Case Study: Dogeared Jewelry Handcrafted

Dogeared is a jewelry company that was founded in Southern California by Marcia Maizel-Clarke. It has been around since 1991. Maizel-Clarke originally hand crafted jewelry with the purpose of putting positive and peaceful energy into the world, which is a key part of the company. Another key part of the company is working with various non-profit organizations and sharing a better vision of the world, whilst giving back. ("Dogeared - Jewelry Handcrafted in the U.S.A." Dogeared, Inc. N.p., n.d. Web. 10 Nov. 2015.) Currently, Cambodia suffers from an underdeveloped youth population and constantly struggle with gender inequalities. Recently Dogeared has taken it upon themselves to make a difference in regarding the struggles of young women in
They have already started to gain some popularity on the market. Their unique jewels are regularly featured in fashion, lifestyle, and celebrity publications. Big name retailers like Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus Cusp, Bloomingdale’s, Fred Segal, and ABC Home, all carry Dogeared. ("Dogeared Jewels & Gifts Hires COO to Lead Global Initiatives." (2011): n. pag. Web.) A couple of years ago, Dogeared also signed a licensing deal with Sony to produce a collection of Jewelry for the movie Eat, Pray, Love. ("WWD." WWD. N.p., n.d. Web. 11 Nov. 2015.) The California based company is also a certified B-Corporation, which means they are a for-profit organization that has met B-Lab standards with regards to social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency. ("B Corporation." What Are B Corps? N.p., n.d. Web. 10 Nov.
Their “Penh Lenh” idea is something that other companies should start taking into consideration, but what is “Penh Lenh?” According to Dogeared’s website, “Penh Lenh is a Cambodian based enterprise that empowers at risk young women with the prospect of a happier future through education and healing.” ("Penh Lenh." Dogeared, Inc. N.p., n.d. Web. 10 Nov. 2015.) “Young women are taught the skill of jewelry making and professional skills, which reduces the risk of exploitation.” ("Penh Lenh." Dogeared, Inc. N.p., n.d. Web. 10 Nov. 2015.) It is evident that Dogeared makes a significant impact on the young women of Cambodia and their efforts should be recognized. This unique jewelry company should be viewed as a leader in the philanthropic department. Other companies should take notice and try to emulate what Dogeared does. Not only does the company give back, but their employees statistically contribute to the cause and involve themselves by donating some of their earnings. According to their website, “30% of employees contribute $414 to support the young women’s efforts in Cambodia.” ("Penh Lenh." Dogeared, Inc. N.p., n.d. Web. 10 Nov. 2015.) It is important for any company to give back and although some companies do not, Dogeared prides itself on doing so, which is something any stakeholder should admire and consider. If more companies focused on giving back to their community, like