A young Australian couple have revealed how they launched a multi-million dollar business with only $2,000 AUD in their bank account.
Inspired by a gap in the market for high-quality men’s jewelry, Zak and Frei, then 23, decided to take the plunge and start their own business during lockdown.
“The idea started after months of searching for earrings for Zak and not being able to find anything that felt right,” Frei reflects. “We could see a need for pieces that blended individuality and art. Even though jewellery is a saturated market overwhelmed by overly feminine styles and uninspired men’s pieces, we decided to take matters into our own hands.”
After taking a jewelry course and investing $2,000 into their business idea, the couple started to create jewelry from their bedroom.
“Until September 2022, we made every single piece right from our bedroom. It was challenging to say the least. Making jewelry all day left our bedroom covered in silver dust and other compounds, which wasn't healthy at all, but we loved the process and learned so much.”
Fast forward five years later, and Lox and Chain has earned global recognition, with fans from around the world rushing to purchase their unique designs. Zak’s first creation for the brand was the Knife Fight Pendant. Now, there are hundreds of other handcrafted, customisable designs to choose from online - each jewelry piece beautifully designed in Sydney and handcrafted in Denpasar, Bali.
With hundreds of rave reviews, it seems word has finally got out in the US, as even shoppers ‘who don’t usually wear jewelry’ can’t get enough.
One review for the Memento Locket Signet Ring reads: "Indeed a fortunate and praiseworthy discovery, Lox and Chain. We happened upon these artists by chance and could not feel more celebratory. The piece is expertly crafted and sized as quoted, no adjustments. We are please beyond measure and will be ordering again soon."
Another shopper shared, "The quality and attention to detail is amazing! Very unique pieces that are created."
In just five years, the brand has made a name for itself selling customisable necklaces, signet rings, and bracelets - and is now worth millions.
With storytelling at its heart, Lox and Chain's latest collection includes memento lockets and ‘breakable’ heart necklaces designed to be shared.
Since word has made its way to the US, you might want to get your hands on the brand’s latest standout pieces, before they sell out.
Shop our top picks below:
Memento Locket Signet Ring
The Memento Signet Locket Ring will make a thoughtful gift, as a small photo can be placed inside the jewellery item. To make it completely bespoke, you can even have it engraved.
Crafted from solid sterling silver or gold with the brand’s signature bloodstone texture, it’s a keepsake that never has to be taken off.
“The quality and attention to detail is amazing!” one review reads. “Very unique pieces.”
Another customer shared, “Finally, a locket ring for men! I wanted to get my husband a sentimental gift that was also something he would love wearing. This was the perfect gift! I have never seen a locket ring for men and was so excited for this find. The quality is amazing and he was so happy with it.”
Breakable Heart Pendant
The Breakable Heart Pendant is designed to break apart to form two separate necklaces, one for you and one for your other half. According to Lox and Chain, this represents a ‘symbol of connection, distance, and love in all its forms’. The best part? It's made to withstand water, time, and everyday wear and tear.
Boot Lighter Carabiner
Artfully crafted to clip onto a carabiner, the Boot Lighter Carabiner comes with a sterling silver-plated frame, and will make a great gift for people with attention to detail.
In case you needed any further convincing, one five-star review reads: “Made really well you can see the unique etchings from when it was hammered. My boyfriend loved it.”
Featured Image Credit: Lox and Chain
Danielle Fowler