Manchester, England, UK

Ara the altar

Working as a shoot producer in the fashion industry, Lauren King, the founder of Ara the altar, felt a deep pull towards the hands-on processes of designing and creating. She challenged herself to learn the ancient art of metalsmithing and from there, began creating designs that celebrate the unique, organic aesthetic of the Earth.

The brand is inspired by the ancient world's perception of astronomy: Ara is a southern polar constellation that translates to 'the altar' in Latin. In early illustrations, Ara was depicted as an altar with burning incense, rising smoke, or sacrificial offerings. Lauren's interpretation of this led to the sourcing, creating, and offering of beautiful, unique objects for earth-aware individuals.

Ara the altar embraces the slow fashion movement and the brand is characterised by made-to-order adornments created from 100% recycled sterling silver and gold.

"I aim to tread lightly whilst creating eternal pieces that give the wearer a conscious connection with the beauty of our only planet," says Lauren.

Every adornment from Ara the altar is designed and created by Lauren in her workshop in northwest England, taking influence from astronomy, nature, and the ancient world's relationship with both. Ethics and sustainability influence every decision Lauren makes.