Search this site

Since launching the fancythisrings  website (and blog) in October 2024, I’ve had the pleasure of connecting with so many wonderful people—some who sign up for my occasional newsletters, and others who reach out directly to share their work. The site has become an exciting new platform for discovering and speaking with more artists, and that’s been truly incredible. One of those connections was Paola, the founder of Atelier Mythique. She initially reached out through the website, and we quickly continued the conversation over on Instagram—so much more practical than email! When I saw her whimsical, charming, and unique pieces, and learned she had just launched her brand and first collection, I was immediately intrigued. I invited her to share her story here, and I think it’s a perfect fit. There’s nothing more inspiring than seeing someone leave a successful career—in Paola’s case, advertising (same as me!)—to start an entirely new adventure in pursuit of a dream. It’s bold, it’s admirable, and it’s fascinating. And as if that wasn’t serendipitous enough, Paola is also Canadian (as well as Lebanese) —Canada holds a special place in my heart, having lived in Toronto for four years and made lifelong friends there. Now, let’s dive into Paola’s dream! ATELIER MYTHIQUE - paola mounla Atelier Mythique is truly where my passions for sculpture and jewelry design come together. My name is Paola Mounla, I am Lebanese and Canadian, now based in NYC, I'm the designer, sculptor, and owner behind the brand. The name, Atelier Mythique, is a nod to the timeless magic of mythology that constantly sparks my creativity. You know, the thought of beautiful jewelry just sitting tucked away in a jewelry box always felt a little sad to me. For me, jewelry is art, and it deserves to be seen, even when we're not wearing it. That's the idea behind my work: each piece is designed to be not only a captivating piece of jewelry that you'll love to wear, but also a little sculpture you can display and enjoy. In my atelier, I bring to life these enchanting mythical creatures – majestic dragons, graceful unicorns, swift flying cheetahs – each one meticulously crafted with intricate detail so it can seamlessly go from adorning you to being a little work of art on its own. I also love to add a touch of whimsy, maybe a necklace that rotates to reveal a hidden detail, or a hair tie with a delightful moving part. Ultimately, with Atelier Mythique, I want to invite you to see jewelry in a new light – as wearable art that ignites your imagination and brings wonder into your life and your space. Here's a fun fact about me, this whole adventure is actually pretty new! I officially launched just two months ago, which is a big change for me. For the past 18 years, I was a creative director in the advertising world – quite different, right? But my love for jewelry has always been there, a constant spark, ignited by my mom and grandma that always wore the most delicate and intricate jewels. So, about two years ago, I decided to really go for it, diving deep into studying jewelry design and even studying for my gemology certification at the GIA. All that learning and creating has led to the collection you see today and the exciting launch of Atelier Mythique. So when Eliane reached out to invite me to be on artist's spotlight , I was like pinch me now! Looking ahead, I'm so excited about what's coming up for Atelier Mythique. I was recently selected to exhibit at the Artistar Jewels event during Milan Jewelry Week this October, which feels like a dream come true for a brand that only launched 2 months ago – a chance to share my vision on an international stage. And closer to home, starting June 1st, you'll be able to find my collection at the amazing Flying Solo store in Soho, NYC, which is such a fantastic opportunity to connect with a new audience. Plus, I'm already working on a brand new collection inspired by more enchanting tales, so stay tuned for more wearable art coming soon! I hope my story inspires anyone looking to change careers! I say go, go, go, and have fun along the way.  la dragonne la dragonne gives the best hugs! la licorne la cheetah la dragonne and her precious earphones @ateliermythique

I first discovered Deborah’s work on a jewelry Instagram page back in February 2024, and her pieces immediately captivated me. A few months later, we reconnected during an interview I did with Jonathan Wahl , director of the Jewelry Center at the 92nd Street Y. Deborah was actually there for the conversation—and afterward, she surprised me by revealing she’s a teacher at the Center! That felt like such a special moment. Later that year, our paths crossed again when I was invited to curate the Discover program for @nycjewelryweek. Deborah was among the many talented artists who applied, and of course, with her stunning work, she was invited to participate. You can still see her pieces featured on the DISCOVER page. This is her story! DEBORAH MEYERS Deborah Meyers weaves ancient craftsmanship into a distinctly