Jewelry isn't just an accessory; it's a statement of style, a reflection of personality, and a keeper of memories. In the realm of jewelry, the choice of metals can significantly impact the way we connect with our adornments. Sterling silver and gold vermeil, two remarkable and timeless choices, offer more than just aesthetics; they encapsulate stories, emotions, and the essence of precious moments. And what better way to experience the beauty of these metals than with our newly launched Fundamental Forma Collection.

Pictured: Helix studs in gold vermeil

The Beauty of Sterling Silver

When it comes to jewelry, few metals have the enduring appeal of sterling silver. Composed of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% alloy metals, sterling silver marries elegance with durability. Its bright, gleaming surface catches the light in a way that is both captivating and understated. This versatile metal effortlessly transitions from casual to formal, making it an ideal companion for all occasions.

But sterling silver's allure isn't just skin-deep. Its lasting shine is a testament to its resilience. With proper care, sterling silver pieces can stand the test of time, becoming heirlooms that tell stories for generations. Unlike trends that fade, the value and luster of sterling silver remain steadfast, evoking memories of milestones, celebrations, and everyday moments.

Pictured: Cubic studs in sterling silver

Affordable Luxury with Gold Vermeil

For those seeking a touch of opulence, gold vermeil offers a bridge to the world of fine jewelry without the hefty price tag. Gold vermeil is created by layering a substantial coat of 14k or 18k gold over sterling silver, resulting in a dazzling sheen that exudes luxury. This marriage of metals grants you the privilege of wearing exquisite pieces that radiate elegance and grandeur.

The allure of gold vermeil extends beyond aesthetics. It symbolizes a commitment to quality and style, creating an aura of sophistication that resonates with those who wear it. As with sterling silver, gold vermeil too can become a treasure that evokes cherished memories and commemorates special moments.

Pictured: Adorn Cuffs in gold vermeil

Elevate Your Everyday with Timeless Quality

In a world where fleeting trends vie for our attention, there's something undeniably comforting about investing in jewelry that stands the test of time. Sterling silver and gold vermeil are not just materials; they are conduits for self-expression, symbols of commitment, and vessels of treasured memories.

Imagine the pleasure of donning a piece from our newly launched Fundamental Forma Collection. It's not just jewelry; it's an elevation of your everyday style. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, these designs epitomize an unmatched level of quality that will be cherished for years and years to come.

Pictured: Petite Signet Ring, Dot Duo Ring, and Lobe Lite Cuffs in gold vermeil

These are pieces that you can wear from morning coffee to a night out on the town, seamlessly transitioning from casual to elegant. They are your trusted companions on life's journey, destined to become heirlooms passed down through generations.

So, why choose between style and substance when you can have both? Our sterling silver and gold vermeil jewelry encapsulates the essence of enduring quality, and they do so with grace and elegance. Explore the Fundamental Forma collection today, and discover how jewelry can be more than an accessory; it can be a timeless reflection of your unique journey. Embrace quality that lasts, and treasure moments that are meant to endure.

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This summer, we finally took an international trip and went to visit Mexico City!

After sending pieces of jewelry to and hearing such amazing things about Mexico City, we had to go visit. This trip was our first international vacation since the pandemic and it was so refreshing to be in a new country experiencing the sights, architecture, and food in person.

A couple of things that I remember most about Mexico City was

1. How green and luscious the city felt literally everywhere
2. The mix of modern with historical architecture. We stayed in Roma Norte, the quintessential example of this design style.
3. Simplicity and truth to materiality in their spaces, fashion, and style.
4. The colorful (literally the bright colors!) community culture like salsa dancing teaching and learning in public parks <3
5. Purse hooks designed and provided at every restaurant! 

Here are some of my favorite places we visited and would recommend!

Casa Gilardi

One of my favorite places to visit was Casa Gilardi. I had learned about the architect Luis Barragan in architecture school but never thought I’d actually be able to visit one of his homes in person. 

Did you know this house was originally designed as a bachelor pad for 2 men? This house is actually still a residential home and is maintained and managed by the family of one of the original bachelors. They generously allow visitors to come see the space and give tours, we just needed to email them to set up a time.

Luis Barragan’s use of this vibrant pink is what has become known as “Mexico City Pink”. What struck me the most about the space is the simplicity and truth to materiality that is present throughout the space. Using humble materials like paint over windows, he creates stunning plays on light and shadow. I know I will be referencing these photos for inspiration.

