Why did you get into jewellery design?

I was going to university and working part-time in the jewellery business, working at Ben Moss. I really liked it: I loved art classes and building things with my hands. British Columbia was the only place where you could do a jewellery manufacturer and repair apprenticeship.

In 1989, I started my company Designs by Benée, and at 34 years’ old, I was a single mother. I knew that I wanted to be my own boss and I had $100 in my account after I finished buying all of my tools. I was so young and stupid I didn’t know how afraid I needed to be. I just did it.

I am a master goldsmith. I physically make the jewellery. It’s a different aspect than just being a designer. I’m fascinated by how things work and how things fit together. I’m one of the few women classically trained to work at the “bench”, as they like to call it, who got to work with gold and diamonds and rubies and make stuff. When I started my career, I trained with Europeans: two years with Erik Lyth, a Danish master, and two years with Swiss master Elois Lander.

Tell us a bit about your company.

I really believe in jewellery that tells a story and that everyone has their own unique story to share. People tell me why they are getting a Two in One necklace made and who will be wearing the second piece of the design. I’ve had husbands and wives buy my necklaces because one of them was going off to be stationed in Iraq or Afghanistan, or they were buying a Mother and Child necklace because their son or daughter was going to leave to college. I have even had one of my necklaces go up on the NASA Space Shuttle into orbit!

Starting with the Oneness Mandala necklace, which I was inspired to make after seeing it in the Jet Li movie “The One”, I got a huge response from people, who seemed to like that these pieces of jewellery were two pieces that came together. Soon people started requesting different things but I didn’t have the time or resources to make brand new pieces. After a few years I went by, I decided to make a couple of new Mandala necklaces, followed by Mandala cufflinks. Then it became crosses and then others asked for a Star of David. Then someone asked for dog tags. Jewellery takes on an extra meaning if people can add their own ideas to it, so I left room for people to customize.

After my daughter grew up and went to live with her dad, I wasn’t a full time caregiver and I could take the time to think about where my business was going to go and to grow my business. It’s unbelievably time consuming to not only design the jewellery but also to do the writing of the material, the photographs, making the molds, your master models. It was a year in the making to get to this point and really launch the line.

How would you characterize your style?

Clean lines. I love detail and clean lines. I love history, I love symbols. I like things that are multipurpose.

Who are your clients?

For these collections, my customers are romantics. A lot of parents and husbands and wives buy my jewellery. For instance, a mother will buy the Two in One crosses for herself and her son or daughter. I design so that it won’t go out of style the next year or two down the road.

What do you think moms should know about your jewellery?

Well it takes a beating! You can wear it everyday. You can get baby food or puke on it and it’ll clean up perfectly. That’s a lesson I learned pretty fast as a jewellery designer and a mom! The little ones can grab the chain and it won’t break.  My jewellery is built to last and can be handed down. I make things that are practical but can stand the test of time and are beautiful in its design and manufacturing.

Where can people buy your jewellery?

My website is www.benee.com, which has all of my launch designs broken up into four categories: the Mandala necklaces, the Yin-Yang necklaces, Two as One necklaces and Cufflinks. And anybody who reads this, if they contact me and mention that they read about my jewellery on Vancouver Moms I’ll take 10% off!

Anything else to add?

I think that what stands out for me is that I will really work with you to make you something special. If you’ve got old gold, some of grandma’s silver spoons, stones handed down, we’ll use them in any one of our designs to make something that is really unique to you. And share your story about why you are getting one of my necklaces or cufflinks or a custom design and I will post it on my site! You bring us your story and we’ll let your story shine.

Benée Rubin

www.benee.com | Twitter: @beneerubin | Facebook

Why did you get into jewellery design?

I first started making jewellery 17 years ago and my passion and enthusiasm for it are still as great as ever. I’ve been interested in art and design since I was little, for as long as I can remember.  I explored many media: jewellery, photography, painting, drawing, ceramics, writing, cooking and clothing. I enjoyed them all, but of everything, it was jewellery that always intrigued and excited me the most.  I love the fun and functionality of it, the durability of metal and its potential life as an heirloom. And jewellery makes people happy, which is a definite perk.

Tell us a bit about your company.