contemporary vision of jewelry. Her work is a thoughtful balance of past and present—oxidized mixed metals, delicate gemstones, and raw textures meet the timeless glow of 22-carat gold. Each piece carries echoes of the Etruscans and Egyptians, whose jewelry she has studied for decades, and reflects her deep knowledge as a trained goldsmith. What sets Meyers apart is her ability to let each material shine in its own right—the sinuous curves of a Keshi pearl, the raw grit of oxidized sterling, the layered warmth of an agate slice, the yielding richness of gold. She brings these elements into conversation, and in doing so, creates something entirely new. Sometimes the effect is jaggedly romantic, other times light and whimsical, but always rooted in a powerful blend of delicacy and strength—a quiet mirror to the individuality of the wearer. These tactile contrasts—of patina, texture, shine, and form—give her work the feeling of something both ancient and alive. Each piece is more than adornment; it's a personal gesture of love, celebration, and presence. A handmade story unfolds with every design—rooted in history, made for now. @deborahmeyers_experience

Enri and I first connected over three years ago, when I came across his rings and instantly fell in love with his style. We finally met in person last September, during my trip to Paris to visit several shows. It was such a joy not only to meet Enri face to face, but also to try on all his stunning rings! What I love most about his work is how completely genderless it is. Every piece can be worn by anyone, regardless of gender — something that's still quite rare in the jewelry world. I’m also drawn to the raw aesthetic and the beautiful blend of silver and gold in his pieces. Honestly, I have yet to see a single ring of his that I don’t like. Enri has been showcasing his work both in Europe and the US, and I’m so happy to support such a talented and dedicated young artist. As many of you saw, I recently celebrated the 5th anniversary of my page by sharing 40 of the most liked and viewed rings — and Enri was the only artist featured twice in that selection! One exciting project on the horizon is Enri’s upcoming visual art book, and I’m thrilled that he’s invited me to interview him for it — of course I said yes! I truly love collaborating with artists who share my passion and whose work I admire deeply. ENRI MARS My journey into the world of jewelry didn’t begin in a glamorous showroom or with a grand plan. It started quietly, around 2017, in a small jewelry workshop in my hometown, Imola. I was drawn in by the raw beauty of metal, by the silence of concentration, and by the idea that imperfection could be art. There, I learned traditional techniques hands-on, messy, and real. The one that fascinated me most was lost-wax casting. It felt like alchemy: sculpting something in wax, then transforming it into metal.  That process mirrored how I was shaping myself turning ideas into something tangible.   When I work with wax, time disappears. Hours pass and I don’t even notice. In those moments, I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else. It’s an intimate space—just me, the material, and a kind of silence that clears everything away. It disconnects me from the noise of the world and empties my mind of everything unnecessary. That act of shaping, carving, adjusting—it’s more than craft. It’s meditation. It’s the purest part of what I do.   Eventually, I founded Enri Mars, a project deeply rooted in my vision and instincts. Inspired by Wabi-Sabi, I embraced imperfection, erosion, and asymmetry. I chose to work only with precious metals like silver, gold, and diamonds, not because they’re luxurious, but because they carry weight, memory, and permanence.   Each piece I create reflects a moment, a thought, a fragment of who I am. I’m not trying to follow trends or please everyone. I create for those who feel different, who see beauty in what’s raw and unpolished.   Today, my pieces are available internationally, but I still make them the same way by hand, one by one. My upcoming collection continues this evolution, exploring rare stones and deeper contrasts.   Choosing an Enri Mars piece isn’t just about wearing jewelry, is a statement. It’s about embracing individuality, brutalism, and luxury in their most sincere form. @enrimars