Tetetlán

Many of the restaurants, shops, and modern spaces have been built into historic buildings. Existing elements like the structural columns, stone reliefs, and details have been respected and built around. Many of which create an open courtyard feel which seemed very common in restaurants. Many of these spaces would have a giant tree growing in the middle of the space extending out beyond the roof.

Tetetlan is one of the craziest space I’ve ever been to. This space used to be horse stables and is now a multifunctional space housing a restaurant, library, cafe, yoga studio and a store selling local goods. The entire floor is made of glass and is built on top of volcanic rock.

I’m really jealous of the library spaces/cafes in Mexico City. They really make them such lovely places to be, to work, and they stay open until like 10 pm at night!

Also, how do I get one of these chairs, please?

Biblioteca Vasconcelos

The next spot that I would say is a must-see is Biblioteca Vasconcelos. The library was designed as if the information is floating. I had to walk into every one of those alcoves to see this space from all the different angles.

Each aisle is framed in a way that you can walk out to the balcony and see the vast amount of levels and books. And while the building is full of concrete and glass, it was amazing how quiet and muted the space felt. 

High above your head, cantilevered balconies fill the space creating hundreds of new and exciting angles to view the space. This giant library was definitely designed to be explored.

Xinú Perfumes

A fun place for upscale shopping is Polanco. This space is filled with high-end shops, luxury homes, and really fun concept stores like Ikal and Lago. 

An unexpected favorite place to visit here was a perfume shop named Xinú. I’ve never been to a store that was so much of an experience. You buzz into a space lined with gorgeous perfume bottles. Then into a dark hallway and up a spiral staircase to reveal the most stunning retail display I’ve ever seen. 

Each section of this table was filled with beautiful objects to tell the story of each scent. It is an interactive table encouraging you to pick things up to smell the scents trapped in gorgeous glass bottles. They even display ways to reuse their perfume bottles once they are empty.

There is so much to see in Mexico City, these are just a few of the many places to see! I'd highly recommend making a trip if you haven't been! And if you're flying from San Diego, make sure you check out the Cross Border Xpress! It was pretty easy and saved us quite a bit of money on international flights because we flew domestically from Tijuana!

 

 

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As part of this exciting transition, I want to inform you that the current designs showcased on my website will not be reproduced once they sell out. This is your opportunity to own a piece of STUDIYO Jewelry history! Our five unique collections, each with its own distinctive charm, are now available for you to explore: Continue reading

1. Matching Jewelry Sets

Matching Ferrara Necklace and Earrings

2. Minimal Studs

3. Chic Statement Earrings

4. Bespoke Design

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What is the Difference between Minimal and Understated Jewelry?

Minimal and understated jewelry are becoming increasingly popular among fashion-forward individuals. While both types of jewelry tend to fall into the same category, minimal jewelry is characterized by its simple yet elegant designs, while understated jewelry focuses more on subtlety and sophistication. Both styles are designed to be timeless, classic pieces that can be worn for years to come. 

The main difference between minimal and understated jewelry is the level of detail in the design. Minimal jewelry typically features fewer decorative elements than its understated counterpart, making it perfect for those who prefer a more pared-down look. On the other hand, understated pieces often have more intricate details such as delicate engravings or small stones that add a touch of sophistication without being too flashy.

Minimal Jewelry for the Masses

Minimal jewelry focuses on simple lines, basic shapes, and neutral colors that can easily be paired with any outfit. Think bar necklaces, threader earrings, dainty stacking rings. Because of it's popularity, you'll most likely find some version of these styles at any jewelry store and online shop. Their simplified nature results in all of these pieces looking rather similar. If you were to see a bar necklace across the room, for example, it's unlikely that you'd be able to tell where they purchased that necklace from. This is great if you are looking for unbranded basics that are easy to throw on and create an effortless look without trying to stand out from the crowd.

Pictured: Dot Huggies from the Fundamental Forma Collection in sterling silver

Understated Jewelry is a Little Harder to Find than Minimal Jewelry

Finding minimal jewelry is easy because it's everywhere, but finding unique and uncommon jewelry can be more difficult. This type of jewelry is a bit rarer and harder to find than minimal jewelry, but it can make a bigger statement. Whether you're looking for something truly one-of-a-kind or just want something that stands out from the crowd, understated jewelry can be the perfect choice. With its unique designs and rare materials, this type of jewelry will help you make a statement without being too flashy.

