If you’ve ever dealt with red, itchy, or irritated ears after wearing jewelry, you know how frustrating it can be to find pieces that are both stylish and comfortable. I’ve been there myself. In fact, my journey with jewelry materials started in 2017 when I was determined to create pieces that were not only modern and...
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When it comes to jewelry, longevity matters. We all want our favorite pieces to sparkle for years without the drama of tarnishing, fading, or flaking. Whether you're someone who never takes off their jewelry (yes, even in the shower!) or you're just tired of polishing your pieces constantly, understanding the type of plating your jewelry has is key.
Today, we're diving into PVD plating vs. traditional plating and exploring which one stands the test of time. And yes, we’ll be talking about how we use both at STUDIYO Jewelry and which pieces feature each type.
Traditional plating, sometimes referred to as electroplating, involves depositing a thin layer of gold, rhodium, or another metal over a base material like brass or sterling silver. It’s been around forever, and for good reason: it gives you the look of solid gold at a fraction of the cost.
Pros:
Beautiful, shiny finish that mimics solid gold
Affordable
Works well for special occasion or low-impact wear
Cons:
Usually plated super thin and prone to fading or rubbing off over time (especially with everyday wear)
Can tarnish depending on base metal and exposure
Requires extra care (no water, no harsh soaps, storage in a dry place)
At STUDIYO Jewelry, we use heavy gold plating over brass (2.5 microns thick!) for pieces like the original enamel Perched Bird Earrings. That extra thickness means better durability than standard plating, but traditional care rules still apply.
PVD stands for Physical Vapor Deposition, which sounds like a sci-fi experiment but is actually a high-tech process that uses a vacuum chamber to vaporize a metal (like gold or titanium) and then deposit it atom by atom onto the jewelry’s surface. Unlike traditional electroplating, which relies on a liquid bath and electric current to plate a piece, PVD physically bonds the coating at a molecular level—resulting in a harder, more scratch-resistant surface. It’s most commonly used on stainless steel and is known for being more durable than traditional plating.
Pros:
More long-lasting than standard electroplating
Generally more scratch-resistant and tarnish-resistant
Great for people who are hard on their jewelry
Won’t flake or wear off as quickly as thinner traditional coatings
Cons:
Can be slightly more expensive compared to standard gold-plated jewelry
Not indestructible—PVD finishes can still fade over time, especially with heavy wear or abrasion
Our Cast in Steel Collection is made with 304 stainless steel and PVD coating. Pieces like the Adorn Cuffs and Starburst Studs are built for daily wear—just keep in mind that like any finish, some care goes a long way. To keep your PVD pieces looking fresh, we recommend rinsing them in warm water after heavy wear or exposure to lotions and sweat. Avoid abrasive cleaners and harsh chemicals, and store them in a soft pouch when not in use to prevent scratching. While PVD is incredibly durable, a little love helps them last even longer!
If you have sensitive skin or are prone to allergic reactions, the type of coating on your jewelry can make a big difference.
Traditional Gold or Rhodium Plating: Gold and rhodium themselves are considered hypoallergenic metals. However, traditional plating is typically a thin layer over a base metal like brass or silver. Once this outer layer begins to wear down, the base metal underneath can come into contact with the skin and potentially cause irritation—especially if it’s brass. That said, while the gold plating itself is unlikely to trigger a reaction, its effectiveness as a barrier depends on thickness and wear. At STUDIYO Jewelry, we use 2.5 microns of gold plating to give extra longevity and protection, and use sterling silver ear as a base metal for ear posts.
PVD Coating: PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition) creates a highly durable finish that doesn’t just sit on the surface—it bonds tightly to the metal. As a coating, PVD is inert and hypoallergenic, meaning it’s unlikely to cause any skin reaction. On top of that, it acts as a strong, long-lasting barrier that keeps whatever base metal is underneath completely sealed off from your skin. So whether it’s on stainless steel or brass, PVD-coated jewelry is a solid option for anyone looking to minimize irritation. Rings like the Tile Ring are perfect if you want comfort without compromising on durability.
If you’re unsure, start with PVD-coated pieces and see how your skin reacts. Your fingers, wrists, and ears will thank you.