Clara and I first connected last July through Valery Demure ( Objet d’Emotion ), and I featured her gorgeous rings in a special "Rings on Hands" story I created. We finally met in person that September at Goldrush , where I not only had the chance to try on several of her beautiful pieces but also to enjoy a lovely conversation with her. We talked about jewelry, our shared love of rings, motherhood—she was pregnant at the time with baby Luca—the chaotic world we live in, and life in Beirut, among other things. It was such a delightful connection, and I’m so glad we’ve stayed in touch. Today, it’s a real joy to share her story, along with some of her stunning new rings, as well as a couple of my favorites! CLARA CHEHAB How I started As a young girl, I always dreamed of working with jewelry. This passion was fueled by childhood memories of visiting a series of goldsmiths with my paternal grandmother and us viewing their latest creations together. From her, I would always receive a ring or necklace for special occasions and birthdays.  She would sit down and discuss ideas with jewelers using it as part of a conversation to make something bespoke, special and unique to her. I remember, she had a Toi et Moi ring that was transformed into earrings, combining rose-cut diamonds with pink sapphires. I always thought of her whenever I wore those earrings. She lived a long life and died when she was 104. Compared to this older generation who preferred diamonds, my mother was edgy, creative and experimental with her love of pink tourmaline, peridot and amethyst.   It is these traditions that have helped develop a deep appreciation and love for aesthetic and beautiful pieces that evoke memories, reinforce familial bonds and deepen emotions.I returned to live in Beirut after leaving the corporate world of banking in London. For me, London, where I worked for a decade, was a very special place. It is international, a melting pot, unlike anywhere else in the UK. But Beirut offered the mountains, nature and a mild climate – you can go to the beach in late October and smell the jasmine in the winter. There’s also culture, such as the MIM Museum ( https://www.mim.museum ) a private collection of fine minerals in giant, rough prismatic shapes, which is well worth a visit. Anyway, arriving home in Beirut, I could no longer ignore my passion for jewelry and my desire to create, so I took the leap and followed my passion.   Motherhood and Family It was when I became a mother that I created my first collection Gaia, exploring the fruits of Mother Earth. I was inspired by what Mother Earth gives us and was driven to convey this without altering it. I now have three children—two boys with a girl sandwiched in between. I named my second collection after my daughter Sienna. My latest collection, Irene, coincided with the loss of my mother, someone who was always there for me, as well as the joyous moment of becoming pregnant with my third child. My jewelry has evolved as it reflects my life, loves and passions. Influenced by emotions, symbols, inspirations, connections and colors rise to the surface and resonate in my creations.   Favorite Gemstones I find asymmetrical and imperfect gemstones so beautiful to work with. It’s what helps to make each piece so unique. The whole identity of Clara Chehab Fine jewelry revolves around Mother Earth and I focus on this by keeping the stones as close as possible to their original form.     Inspiration I love travelling and Italy is a big inspiration for me. The country shares many similarities with Lebanon including dramatic landscapes. After all they both sit on the shores of the Mediterranean. I also love Iceland, a place I visited in 2010, because of its rough terrain. Art is important to me. I love the work of the Catalan artist Joan Miró and I’ve seen exhibitions of his work in Paris and London. I find the graphics and vibrant color appealing.  For me, creating is a way of expressing my feelings and being inspired by others also helps.      My Philosophy on life My pieces reflect the sentiment of living life and loving fully and capture the vivacity of my character when I feel inspired and alive. You will find a lot of color — shades of pink and green imperial topaz, blue sapphire and watermelon tourmaline -  in my work. Each piece of jewelry is a reflection of feelings and emotions. I consider it a journey of self-introspection.       What I would like to create: Pieces that combine rough aquamarine with garnet.  As a designer, I express my emotions through creating jewelry. My goal is for women to feel connected to the raw energy of the stones and be empowered every time they wear one of my pieces. As a brand, I like to create timeless pieces that will be handed down through the generations.     The fact that I use strong stones at their rough stage and combine them with soft design echoes the two contrasting elements of femininity.   I describe my jewelry as bold, sensual and feminine, strong yet subtle, and it’s by combining rough stones with cut stones and fine designs that I can achieve this.  @clarachehab

