Gifts That Give Back: Pura Vida Bracelets

While we’re all brainstorming ways to give the perfect gift this holiday season, two local San Diegans are busy figuring out how our gift giving can positively affect our planet, the Pura Vida way.

You’ve likely spotted Pura Vida bracelets before. They walk the red carpet, have appeared on Victoria’s Secret model wrists, and they span the shelves of local PB surf shops. But their beginnings are humble, originating from a college graduation vacation to Costa Rica that has since turned into a booming business.

These simple stringed bracelets came into fruition when buddies Griffin Thall and Paul Goodman met an inconspicuous man named Jorge making and selling bracelets on the streets of Costa Rica. After forming a relationship with Jorge, the pair learned that this was his primary means of living and quickly saw the value in the colorful craft. Griffin and Paul took home 400 of those bracelets from their trip, igniting a business venture that went above what either they or Jorge could imagine. As the bracelets gained an eager market in San Diego, Jorge started selling upwards of 10,000 a week, allowing him to buy his own home. Now, the Pura Vida brand can be seen in surf shops, boutiques, college book stores, and even a few chain stores nationwide.

The essence of the Pura Vida brand lies in their minimalism, conveying a message to live a Pure Life. Celebrating the creative model of Jorge, the bracelets stand for not taking anything for granted and living life to the fullest. Each sale continues to provide food, shelter, and clothing for the Costa Rican artisans. In addition, a portion of proceeds also goes to the Surfrider Foundation, dedicated to cleaning up our beaches and oceans.

Need more reason to support the style? These two college grads now provide jobs for over 40 employees: 25 in Costa Rica, 10 in Pacific Beach, and five in Los Angeles.

The original Pura Vida bracelets are priced at $5, beaded are $8, and the Platinum Collection are $12 each. A variety of colors and options are available, and since each are hand-made, no two bracelets are the same. Whether snagging some for a gift or for your own holiday accessories collection, the bracelets can be purchased online at puravidabracelets.com.

Discover more holiday shopping ideas in our 2011 San Diego holiday guide