Product Inspirations
MS. Pleasant Earrings
Our Ms. Pleasant Earrings are inspired by the amazing life of Mary Ellen Pleasant, the most powerful Black woman during the San Francisco Gold Rush era. Born in 1814, She married a wealthy abolitionist and together they aided Black Americans in their pursuit of freedom along the Underground Railroad. After her husband’s unexpected passing, Pleasant embarked on a new chapter, relocating to California during the height of the Gold Rush. She remarried and invested her inheritance in property, precious metals, and companies like Wells Fargo. She opened laundries and boardinghouses and acquired real estate across San Francisco, Oakland, and Canada. Even with her considerable wealth, she covertly worked as a housekeeper for some of San Francisco’s most prominent merchants. This role provided her with free investment insight gleaned from conversations between rich and powerful people. Over time, Mary Ellen Pleasant amassed substantial wealth, building a grand 30-room mansion in San Francisco that served as the headquarters for her growing empire. She was a generous supporter of the Black press. She funded abolitionist John Brown’s fight against slavery, donated and raised funds to help free the enslaved, and advocated for Black people to testify in court.
1865 Necklace
The true story of America’s freedom and independence began in 1865 when America officially ended slavery. Black Americans finally had hope. If not for themselves,for their sons, daughters and generations to follow. The fierce urgency of freedom and independence is embodied by The 1865 Necklace and the story of Elizabeth Freeman. Born in 1744, Elizabeth spent nearly 40 years being treated as property. Then in 1781, Elizabeth went to court and sued her enslavers for her freedom and won. Fame and good fortune soon followed. when asked what freedom meant to her, she replied, "Any time…Any time while I was enslaved, if one minute's freedom had been offered to me, and I had been told I must die at the end of that minute, I would have taken it. just to stand one minute on God's earth a free woman. I would."
1619 Cuff Bracelet
America’s strength has always been rooted in its diversity. The 1619 Cuff Bracelet honors the enduring legacy, resilience, and cultural impact of Black Americans whose contributions helped shape the nation’s history and identity. Inspired by the arrival of the first enslaved Africans in North America in 1619, this piece serves as a tribute to generations of innovators, creators, leaders, and visionaries whose influence continues to define America economically, culturally, and socially.
From James Hemings, the first presidential chef who introduced refined French cuisine to early America, to Benjamin Banneker, whose brilliance contributed to the development of Washington DC, Black excellence has been woven into the foundation of the nation. Visionaries such as Phillis Wheatley, the first widely published Black American poet, and Harriet Tubman, a national hero, whose courage helped lead hundreds to freedom, represent the strength, creativity, and determination that continue to inspire generations today.
reeves wrist bond
Known for his intelligence, bravery, and extraordinary skill, the Bass Reeves Wrist Bond honors one of the most legendary lawmen in American history. A pioneering figure of the American West, many historians believing Bass Reeves was the inspiration for The Lone Ranger.
After gaining his freedom during the American Civil War, Reeves went on to become one of the first Black deputy U.S. marshals west of the Mississippi River. Fluent in multiple languages and recognized as an exceptional marksman, he became renowned for his strategic mind, calmness under pressure, and ability to out think dangerous fugitives. Reeves was smart, had great tracking skills, and even used disguises to complete his missions, earning legendary respect across the American frontier. Over his 3-decade career, He was the most successful lawmen of the era, capturing over 3000 fugitives. Bass Reeves challenged stereotypes and proved character could overcome barriers imposed by society.
Cooper Bracelet / Anklet
Named to honor the legacy of Anna Julia Cooper—a visionary author, activist, educator, and public speaker who continues to inspire. The Cooper Chain Bracelet is more than luxury jewelry; it’s a tribute to the unyielding pursuit of self-actualization and the profound commitment to uplifting others. Born in 1858, Anna Spent most of her 105 year of life dedicated to the education, freedom and advancement of women in America. Anna was a multifaceted woman who earned a PhD from the University of Paris-Sorbonne, publishing influential works in 1892 that championed freedom as an inherent human right. Today, Anna J Cooper words of freedom are quoted in every U.S passport, the only Black woman to honored. “The cause of freedom is not the cause of a race or a sect, a party or a class—it is the cause of humankind, the very birthright of humanity.”
G.W.C Bracelet
Proof not all heroes wear capes, George Washington Carver is one of the most influential scientists and educators in American history. At a time when opportunities for Black Americans were rare, Carver used his talents to improve the lives of communities across the country. The G.W.C. Bracelet honors a humble man with a bold vision giving American hope when it needed it most.
Carver’s groundbreaking work at the Tuskegee Institute, taught farmers how to restore depleted soil through crop rotation and sustainable farming methods. His research on peanuts, sweet potatoes, and other crops opened new economic opportunities for struggling farmers by develop hundreds of practical uses for these crops — including flour, cooking oils, dyes, beverages, livestock feed, and food products helping turn them into profitable agricultural commodities. He taught people how to create value from what others overlooked. His research dramatically improved farm productivity and helped stabilize the American economy.
So much to so few…
Black Americans are deeply woven into the fabric of the nation. During the Trans-Atlantic slave trade Only 5% of enslaved people came to America. Yet, Black Americans made a way out of no way. They built the country's economy and fought to shape the nation's democratic ideals. They led movements for civil rights, voting rights, and social justice for all Americans. They shaped culture with achievements in science, literature, military service, and invented jazz, blues, and rock and roll. Asyend was born to tell this story. To elevate style, and celebrate our past, present and future.