I first met Rosanna  - founder of Wyld Box Jewelry  - in Paris last September, during the Goldrush show. From the moment I saw her collection of gorgeous, vintage-inspired rings, I was completely smitten (and yes, I tried every single one on!). That was just on my first day there. A couple of days later, I stumbled upon a photo of Rosanna on Instagram with none other than Lenny Kravitz — yes, Lenny Kravitz! Of course, I had to ask: when? how? where? She told me she had met him at a restaurant in Paris, and in her words, she felt like she had died and gone to heaven — honestly, that’s pretty much how we both feel about Mr. Kravitz! Since then, we’ve stayed in touch, sharing not only her beautiful pieces (which I’ve been so happy to feature) but also many conversations — about jewelry, life, and the little twists and turns that come our way. Just recently, she gave me a sneak peek at her new collection, inspired by a 1960s Cartier clutch, which made its debut at Couture last week. Of course I shared it on my page since it’s absolutely stunning — and judging by your reactions, you all love it as much as I do! Life keeps moving, with its ups and downs, but there’s always space for beauty, sparkle, and connection. I’m so happy to be sharing a little piece of Rosanna’s story with you today. ROSANNA FIEDLER - WYLD BOX JEWELRY My first memory of jewelry takes me back to my 6th birthday. I chose seven delicate silver bangles that I absolutely adored. I can still see them—simple, beautiful, and filled with the kind of magic only childhood treasures possess. That was the beginning of my lifelong love affair with jewelry. As I grew older, that passion only deepened. My journey into fashion was fueled by a desire to stand out, to express myself, and to claim my independence. Along the way, I discovered the irresistible charm of vintage pieces—their history, their soul, their individuality. And I’ve always been drawn to statement jewelry—pieces that speak before you even say a word. After two decades of building brands and businesses for others, I knew it was time to create something of my own. Something personal. Something lasting. Wyld Box Jewelry was born from that moment—a brand where my experience in merchandising, my obsession with vintage, and my lifelong devotion to jewelry could finally come together. It’s more than a collection—it’s a celebration of craftsmanship, individuality, and timeless beauty, reimagined for women who write their own stories. My philosophy of jewelry is rooted in individuality, heritage, and timelessness. I believe that jewelry is more than just an accessory; it is an expression of one’s unique identity and a way to connect with the past. The pieces I create and cherish reflect a love for bold, statement-making designs, often inspired by my Roman heritage and fascination with coins. To me, vintage jewelry is not just about craftsmanship but about preserving history and breathing new life into something that tells a story. Each piece is a personal connection, a reminder of pivotal moments, and an enduring bond with my roots. Jewelry should be more than beautiful—it should feel meaningful and empowering, resonating with the wearer for years to come. My passion for creating timeless, distinctive pieces is driven by a desire to celebrate independence, authenticity, and the joy of wearing something that came from the past and leave on into the future.  My inspiration begins the moment I encounter a piece that speaks to me—that instant connection, when something stirs and I just know. It’s as if the piece chooses me, not the other way around. In that moment, I can already see the story it will tell, and I feel the creative energy start to flow. From there, I build a collection that continues its legacy—giving new life to something timeless, while carrying my vision forward. rosanna fiedler @wyldboxjewelry

Stefania and I connected on Instagram about four years ago. I discovered her beautiful, deeply meaningful work and, of course, shared many of her pieces. When I planned my trip to London last December (which I mentioned in my Stories), she immediately reached out, suggesting it would be wonderful for us to meet. I wholeheartedly agreed, but unfortunately, my three short days were packed with art shows, studio visits, and time with family. We tried to make it happen, but it wasn't meant to be, and I was genuinely saddened that we never managed to sit down for a coffee. Still, we’ve remained in close contact, and I continue to share her unique and thoughtful work. I love it when rings inspire me — that’s one of the reasons I created this page: to inspire. Stefania’s work certainly does that, and she herself is such a sweet and generous soul. I truly hope we’ll finally meet in person one day to talk about jewelry, culture, and life. In the meantime, it’s a pleasure to share her rich story today. STEFANIA INDELICATO - AMBERSOUK JEWELLERY My journey into the world of jewellery didn't quite follow a traditional or linear route. Having completed a BA in Arabic Studies and an MA in Development Studies in London, jewellery was never on the cards as a career path. It had, however, always been an important part of my story. It influenced and shaped me more than I could have possibly ever known and imagined.    I grew up in an artistic and eclectic home and as a child, I would watch my mother return from the souk of Omdurman in Sudan with her hands full of treasures...Bedouin silver, amber beads, ancient agates, millefiori beads, and more. Each piece she brought home held a story, a whisper of the women who wore them before us, the spice routes, ancestral rituals, flavours of a nomadic past, all a thread tying us to a deeper heritage. Those early experiences left an imprint on me. Through my Mama I learned that jewellery could be more than adornment, it is a portal of heritage and identity and a window to the past. She taught me to love and appreciate the souk, and find beauty and purpose in everything. Even in the most humble pieces. I guess much of this, laid the foundation for my journey.   