I’ve been working under my own name Colleen Baran for the last few years but may be better recognized locally as See:Be. Each piece of jewellery is designed and handmade from start to finish by me in my studio.  They’re made with care and attention to craftsmanship.  Most pieces are made of 100% recycled silver combined with a focus on eco-friendly studio practices, packaging and supplies. I love playing with possible shapes for rings, focusing on pieces meant for both form and function; working with open shapes; two finger rings; and multiple piece sets.  Effortless but interesting, rings that are bold but still surprising comfortable. One of my rings was recently published in Italian Vogue.  Other press includes Western Living, Fashion, Flare, the Georgia Strait, the Province and the Vancouver Sun.

How would you characterize your style?

Modern yet classic design with an occasionally vintage feel.   I’m inspired by a love of patterns and repetition, line, balanced asymmetry, shapes that are clean, modern and yet often organic.

Who are your clients?

I’ve sold to people of all ages, ranging from 10 to 70, though most are in their 20s to 40s. Since designs range from clean and modern to ornate and feminine, my clients are wonderfully diverse. My jewellery has sold to people all over the world including countries as widespread and far flung as England, France, Russia, Japan, China, Australia, and even the United Arab Emirates.

What do you think moms should know about your jewellery?

For moms of small children stud earrings are always a great choice. Earrings that hang down and swing will be tugged at by little hands. Some rings are bold and dramatic and more for a night out then a day gardening, though I particularly love making rings and enjoy making large, oversized cocktail rings that are designed to fit with surprising comfort. Since most of my jewellery is made of recycled silver and all of it’s handmade locally, it’s a great eco-friendly option.

Where can people buy your jewellery?

Online at www.colleenbaran.etsy.com or the Crafthouse on Granville Island http://www.craftcouncilbc.ca/final2/index.htm

Anything else to add?

I’ve started Green/Eco Jewelry, a group devoted to eco-friendly jewellery and welcome contributions of photos and comments from other jewellers.

Colleen Baran

www.colleenbaran.com | Twitter: @ColleenBaran

Why did you get into jewellery design?

I got into jewellery completely by fluke. One day on a walk, I discovered a little gem shop not far from where I was living. I picked up a few findings and beads and thought I would make myself a pair of earrings like I used to when I was young. Before I knew it, I was making earrings for all my friends and throwing myself into the world of jewellery!

Tell us a bit about your company.

Bella-Bijou Jewellery is really about story telling. Each piece has its own chapter in my book of creativity, and I hope to pass that on to its new owner so that they can make it part of their story.

How would you characterize your style?

I have never been one to stick to one particular style. I define my style by my mood that day. Somedays its artsy and organic, others days its clean and minimal and occasionally, even sleek and sexy!

Who are your clients?

My clients are woman who want to treat themselves to something all of their own – something that their girlfriends won’t all have. Essentially, women who likes to feel unique and one of a kind.

What do you think moms should know about your jewellery?

Moms should know I make my jewellery with the very best quality materials. Being eco-friendly is very important to me, so I use recycled metals, recycled packaging, and I believe in supporting other small businesses. I know that a busy mom may not get the chance to treat herself very often, so I want her to know that when she treats herself to Bella-Bijou it is made to last, made earth friendly, and made by a one-woman-show trying to make her mark!

Where can people buy your jewellery?

I sell from my etsy shop and soon will have my work in a couple boutiques around the city!

Bella-Bijou Jewellery

www.bellabijoujewellery.etsy.com | @bellabijou | Facebook

Why did you get into jewellery design?

I started tinkering around with jewellery design about four years ago, making beaded accessories with some of my girlfriends. Very quickly those same girlfriends started asking me to make them pieces. Soon I entered the limitless bounds of wirework and I haven’t looked back. I absolutely love the light, organic look that you can achieve by simply using your hands and a spool of wire.

Tell us a bit about your company.

Spark officially was born about six months before my first baby Diego, back in the summer of 2008. Before that I was simply making jewellery for family, friends and as requests. But those requests started getting more and more frequent and I was ready to take my work out into the world! After humble beginnings in art galleries and local gift shops, I began doing shows, fairs, and artisan markets like Portobello West. As a full time high school Chemistry teacher, this artistic outlet is exactly what I need.

How would you characterize your style?

