When terms like “Made in Canada” can often be more symbolic than literal, few designations carry as much weight as the Canadian National Mark. That’s why the recent awarding of this government-regulated hallmark to Ecksand, a Montreal-based jewellery Maison, is such a significant milestone—not only for the brand but for Canada’s jewellery sector at large.
Granted by the Commissioner of Competition under the Precious Metals Marking Act, the Canadian National Mark certifies that each piece bearing it has been entirely made in Canada—from gemstone sourcing and design through to the final polish. It’s a designation based on strict criteria of authenticity, traceability, and manufacturing quality, and one that very few brands achieve. To date, only 108 National Mark certificates have been issued, making this a rare distinction within the world of fine jewellery.
What Makes the Canadian National Mark Unique?
Unlike general “Made in Canada” claims—which may apply even if only a portion of the work was done locally—the Canadian National Mark requires comprehensive proof that every stage of production occurs on Canadian soil. That includes the sourcing of metals and gemstones, design, craftsmanship, and finishing.
The Mark functions as an official hallmark of trust, overseen by a federal authority, and serves as one of the strongest assurances for consumers looking to buy Canadian-made fine jewellery. For industry professionals, it’s an equally powerful validation of a brand’s ethical sourcing, local employment, and product integrity.
For Ecksand, this recognition affirms more than a manufacturing claim. It underscores the brand’s long-standing philosophy: that sustainability, artistry, and transparency should be foundational to luxury.
A Homegrown Philosophy
Founded in 2009, Ecksand has built a reputation for merging ethical values with timeless design. Led by Creative Director Erica Bianchini, the brand operates from a fully vertical and eco-conscious atelier in Montreal. Everything from initial sketches to final inspections happens in-house—a rarity in today’s globalized luxury market.
“We’ve always believed that true beauty comes with responsibility,” says Bianchini. “This Mark formalizes something we’ve practised since the beginning: creating jewellery that is as traceable and ethical as it is beautiful.”
Each piece is handcrafted by artisans using recycled gold and traceable gemstones, many of which are Canadian-mined. The production process can take hours of meticulous work, often involving multiple stages of design refinement and finishing. The result? Jewellery that’s not only high-quality, but also environmentally conscious and proudly Canadian.
Raising the Bar for Sustainable Luxury
Ecksand’s collections—such as The Mark, Duel, Arctic Dragon and Starlight—demonstrate the Maison’s design philosophy: understated luxury made to last for generations. While the designs are undeniably elegant, the production methods behind them are what set Ecksand apart.
The company doesn’t just aim to reduce environmental impact; it operates a low-waste, energy-efficient workshop, employing practices that prioritise long-term sustainability. By owning its entire production pipeline, Ecksand ensures full control and transparency, a claim backed now by the Canadian National Mark.
This vertical approach not only enhances quality control but also guarantees fair labour practices and traceable sourcing—attributes increasingly valued by today’s ethically minded consumers.
What This Means for the Industry
For Canadian jewellers, Ecksand’s certification is more than a feather in one brand’s cap. It’s a call to action.
In a global market often dominated by ambiguous sourcing and offshored manufacturing, the National Mark offers an opportunity for Canadian jewellery makers to differentiate themselves through verified local craftsmanship. As consumers grow more conscious of origin and impact, this kind of third-party validation becomes increasingly crucial.
The National Mark also adds a layer of confidence for retailers and stockists, providing assurance that the products they carry meet rigorous national standards for both quality and origin. It sets a benchmark—one that’s difficult to achieve, but worth striving for.
