
Chain Drop Earrings
These intriguing earrings feature slim gold chains connected to chunky hoops for visual interest. They attract compliments for their innovative style according to Aurate buyers. Find them in 14k and 18k gold starting at $150.
Aurate Bracelets Review
From bezel diamond bracelets to personalized nameplates, Aurate bracelets lean feminine and function well for layering.
Diamond Bezel Bracelet
An eye-catching piece, this charming bracelet spotlights a single bezel set diamond on a sectioned chain with lobster clasp. Adjustable from 6 – 6.5 inches. Offered in 14k and 18k gold starting at $250.
Lioness Pendant Bracelet
Part of Aurate‘s collaboration with Kerry Washington, this empowering bracelet features a lioness charm on an eclectic curb link chain secured by a carabiner closure. Reviewers call this meaningful piece both "edgy" and "fierce." The black-owned brand Washington chose to partner with further adds to its appeal. Available solely in 14k gold plate for $430.
Aurate Jewelry Reviews From Customers
Scouring the internet, Aurate earns largely positive feedback across their website, Facebook and third party review platforms. Out of over 500 reviews on their own site, they maintain an impressive 4.8 out of 5 stars.
Happy customers gush:
"This ring is now my favorite piece of jewelry…I am so happy with my purchase!"
"My absolute favorite hoops for everyday wear. So classy and just the right amount of shine."
However on Trustpilot, some disappointed buyers detail issues around receiving wrong items, poor customer service responses and slow shipping:
"I have emailed, FB messaged and used online chat to try to resolve my issues and I keep getting automated responses."
"Received wrong item twice in a row."
Potential issues around customer service and shipping are counterbalanced by the majority positively rating their Aurate pieces across social channels and third party sites like The Knot.
Aurate Jewelry Quality & Value Assessment
Given the brand‘s glowing reputation among fashion editors and celebrity fans, combined with many satisfied customer reviews, this Aurate jewelry review concludes their modern fine jewelry delivers on quality and appearance.
The value is also superior to typical designer fine jewelry with pieces often hundreds less. And unlike fast fashion brands, Aurate aims for heirloom-quality over trends with their timeless everyday collections.
For those still uncertain, try Aurate risk-free with free shipping and returns. Their lifetime warranty also helps inspire confidence.
Aurate Sustainability & Ethics
A major distinguishing factor for the brand, Aurate actively minimizes their environmental impact through responsible practices like:
- Using 100% recycled gold and recycled diamonds/gemstones
- Working with eco-friendly family-run farms for pearls and stones
- Offering customizable engraving so pieces get passed down vs tossed
- Donating a portion of sales to support children‘s literacy programs
They also share educational resources on sourcing issues plaguing the larger jewelry industry. This degree of transparency and activism helps position Aurate as a leader in the ethical jewelry space.
How to Buy Aurate Jewelry
The full collection of Aurate necklaces, rings, earrings and bracelets are available at AurateNewYork.com with new arrivals added monthly.
For in-person shopping and styling appointments, visit one of Aurate‘s three New York boutiques located downtown in Soho, on the Upper East Side, and in Brooklyn.
Aurate Jewelry Promotions
Sign up through Aurate‘s website to receive 10% off your first order. Be on the lookout for sitewide sales offered around holidays like Black Friday and Cyber Monday where you may find an even higher discount.
Aurate Shipping, Returns & Warranty
Aurate offers standard free 2-day shipping within the US, and calculated shipping fees for international orders. From order processing to doorstep delivery expect a 5-7 business day timeframe.
The brand allows free returns within 30 days of receipt. Made-to-order pieces can also be returned but personalized engraved items are final sale.
Even if an item is damaged over time, Aurate provides a lifetime warranty on all their jewelry.Simply contact them through phone or email for any necessary repairs or fixes.
The Verdict: Is Aurate Worth It?
For affordable and ethical everyday fine jewelry, Aurate shines as a leader in quality, style and sustainability. Discerning yet down-to-earth consumers will delight in building a jewelry collection mixing and matching their minimalist yet striking designs.
While isolated customer service and shipping complaints surfaced during this review, the overwhelming majority of customers enthuse about the beautiful craftsmanship and timely delivery of their Aurate orders.
Given their responsible sourcing, quality materials, competitive pricing and excellent return policy, this Aurate jewelry review confidently recommends them as a brand well-worth your investment. You can feel good gifting and wearing their glare-free luxury pieces for years to come.