If you’re looking for a high-performance, low-maintenance piece, PVD-plated stainless steel wins hands down. It’s ideal for daily wear and tear and requires almost no upkeep. If you want the luxe look of gold and are okay with giving your jewelry a little TLC, traditional plating (especially heavy plating) still has a place in your collection.
At STUDIYO Jewelry, we offer both:
Traditional heavy gold plating for a luxurious finish
PVD stainless steel options for those who want a no-fuss, never-take-it-off kind of piece
| Feature | Traditional Plating | PVD Plating |
|---|---|---|
| Durability | Moderate | High |
| Maintenance | High | Low |
| Scratch Resistance | Low | High |
| Cost | Lower | Slightly higher |
| Ideal For | Occasional wear, luxe look | Everyday wear, active lifestyles |
Jewelry is personal, and so is how you wear it. Whether you're a "take it off every night" kind of person or someone who forgets they’re even wearing earrings, there's a STUDIYO piece for you. Explore our Cast in Steel Collection for stainless steel staples or browse our gold-plated favorites.
Let your jewelry match your lifestyle—not the other way around.
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Discover why stainless steel jewelry is the everyday hero your collection needs. From Tile Rings to Presa Hoops, explore STUDIYO Jewelry’s new cast steel pieces you’ll never want to take off.
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When it comes to jewelry, the metal you choose is just as important as the design itself. It affects how the piece looks, how it feels, and even how long it lasts. That’s why I’ve put together this guide to help you get to know the metals I use in my silver-toned jewelry: sterling silver, rhodium, and stainless steel. Each has its own unique personality, and I’m excited to share what makes them special.
Sterling silver (aka 925 silver) is the bright white metal with a slightly warm hue that most people think of when they imagine silver jewelry. It’s versatile, elegant, and has a rich history in fine jewelry.
This metal develops a natural shine with frequent wear but will patina over time, requiring occasional polishing for maintenance. It is a softer, malleable metal, making it easy to work with for intricate designs. Sterling silver is an alloy composed of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% copper (or other metals) for added strength. For most people, it is considered hypoallergenic.
Timeless Beauty: Sterling silver has a warm, traditional tone that pairs beautifully with everything from casual outfits to formal wear.
Affordability: It’s more accessible than precious metals like platinum or gold but still feels luxurious.
Versatility: It works beautifully on a variety of designs, from delicate chains to bold statement pieces.
Maintenance: Sterling silver can tarnish over time, so it requires occasional polishing to keep it looking its best.
Durability: It’s a softer metal, which makes it great for intricate designs but also means it can scratch or bend more easily.
Sterling silver is perfect for those who love a classic, elegant look. If you’re curious, check out my sterling silver collection here.
Rhodium is a rare and precious metal in the platinum family, and it’s actually more expensive than gold! Because of its high cost, you’ll rarely find solid rhodium jewelry. Instead, it’s used as a plating over other metals like brass or stainless steel.
Rhodium is tarnish-resistant, scratch-resistant, and has a slightly cooler tone than sterling silver. It is hypoallergenic and can help prevent skin irritations when plated over reactive base metals.
Hypoallergenic: Rhodium is very hypoallergenic, making it a great choice for sensitive skin. It creates a protective barrier over the base metal, which can help prevent irritation.
Durability: Rhodium plating is scratch-resistant and tarnish-proof, so it stays shiny with minimal maintenance.
Modern Aesthetic: The cool, bright white tone of rhodium gives jewelry a fresh, modern vibe that’s perfect for everyday wear.
Base Metal Sensitivity: While rhodium itself is hypoallergenic, the base metal underneath (often brass) may cause reactions for some people. To avoid this, I use sterling silver or 304 stainless steel for the parts that touch your skin, like earring posts.
Color Variation: Rhodium has a cooler, brighter tone compared to sterling silver, which some people love and others might find less traditional.
Rhodium-plated jewelry is ideal for those who want a durable, low-maintenance option with a modern twist. Explore my rhodium-plated collection here.
Stainless steel is a hard, durable, and tarnish-resistant metal. It is commonly made with alloys like 316 (surgical steel) or 304, which is my preference due to its even lower nickel content. Compared to silver and rhodium, stainless steel has a darker, cooler gray tone.
