ARTIST'S SPOTLIGHT - zanny cox

My first conversations with Zanny began a few years ago when she started sharing her beautiful work with me. One of the first things she mentioned—and something I would later realize runs deeply through her artistry—was Aulë, a character from J.R.R. Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings.

Zanny’s work is not only stunning but also rich with meaning, reflecting a profound connection to the earth, its metals, and its stones. She is deeply devoted to her family, proud of her heritage, and unafraid to stand firmly for what she believes in.

Beyond jewelry, her creativity knows no bounds—she is also a weaver, an accomplished equestrian, and, quite enthusiastically, a face-taper (something I just might have to try myself!).

Over the past four years, I have been truly inspired by her journey of self-awareness and growth, so much so that I recommended her work for the Discover program at NYC Jewelry Week (which is still live if you’d like to check it out!).

More than just sharing jewelry, we’ve exchanged deep-rooted opinions, laughter, and even tears over issues that impact women around the world. It’s an honor to share her incredible story with all of you.

ZANNY COX

My journey into jewelry making began with gemstones. My family owned a gem and lapidary business, and I fondly remember visiting my great-grandfather’s home as a child, where the yard was filled with crystal specimens, dinosaur bones, and turquoise. He specialized in making jewelry, particularly bolo ties, using the stones he faceted. I was fortunate to grow up surrounded by the gem and mineral knowledge he shared with me, and although he lived to the age of 98, I only had the privilege of learning from him until I was 18.

The first pieces of handmade jewelry I owned were crafted by my great-grandfather, using stones from our family collection. At the time, I didn’t fully appreciate the skill and craftsmanship involved—until I picked up the tools he left me to begin my own metalsmithing journey. I started with the basics: sawing, hammering, and soldering, through an apprenticeship under an experienced jeweler. Through trial and error, I taught myself stone setting, casting, and forging. I’ve always been someone who learns best on my own, rather than in a classroom setting.

Over the years, I’ve noticed a preference for an ancient, artisanal aesthetic in my work. This inclination likely stems from my lifelong love of history—particularly the treasures of Ancient Egypt and Mexico, which I’ve poured over in books since childhood and still reference today.

I feel that I’m finally developing my signature aesthetic for my jewelry collection, one that integrates ancient techniques (which I’ve studied and taught myself), moody gemstones, and an organic, unearthed feel in each piece. My goal is to form meaningful connections with a select group of retail shops to showcase my work. I don’t envision myself building a massive brand; my true joy lies in the act of creation, and I never want to stray too far from the bench.

A quote by J.R.R. Tolkien perfectly captures my passion for jewelry making. He writes of the greatest metalsmith in the world of Arda: “But the delight and pride of Aulë is in the deed of making and in the thing made, and neither in possession nor in his own mastery; wherefore he gives and hoards not, and is free from care, passing ever on to some new work.” This sentiment resonates deeply with me and reflects my own approach to jewelry making: it’s about the joy of the craft and the process of creation.

@estudiozanny