Montreal-based sustainable jeweller Ecksand has expanded into Toronto, opening its second retail location at 162 Cumberland Street in the city’s prestigious Yorkville neighbourhood. The boutique, which is just under 1,000 square feet, offers an intimate shopping experience designed to reflect the brand’s ethos of “quiet luxury.”
Ecksand, co-founded by Erica Bianchini, has made a name for itself in sustainable fine jewellery, emphasizing ethically sourced materials, high-quality craftsmanship, and minimalist design. The new Toronto boutique follows the success of its flagship in Montreal, marking a strategic move for the brand as it continues to grow its presence in Canada and beyond.
A Boutique Designed for Intimacy and Craftsmanship
Unlike many upscale jewellery stores that prioritize large retail spaces, Ecksand’s new Yorkville boutique embraces a smaller, more personal setting. According to Bianchini, this was an intentional choice that aligns with the brand’s values.
“We wanted to embrace the fact that you don’t have to have big, grandiose things in life for them to be impactful,” Bianchini explained. “Even the small things make a world of difference. We didn’t want a massive space because a massive space means massive markups—and people don’t realize that. When you walk into a store with several security guards, who’s paying for it?”
The boutique’s layout is meticulously curated, with each section dedicated to a specific collection. “Every single inch of the space is customized so that we can bring forward how it feels with the packaging,” Bianchini said. The design reflects Ecksand’s philosophy of “less is more,” an approach that aligns with the growing consumer interest in understated, high-quality luxury.
The Process of Building the Toronto Boutique
Bringing the new Yorkville store to life was a carefully managed project that required a team effort. The brand partnered with PragerNuform, a firm specializing in retail fixtures, to ensure that every design element met Ecksand’s exacting standards.
“They worked with us on the accents. We didn’t want anything to be overly bright or in your face,” Bianchini said. “Ultimately, our clients are the statement. That’s what we’ve always been working for—we want to serve, and we want people to feel like their jewels are a representation of them.”
The CBRE Urban Retail Team, under the guidance of Arlin Markowitz and Jackson Turner, negotiated the lease deal.
First Montreal Storefront
In December 2018, Ecksand inaugurated its flagship boutique at 632 Rue Cathcart in Montreal’s historic jewellery district. The 1,700-square-foot space was meticulously renovated to showcase Ecksand’s collections, including diamond and precious gemstone engagement rings, wedding bands, and other fine jewellery. The expansion aimed to provide clients with an immersive brand experience in a centrally located, accessible setting.
The opening of the Montreal boutique marked a significant milestone for Ecksand, transitioning from a predominantly online presence to establishing a physical retail space. This move allowed the brand to offer personalized consultations and a tangible experience of their handcrafted pieces, all designed and produced in-house at its Montreal atelier.
Commitment to Ethical Jewellery Making
Ecksand distinguishes itself in the fine jewellery industry by ensuring complete control over its production process. Unlike many jewellery retailers that carry multiple brands, Ecksand exclusively sells pieces designed and crafted in-house.
“We don’t retail any other brand,” Bianchini said. “Everything we sell, we handcraft ourselves—engagement rings, wedding bands, fine jewellery—all using 100% recycled gold.”
The brand also offers a lifetime warranty on its jewellery, a testament to the quality and durability of its craftsmanship. “Being able to say that this piece will last you a lifetime, and if it doesn’t, come back to us—that’s a huge statement of confidence,” she said. “It’s why we can’t subcontract. We have to do it all in-house.”
Celebrity Endorsements and the Power of Quiet Luxury
Ecksand has gained traction among high-profile clientele, with celebrities such as Meghan Markle and Oprah Winfrey seen wearing the brand’s pieces.
The brand’s appeal lies in its approach to quiet luxury, a trend that is gaining momentum in the fashion and jewellery industries. “People are starting to notice that you don’t have to be overly flashy to make your mark,” said Bianchini. “It’s about quality materials, longevity, and timeless craftsmanship.”
She referenced Italian luxury brand Loro Piana, which remained relatively under-the-radar for years before experiencing a surge in popularity. “For so many years, nobody was talking about Loro Piana, and now suddenly everyone appreciates that quiet, understated elegance,” she noted.
Launching the Arctic Dragon Collection in Toronto
One of the highlights of the new store is the launch of Ecksand’s Arctic Dragon Collection, the brand’s first unisex jewellery line. The collection debuted at New York Fashion Week and has since received widespread acclaim.
“We had some really incredible, iconic people tell us, ‘I’ve never liked jewellery, but this is the first time I actually wanted a piece,’” said Bianchini. “The Arctic Dragon Collection is about bringing together the mystical element of dragons with the real-world beauty of the Arctic—a place that needs protection.”
The collection features bold, edgy designs that maintain the brand’s commitment to sustainability. Every piece is handcrafted with 100% recycled gold and follows environmentally conscious production practices. Bianchini emphasized that sustainability is at the core of Ecksand’s identity.
“Our atelier in Montreal is optimized to avoid residue in the water system, no chemicals, and maximum recycling,” she said. “Even the gold dust is repurposed. That allows us to maintain fair pricing and fair practices, making sure everything goes back into the system.”
What’s Next for Ecksand?
Following the Toronto expansion, Ecksand has its sights set on New York City. “The next stop after Yorkville is New York,” said Bianchini. While a location has yet to be confirmed, the brand is eyeing SoHo as a potential option.
Bianchini also hinted at potential expansion beyond New York City. “Miami is on our horizon as well,” she revealed, noting the growing demand for ethical luxury brands in key U.S. markets.