Stainless steel is an alloy composed of iron, chromium, manganese, nitrogen, phosphorus, and nickel. The nickel content is generally low enough to be considered hypoallergenic, especially in 304 stainless steel.
Durability: Stainless steel is tough. It’s resistant to scratches, tarnish, and corrosion, making it ideal for everyday wear.
Hypoallergenic: 304-grade stainless steel has a low nickel content, so it’s safe for most people, even those with mild nickel sensitivities.
Sustainability: Stainless steel is fully recyclable, and the PVD coating (if applied) doesn’t interfere with the recycling process.
Color: Stainless steel has a darker, cooler tone compared to sterling silver or rhodium, which gives it a more industrial, modern look.
Severe Allergies: If you have a severe nickel allergy, you may want to test stainless steel or opt for nickel-free alternatives like rhodium-plated or sterling silver.
Stainless steel is a fantastic choice for anyone who wants a durable, low-maintenance metal that can handle daily wear. Check out my stainless steel collection here.
If you have sensitive skin or metal allergies, choosing the right metal is especially important. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:
Sterling Silver: Hypoallergenic for most people, but those with severe copper or nickel sensitivities should take care.
Rhodium-Plated: Highly hypoallergenic, making it an excellent choice for sensitive skin. However, if you’re sensitive to the base metal (like brass), you’ll want to avoid harsh chemicals or excessive friction to maintain the protective rhodium layer.
Stainless Steel (304): Hypoallergenic for most, even with nickel in its composition. It rarely releases enough nickel to cause reactions, but those with severe nickel allergies may prefer rhodium-plated or sterling silver pieces.
If you’re unsure which metal is best for you, feel free to reach out—I’m always happy to help!
At the end of the day, the best metal is the one that makes you feel confident and comfortable. Whether you’re drawn to the warmth of sterling silver, the modern coolness of rhodium, or the durability of stainless steel, each metal has its own unique charm!
If you’re ready to explore, check out my collections:
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When I first started making jewelry, my pieces were crafted from brass and stainless steel sheet metal. Stainless steel has always drawn me in—not only for its durability and tarnish resistance but also for its industrial quality that resonates with my background in interior architecture and commercial interior design. To me, it has always symbolized my favorite qualities of the women around me: delicate yet beautifully strong.
When I started casting designs, stainless steel wasn’t an option due to its complexity. I pivoted to softer metals like sterling silver and brass, which allowed me to explore new creative possibilities. This allowed me to explore this new method of making and while I’m proud of those pieces, my vision has always included returning to stainless steel one day.
Now, after months of research and development, I’m thrilled to share that I will soon be able to work more with stainless steel, specifically 304 recycled stainless steel—a skin-friendly material that’s as functional as it is beautiful. (The first designs from this new process, the Starburst Studs, are available in gold, matte black, and steel finishes.)
In 2025, I’ll begin transitioning more designs to stainless steel. Some will have subtle modifications to adapt to the material’s unique properties, and I can’t wait to show you how this shift unfolds.
This transition isn’t just about practicality—though stainless steel’s tarnish resistance, hypoallergenic nature, and unparalleled durability are certainly appealing. It’s also about honoring my original vision of creating jewelry that blends industrial strength with architectural details.
But how does stainless steel jewelry compare to sterling silver? While sterling silver jewelry has a classic appeal and a soft, warm luster, it requires regular polishing to prevent tarnishing. Stainless steel jewelry, on the other hand, is low-maintenance, water-resistant, a much harder metal, and perfect for everyday wear. For those who love subtle jewelry that can withstand daily life, this transition makes perfect sense.
Stainless steel is a material that embodies longevity. It aligns with my goal of crafting pieces you can wear every day with confidence, knowing they’ll stand the test of time. It’s also recyclable, making it a more sustainable choice for the future of STUDIYO Jewelry.
While I’m excited about this new direction, stainless steel does come with its limitations. Its rigidity means that a few of my current designs—crafted with the flexibility of sterling silver in mind—can’t be transitioned to stainless steel without significant modifications.
I want to take a moment to highlight a few of these special pieces. These silver and gold vermeil designs are truly the last of their kind, and if you’ve had your eye on them, now’s the time to make them yours.