Versatile. Like most women, I want to be able to wear my jewellery with jeans, or with that perfect dress. By showcasing the beauty of the silver and gold  on their own, with only the occasional splash of coloured crystals or gemstones, it allows my pieces to be worn with your entire wardrobe. By being simple, yet eye-catching in their intricacy, it allows the versatility that I require.

Who are your clients?

My clients range from senior high school students looking for the perfect custom-made grad jewellery, to brides looking for the perfect spark to add to their day, all the way up to a 93 year old fan who loves the simplicity of many of my pieces. I have fans that are extremely casual and ones that have never even worn a pair of jeans.

What do you think moms should know about your jewellery?

As a mompreneur, I’ve put lots of thought into what I use and how I use it. From using Argentium sterling silver which is anti-tarnish but without chemical coatings, to making my own clasps instead of using the hard-to-handle lobster claw clasps, I want to make my jewelleryeasy for people like myself to enjoy. That means they need to be easy to put on and not require any cleaning. It also means that my pieces are economically priced. I work hard to find the best prices for my materials, and make my own clasps and earwires so that I can allow Spark to enter the hearts and homes of women in all walks of life.

Where can people buy your jewellery?

Online at www.sparkjewelry.ca and I am often at Portobello West Fashion market, as well as other artisan markets around town.

Spark Jewelry

www.sparkjewelry.ca | Facebook | 778-338-4247

Why did you get into jewellery design?

I grew up in Asia, but our family always came back to B.C. for the summers. Living in the chaos that is Hong Kong forced my parents to find solitude on Pender Island during the summer. As an impatient kid, I was always looking for something to keep me busy. Jewellery started as a hobby in a tiny bead shop in Victoria and grew to a full-fledged addiction soon after. I have never been keen on the selling aspect of the “job”, but I was forced to sell something in order to keep shopping.

Tell us a bit about your company.

Jen Ellis Designs officially began in 2008, when I launched my web site. I had been selling casually for a few years, but I had not yet created a brand. I design and create all of my pieces in my home studio here in Vancouver. I am constantly growing and learning through classes and through other artists, and therefore the look of my company grows with me.

How would you characterize your style?

There isn’t one way to characterize my style. What’s great about what I create is that there is something for everyone. As cliché as it sounds, it is hard to not be influenced by my surroundings here in Vancouver. In a few words: my style is fresh, affordable, and classically different! There are common elements in all of my pieces which reflect my personal love affair with silver, semi-precious stones, and pearls! When you’re wearing one of my necklaces, don’t be surprised if the person you’re talking to can’t keep their eyes off of your chest!!

Using components such as silver and semi-precious stones allow women the option to wear my jewellery as everyday pieces. Although I love bold colours and textures, my designs are catered towards a style that complements any outfit.

Who are your clients?

I have sold pieces to women of all ages. I think the trend lies between about 24 to 45. The women who are buying my pieces are looking for something that can transition easily from day to night. A lot of my longer pieces give women the option to layer or lengthen a necklace, therefore allowing them to customize their jewellery with their outfits. My new line of customized hand stamped sterling pendants are a huge seller with moms. I personalize pendants with names, sayings, or whatever you like. This is such a personal gift that carries so much meaning and love! Stay tuned for sterling silver dog and cat tags.

What do you think moms should know about your jewellery?

All of the metal components of my jewellery are either sterling silver, gold vermeil, or 14k gold fill. It is so important to wear quality metal that will not irritate or harm your skin. I believe it is so important to wear a piece that will withstand a two-year-old’s grip. Therefore, I guarantee the strength of my work. Whether you are taking the kids to the park or watching them in a Christmas recital, my affordable designs will put the finishing touch on your look.

Where can people buy your jewellery?

I sell my work on etsy www.cartwheel.etsy.com and in a few stores here in B.C. (information available at jenellisdesigns.com). The summer will bring new shows and markets, so stay tuned for more information on local happenings.

Anything else to add?

I love creating something out of a vision, so please feel free to contact me about customizing a one of a kind piece.

jen ellis designs

www.jenellisdesigns.com | 604.771.9257

Why did you get into jewellery design?

