GET CRAFTY WITH JEWEL PLUM
Latara Boodie LIFESTYLE WRITER
SCENTED CANDLES have a calm and subtle way of instantly changing one’s mood, especially after a long day. What makes each candle unique is not only the type of scent or material used to make it, but also the packaging.
Jewel Plum is a Jamaican candle company which specialises in soy candles that come in many shapes and scents. The concept of Jewel Plum came to owner Euranique Bailey one evening over a few rounds of beers. “We saw a few videos online of persons cutting bottles and we thought it would be a cool idea to recycle bottles via candle making,” said Bailey. This led to the creation of her first candle made in a Red Stripe beer bottle in April 2017.
The final-year student at the University of the West Indies, who is pursuing a major in political sciences, admitted that it seems like everyone is making candles, and the production of candles is fairly simple. “What makes us unique is the fact that our candles are made in containers that would otherwise be useless, contributing to environmental issues. So, we use liquor bottles, coconut shells, old mugs, and we have our standard six-ounce jars that can be returned to us to be refilled at a discounted price,” explained Bailey.
HOW IT’S DONE
The process of creating an authentic Jewel Plum candle involves cutting the bottles with a small blade and hot water. The edges are then made smooth with the use of sandpaper. Soy wax, which is better for the environment than regular paraffin, is then
measured and completely melted. Soy wax candles generally burn longer than paraffin candles. Soy is derived from natural vegetables, while paraffin is a refined gasolene by-product. Soy wax is also 100 per cent biodegradable, while paraffin is not. The customer’s choice of fragrance is then added and the wax is left to set.
As a college student, Bailey uses Jewel Plum as her way of taking a break from her studies and maintaining a part-time job. “While I am creating these candles, they allow me to escape into my own world,” she explained.
With every Jewel Plum candle, one is able to customise not only from the scent, bottle, and colour of the wax, but also the label of the product.
“If the customer chooses to have a customised label with pictures or quotes, the label is designed and added to the bottle,” explained Bailey.
Jewel Plum’s bestseller is the Hennessy Jar and the bestselling scents are peach nectar, vanilla, and lavender. These candles are perfect for any occasion – weddings, baby showers, memorials, and even as funeral souvenirs.
“They may be used as unique ways to invite persons to events. To ask your best friend to be your maid of honour. They may be used by large or small organisations as corporate gifts. Anything you’re trying to communicate to someone can be done with a candle,” said Bailey.
To find view their catalogue or find out more about Jewel Plum, visit their instagram @jewelplumja.