These designs are near and dear to my heart. They showcase the beauty and adaptability of sterling silver, and while I’m excited about the possibilities stainless steel offers, these designs have their unique qualities that I think will be missed when they are no longer available.
Once these original versions sell out, they won’t be restocked—at least not in their current form. If any of these pieces speak to you, I encourage you to make them yours before they’re gone.
The journey back to stainless steel is just beginning, and I’m excited to share more updates as this transition unfolds. It’s a big step for STUDIYO Jewelry, but one that feels true to my vision of creating wearable art that’s both durable and beautiful.
Thank you for being part of this evolution. Your support means the world to me, and I can’t wait to bring you along for this new chapter.
Shop the Collection Before They’re Gone
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I have some exciting news to share! Simone Giertz, the "Queen of Shitty Robots" herself, was spotted wearing the piercing-free Lobe Lite Cuffs in one of her recent YouTube videos. To say I'm thrilled is an understatement! Not only is Simone a celebrated maker, inventor, and role model for women in STEM, but she’s also exactly the type of person I hope to see wearing STUDIYO Jewelry: bold, capable, and unapologetically herself.
In the video, Simone wore our gold Lobe Lite Cuffs in a unique and stylish way: in between her first and second piercings. This is such a perfect example of how versatile these earrings are! Whether you have pierced ears or not, the Lobe Lite Cuffs offer a chic, modern way to elevate any look. Simone’s choice to wear them alongside her piercings shows how seamlessly they can complement other jewelry pieces without having to get another piercing.
If you’re someone with pierced ears, you might wonder, “Are these cuffs for me?” The answer is a resounding yes! They’re not just for those without piercings—they’re for anyone who loves lightweight, versatile earrings that make a statement without being over the top. Simone’s styling proves just how adaptable they can be.
Simone isn’t just any creator. She’s an inventor, designer, builder, and entertainer all rolled into one. Her videos combine humor and ingenuity, inspiring millions of young women and makers worldwide to embrace creativity and capability. To see someone as impactful and relatable as Simone wearing my jewelry is a dream come true. It’s a reminder that STUDIYO Jewelry resonates with people who value both form and function—and who like to have a little fun along the way!
If you’re new to STUDIYO Jewelry, let me tell you a bit about the Lobe Lite Cuffs. These piercing-free earrings are designed with the principal of Universal Design in mind, so that they would look the same on both pierced and non-pierced ears. They're designed to hug your ear without pinching and to be comfortable and versatile for your every day wear.
They’re perfect for those with or without piercings, those who want the look of multiple piercings without the commitment, or for anyone seeking a lightweight alternative to traditional earrings. With detachable bottoms, these versatile cuffs are equal parts edgy and delicate, fitting seamlessly into any jewelry collection.
Check out these screen grabs from Simone’s video to see how she styled the Lobe Lite Cuffs. The way they move with her and add an extra layer of interest to her look is simply stunning. The video is a great opportunity to see how they move in action!
Feeling inspired by Simone’s style? You can shop the Lobe Lite Cuffs here and try them out for yourself. Whether you’re an inventor, a creative, or someone who simply loves beautiful, thoughtful jewelry, these cuffs are made for you!
A huge thank you to Simone Giertz for rocking the Lobe Lite Cuffs in this video and supporting my small business! If you haven't watched her collab with Mythical Kitchen yet, I highly recommend it if you're in need of some laughter and entertainment!
Stay tuned for more updates, and don’t forget to follow us on Instagram for more style inspiration and behind-the-scenes content!
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Back in 2022, the Neutra Mini Hoops, a beloved mini hoop earring crafted from stainless steel, quickly became a customer favorite and held a special place in my collection. However, when my jewelry-making process transitioned to 3D modeling and casting, this making process was discontinued leaving a gap in the lineup. Once it sold out, it became clear that something was missing: a versatile everyday hoop earring that could seamlessly fit into the aesthetic of my newer collections, particularly the Luminaire collection.
Lite Necklace from the Luminaire Collection
At first, the plan was simple—bring back the Neutra Hoops with a slight modification, making them a bit thicker so they would have more presence when worn. But as the design process unfolded, it became clear that more could be done to evolve these hoops into something new and fresh.