I actually stumbled upon jewellery design in 1993 – I had been through some pretty rough personal times, and needed something to get me out of the house so my husband suggested I take a class of some sort. I decided that an eight-week Saturday morning jewellery-making workshop was right up my alley, and I became hopelessly addicted right away! Within six months, I was selling at a boutique in Steveston, and shortly after that began selling at craft and art shows around the Lower Mainland. I quickly discovered that instead of leaving the house to go to a mundane day job, I was able to stay at home to create jewellery, and be there for my four kids. I also discovered that I had a flair for teaching, and began teaching silversmithing classes myself in 1995. At that time, there were very few courses available for hobbyists and I was pleased to share my passion with any student who wanted to learn. Luckily for me, during the times when jewellery sales were slow, my classes continued to be popular, so I never had to go looking for a “real job” outside the house. I was able to be there whenever my kids needed me, and was still able to contribute to the household. Win-win if you ask me!

Tell us a bit about your company.

Windermere Designs has definitely ebbed and flowed over the years. Some years I was very active, others not so much – it all depended on what was going on with my kids. I was fortunate to have met Joye MacPherson of Joye Designs Stone Art Gallery when she first opened her gallery in Port Moody about six years ago. I decided at that time that I would sell exclusively though her gallery, taking on commissions as available, and creating jewellery that I wanted to make, not what the market demanded. Now that the kids have grown up and mostly moved away, I’m finding myself re-energized and starting to devote more time to creating again.

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How would you characterize your style?

My style would probably be considered classic contemporary – my pieces have a timeless feel and are made to last a lifetime yet are contemporary enough that they always tend to turn heads. My signature Sticks & Stones rings are typical of this – when a client wears one of these, they can’t help but be noticed.

Who are your clients?

My jewellery appeals to women who are looking for a unique piece of jewellery that will transcend trends and fads. They aren’t afraid of a little colour, and definitely want pieces that will last a lifetime.

What do you think moms should know about your jewellery?

My jewellery is designed for comfort and durability. In this day and age, if you invest in a piece of jewellery, it should last longer than one season. It should be something they want to wear over and over again, not sit in their jewellery box and collect dust. It should also be comfortable, something you don’t even have to think about when you’re wearing it – until someone comments on it of course!

Where can people buy your jewellery?

At this time, my jewellery is sold exclusively through Joye Designs Stone Art Gallery in Port Moody or by commission via email. I am developing a catalogue line this spring and will be approaching new boutiques and galleries, at which time my website will have a list of outlets.

Anything else to add?

Along with my jewellery designing, I am also the organizer of the Fraser Valley Bead Show, Western Canada’s largest bead/jewellery event. Twice a year, I gather suppliers, artists, designers and exhibitors from all over Canada in one place. Having been an artist at many shows gives me a unique perspective as an organizer. It’s also an opportunity for me to sell my jewellery and get a little feedback from the customers about my designs.

I still teach jewellery-making classes, and always will. I love creating fellow enthusiasts (addicts if you will!), and helping them learn how much fun making jewellery can be.

Windermere Designs

www.itsmystore.com/windermere | Facebook | 604-996-3708

Why did you get into jewellery design?

That’s easy! Ever since I was child I was fascinated with jewellery, and it wasn’t until I took a metal arts class in high school that I decided it would be a viable career.

Tell us a bit about your company.

Era Design is a small custom design studio located in Yaletown. The majority of our work is one-of-a-kind custom design wedding and engagement jewellery alongside an evolving collection of ready made pieces for gifts and special occasions. In addition, Era offers a selection of vintage jewellery from a variety of genres  such as art nouveau, art deco, and Edwardian through to the 1940s.

How would you characterize your style?

As a passionate traveller, I have developed a very eclectic sense of style. The reason we called the store Era is because I love jewellery design from many different places and periods. I enjoy designing with a spare modern aesthetic as much as exploring vintage ornamentation. Being a custom design studio the core of our design philosophy is listening to our customers ideas and bringing them to life.

Who are your clients?

Everybody. Clients from all over the Lower Mainland, Vancouver Island, the interior, across Canada and as far away as Japan. Having said that I never do work with someone I can’t meet; one to one communication is key to our process. Vancouverites are globetrotters, so whether local or from further afield, my client relationships tend to be long-term. Once a connection is made it isn’t a problem to maintain.

What do you think moms should know about your jewellery?

