About the Brand
Originally launched as an exotic skin belt line by founder Ashley Porter in 2012, Porter Lyons has since evolved into a fine jewelry and lifestyle brand with a Flagship store in the heart of New Orleans' iconic French Quarter. As a whole, the Porter Lyons ethos continues to extend beyond jewelry, and places value in the cultivation and care of every design. We believe design is a creative vehicle to celebrate the flourishing of culture and individuality, so each collection is inspired by a specific aspect of culture. Throughout the years, we have worked with various local nonprofits and community-based organizations dedicated to preserving and protecting the richness of our city, the people in it, and the surrounding landscape. Culture. Care. Create.
We create our pieces in small batch with made to order options in an effort to reduce our footprint on Mother Earth. Our factory has a Green Certificate, granted by the government when sustainability requirements are met, such as recycling production waste. All of our diamonds are mined ethically through the Kimberley Process, and all of our 14K gold is recycled.
Join us in our commitment to sustainability and send back any of your unused packaging to be repurposed. Learn more about our Recycling Program here.
Meet the Founder + Designer
Deeply resonating with Southern Louisiana, GIA-certified designer Ashley Lyons Porter launched her namesake brand rooted in the iconic culture of New Orleans. She works with works with non- profits and community-based organizations donating to preserve and protect the richness of the city, the people in it, and the surrounding ecosystem.
Every piece has a story, from the beautifully haunting vibration of the bayou, to voodoo’s hidden history and especially, the celebratory energy of its people. San Francisco native, Porter’s family lineage dates back to 1866 when her family opened I.L. Lyons Pharmacy in New Orleans.
Upon graduating with a Master’s degree from Tulane University, Porter moved to Los Angeles to work in finance while also earning her associate degree in Fashion Design from FIDM. Porter moved to NYC to pursue her love of fashion, working in the corporate offices of luxury brands Balenciaga and Ralph Lauren. Longing to start a brand founded in hands-on design and philanthropic storytelling, she decided to return to New Orleans to launch her brand.
Originally designing sustainably-sourced exotic skin belts and handbags utilizing mainly alligator skins, Porter found her source of inspiration in the teeth and bones of the alligator and began experimenting with creating jewelry.