
Handmade by Ara the altar
The brand
Founded by Lauren King, Ara the altar 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.
The jeweller
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.
"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.
Sustainability
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.
The brand is established around four core pillars:
I) RESPECT FOR THE EARTH & those who inhabit it
II) SLOW AND CIRCULAR approach to design, production & consumption
III) DESIGN FOR LONGEVITY not trend
IV) GENUINE ASSURANCES about where and how Ara products are made
Order processing
Made to order by Lauren King, founder of Ara the altar, in her studio in northwest England, and dispatched from her to you.
As each item is made to order, please allow time for your order to be created before dispatch. Each product listing specifies the required amount of time for the item to be created before dispatch. If you require something by a particular date, please get in touch before ordering to see what might be possible.
Orders containing multiple items will be shipped together within the longest specified timescale stated on the relevant listing.
Shipping
Ara the altar offers global shipping via Royal Mail.
UK
Orders up to £100 | Standard signed for: £4.50
Orders up to £100 | Tracked and signed for: £8.50
Orders over £100 | Tracked and signed for: £4.50 (free for orders over £200)
International
All international orders | Tracked and / or signed for (destination dependent): £15.50
Royal Mail aims to deliver to Europe within 2-10 working days and worldwide within 5-14 working days.
Please be advised that buyers are responsible for any customs and import taxes that may apply. Ara the altar and Pearls & Pomegranates cannot be held responsible for any delays due to customs.
Returns and exchanges
If, for any reason, you are unhappy with your purchase from Ara the altar, you can request a return within 14 days of receipt. The item must be in its original condition and be returned in the packaging provided. Items that show signs of wear or damage will not be accepted.
You will be responsible for returning the item to Ara the altar. We recommend sending the item with a tracked service as we cannot be held responsible for any lost items or delays.