What is Merchants of the Sun?
Merchants of the Sun is a standout name in the men’s jewellery scene, created to fill a void where mass-produced, trend-chasing designs once ruled. Founded by Matthew Banks, the brand is all about crafting timeless pieces that speak to self-expression without sacrificing craftsmanship or character. From the very beginning, the mission has been clear: design jewellery that’s meant to be worn, lived in, and passed down through generations. It’s not just about looking good—it’s about meaning something.
Main Benefits of Merchants of the Sun
There’s a lot that sets this brand apart, but here are some key highlights that really capture its essence:
- B Corporation® Certified – Independently verified for social and environmental performance.
- 100% Carbon Neutral – From product emissions to business operations, every step is offset through verified Climate Active projects.
- 98% Recycled Materials – Core products are crafted using recycled metals, reducing environmental impact.
- Low-Impact Packaging – Uses SugarFlex®, a bio-based, biodegradable alternative to plastic.
- Small-Batch Production – Avoids overproduction and waste by making jewellery in limited quantities.
- Long-Life Design – Pieces are made to be worn, repaired, and cherished—not tossed aside.
- B Lab Corporation® Score: 105.7 – A high rating that reflects strong commitment to sustainability and ethics.
Craftsmanship That Speaks Volumes
At the heart of Merchants of the Sun is a dedication to craftsmanship that’s anything but rushed. Forget seasonal trends or fast fashion—each piece starts as a concept, carefully sketched and sculpted by hand. The journey continues in their Bali atelier, where skilled artisans, many with decades of experience, bring the designs to life. Every detail is intentional, every step deliberate. This is jewellery made to last, made to mean something.
Sustainability as a Core Value
Sustainability here isn’t just a buzzword or a marketing angle—it’s a fundamental standard. From day one, the brand has committed to leaving a lighter footprint and making a lasting impact. Responsible sourcing, ethical production, and thoughtful packaging all come together to create a brand that’s as kind to the planet as it is to its customers. Being the first Australian men’s jewellery label to become a Certified B Corporation® and achieving 100% carbon neutrality is no small feat—it’s a bold statement of purpose.
The Rimba Raya Project: More Than Just Offsetting
One of the most inspiring parts of Merchants of the Sun’s story is its partnership with the Rimba Raya Project in Central Kalimantan, Indonesian Borneo. This isn’t just about offsetting carbon emissions—it’s about protecting one of the world’s most endangered ecosystems and supporting local communities. Rimba Raya is one of the largest REDD+ peat swamp forest projects globally, preventing nearly 130 million tonnes of carbon emissions. It also creates livelihood programs that address all 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals, providing education, employment, and hope for the future. Plus, it acts as a buffer zone protecting the Tanjung Puting National Park, home to some of the last wild orangutans on earth.
Project Impact: Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Linked to Merchants of the Sun
- Quality Education
- Decent Work and Economic Growth
- Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
- Reduced Inequalities
- Responsible Consumption and Production
- Climate Action
- Life on Land
- Partnerships for the Goals
About the Brand’s Vision and Values
Merchants of the Sun isn’t chasing mass appeal. Instead, it’s building a legacy brand defined by aesthetic integrity, ethical craftsmanship, and cultural relevance. The vision is simple but ambitious: lead a new era of men’s jewellery that’s timeless in design, relentless in quality, and grounded in purpose. Every decision is guided by core principles—design with intention, create with integrity, and build something that lasts. It’s a brand with a soul, and that’s what makes it truly special.