Years later in London, what became my adoptive home, I found myself drawn back to those same materials - amber with its warm, honeyed glow; ebony with its strong and majestic beauty; old silver etched with tribal symbols; colourful beads with mysterious pasts. With a deep yearning to stay connected to my home, Ambersouk was born.    My work is a fusion of cultures, an alchemy of East and West, and my aesthetic is intentionally tactile, organic, and steeped in storytelling. I am inspired by ancient African Bedouin adornment, the quiet strength of nomadic women, and the textures of the desert - weathered, elemental, and timeless. In every collection, from  Amber  to  Nubia  to  Badawi,  I try to honour the past while creating something that speaks to today’s woman: bold, thoughtful, and deeply connected to her roots. Jewellery as a Voice and a Legacy Now more than ever, especially in light of the war devastating Sudan, I feel a responsibility to keep telling our stories. Through my jewellery, I hope to educate and inspire - to shine light on a culture that is rich, layered, and too often overlooked. Each piece I make is a quiet act of resistance and remembrance. It says: we are still here. Our beauty, our strength, our legacy endures.  Beyond the jewellery, I am deeply passionate about creating social impact. I support  Kids for Kids , a charity doing vital work in Darfur (Sudan), helping communities access clean water, education, and sustainable livelihoods. My hope for Amberosouk is to be more than simply a brand, but a bridge between cultures, a celebration of heritage, and a force for good. Winning the JGAA (Jewellery & Gem Association of Africa) Award at GemGenève this year was an incredibly proud moment, and a reminder of how far this dream has come. As I look ahead, I am excited to expand my voice, through new collaborations, bespoke pieces, and exhibitions that amplify voices silenced by conflict.  Always, all with a deep love for the soul of Sudan. stefania indelicato @ambersoukjewellery

the mermaid's purse Eldoré’s work has fascinated me from day one. The first thing you see on her website is a phrase that feels like a personal mantra: “Beauty in Imperfection.”  I’m especially drawn to the way she weaves nature—particularly the ocean—into her pieces. Her whimsical mermaid purses  are pure magic and have firmly earned a place on my bucket list. Over time, we’ve bonded over the ongoing frustrations of Instagram (which can really test our patience!), her generous contributions to support the people of Ukraine, and, of course, her stunning, organic rings—which I’ve proudly shared many times. It’s incredible to have such a genuine connection with someone living in a culture and environment so different from mine. I haven’t yet had the chance to visit beautiful South Africa, but I’ve only ever heard glowing things about this unique country. It’s a true pleasure to share a glimpse into Eldoré’s world and showcase a few of her captivating creations today! ELDORÉ WOOD As a jewelry artist, my sculptural creations in silver and raw gemstones are deeply rooted in the textures, rhythms, and elemental beauty of my South African heritage. Each piece is a tactile expression of the natural world—organic forms shaped by the ocean’s relentless tide or the quiet resilience of the African bushveld. I work with materials in their raw and unrefined state, allowing their natural contours and imperfections to guide the design. My process is entirely hands-on—each piece is carved directly into silver rather than cast, making every creation a one-of-a-kind, limited edition work of art. This method ensures that no two pieces are ever exactly alike, imbuing each with a distinct soul and character. Growing up with the dual influence of the coast and the bush instilled in me a profound reverence for the wild. The intricate details of a shell, the curve of a horn, or the rugged surface of weathered rock often find their way into my designs, not as literal representations but as emotional impressions. These forms are not just decorative—they serve as visual reminders of the fragile balance of life in Africa’s wilderness. Through my jewelry, I aim to bring attention to the urgent need to protect and preserve these habitats and the extraordinary wildlife that call them home, many of which are increasingly under threat from human activity and environmental change. Equally important is the inspiration I draw from the ocean—the vast, mysterious force that has shaped not just coastlines, but cultures. My work often reflects the fluidity and raw power of the sea, with silver mimicking waves or seafoam, and gemstones glinting like sunlit water. By highlighting these marine influences, I seek to raise awareness about the importance of ocean conservation. From coral reefs to kelp forests, our oceans are vital ecosystems that sustain life on Earth, and my art is both an homage to their beauty and a call to action for their protection. @eldorewood

