These uniquely designed earrings challenged Meghan`s design senses with the checkerboard motif. She wanted the motif to exist outside of a straight line.

Checkerboard shield earrings cast in bronze with a mother of pearl setting; posts are sterling silver.

Earring weight is about one ounce. They do have some weight.

Cities In Dust Jewelry, based in Chicago, IL, is a playful and nostalgic accessory brand with a modern spin. They pride themselves on a strong ability to forecast trends and tie in elements of the past to craft the narrative of their customer. They enjoy storytelling and reminiscing. Cities in Dust is a female-run small business, and all of their work is hand fabricated in their Chicago studio; however, some components are manufactured overseas. They believe accessories should not be limited by gender and aim to be an inclusive and accessible brand for everyone.

Cities in Dust designer Meghan Lorenz came by her love for fashion authentically. Born and raised in Chicago, Meghan left for Los Angeles shortly after high school. She spent her time working for Fred Segal and aspired to work as a set designer in the film industry. Inspired by the L.A. fashion scene, Meghan returned to Chicago to attend Columbia College and pursue a degree in Fashion Business. She added visual merchandising and window display art to her portfolio and worked for Chicago designers Kelly Whitesell and Elizabeth Del Castillo of Eskell. These experiences inspired her to strike out and begin designing independently. Finding it difficult to locate the kind of jewelry she`d want to wear, Meghan set out to fill a sartorial void. In 2010, Cities in Dust was born, and has since gained a loyal following in Chicago and beyond. Her inventory is constantly being refreshed with new, inspired pieces, and all of her collections are an evolving look at Meghan`s unique, wearable aesthetic.