Launching a fine jewelry brand six months into a global pandemic is a uniquely unorthodox way to set oneself apart in business. But, according to Ephra Graham, visionary founder, owner and designer at Udall Caribbean, destiny could no longer wait.
Now, three years in and with countless hours of hustle and sacrifice under her belt, Ephra, a St. Croix native with Grenadian and Trinidadian roots, is finally finding her footing and has positioned the brand as the go-to for resplendent, timeless Caribbean Heritage Fine Jewelry™ that can be passed from one generation to the next.
Launched on September 9, 2020, Udall Caribbean gets its name from the eastern-most point of the United States—Point Udall on St. Croix—and celebrates the shared histories, vibrant cultures, and revered heroes and heroines of the Caribbean through a growing roster of exquisitely crafted pendants, rings, cuffs, bracelets, and chains. All pieces are made-to-order for the fashionable man, woman, and child, with gift sets and unisex items also available.
The brand is anchored by its signature piece—a 14K gold “Queen Mary” pendant that pays homage to the heroism of Mary “Queen Mary” Thomas of Antigua for her leading role in the Oct. 1, 1878, labor uprising against colonial powers in St. Croix that culminated in the torching of the town of Frederiksted. The event is locally commemorated as “Fireburn,” now in its 145th year.
“I am extremely proud of my Caribbean heritage and all that comes along with that,” says Ephra. “From our food and music to our resilience, strong sense of family, faith and community, our people and history are truly amazing. I know I’m not unique in feeling this way about my Caribbean roots, and Udall Caribbean offers a way for men, women, and children to express pride in their heritage with fine jewelry and accessories that truly honors them.”
Ephra Graham
And speaking of honor, let’s take a bow to this CEO’s commitment to doing good while helping her customers look good.
“As much as we care about offering our customers elegant, beautiful jewelry, we equally care about the environment and decided early on that all of our pieces would be made from recycled or conflict-free precious metals,” Ephra explains. “As an impact-driven company created to make a difference, Udall Caribbean is committed to environmental responsibility and ethical sourcing. The company invests resources into marine conservation and craftsmanship education in the Caribbean and abroad.”
Other must-have Udall pieces to add to any valued jewelry collection include a signet pendant, a sea turtle collection, and a cuff inscribed with a powerful message of unity that everyone can get behind. Products are available in sterling silver, 14K and 18K yellow or white gold.
“While our pieces unapologetically celebrate the Caribbean, they are made for any and everyone who can appreciate quality jewelry that speaks to the heart and that will last for a lifetime,” the jewelry-maker says.
Ephra is rightfully proud of the strides Udall has made over the last 36 months and is excited about her company’s dazzling future.
“I have learned so much about business, purpose and perseverance during the last three years, and it has only served to reignite my passion and reaffirm my commitment to this work that I both love and respect,” she says. “I look forward to expanding the brand in the coming months.”
Udall Caribbean is a proud member of the Black in Jewelry Coalition.
To view the complete Udall collection and to purchase online, visit www.udallcaribbean.com.