Kas and I first connected back in 2023 when he messaged me to say how much he enjoyed my page. When I checked out his work, I was blown away — truly unique, fun, and cheeky pieces that I instantly loved! His creations are full of character, featuring teeth, gold, gemstones, hands, and so much more. The creativity is off the charts — it’s really something else. I was thrilled to meet Kas in person during a quick stop in London last December. His atelier is incredible, filled with his striking pieces, and I even got to see the space where workshops are held. We chatted about jewelry, our roots, our children, and I tried on nearly every ring in sight — plus some unforgettable bracelets. It was an absolute treat. I'm so happy to share his story here today! KASUN EKANAYAKE - KASUN LONDON I was born in Sri Lanka, and in the mid-late 90s, my family moved to New Zealand to escape the Sri Lankan civil war and seek a more peaceful life. When we first arrived, I struggled with English, which made it hard to communicate with others. During school, I spent most of my lunchtimes in the art room — not because I was particularly interested in art at the time, but because it felt like a safe space. Ironically, it was in that space that I discovered my passion for creativity and visual expression. Art became a way for me to communicate when words were difficult.   As I progressed through school, I realized I wanted to pursue something in the creative field, but I also had a strong interest and aptitude in physics and math. This led me to consider several design-focused university paths: architecture, yacht design, and industrial design. I initially chose yacht design, largely influenced by a love for cars and design. However, after my first year, I realized my passion lay in creating a wider variety of products, so I transitioned to industrial design.   After graduating with a degree in industrial design, I was looking for any design-related opportunities. I came across a job ad in the newspaper for someone with 3D printing and CAD knowledge at a jewelry company. This was in the early 2000s, and 3D printing was still very new and expensive. I shared my university knowledge of 3D printing and wax modelling with the team, and in turn, they taught me everything about jewelry manufacturing. That experience sparked my deep interest in jewelry design.   After two years, I decided to travel. With a backpack and very little money, I explored the world for about eight months. When I reached the UK, I ran out of funds and started applying for jewelry design jobs. One of the roles I applied for — somewhat ambitiously — was a Head Designer position at a jewelry retailer in Leeds with two stores. To my surprise, I got the job. It was a significant jump, both in responsibility and salary, compared to what I had in New Zealand. During my time there, the business grew from 2 to 18 stores.   After four years, I was offered another Head Designer position at a different brand that offered more flexibility — only three days a week. That gave me the time and space to start working on my own brand, which I officially founded in 2011. It remained a side project until the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. That period gave me clarity and the push I needed to commit full-time to my own label, and that’s where I am today — fully focused on growing my brand and continuing my journey as a jewelry designer. (p.s. from eliane - i'd like to ad the list of awards kas has been graced with as well!) Winner of Goldsmith’s Craft & Design Council Award 2024 Nominated for  ‘Jewellery Designer of the Year’   UK Jewellery Awards 2017 Selected as a ‘Trend Setter’ by Professional Jeweller Hot 100 2015 Winner of ‘Most Innovative Jewellery’ Award at International Jewellery London 2014 Winner of Goldsmith’s Craft & Design Council Award 2014 Nominated for  ‘New Designer of the Year’  UK Jewellery Awards 2013 Selected as  NexGem  by Professional Jeweller Hot 100 2013 Winner of Lonmin Design Innovation Award 2013 @kasunlondon

