A second-generation master jeweler, David Alvarado pairs luxury jewelry design with ethical responsibility toward our environment. His pieces are all made from recycled metals, predominately gold and platinum, high-grade conflict-free diamonds, and fair-trade gems. But it is his striking use of vegetable ivory from the tagua seed that catches your eye. Just as a gemstone is chosen for its clarity and beauty, each seed is selected for its creamy color and smooth mokume-like grain. Cut, shaped, and polished, the “ivory” is connected to gold and gems using lasers and advanced technology combined with hand craftsmanship.