Jewelry for a Cause: Heart Disease in Women

Did you know that more women than men die from heart disease each year? According to the American Heart Association, only 44 percent of women believe that heart disease is their greatest threat. The fact is, heart disease in the #1 killer of women in the United States, causing 1 in 4 deaths each year. That's approximately one woman every 80 seconds.

Our jewelry designer Rose created this design idea to raise awareness of heart disease in women. She explains, "As someone who has been personally impacted by heart disease, I wanted to design a jewelry set that reminds us all of the importance of learning about cardiovascular disease. I designed Open Heart to represent the scar of open-heart surgery. This beautiful statement of strength is brought to life with rhinestone cupchain for a sparkling statement of hope."

This jewelry set is a reminder that woman should learn the warning signs of a heart attack or stroke and understand their risks for heart disease. Heart disease doesn't affect all women in the same ways, and the warning signs for women aren't the same as for men. Take the time to talk to your doctor about warning signs and ask how you can reduce your risk of heart disease. Encourage others to do the same!

How can we make a difference?

We can all help spread awareness through jewelry-making. Add heart-themed designs to jewelry lines and gift this jewelry to women to help spread the important message about the threat of heart disease. Jewelry artists can tie into the American Heart Association's initiative Go Red for Women®, designed to increase women's heart health awareness. Design your own jewelry to promote the National Wear Red Day® every February as part of the American Heart Month that continues to gain momentum and bring awareness to heart disease.

View these heart-themed design ideas for creative inspiration. Create jewelry designs using polymer clay, heartbeat jewelry components, heart-shaped charms and red ribbon charms. Incorporate red gemstone beads, crystal beads and pearls for heartfelt statements.