Pictured: Barcelona Earrings from the Tracery Collection in rose gold plated stainless steel

Understated jewelry is also the perfect option for introverts who want a unique way to express themselves without being too loud. It is a type of fashion accessory that is subtle, low-key, and doesn't draw too much attention. Understated jewelry pieces are often made from simple materials like gold and silver, but can also be made from more unique materials like stainless steel, wood or glass. 

Pictured: Perched Bird Earrings from the MCM Collection in gold plated stainless steel

The Benefits of Investing in Timeless & Understated Jewelry

Investing in timeless and understated jewelry is a great way to ensure that you always look your best. These jewelry pieces are designed to last for years, so you can enjoy the same level of sophistication and elegance without constantly buying new pieces. These pieces add elevated intrigue, making them a great choice for those who want to look their best without drawing too much attention. Not only will these pieces never go out of fashion, they will also help you stand out from the crowd elegantly yet subtly.

Pictured: Ascent Cuffs and Cascade Lariat Necklace in sterling silver

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*Article featured on SD Voyager*

Today we’d like to introduce you to Diana Lee.  

Hi Diana, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today.

Sure! My name is Diana “Yoyo” Lee and I am the creator of STUDIYO Jewelry where I make architectural jewelry inspired by my background as a commercial interior designer. I’ve always been an artsy/crafty kid that was always drawing, crocheting, or making way too elaborate things for school projects and I think that I always wanted to be some sort of artist. But, like a lot of kids, was told at a young age that being an artist would never be a viable career. So, I went to college and studied Interior Architecture and Product Design.

After college, I started working as an interior designer at an architecture firm, and immediately, the big difference in my life was that I was no longer making with my hands. In school, I always had “studio” and was constantly making models, creating prototypes, and making in the wood shop. Once I entered the working world, everything was mostly digital. I found myself on the computer all day and missed the physical feeling of making, to the point that it was causing me to feel empty inside. I started teaching myself how to make jewelry in 2017, pretty much only a few months after starting my job, and taught myself how to sell online. It started out very slow and grew alongside my progression as a designer at my firm. I had the opportunity to work on many interesting commercial projects with fun clients in the Seattle area like The Pokémon International Company, Google, and Indeed, and had a constant source of inspiration in my job as an interior designer while also having an outlet that was entirely mine. Having a full-time job while I was learning about building a small business took the financial pressure off and I was able to have this hobby that, at a minimum, paid for itself for many years.

My coworkers were my first models and my jewelry started catching on with other designers from different firms. I was told that my jewelry was something that reminded them of a trip to Barcelona or Italy, earrings became great gifts for architects, and the feeling of other designers and my peers wanting to wear my jewelry was very validating, exciting, and addicting.

The last couple of years have really forced myself, and many others I believe, to really think about what lights us up and what we really want to be working on, and I decided to start transitioning from only working on my business at night and on weekends, to part-time, and now finally taking the leap and working on STUDIYO Jewelry full time. Together with my partner and 2 cats, we just made the move from the Seattle area to San Diego, and am so excited to build STUDIYO Jewelry up here!

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?

Haha oh my goodness, definitely not. When you go to college for a specific job type that you hope to get after school, there are many expectations for you to stay in that career. Whether those expectations come from family, your partner, friends, coworkers…etc. When I first started, I was super quiet about it and never wanted to tell people that this is what I was doing. It took many years of quiet persistence to convince the people around me that this was something that I would be continuing to pursue, regardless if it was paying the bills. And mentally that can be really hard. Luckily my partner was one of the first people to be convinced that this is something I want to do and once I had him on board, it really made me feel more validated and open about this business. Not everyone who starts a small business has a good support system and that period of time can be really difficult and lonely. 

Then on top of the mental gauntlet, you wear all the hats in a small business if it’s just you. You design the product, make the product, market the product, design the packaging for the product, and ship the product yourself. It’s a ton of work and when you first start out, you’re not really making a paycheck so it can be very exhausting. 

To be honest, I don’t know if running a small business is ever a smooth road. (At least I haven’t experienced that yet.) There are crazy ups and downs, it’s a little unpredictable, and I’m always learning something new every day. I think I will always feel like I have more to learn but that’s also what makes it fun and exciting! 

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?

Yes, so in terms of jewelry-making, I am completely self-taught, and my pieces are a combination of graphic design, architecture, and art. All my designs are inspired by the sleek hard-working women I am constantly surrounded by in the design field. My pieces take snapshots and details found in the architectural world and abstracts them in a way to create modern and unique pieces that are easily wearable with your favorite go-to outfits. My recent collections including the Tracery Collection, MOD Collection, and Luminaire II Collection were inspired by cathedrals, mid-century modern furniture, and light fixtures.

