Amore Jeweller

The Dogeared Stand up to Cancer necklace is very special. Profits from the sale of each necklace go to Stand Up To Cancers groundbreaking efforts to do the work, find the cure, and put an end to cancer. Heres an interview taken from the SU2C blog with Merlin Clarke, co-founder of Dogeared telling us the story behind the necklace.

How did Dogeared get started?

It started 20 years ago on our dining room table. My wife Marcia was between jobs and began designing jewellery. We brought it to the Rose Bowl swap meet to see if we could sell some of her creations, and we did! My wife was inspired by the fact that something she created was so appreciated by our customers so she started designing more.

Several twists and turns later, we went from selling a few necklaces to selling thousands in stores worldwide.

What makes Dogeared different?

At our core we are all about sending messages of love, kindness, and inspiration into the world. All of our products are handmade in the U.S. and we try to use recyclable material for our jewellery whenever possible.

How did Dogeared get involved with SU2C?

We do a lot of work with non-profits, and when SU2C approached us about working together we thought it was a great fit. Its a collaboration we are really proud of.

Do you have a personal connection to cancer?

Unfortunately, I have more than one. I lost my best friend to cancer when I was 20. A few years later I also lost my dad to the disease. In addition, I have several friends and co-workers that have been touched by cancer as well.

What inspired the design for the SU2C arrow necklace?

We wanted to design products that made a strong connection to SU2Cs mission and that people would love to wear. The arrow necklace, one of our first SU2C designs, symbolizes standing up and making a difference in the fight against cancer. It is simple, modern, and powerful. Its a piece of jewelry that carries a story behind it, which I really like.

What is unique about purchasing the necklace?

There are so many ways to contribute to a good cause, but there is something unique about always being able to wear something thats meaningful, like the arrow necklace.

Does knowing your brand is contributing cancer research, make your job more fulfilling?

If I look back 20 years ago to when we were started at the Rose Bowl I never thought wed be the company we are now. As weve evolved, I get most excited about the social impact weve been able to have. Our jewellery is a means of expression that allows us to make a difference and continue to give back.

Can you tell us about any personal experiences youve had as a result of working with SU2C?

Its been amazing to be a part of this community of doers. We were able to attend the SU2C show in 2010 and it was great to see so many people wearing the arrow that we designed, and to be part of something that big. Most importantly I think it is amazing to be a part of this community of people coming together to make a difference in the fight against cancer. The whole experience with SU2C has given us a lot of pride and turned out to be great partnership for us.