From a functionality point of view, Era’s client base tend to lead active lifestyles, including caring for children. We tend to set our stones lower than most other jewellers so they do not catch and snag easily. We also find customers returning to celebrate special anniversaries with additional diamonds or mark newborn arrivals with coloured birthstones.

Where can people buy your jewellery?

My work is available exclusively through the Era Design studio.

Anything else to add?

Our vintage collection aside, all jewellery created at Era is designed and made locally by talented craftspeople within our own community. Over the past six years, we’ve build a solid client base through carefully listening to our clients needs, respecting their budgets and delivering beautiful, high quality jewellery that is unique to them.

Era Design Modern & Vintage Jewellery

www.eradesign.ca | 604-688-2714

Designing jewellery is Judi Patson’s eighth career. Like the previous seven, which ranged from first assistant film director to professional laugher, it began as a whim. Unlike the previous seven, designing jewellery for her company Even Design has become her passion, right after cookies.

Why did you get into jewellery design?

In 2001, I was working in the film industry as a first assistant director. After November, there didn’t appear to be much work coming into town, which left me a lot of free time on my hands. I had a big list of ideas I wanted to try out. I thought I may as well try them while I could. Top of the list was the idea to take a level and make it into a piece of jewellery – a reminder for my friends to help keep them balanced. All my friends were married, buying houses, doing renovations, working full time, and having babies. All fun exciting things, but they didn’t seem to be factoring themselves into their busy schedules. My idea was that even if you just took ten seconds to get the bubble in the center, it was a moment for you. The idea caught on right away; the fourth piece I made ended up on the masthead of the National Post along with a big article. Once I saw that I figured I wasn’t in the film industry anymore, and I began the journey of my eighth career designing jewellery for my company Even Design.

Tell us a bit about your company.

My studio is currently housed in an upcycled shipping container on the beach. I love how I was able to transform such a utilitarian thing into such a beautiful working space. It seems fitting for my company as that is essentially what I try to do with my jewellery: I take objects like levels, compasses, rare earth magnets, lego and transform them into beautiful signature pieces of classic jewellery.

How would you characterize your style?

Playful meets classic. Clever jewellery.

Who are your clients?

I feel like I make jewellery for people who don’t wear jewellery and also for people who love jewellery. Everyone is attracted to different aspects. Some people love the design. Some love the themes. Some love the throw back to childhood.

What do you think moms should know about your jewellery?

It’s entertaining. They are great conversation pieces. Your kids will love them as much as you do.

Where can people buy your jewellery?

Evendesign.ca offers an online store. You can find us in Vancouver at Chachkas on South Granville, Damask on UBC campus. We will also be at the One Of a Kind Show and Sale at the new convention centre in December.

Anything else to add?

I love it when a plan comes together. I had an idea that making my solo brick ring (that works with lego) would be an awesome engagement ring with a diamond set underneath the lego. Next thing I knew I had a customer call me up needing a really special unique engagement ring – I told him my idea and he loved it. You can see more of my custom designs on my custom website: custom.evendesigninc.com

even design

www.evendesign.ca | Facebook | 604.732.7248

Why did you get into jewellery design?

I started making jewellery somewhat seriously right out of high school in 1998.  During high school I was a creative sewer, but once I started working with beads and mixed media material (catching the hair accessory fashion wave) it stuck.  It followed me through university (completed a Bachelor of Fine Arts at UBC), and while I lived in Japan.  In October 2005, I decided to take the plunge and dedicate my time to full-time jewellery design.  This is when I started to define my style.  I chose to work with sterling silver because I was able to create anything I wanted, making my pieces truly unique.

Tell us a bit about your company.

The name Filou Designs comes from a high school nick name, borrowing the first syllables of my first and last name.  Later I found out it is an old French word for “playful rascal”.  This is okay with me since Filou is about exploring different jewellery techniques and playing around with different ideas and designs.  It also reminds me of baby animals and children that can’t help but be adored. Filou Designs features handcrafted solid sterling silver and 24K gold vermeil jewelry inspired by my travels, nature and my imagination.

How would you characterize your style?

Signature styles include cut-out silhouettes which are often composed in shapes, organic medallions that are created from original carvings, and the new 3D collections which are created from various techniques including; cuttlefish bone casting, wax carving, and sculpting.  The final pieces are decidedly balanced for simple natural beauty.

