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Business Details
42 Years
experience
Functional Jewelry for Direction & Balance
individual icons was founded in 1984 by Rhode Island School of Design graduate LeeAnn Herreid, whose passion for functional jewelry emerged at age 14 when she began crafting wire pieces in her family's basement. With formal training in jewelry design and gemology, LeeAnn pioneered directional jewelry featuring working compasses, levels, and thermometers, blending artistry with practicality. Over four decades, the company has gained international recognition, with pieces exhibited in prestigious museums and featured in publications like The New York Times. Now led by Elizabeth Aragao, the business continues to honor LeeAnn's legacy while introducing these timeless designs to new generations. Our team combines technical expertise with creative vision, utilizing specialized tools like spectroscopes and precision casting equipment to maintain exacting standards.

Each piece undergoes rigorous quality checks to ensure both aesthetic appeal and functional accuracy. We maintain transparent business practices rooted in the ethical traditions of the jewelry industry, where trust and craftsmanship remain paramount. Our commitment to customer satisfaction extends to lifetime repair services for compasses and levels, reflecting our confidence in product durability. With global shipping capabilities and personalized service options, we strive to make our unique jewelry accessible to discerning customers worldwide.
Services
Compass Jewelry Level Earrings Thermometer Pendants Ruler Bracelets Chain Mail Designs Diamond Dust Accessories Hardware-Inspired Pieces Custom Gift Wrapping International Shipping Lifetime Repairs
Details
  • Year established: 1984
Highlights and features
  • We offer 40+ years of experience in functional jewelry design
  • Our pieces combine artistic craftsmanship with working instruments
  • Each item undergoes precision engineering for functional accuracy
  • We provide lifetime repair services for compasses and levels
  • Our designs are exhibited in major international museums
Services
Compass Jewelry
Crafted with working compasses, our necklaces and rings help wearers maintain direction. Each piece combines precision engineering with artistic design. Ideal for travelers and adventurers seeking stylish functionality.
Level Earrings
Miniature functional levels set in sterling silver earrings. These pieces combine physics with fashion, offering a unique way to check alignment. Perfect for professionals requiring spatial awareness.
Thermometer Pendants
Dual-scale thermometers (Celsius/Fahrenheit) integrated into wearable pendants. Provides accurate ambient temperature readings while maintaining elegant design. Useful for outdoor enthusiasts and weather-conscious professionals.
Ruler Bracelets
Flexible stainless steel rulers in bracelet form. Measures in inches with 1/16" precision. Combines practical measurement tools with contemporary jewelry design for craftsmen and designers on the go.
Chain Mail Jewelry
Contemporary interpretations of medieval chain mail in stainless steel. Flexible yet durable designs suitable for casual and formal wear. Each piece maintains historical authenticity while incorporating modern aesthetics.
People
LeeAnn Herreid
Founder & Original Artist
BFA from RISD and GIA-certified gemologist who created functional jewelry at age 14. Developed directional jewelry concept in 1984 while studying at RISD. Recognized for innovative designs exhibited in major museums.
Elizabeth Aragao
Current Owner
Successor preserving LeeAnn Herreid's legacy while expanding accessibility. Focuses on maintaining craftsmanship standards and introducing classic designs to new generations of jewelry enthusiasts.
Questions
Do the functional jewelry pieces actually work?
Yes, compasses, levels, and thermometers are fully functional. Rulers provide approximate measurements up to 1".
How long does shipping take?
Orders ship within 1 week; custom pieces may take up to 3 weeks. Priority shipping takes 2-3 days domestically.
Can I get gift wrapping?
All pieces come in gift boxes. Optional premium wrapping with personalized notes available at checkout.
What if I need something rushed?
Notify us in order comments. We'll prioritize existing inventory for urgent requests.
Do you offer international shipping?
Yes, email us if your country isn't listed and we'll add it immediately.
What's your return policy?
3-week window with receipt. Exchanges or refunds available, shipping costs apply.