Rachel Samani is the founder and creative force behind The Honest Jeweler, a brand born out of one of the most difficult seasons of her life. After experiencing profound grief and emotional pain, Rachel searched for something tangible to ground her in the present moment. That search led her to create her very first spinner ring, engraved with the words “This Too Shall Pass.” With every spin, she found herself reconnecting to her breath, her body, and her faith — and from that healing ritual, The Honest Jeweler was born.
What began as a deeply personal practice has grown into a movement touching thousands of lives. Today, The Honest Jeweler is known for its engraved spinner rings and affirmation bangles, each designed to serve as more than jewelry. They are tactile reminders to breathe, return to the present, and carry courage, strength, and hope. Engraved with messages such as “Ein Od Milvado,” “You Are Worthy,” and “Stay Present / Live This Moment,” each piece is crafted to make the invisible — love, faith, resilience — visible again.
Under Rachel’s leadership, The Honest Jeweler has grown a vibrant community:
- 30,000+ products sold online
- Nearly 16,000 Instagram followers with a reach of up to 765,000 people per month
- Over 500 live events including NYU graduations, Bat/Bar Mitzvahs, and corporate gatherings
- 4.9 stars across 6,600+ Etsy reviews
The brand has also been embraced by influencers and thought leaders including Mel Robbins, Rachel Platten, and Ryan Primer.
For Rachel, every order remains deeply personal. Each ring or bangle is a message of solidarity: “I see you. You’re not alone. And this moment matters.”
Marina Kennedy interviewed her for out My Career Choice feature.
Can you point to one event that triggered your interest in your career?
Yes. It was right after I had my fifth child that my life completely shifted. I went through one of the hardest seasons I’ve ever faced—carrying grief, trauma, and pain that at times felt unbearable. In the middle of that darkness, I wanted to create something tangible, something you could hold onto when everything feels heavy. A piece that felt honest—a ring you can spin, a charm you can touch, a necklace you can carry with you as a reminder that even in life’s hardest moments, you are not alone. That’s how my journey began, and it ultimately led me to found The Honest Jeweler, a brand rooted in authenticity, healing, and connection.
What about this career choice did you find most appealing?
At first, it was honestly a distraction. I needed something to pull me out of my own thoughts, so I opened an Etsy shop and taught myself how to use a laser engraving machine. Over time, though, it became so much more than that. Creating spiritual, personalized jewelry turned into my lifeline. The spinner rings became tools for mindfulness—designed reminders to slow down, breathe, and be present. I realized that jewelry wasn’t just an accessory; it could be a vessel of comfort, intention, and healing. That transformation became the heart of The Honest Jeweler.
What steps did you take to begin your education or training?
By nature, I tend to jump right in. I purchased an engraving machine and asked the man who sold it to me for a quick one-hour lesson. I recorded the session and, whenever I got stuck, I would rewatch the video and problem-solve on my own. Through persistence, trial, and a lot of practice, I taught myself and refined my craft.
Along the way, were people encouraging or discouraging?
There are always voices of doubt—people who say it’s impossible or who encourage you to stick with the safe path. For me, that was teaching. But I’ve learned not to waste energy convincing people of my dreams. Instead, I believe in showing them through the work itself.
Did you ever doubt your decision and attempt a career change?
No. I taught for nine years, and while I loved my students, I burned out. Once I discovered jewelry design, the doubt faded. When you find something that fuels your soul, you keep moving forward—even through the challenges.
When did your career reach a tipping point?
The turning point came when I was home, not feeling well, and caring for my five little ones. I knew I couldn’t go back to the classroom, pouring all my energy there. Around the same time, the response to my jewelry was overwhelming. People weren’t just buying rings and necklaces—they were connecting with them. Customers told me how the spinner rings gave them peace during panic attacks, or how a personalized piece reminded them of a loved one. That feedback made me realize I had created something truly meaningful.
Can you describe a challenge you had to overcome?
One of the hardest challenges came when a trusted supplier disappeared with $10,000 worth of merchandise. It was devastating. I cried, I doubted, I questioned everything. But I also grew stronger. That experience taught me resilience and discernment. Every challenge carries a lesson—and that one shaped how I run my business today.
What single skill has proven to be most useful?
Perseverance. There will always be setbacks, but what matters is the ability to get back up, hold on, and keep moving forward.
What accomplishment are you most proud of?
Beyond my family, my greatest accomplishment is building The Honest Jeweler into what it is today. Our signature spinner rings are not just jewelry—they are mindful tools that help quiet the inner critic and turn it into an inner coach. Over the years, I’ve heard from countless people who tell me their Honest Jeweler pieces carried them through grief, illness, or trauma. Knowing that something I created can bring comfort, strength, and healing fills me with pride. Today, we’ve expanded beyond rings to bracelets and necklaces, but the mission remains the same: to create jewelry with soul and purpose.
Any advice for others entering your profession?
Whatever you choose to do, make sure it fuels you. When your work is rooted in passion and authenticity, it doesn’t feel like a job—it becomes part of who you are. That’s when the real magic happens.
Discover more at the website for The Honest Jeweler
All photos courtesy of The Honest Jeweler
