Welcome to our Behind the Bench series, where we take you behind the scenes of how each jewelry collection at Elaine B Jewelry comes to life. This week, we're talking all things Heart Collection!

First introduced in 2011, the Heart Collection quickly became one of our best sellers - and it’s easy to see why. The heart is more than just a sweet symbol of love - it’s also a joy to shape from metal. Just like a circle or a hexagon, the heart has that perfect geometric balance, but with a playful, emotional twist that makes it so special. This year, we’re especially excited to highlight the Heart Collection just in time for Mother’s Day gifting - because nothing says “I love you” quite like a handmade heart.

xo Elaine 

From Playful Experiment to Everyday Favorite

In the early days, the heart was a shape we loved to make simply for the fun of it. There was something so satisfying about translating that universally loved symbol into a wearable, metal form. What started as a few experimental designs quickly turned into a collection - necklaces, bangles, hoops, and more - all created with the same thoughtful design approach that defines everything we make.

As word spread and demand grew, the Heart Collection became a cornerstone of our studio. It was joyful, easy to wear, and full of personality.

A few designs from Elaine B Jewelry's Heart Collection.

A New Chapter - Giving Back Through Jewelry

After years of creating and evolving the Heart Collection, we felt ready to explore new directions. In 2020, we moved the beloved Heart Necklace into our Rise Collection - a project focused on giving back. Through Rise, 100% of the net sales from the Heart Necklace were donated to nonprofit organizations such as Girls Rock Detroit and Feeding America. It was a meaningful way to let this iconic design continue its story while supporting causes we care deeply about.

The rest of the Heart Collection was retired at that time, but never forgotten.

The Heart Necklace and the full Rise Collection by Elaine B Jewelry.

You Asked & We Listened

Even after the official collection was paused, our community didn’t let it go. We had so many of you  asking if we’d ever bring the hearts back. So, we decided to say “yes” - bringing back a limited number of best-selling designs as a seasonal Valentine’s Day release. The response was more than we could have imagined!

The Heart Collection comes back - full of Valentine's Day spirit!

The Next Chapter of Hearts

In 2024, we sunsetted the Rise Collection as we transitioned to a more flexible model of giving - supporting local nonprofits through in-kind donations and more community-focused partnerships. You can learn more about our approach to community impact here.

After 14 years, we think these designs just might have earned their spot as year-round staples. Stay tuned for an excited announcement coming soon!

From classic necklaces to the Forever Linked Heart Chain and Forever Linked Heart Charm, they’re ready to be worn, gifted, and loved every day.

Elaine B. Jewelry's Heart Collection

A Look Back In Time

Want to see where it all began? Check out the image below of our very first catalog and you’ll spot the original Heart Collection. It’s a small but powerful reminder of how far we’ve come - and how some designs, like timeless handmade hearts, never go out of style.

Elaine B. Jewelry's vert first Heart Collection.

Shop the full Heart Collection here.

Shop All Collections here.

Shop All Gemstone Jewelry here.