"Dream. Dream forward. We can actualize our dreams." So says the description of this Dream large medallion pendant on FoundRae's website. The brand is known for its inspirational motifs, adorning the wearers in solid gold symbolism. Symbolism that was taken from a vast lexicon spanning across cultures and eras. I love this idea. The idea of choosing jewelry that documents who you are, and what you hope to become – it's beautiful. As I gaze in the mirror at the dream medallion around my neck, it reminds me to keep dreaming. I am a mother but that's not all, as I am still at the helm of my ship and my identity; though changed by motherhood, my life is still mine for the making. My dreams are still mine for the dreaming. I like "Mom jewelry" to commemorate my kids. I like FoundRae medallions to remind me of what's possible. I'm a jewelry expert and a gemologist, and this is my honest review of FoundRae's Dream medallion pendant.
Since it was founded in 2015, FoundRae has been known for its symbolic jewelry. The range of motifs featured in FoundRae's medallion pendants are meant to reflect the life-story, soul and dreams of the wearer. Jewelry is often a record of personal narrative, because it is gifted or purchased to commemorate personal milestones and commitments. But more than most jewelry, FoundRae's pieces are a literal symbol of self-expression.
FoundRae's collection is semi-customizable, meaning that their medallions are sold separately from the solid gold chain bracelets and necklaces that they are made to hang from. This a-la-carte style shopping makes each piece feel even more personal because you can combine the chains with pendants that specifically speak to you. Furthermore, the collection has a “modern heirloom” aesthetic, making their pieces look shiny and new, while also feeling enchantingly ancient.
Price: $$$
FoundRae is pricey. Their medallions range in price from just north of $1,000 to nearly $10,000, and that does not include the chains they are meant to be worn on, which start around $2,000 and go up to the tens of thousands of dollars.
Craftsmanship: Great
FoundRae Collection's medallion pendants are beautifully crafted. As a gemologist, I have inspected thousands of jewelry items over the years and I appreciate the quality of the brand's craftsmanship. The solid gold castings are smooth and free of porosity (tiny holes that compromise the strength of the gold). The intricate details of each casting are flawlessly polished to preserve maximum definition and the tiny diamonds accenting the Dream medallion I'm wearing are of high quality (near colorless and eye clean). FoundRae jewelry is handmade in New York City (like I was). The attention to detail and commitment to quality is evident in every piece, resulting in jewelry that is not only a highly personal marker of self-expression, but also one that is built to last – if you can afford it.
Comfort: Great
These medallions are quite comfortable and easy to wear, despite the heft of FoundRae's gold chains. I love what FoundRae's medallions stand for. They layer on emotional, even spiritual comfort, too. They can remind us of what's possible because if we get out of our own way, what's possible is a whole lot and it’s nice to have visual reminders of this. I'm not a maximalist, however, FoundRae's statement- making chunky 18K gold chains are striking. They're also somewhat delicate when paired with their symbolic medallions – and I'm a fan.
Sustainability: Fair
FoundRae doesn't bill itself as a sustainable jewelry brand. It doesn't seem to be part of their ethos. However, manufacturing domestically and in New York City – where the brand is based – eliminates some of the carbon other brands dump into the atmosphere by shipping from manufacturers overseas. I would infer that their pieces are at least somewhat sustainable because gold is a recyclable material, too valuable to waste. Plus diamonds legally imported into the United States have to show proof of origin. This matters to me, because I prioritize the environmental and social impact of my purchases.
Resale value: Great
As a lifelong thrifter, I personally prefer to shop for jewelry on the secondary market. FoundRae pieces regularly appear on The RealReal and their medallions list for about 10% off MSRP. To put that in perspective, less desirable brands sell for more than 70% off of their retail prices. The relatively high resale value of FoundRae medallions makes them a good value (at least for now).
Investment: Good
Overall, FoundRae is a brand that offers unique fine jewelry that is autobiographical and inspirational. I appreciate FoundRae's craftsmanship and attention to detail. If you have thousands of dollars worth of disposable income, and want a piece of jewelry that acts as a record of where you've been and a map for where you're going, then by all means, invest in a piece of FoundRae. But if I were shopping for one of their pieces, then I would check the secondary market first, in particular, The RealReal.
