Created for change-makers and those passionate about the planet, Pilgrim is shaking up the jewellery world for good.

 

Today, the way we shop for, or think about fashion jewellery has changed. No longer are we amassing countless, disposable trinkets to be discarded past their seasonal expiry date; sustainability, gender-neutrality and a responsible take on style is the trend du jour, and one that’s going to last, too. Enter Pilgrim: a Danish jewellery brand set to prove that a conscious mindset and limitless self-expression can go hand in hand. This year marks their 40th year of crafting adventurous pieces inspired by Scandi traditions with a green ethos at heart — and with thousands of travellers already joining the Pilgrim journey, there’s no stopping them now.

 

DESIGNED IN DENMARK

The story of the Pilgrim brand began in 1983 in Denmark where, undeterred by the ultra-competitive jewellery market, founders Annemette Markvad and Thomas Adamsen set about opening their very first jewellery-making workshop in their hometown of Skanderborg. It was there that the idea for a cool, rebellious Scandinavian label first took shape — but even though their original influences were rooted firmly in the music scene (the early Pilgrim collections sold like hotcakes to music fans at gigs and festivals), they soon realised that the power of jewellery is about much more than just about looking ‘edgy’ or making a fashion statement. So, they embarked on a wholly new mission: to empower wearers to feel ready to take on the world, while looking out for its people, environment, and natural resources too.

 

Today, Pilgrim has grown from a tiny Danish studio into a thoroughbred international brand with a bold, Scandinavian take on modern looks — and whether it’s their signature unisex chains, or sleek, minimalist sunglasses, their craft credentials remain very much on point. They’re still a family-owned, family-run business; each of their pieces is designed in-house by skilled Danish creators; and most importantly, their take on Scandi chic eschews buzzword trends in favour of the true, thoughtful traditions at the heart of their heritage.

 

SCANDINAVIAN ROOTS

It’s true that when we think of Scandinavian design, we imagine airy, neutral interiors, cosy IKEA showrooms and a pared-back approach to anything from fashion to stationery. But, as proven by Scandi-born brands like Pilgrim, there’s a lot more to it than clean lines and overall minimalist aesthetic. After all, the trend takes its root in the customs and traditions of the northern-European countries of Denmark, Norway and Sweden, where mindfulness and a deep connection with nature have been part of everyday life for centuries. It’s no wonder, then, that the resulting approach to style would follow in the same vein. Wearing jewellery the Scandinavian way can be as simple as picking clean, elegant designs that go with everything, or reducing waste by opting for higher-quality materials that will last for years. Pilgrim handcraft their creations using recycled brass and zinc plated with 925 silver or 24-carat gold with anti-oxidation coating to make them stand the test of time — that, combined with their timeless styles designed for absolutely everybody, makes them embody Scandi chic to a T.

 

MADE FOR CHANGE

Of all the jewellery trends to grace the catwalks over the last few years, sustainability and the fight against fast fashion is one that is bound to stick. As we become more mindful about what we wear and the causes we support, brands like Pilgrim soar to the top of our lists for universally stylish collections that help make a real difference. Their travel exclusive Rose Gold jewellery pieces are made from at least 75 per cent recycled material for a greener future — but that’s only the beginning, as the brand has pledged the same for all their collections by 2025. And as for social impact? Twice a year, Pilgrim design a unique piece of jewellery with part of the proceeds donated directly to Doctors Without Borders (MSF) — an organisation that provides emergency aid and humanitarian assistance to people all over the world. A fashion forward brand with a forward thinking ethos? We think we’ve found it.

 

Find your perfect Pilgrim piece today, discover the full range online here