Who are your clients?

Stores throughout North America carry Filou Designs.  Women of all ages have bought Filou for themselves, as gifts, or for their weddings.  There are also a number of men who buy Filou for gifts.  It is really cute to see them secretly purchase these pieces because they know their wives/girlfriends are Filou fans. Filou has also caught the eye of stars like Paris Hilton and Olivia Newton-John.

What do you think moms should know about your jewellery?

Filou Designs are made with solid sterling silver so you needn’t worry about being allergic to the metal.  These pieces can be worn everyday or dressed up for a fancier occasion by layering pendants with different chain lengths.  They are timeless pieces that can be treasured forever.

Where can people buy your jewellery?

Please visit my website www.filoudesigns.com to request a list of stores in your area or you can shop online at www.filoudesigns.bigcartel.com .  You can also spot Filou Designs at designer shows like the One of a Kind Show and Sale.

Anything else to add?

Filou Designs has been featured in various publications and media including Fashion Magazine, Georgia Straight, Shaw TV, Loulou, Vancouver Magazine and Where.  Filou Designs has participated in shows across Canada as well as Japan, Chicago, Philadelphia and New York.

Filou Designs would like to offer Vancouver Mom readers 10% off online purchases on www.filoudesigns.bigcartel.com .  Simply type in the discount code “VANCOUVERMOM” at checkout to receive the discount.  (Valid until Mother’s Day, May 9^th, 2010.)

Filou Designs

www.filoudesigns.com | Twitter: @filoudesigns | Facebook

Why did you get into jewellery design?

I come from a long line of women artisans. Each generation of women in my family has had certain talents. My mother sews, embroiders and makes wonderful candy and candles. My grandmother dabbled in just about everything. My great-grandmother made lace and did breathtaking embroidery. My mother started me out very early looking for what crafts and activities would inspire my creativity and make it flourish.  Jewellery design was one of these activities and it has grown over the years, nurtured by my love for beauty and colour.

Tell us a bit about your company.

I believe that the colours that surround us add an extra level of beauty and richness to each and every day of our lives. There are many times when colour isn’t just seen, it’s experienced through more than one or even all of the senses and even the emotions. Colors can lift you up, calm you down.  Make you happy or sad.  People often feel as if certain colours have a flavor, scent or “feel” to them. With my company, I strive to help add a little extra colour into the lives of those that wear the jewellery I’ve made. I feel that it’s my way to reach out to others and make each of their days just a little brighter and a little more enjoyable with my pieces.

How would you characterize your style?

Colourful and eclectic.  I use a variety of different types of beads and styles in my work in order to create a unique and colourful “look” for each piece of jewellery.  I often use vintage beads in my work, as well, and feel that doing so often can lend a unique personality to a piece that you can’t otherwise find.

Who are your clients?

I sell locally among friends, friends of friends and others who contact me through word of mouth or my website.  Women of all walks of life love colour and I’m happy to say my clients are varied both here in Vancouver as well as in those who contact me through online resources.

What do you think moms should know about your jewellery?

I create colourful, quality jewellery that’s carefully designed to be affordable (and wearable!) for the everyday woman. I know how busy moms’ lives can be and with a hectic life, I think it’s important to be able to have a couple of vibrant pieces that can really brighten up your everyday, as well as be “dressed up” to be showcased for special events. Each piece of jewellery I make is lovingly crafted to be enjoyed for many years to come and I stand by my work and its quality.

Where can people buy your jewellery?

Etsy, 1000Markets, Artfire, Zibbet – I sell on each of these sites and people are able to find them all via my website hub.  The site contains links to each of the places I sell online as well as connects to my blog, Facebook page and email. I’m also always willing to meet with people in person if they are local in order to collaborate on a custom piece.  I have had a few of my customers contact me through email from my website in order to set this up.

Anything else to add?

I absolutely adore working with a customer to create custom, personalized pieces especially for them or for their loved ones.  Some of the pieces I’m most proud of were commissioned in this manner. I’m always happy to take inquiries and answer questions.

Bits n Beads by Gilliauna

www.bitsnbeads.com | Twitter:   @gilliauna | Facebook