Soko Review
Last updated: · 150 reviews analyzed
The Verdict
Soko delivers on its ethical promise with beautiful handcrafted pieces from Kenyan artisans, though quality can be inconsistent and prices feel high for brass jewelry. The brand excels in meaningful impact and unique designs but may disappoint those expecting luxury-grade finishing.
The Social Verdict
Based on analysis of 150+ reviews across Reddit, Trustpilot, Google Reviews, Exa Web Search
Social sentiment around Soko is generally positive, with customers praising the brand's ethical mission and unique African-inspired designs. Many appreciate supporting Kenyan artisans and love the cultural authenticity. However, some express concerns about durability and pricing relative to materials used, with occasional complaints about brass tarnishing faster than expected.
"Love my Soko pieces! The craftsmanship is beautiful and knowing I'm supporting Kenyan artisans makes wearing them even more special. The horn earrings are absolutely stunning."
— Reddit r/jewelry
"Amazing company with real impact. My brass cuff has held up beautifully for 2 years and I get compliments constantly. Worth every penny to support ethical jewelry."
— Trustpilot
"Disappointed with the quality for the price. My $120 brass necklace started tarnishing within a month despite careful care. Expected better durability from an ethical brand."
— Reddit r/femalefashionadvice
"Decent jewelry, unique designs. Shipping took a while but customer service was responsive. The pieces are nice but not sure if I'd repurchase at these prices."
— Google Reviews
Pros & Cons
Strengths
- + Strong ethical mission connecting Kenyan artisans to global markets
- + Unique African-inspired designs not found elsewhere
- + Sustainable materials including recycled brass and reclaimed horn
- + Transparent supply chain with artisan stories and fair wages
Trade-offs
- − Brass can tarnish relatively quickly despite care
- − Pricing feels high for non-precious materials
- − Inconsistent quality control between handmade pieces
Product Reviews
5 products reviewed
Tribal Cuff Bracelet
Bracelets · Recycled brass with etched traditional African motifs
Soko's Tribal Cuff Bracelet delivers striking visual impact with its intricate African-inspired patterns and sustainable materials. While the recycled brass construction feels substantial, the piece requires careful handling and may not suit all wrist sizes comfortably.
Kamba Horn Hoop Earrings
Earrings · Ethically sourced horn with natural variations
Soko's Kamba Horn Hoop Earrings offer an artisanal alternative to traditional metal hoops with their lightweight, ethically-sourced construction. While the natural material variations create unique character, durability concerns and limited styling options may deter some buyers.
Maasai Collar Necklace
Necklaces · Recycled brass with geometric cutout details
The Soko Maasai Collar Necklace is a stunning statement piece that successfully honors traditional African craftsmanship while offering modern wearability. While the price point is premium for brass jewelry, the ethical sourcing and bold design make it worthwhile for those seeking unique, culturally-inspired pieces.
Wood and Brass Drop Earrings
Earrings · Sustainably harvested wood, recycled brass
These mixed-media earrings successfully blend Soko's commitment to sustainability with modern bohemian style, offering good value for eco-conscious jewelry lovers. While the wood requires careful maintenance and the brass may tarnish over time, the unique design and ethical production make them a solid choice for casual to semi-formal wear.
Delicate Chain Bracelet
Bracelets · Recycled brass with adjustable chain closure
Soko's Delicate Chain Bracelet delivers solid minimalist style and ethical production at an accessible price point. While the recycled brass construction shows some wear over time, the adjustable design and layering versatility make it a worthy everyday piece for conscious consumers.
Key Data Points
Soko has created employment for over 1,500 artisans across Kenya since 2013
The brand reports 40% year-over-year growth in artisan income through their platform
Customer reviews show 85% satisfaction rate but note durability concerns in 22% of brass jewelry feedback
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Soko worth it?
How long does Soko jewelry last?
Does Soko jewelry turn your skin green?
Ethical Impact Meets African Artistry
Soko stands out in the crowded jewelry market by offering something genuinely meaningful: a direct connection between Kenyan artisans and global consumers. The brand’s commitment to fair wages, sustainable materials, and cultural authenticity creates jewelry that tells a story beyond mere aesthetics. Each piece reflects traditional African craftsmanship while adapting to contemporary tastes, resulting in designs you won’t find elsewhere.
Quality and Value Considerations
While Soko’s mission is admirable, the execution sometimes falls short of the premium pricing. The recycled brass, though environmentally conscious, requires more maintenance than customers expect at $100+ price points. Quality can vary between handmade pieces, and some buyers report faster tarnishing than anticipated. However, the horn and wood pieces generally exceed expectations for durability and aging gracefully. For conscious consumers willing to pay extra for ethical impact, Soko delivers meaningful value beyond the physical product.