 

Because my background is in interior architecture, I feel like my design process thus far has definitely been influenced from making paper models. This process translates pretty seamlessly to flat sheet metal, which is what the majority of my designs are made from.

 

 

I really enjoy using industrial metals like brass and stainless steel in my pieces and recently have started creating more with stainless steel because I really dislike cleaning tarnish off my jewelry. I found that I can leave stainless steel out and not have to worry about tarnish for much, much longer than any of my brass or sterling silver pieces. I also love that it’s such a tough and industrial metal that is for sure harder to work with, but also makes my lightweight and delicate pieces more durable.

What makes you happy?

Oof. This is a deep question. I mean, this is what everyone is searching for right? 

I think part of starting this business was my search for this elusive “happiness”. For me, I think it boils down to freedom. Whether that is creative freedom with no constraints, physical/locational freedom, or freedom of time. Creating what I enjoy making, on my own schedule, and experiencing places that are different from where I grew up is what feels like happiness to me. 

Pricing:

• Range of about $40 – $200 with most pieces in the $60 – $100 range

Contact Info:

• Website: www.studiyojewelry.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/studiyojewelry

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Other than buying their products, are there any other ways to support small artists? If you’ve ever asked this question, you’re not alone. There is definitely more than one way to show your support of an artist or small business.

Here is a list of a few unique ways to support your favorite artists without breaking the bank and sometimes even earning extra money from it!

1. Shop directly from their online store if they have one

Platforms like Etsy used to be great for some artists but they tend to take a large commission from their orders, force small artists to offer free shipping, discounts, and can make it difficult to be seen on their platform. Because of this, many small businesses have created their own websites where you can buy their products directly from them. Ordering directly from artists’ online store gives them a much larger percentage of the sale, even if you use a coupon code. 

2. Write a review

Yes, the thing that almost no one ever does unless it’s bad. If you’ve had a positive experience purchasing from an artist, make sure you go back to see if you can leave a review! Not only does this often make their day, and drives them to create more amazing things, reviews can also give small businesses more credibility to future customers to help them grow as a business.

Even if you did not have a positive experience, let the artist know and give them an opportunity to make it right. Feedback is so important as artists continue to improve and grow in their businesses.

3. Shop from a physical shop that carries their items

Many small artists sell to other local shops in their area! You can often find where you can find their products in person on their website under a Find Me page, or a Retailers page. While the artist may not receive 100% of the sale, you would be supporting two businesses with one purchase. The physical retail business and the small artist. Two in one! 

Bonus: Make a friend date out of it! Grab a friend and mark out local shops and restaurants you want to hit up within a certain walking radius. Walk, shop, eat, and support local, all while catching up with your favorite bestie!

4. Spread the word

Word of mouth really is underrated but so many small businesses rely on customers like you telling your friends and family about their businesses. The best part is, it doesn’t really cost you anything! Snapping a quick photo and sharing it on your Instagram story, tagging the artist in a TikTok, or just telling a friend or coworker over a meal. Some small businesses even offer rewards for sharing photos that you can apply to future orders!

Getting in front of the right people can be such a hurdle so telling a friend whom you think might also love their art is immensely helpful to small artists!

5. Become an Affiliate

Not all small businesses will offer this program but some definitely do! What is an affiliate program, you ask? It’s when a business offers you a commission for referring a sale from your own website, blog, newsletter, or social media page. Even if you only have a small following, if you love an artist’s work, you can earn some extra money doing this!

Not only does this help the artist because you are spreading the word about them, but you also get to earn a little passive income as a reward for your help. 

BECOME AN AFFILIATE!

6. Gift small business items or gift cards to your friends and family

Have a birthday, anniversary, or special holiday like Mother’s Day coming up? Check out small businesses first for unique gifts that they won’t be able to buy themselves on Amazon. Many small businesses will often have gift cards available or even curate gift sets that are pre-selected to make gift giving even easier!

BROWSE GIFT SETS!

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Silver-toned jewelry! 2023 trends indicate that silver colored metals are coming back in style but which type of silver-toned jewelry is right for you? Sterling silver or stainless steel? You might be wondering what the differences are and which type of metal is better for you. 

The most common questions center around...

Let’s go through these questions.

What does hypoallergenic mean?

 

 

 

 

Hypoallergenic simply means that something is unlikely to cause an allergic reaction. The general rule is that less than 10% of the material contains an allergenic material. So jewelry that contains less than 10% of a reactive metal, like nickel and copper, is considered hypoallergenic. Both sterling silver and 304 stainless steel are considered hypoallergenic.