Isabella and I first connected last year, bonded initially by her stunning cameo rings and other incredible creations—like the charming tiny purses and perfume bottles she transforms into pendants. Her unique talent for breathing new life into vintage pieces is truly extraordinary. Isabella has an impeccable eye for statement jewelry, which immediately captured my attention. Our conversations have gone beyond jewelry, touching on her frequent treasure-hunting trips across Europe, where she explores countless antique fairs. She has kindly invited me to visit her in Madrid—just a short trip from Toulouse! I’m hopeful I’ll be able to make that visit soon. Her passion shines through in her work, her beautiful store (which I also look forward to visiting next time I’m back home in São Paulo, Brazil), and the thoughtful way she curates her collections. I’m delighted to share her story with you today. ISABELLA BLANCO Isabella Blanco is a Brazilian jewelry designer and splits her time between Madrid and São Paulo :   I like to define my work as a gathering of research, curiosity, and passion. My inspiration comes from nearly 40 years immersed in the world of art and antiques—as a journalist, scholar, and collector. From my treasure-hunting travels around the world, I bring back finds from the Victorian, Art Nouveau, Art Deco, and 1950s eras—the periods that fascinate me most.   My creations are made for those who seek originality and already possess every kind of jewel. For the past 16 years, I’ve been designing powerful pieces that go beyond “standard” norms, breaking away from the canons of traditional jewelry. My creations always begin with an antique item of artistic and historical value—authentic, rare pieces crafted by hand—and preferably, elements that are improbable, unexpected.   Antique perfume bottles turned into necklaces; cufflinks reborn as rings; belt buckles transformed into bracelets; and many other objects that have become trademarks of my work. To me, a classic can always be reinvented. It doesn’t need to remain stuck in the past. The cameo, for example—a traditional element in jewelry and one I use frequently in my collections—always appears through a contemporary lens.   Over the years, I’ve visited more than 40 countries, over 300 antique shops, dozens of antique fairs and auction houses across Europe, the United States, Africa, and Asia—many of which I visit regularly—always in search of new sources for treasure hunting and knowledge.  As Mário Quintana* once said, in what has become a kind of mantra for me: “I don’t have walls, I have horizons.”     * Mario Quintana was a Brazilian poet, writer, journalist, and prolific translator, also known as the “poet of simple things”. isabella blanco @isabellablancojoias

I first connected with Laurie over three years ago after discovering her page and instantly falling in love with her stunning rings. Since then, we’ve talked about jewelry, pets, loss, and shared more than a few laughs. It’s been a real pleasure following her work. Laurie has a distinctive style—her pieces feel like treasures from a chessboard, sometimes even like miniature architectural forms. I’m drawn to the clean lines, the masterful use of gemstones, and the quiet elegance in everything she creates. I’m thrilled to share her story with you today. LAURIE REID My inspiration is rooted in childhood. My father was an artist and educator; my mother, a gardener and lover of all things natural. I grew up one of five children in Eugene, Oregon, surrounded by a sense of wonder and curiosity. Both of my parents shared a love of art—whether it revealed itself in the woods, along the river, in the garden, in books, in music, or in visits to museums and galleries. They taught us to recognize the transformative power of art and the infinite beauty of the natural world. Each encouraged exploration in their own way. One of my earliest art memories comes from kindergarten, where I was completely obsessed with the color orange. I couldn’t get enough of it. The color affected me physically, viscerally. I would head straight for the painting corner during free play and lose myself in color. It was the beginning, I think, of my fascination with subtle relationships—between colors, textures, gestures. I felt this too as a young musician, in the attention required to tune an instrument to just the right tone. Those tiny adjustments—whether in sound, color, or touch—felt enormously significant to me. After graduating from Reed College with a degree in French Literature, I moved to the San Francisco Bay Area, where I taught French while continuing to make art. I earned an MFA in Drawing and Painting from California College of the Arts and went on to build a full and satisfying career as a working artist. My paintings are held in the permanent collections of The Museum of Modern Art, The Whitney Museum, the National Gallery, SFMOMA, the De Young Museum, and the Hammer Museum. My love of designing with gems and metal grew from the same place as my painting practice: a deep engagement with material, light, and form. Like that kindergartener captivated by color and paper, I find joy in the interaction between the hand, the mind, and the material world. I’m especially drawn to the way jewelry lives on the body, how it becomes a quiet extension of the self, influencing not only the wearer but those around her. I vividly remember my mother’s ring—lying in bed at night as she read to me, I would hold it in my fingers. It felt like a link, a luminous bridge between us. In August, I’m excited to be heading to New York to take part in  NY NOW , where I’ll be showing in the  Curated at Luxury Lifestyle  section. And next spring, I’m honored to be featured at  Bergdorf Goodman . @lfr_studios