Saturday Sparkle: Maya & Ruhi Artisan Jewelry
>> Saturday, March 8, 2008
Who Sparkled This Saturday?
Maya & Ruhi Artisan Jewelry
Her beautiful jewelry
Pearl started making jewelry because when she’d be out and about, she’d look for a design that she had in mind, and couldn’t find it. On a day out shopping, a friend found a pair of earrings that she really liked, but wished they had a different colored stone. Pearl offered to change it, and she’s been making jewelry ever since.
Once she started making jewelry, her ideas spurred more and more designs. Finally, her husband offered up the family's dining room table. As Pearl describes it, her “hobby quietly turned into a monster wearing Swarovski pearls.” I had to laugh, as a jewelry maker that's also classic!
What I love about Pearl’s jewelry is that is has a classic look. Pearl, where did you learn the different techniques that you use?
I think the high-end feel of my stuff comes from my being inspired by classical forms and art theories. It's old-fashioned beauty, updated. Initially I learned techniques from beading magazines. Then, I learned from the internet. Eni Oken's website is a super one to learn from. And then sometimes, I just learn from my mistakes... I have so many "experiments" lying around. Things I feel not fit to sell. Every time my friends come round, they know to help themselves to the "experiments"!
When creating a design, what are your top 3 sources of inspiration?
I look a lot at books from the library. Art history books, jewelry history books, style magazines, even architecture books. I am fascinated with the art theories of the renaissance, baroque, art nouveau, orientalsism... I am an old soul at heart. Most of the time, the design evolves at the craft table itself...
Who/what has provided you with the greatest amount of support for your jewelry business?
Most of the time, I while away at my craft table when there is nothing else around the house to be done, and that's when the kids have gone to bed. The most support I suppose I get is from my husband, who actually suggested I take over the dining table as my craft table!
If you had advice for a newbie who wanted to take his/her jewelry making skills to the next level, what would it be?
I'd say "Just go out and explore". And I mean it in every way. If you see something you would like to emulate to begin with (copying is a big no-no), don't be afraid to work it out and physically have a go at it. Don't be afraid to "waste" wire or any other materials. There is no better way to hone your craft that actually having a go at crafting...!
I'd like to thank Pearl for letting me show you her CLASSIC CHIC earrings today. Be sure to visit her online today and see the wonderful items in her shop at:
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