The goal was to create a piece that not only filled the void left by the Neutra Mini Hoops but also complemented the newer designs featuring white jade. This led to experimenting with various elements. What if the lower part of the earring featured the 3D jade? What if the circle hoop was closed off completely, forming a smooth, unified shape? With each iteration, the design evolved. I even considered adding a clamshell effect for more visual interest, but it still didn’t quite feel right.
The breakthrough came when an organic form was introduced into the design. This added uniqueness and presence that the design was previously lacking. With this exploration, the idea to make this earrings fully enclosed was entertained—something I hadn't tried before. A closed hoop would eliminate the need for an earring back and prevents the hoop from snagging on hair, unlike stud backed open hoops.
As the design came together, it sparked even more possibilities. What if the design came in multiple finishes, like gold hoop earrings and silver hoop earrings without the jade? The Presa Hoops began to evolve into a versatile piece, with plans to offer three different versions—each with a distinct finish, including matte finish earrings and possibly a mix of matte and polished textures.
The design process for this earring and most pieces from STUDIYO Jewelry are rooted in experimentation—lots of "what ifs" until the right design emerges. Customer feedback also played a crucial role. A while back, I asked in a poll over on Instagram whether mini or large hoops were preferred, and the overwhelming response was in favor of mini hoops. This feedback heavily influenced the direction of the Presa Hoops.
The Presa Hoops in Gold Jade, Rhodium, and GoldAfter months of refining, the Presa Hoops are finally ready to make their debut. What started as a simple replacement for the Neutra Mini Hoops has blossomed into a distinctive design of its own. The fully enclosed hoop features a vintage modern jewelry aesthetic with a matte texture that beautifully contrasts with both the jade and the polished ball on the solid color options. These hoops are not only practical—ensuring no snagging on hair—but also chic and stylish enough for everyday wear.
The Presa Hoops are launching on Monday, September 9, at 9 am PST. Which color variation is your favorite?
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Oh, the dreaded tarnish! It happens to all of us. Whether it's sterling silver, gold-plated jewelry, or gold vermeil, tarnish is inevitable. But don’t worry—tarnish doesn't mean your jewelry is poor quality! It can result from various environmental factors and your body's unique chemistry. Here are some effective ways to refresh your jewelry and make it look like new!
If you notice your jewelry starting to look a little dingy, it's best to clean it as soon as possible. The longer it sits, the harder it will be to remove the tarnish.
Try this method before anything else as it is the most gentle on your jewelry.
If the soap and water method doesn’t completely remove the tarnish, it might benefit from a little chemistry.
Some Important Tips on this method:
The baking soda and foil combo creates an electrolytic solution that transfers the tarnish from your jewelry to the aluminum foil. The salt makes the water a better conductor for the reaction, and the hot water speeds up and initiates the process. (You can tell it's working when you see the tiny bubbles on your jewelry!) This method will still work without salt, just not as fast.
This method is a safe, non-toxic, and effective way to clean your jewelry because it removes tarnish without harming the underlying metal.
Now that your jewelry is nice and clean, how do we prevent it from tarnishing again?
By following these tips and cleaning methods, you can keep your sterling silver, gold-plated, and gold vermeil jewelry looking beautiful and sparkling for years to come. Regular maintenance not only preserves the appearance of your pieces but also ensures their longevity, allowing you to enjoy them for many more occasions.
I hope this helps and happy cleaning!
<3 Yoyo
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If you love the look of earrings but don't have pierced ears, you’re in luck! At STUDIYO Jewelry, we offer a large range of non-pierced earring options that are both stylish and comfortable. Whether you prefer the elegance of dangle earrings or the simplicity of studs, we’ve got you covered. I'm always looking for ways to make it possible for everyone to enjoy beautiful earrings.
Clip-on earrings are a classic choice for those without pierced ears. They offer the same stylish look as traditional earrings but come with a mechanism that gently clips onto the earlobe. If we're talking vintage earrings, you will typically find metal clip earrings that snap closed. These tend to be a little more visible and obvious that they are clip-ons but work well for larger statement earrings that can hide the mechanism. I tend to like more minimalistic styles for clip-ons and offer two styles for dangle earrings. A straight post clip and a hoop spring. These are the least obvious in my opinion and look most like regular earrings.