Break it Down - Metal Alloys

Sterling silver and stainless steel are both metal alloys which means that they are made from a mixture of different metals.

Sterling Silver is most commonly made with 92.5% silver and 7.5% copper. Because the presence of copper is below 10%, sterling silver is considered a hypoallergenic metal and non-reactive to most people with sensitive skin.

 

Stainless steel on the other hand, has a more complex mix and can come in various types. The two most common types found in high quality jewelry are 304 and 316L. (A quick way to tell if your stainless steel jewelry is not made with these types of stainless steels is if they are magnetic)

These stainless steels are made with a combination of chromium, nickel, molybdenum, and a mix of iron, manganese, phosphorus, and nitrogen. This combination of metals makes stainless steel harder, more durable, and resistant to corrosion.

 

As you can see, the biggest difference between these two types is the amounts of nickel and the presence of Molybdenum, which make it even more corrosion-resistant. Though these metals have nickel in their chemical composition, these metals typically do not release enough nickel to cause nickel dermatitis, even in nickel-sensitive people.

 

Haudrechy, P., Mantout, B., Frappaz, A., Rousseau, D., Chabeau, G., Faure, M., & Claudy, A. (1997). Nickel release from stainless steels. Contact dermatitis, 37(3), 113–117. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1600-0536.1997.tb00314.x

Still, those with known nickel allergies might try 304 stainless steel pieces. Of the two, 304 has a much lower nickel content and is even less likely to cause a reaction. 

STUDIYO Jewelry uses 304 stainless steel for the majority of our stainless steel designs. Earrings that are made from one sheet of metal like the Catena Earrings and Neutra Hoops are made entirely of 304 stainless steel. Some attached parts like earring posts and chains, are made of 316L stainless steel and are indicated in the product descriptions.

How these metals react to your surroundings

What happens when sterling silver and stainless steel come in contact with oxygen and water?

A chemical reaction occurs when both sterling silver and stainless steel come in contact with oxygen. In the case of sterling silver, oxidation occurs and a visible barrier of rust starts to form to protect the metal from further corrosion. Stainless steel on the other hand reacts with an invisible barrier that protects the metal from corrosion. This is because of the chromium and molybdenum present in the metal and is why sterling silver tarnishes easily and stainless steel does not.

While both metals are safe to wear in plain water and in the shower, moisture in the air when storing your jewelry can speed up the rate of tarnish on sterling silver whereas it can have little to no effect on stainless steel. It's always best practice to thoroughly dry your pieces before putting them away. 

Sterling Silver Pros and Cons

Pros of Sterling Silver

Cons of Sterling Silver

Stainless Steel Pros and Cons

Cons of Stainless Steel

Whether you lean towards the timeless elegance of sterling silver or the modern durability of stainless steel, remember, there's no wrong choice. It all comes down to your unique style, your skin's preferences, and what makes you feel your absolute best. At STUDIYO Jewelry, we offer both options because we believe that beauty is diverse and so are your preferences. Whichever metal you choose, rest assured that your jewelry will not only adorn you but also tell your story, standing the test of time as a cherished part of your journey. So go ahead, explore, and find that perfect piece that resonates with you – because when it comes to jewelry, there's no one-size-fits-all; there's only what makes you shine.

 

SHOP STERLING SILVER JEWELRY!
SHOP STAINLESS STEEL JEWELRY!

 

For more benefits of stainless steel jewelry, read the 7 Surprising Facts About Stainless Steel Jewelry

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Seattle Handmade Gifts for Archi Lovers & Friends

There are many talented artists in the Seattle area that sell goods but it can be difficult to search and find them. Here are a few local, small businesses in the Seattle area, run by women that I have a huge crush on! If you've been looking for small businesses to shop from this holiday season, here is a list to help get you started!

Bespoke, Handmade Clothing: A.Oei Studio

Website: https://www.aoei-studio.com/ | Woman-owned | AAPI

Modern silhouettes and clean lines. There are so many amazing styles to choose from, and I have so many favorites including the Kimono V neck, the Bell Cheongsam Top, and the Windbreaker in Rust! Specializing in made to measure, bespoke clothing made from beautiful fabrics, Angeline even offers redesigning your wedding dress into modern pieces!

