Why I Make Jewelry

Reflecting on 15 Years of Creating and Selling Jewelry

As I sit down to write about my journey of creating and selling jewelry over the past 15 years, I can't help but feel a sense of nostalgia and pride. What began as a simple passion for crafting unique pieces has evolved into a thriving business that holds a special place in the hearts of many here on Martha's Vineyard.

Fifteen years ago, I embarked on this journey with nothing but a love for creating beautiful, one-of-a-kind jewelry pieces. I took a basic jewelry making workshop one evening in West Tisbury with lady friends and something clicked in me when I made my first necklace made of gold plated wire and garnets! I went home and immediately started searching the internet for beads and gems. Within a couple weeks I had made numerous necklaces, bracelets and earrings - the sky was the limit!

I found solace and joy in the process of bringing together different elements - beads, gemstones, metals, and more - to craft something that was not only visually appealing but also held sentimental value for those who wore it.

It was also incredibly meditative. I found the rhythm of it all calming to my soul.

My journey began with me creating pieces for my friends and family. Their encouragement and appreciation for my work gave me the confidence to step into the world of entrepreneurship. I started by doing some pop-ups on the Island and then doing some house-parties. The response was overwhelmingly positive, and as my creations gained attention, the demand for them soared.

I loved experimenting with not only using wire to connect my beads but also waxed thread and leather for knotting and braiding the beads together. The hand-braiding and knotting was so meditative that I found myself sitting up most nights watching TV with my husband and my hands never stopped working!

I was inspired by Satya jewelry, Chan Luu and Love Heals. A friend and I even started a small business called Accidentally Pretty and we primarily sold the Chan Luu-like popular wrap bracelets. We were both busy moms and would squeeze in our jewelry time after our kids had gone to bed or while they were at school. I still have some friends come up to me and show me their bracelet I made from almost 13 years ago.

We actually sell Satya now in the store and online because it’s so popular!

As the years went by, I honed my craft, experimenting with different techniques and materials. Each piece I created told a story - whether it was through the choice of gemstones, the intricate metalwork, or the overall design. I found inspiration in the natural beauty of Martha's Vineyard, and it showed in the unique aesthetic of my creations.
Expanding beyond the confines of a small display, I eventually opened my own store, Refabulous Decor, in Vineyard Haven which has now has become Coastal Supply Co. and has become a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike. The store not only showcases my jewelry but also serves as a platform for other local artisans to display and sell their work.

I have taken a number of metal smithing workshops but have realized its not my favorite medium. My husband bought me a workbench one Christmas and I sat at it for months trying to perfect my techniques - all to no avail. The soldering alone can send one over a cliff. ;) I also had a stint at electroplating; lots of equipment and only perfectionists need apply. Then a few years ago I experimented with seed bead earrings. So fun and, again, meditative but definitely put a strain on my eyes and fingers with those tiny beads.

So for now I’m sticking with making long and short necklaces, earrings, stretch bracelets, and wire and gem bracelets. Tried and true.

Favorite gems:

My favorite gem by far is labradorite. I even like typing it out because it reminds me of a happy yellow lab! I love the grey, yellow, green and blue tones of the stone. So much depth of color. The iridescent quality of it shows a multitude of layers when you turn it slowly in direct sunlight. It also can enhance mental and intuitive abilities and assists in communication with higher guides and spirits. Labradorite brings out the best in people!

Aquamarine has to be my second favorite. It definitely reminds me of my dear mother who passed away five years ago; she had a large, rectangular gorgeous aquamarine ring that she wore daily. It’s color was exactly the same blue of her sparkly blue eyes. I am also reminded of the calm Caribbean sea when I hold an aquamarine gem in my hand - I want to go swim in her waves and just float. Instant peace and happiness with aquamarine.

I always thought it to be too expensive to make jewelry with aquamarine but I learned there are various forms, shapes and clarity of aquamarine that I could buy and work with. I especially like making a necklace with aquamarine 4 mm beads. Yes, I like dainty!

Aquamarine is cool too because it supposedly is the stone of your deep subconscious, of your soul. It reflects all things soothing, serene, and powerful, and inspires the ability to trust and to let go. If you are drawn to aquamarine, you may want to begin a meditation practice if you don’t have one already. Sailors use aquamarine for protection at sea—if it feels like your stone, you may want to plan to spend some time near the ocean.

Turquoise - yes, another blue - is my 3rd favorite.

This blue-green stone is more solid than aquamarine’s clarity and reminds me of the great western states and canyons and traditional Native American jewelry. Its always a top seller at my store. People just gravitate towards its bright color and love that it usually can go with anything.

This precious stone has a rich history dating back centuries, symbolizing wisdom, tranquility, and protection. It is believed to bring good fortune and success while also serving as a talisman for health and happiness.

There are so many more gems and beads that I am drawn towards; rose quartz, tourmaline, moonstone and amethyst. Tourmaline and moonstone have especially become very popular in recent years.

Sourcing:

I have spent years trying to find the perfect, affordable place to buy my gems. When I started out I only knew about Fire Mountain Gems which has a wide array but can be expensive. Thank god I found Etsy which is by far my favorite. You can find a wide selection of beads, findings and gems at almost wholesale pricing. Last year I have started going to Tucson for the world-famous Tucson Gem Show. Its literally insane and so worth attending! Miles of tents and vendors and gems and rocks and fossils and anything gem related!

Reflecting on this incredible journey, I am humbled by the support of the community and the love that my jewelry has received over the years. What began as a personal passion has grown into a business that not only sustains me but also allows me to contribute to the vibrant art scene here on the island.
Looking ahead, I am filled with gratitude for the past 15 years and eager anticipation for what the future holds. With each new creation, I aim to continue sharing my love for jewelry, craftsmanship, and the unique spirit of Martha's Vineyard with the world.
Here's to the next 15 years of creativity, growth, and the ever-lasting beauty of handmade jewelry.
Sincerely,
Anne-Marie Eddy, Coastal Supply Co. Martha’s Vineyard