Friday Findings: Elaine Haydon Jewelry

What's Today's Friday Find? Elaine Haydon Jewelry

Today on Friday Findings, I have the pleasure of showcasing two pieces designed by Elaine Haydon Jewelry in Ladera Ranch, CA. Our first piece is a gorgeous WHITE CORAL BRANCH statement necklace that features beautiful white coral with sterling silver beads. I think it’s bold and exciting, and it part of Elaine's Statement Necklace collection on Etsy.

WHITE CORAL BRANCH Necklace
from Elaine Haydon Jewelry

Elaine Haydon specializes in creating one of a kind jewelry using semi-precious gemstones and fine metals. Her unique designs are all at once elegant, sophisticated and exquisite. And if you don't believe me, have a look another one of my favorite's from Elaine. This incredible LA SOLEIL Necklace features a single, stunning Lemon Quartz briolette on an encrusted chain of Lemon Quartz, Labraorite, an Iolite. Isn't it gorgeous?

LA SOLEIL Necklace
from Elaine Haydon Jewelry

What I love about Elaine’s designs are how her pieces stand out. Every design seems to have its own distinct personality, and that comes from Elaine's passion for her craft. I had an opportunity to interview Elaine last week for today’s Friday Findings, and here’s what she shared with me.

Elaine began designing jewelry as a challenge. During a visit to Paris, Elaine’s mother fell in love with a necklace. Although she had her eye on it, she decided not to buy it. Upon her return to the States, her mother so regretted the missed purchase that she told Elaine about it and said, “I bet you could make it for me.” Rising to the’s challenge, Elaine headed into a bead shop and purchased the stones and materials to start experimenting. Her first experiment turned out quite lovely, and when strangers asked her where it came from, Elaine decided that she was onto something.

Elaine, your jewelry is so distinctive. What are your sources of inspiration when creating a new design?

I have to say that I am inspired by a lot of different things. Fashion is definitely an inspiration. It is ever-changing & provides an endless source of inspiration and possibilities. I also take inspiration from the people and things around me. But mostly, I tend to buy stones & metals that I love (whether for the color or just the uniqueness of a particular stone). The stones themselves are the most inspiration for me. I do sketch out designs occasionally, but I find that when I sit down to work with the stones, they sometimes lead the design in a different direction.

What inspired you to turn your hobby into a business?

I was working an extremely demanding fashion retail job as a District Manager with 14 stores. I had literally no time for my son & was not passionate any longer about what I was doing. Turning my hobby into a business has allowed me to stay home with my children and love what I do again.

Who has provided you with the most support for your jewelry business?

My husband is the one who supported me leaving my job and starting my own business. He is constantly encouraging me and I could not do this without his support. Also, my mom has been incredibly supportive since day 1. She knew I could do this even before I did and has encouraged and supported me every step of the way. Then, of course, there are my friends, who came to every home party I had in the beginning & brought all of their friends.

If you had any advice to give to a newbie who wanted to make the leap from craft to business, what would it be?

Form a business plan and be open to change. Things are constantly changing in business. You have to be flexible and willing to make adjustments to accommodate that change. It's a lot of hard work, but so worth it!

Thanks to Elaine for allowing me to showcase her beautiful designs on Friday Findings today. To see more of her stunning collection, visit her at:

Elaine Haydon Jewelry
http://www.elainehaydonjewelry.com
http://elainehaydonjewelry.etsy.com