Sustainable Handbags: Sea + Pine

Website: https://seaandpinedesigns.com/ | Woman-owned | AAPI

Made from vegan leathers including cactus leather! Beautiful, clean lined designs that are useful and multi-functional. Jenny’s designs are super versatile like this backpack that is also a tote! Currently crushing on the Modern Traveler Backpack, Executive Tote, and the Modern Caryall Tote.

Unique Architectural Jewelry: STUDIYO Jewelry

Website: https://www.studiyojewelry.com | Woman-owned | AAPI

Modern pieces made of stainless steel make these sleek designs waterproof! Local designer Diana draws inspiration from architecture and interiors and uses recycled metals to make her ultra lightweight pieces. I might be biased but current faves include the CATENA Earrings, GALA Earrings, and the Tools Charm Necklace!

SHOP FOR HOLIDAY GIFTS!

Modern Minimalist Ceramics: Jennifer Spring Ceramics

Website: https://www.jenniferspringceramics.com | Woman-owned 

Gorgeous, mostly black and white, small batch ceramics. Meticulously hand carved pieces with yummy textures that are made to match your home decor. Jennifer releases pieces in small batches every 4-6 weeks so make sure to check her website regularly!

By the Fire: Bookends Quilting

Website: https://bookendsquilting.com/ | Woman Owned

Perfect for snuggle weather, these quilts give all the geometric, cozy feels. Steph’s handmade quilts not only look super comforting but are also so aesthetically pleasing! I also hear she might be releasing patterns next year!

Literal Fire: Lulumiere

Website: https://lulumiere.com/ | Woman Owned | AAPI

If you are someone who always needs a candle burning like I do, check out Linda's candles! She has an amazing assortment of candles and shower steamers and her packaging is so cute! She just opened a physical brick and mortar store that I am dying to visit. Currently crushing on the Aloha Signature Candle!

Plant Things: Hemleva

Website: https://hemleva.com/ | Woman-owned | AAPI

For my indoor plant lovers! If you live in the Seattle area and haven’t heard about Hemleva, I’d be surprised. Samantha makes the cutest and most gorgeous pins, air plant mobiles, and rainbow suncatchers. She also offers a wealth of knowledge in plant care and genuinely seems like the nicest person!

Speaking of Plants: Fringe

Website: https://www.modernfringe.com/ | Woman-owned

Walking into Taylor's store is like walking into an interior designer's indoor jungle! Her shop in Belltown is always stocked full of beautiful plants, objects, and the space is so aesthetically pleasing. Plus, she usually has her friendly dog, Gwen with her!
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This Saturday, I am releasing an all new charm necklace! It is my very first collaboration and it's with Girls Garage, an organization that I have been donating to since the end of 2020.

Girls Garage is a women-led organization that offers free and low-cost programs in carpentry, welding, architecture, engineering, and activist art to a diverse community of girls and gender-expansive youth. They provide a supportive and safe environment for girls as well as career and academic advising! 82% of teen girls and gender-expansive youth identify as girls of color and all teen participants attend the program at no cost to their families.

There is nothing more empowering and inspiring to me than an independent woman. I was raised by a single mom, and she has been an amazing role model, showing me first hand the ability and strength of women. Then in college, I was lucky enough to live with 4 fiercely independent women, all in architecture school, who taught me how to think and fend for myself, problem solve, and that everything is often figure-out-able if you try. I remember once the door frame to my room in our house warped due to the heat and my door became jammed, trapping me in my room. Instead of calling the landlord or a handyman as I panicked, they calmly handed me tools through my window and talked me through how to take the door hinge pins out and simply remove the door.

This can-do attitude and willingness to research allowed me to do things like order, replace, and install the side mirror on my car by myself after a drunk biker had smashed into it. It may seem small, but not only did it save me a lot of money, I also felt so damn accomplished afterward.

The design of this necklace includes 5 charms that represent typical tools that Girls Garage teaches their girls to use. For me, the necklace also represents how I got started making things and tools that I first learned how to use. Every time you learn how to use a new tool, it opens your eyes to a world of possibilities and new ideas. It’s so empowering.

 

All 5 tools are basic yet powerful tools that are the foundation of many projects. Each charm was drawn digitally, then carefully cut out of paper to create prototypes. Together with Girls Garage, we went back and forth to decide scale, length, and tools, and after a few iterations, landed on this intricate design. Every charm is made of thin stainless steel with tool details etched into the face.

With this limited edition collaboration, 20% of every necklace sold will be donated directly to Girls Garage to support their mission of providing more guidance and technical skills for girls to create a real impact in their communities and build the world they want to see.

The 2022 TOOLS CHARM NECKLACE is available now!

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