One of the great things about clip-ons is their versatility. At STUDIYO Jewelry, we can transform most (if not all) of our dangle earrings into clip-ons, allowing you to enjoy your favorite styles without the need for piercings. Our clip-on dangles maintain the same elegance and movement, ensuring you don’t have to compromise on style.
We’re thrilled to announce a new option in our non-pierced earring collection: post-to-clip conversions. This exciting development means you can now wear post earrings as clip-ons, opening up even more possibilities for your earring wardrobe.
Here’s how it works: Our post-to-clip conversion involves a discreet mechanism that attaches to the post of the earring. This allows the earring to clip onto your ear securely, providing the look of a traditional post earring without the need for a piercing. The conversion is seamless and minimal, ensuring you can enjoy the latest trends and timeless classics alike.
Our non-pierced earring collection includes a variety of styles to suit every taste. From statement pieces to everyday essentials, there’s something for everyone. Here are a few highlights:
Non-pierced earrings are perfect for a variety of reasons:
Non-pierced earrings are not only perfect for those without piercings but also offer versatility for those who want to switch up their look without committing to new piercings. (like a second or third piercings) They’re also great for people with sensitive ears who may experience discomfort with traditional pierced earrings.
Wearing clip-on and converted post earrings is simple. Just open the clip, position the earring on your earlobe, and let the clip close securely. Make sure to shift the earring to the most comfortable position on your ear. To keep your earrings in top condition, store them in a cool, dry place and clean them gently with a soft cloth.
We invite you to explore our full range of non-pierced earrings on our website. Whether you’re looking for something bold and eye-catching or simple and elegant, you’ll find the perfect piece to complement your style. Just send me a message or leave a note if you need a conversion! I'm happy to make that change at no extra cost to you.
At STUDIYO Jewelry, we believe that everyone should have access to beautiful, high-quality earrings, regardless of whether they have pierced ears. I'm always looking to provide innovative solutions that allow you to express your unique style with my architectural jewelry. Happy shopping!
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As someone who started in the world of interior design, there's a question that has been on my mind lately: Why is there an online perception that a small handmade jewelry business must be a one-person show, with the artist personally crafting each and every piece?
Think about it: When you hire an interior designer, you don't expect them to swing a hammer or lay down the flooring themselves. You trust them to bring in skilled tradespeople who can execute the vision with precision and expertise.
In the realm of product design, whether it's furniture or decor, we understand that the designer doesn't personally craft each chair or lampshade. Yet, when it comes to jewelry, the narrative seems different.
Within the handmade business community, there seems to be a lingering taboo around the idea of having goods manufactured. The prevailing expectation is that small jewelry business owners must be the sole artisans, physically handcrafting every piece. And if they opt for external manufacturing, somehow they risk losing their "handmade" badge of honor.
But why is this the case?
Perhaps it's a holdover from romantic notions of the lone artisan, tirelessly working away in a quaint studio. Or maybe it stems from a desire for authenticity, the belief that true handmade jewelry must bear the marks of its creator's hands.
In my journey with STUDIYO Jewelry, I've felt the weight of this expectation. I've questioned whether relying on skilled tradespeople to help execute my visions would somehow diminish the authenticity of my brand. Yet, I've come to realize that innovation often requires breaking away from tradition.
This year marks a shift for me. I'm actively seeking out better tradespeople to collaborate with, to elevate the quality of STUDIYO Jewelry to new heights. It's not about losing the essence of handmade; it's about enhancing it. My ideas, designs, and creativity remain at the core, but now they have the opportunity to be translated into even higher quality pieces by skilled artisans.
STUDIYO Jewelry so far has been known for its statement jewelry, catering to modern women who seek contemporary designs that reflect their unique style. Crafted with care and precision, each piece is a testament to the artistry and passion behind artisan jewelry. As a San Diego-based jewelry designer, I am proud to incoporate this spirit of innovation in handmade accessories.
I am currently in the exciting phase of trialing a new manufacturer, and the possibilities are invigorating. By embracing external manufacturing, I'm opening doors to higher quality, more intricate designs that I can proudly share with you, my amazing community.
