Erin Jane Jewellery: balanced beauty with a recycled twist

Erin Jane based her young business in Seattle back in 2006 when, inspired by a trip to Hawaii, she decided to quit her job and go into designing jewellery full-time. Since then she has collected some incredible feedback with her Etsy shop as her collections continue to change, and her technique progresses.

Where did you study and what did you get from the experience?

I went to Colorado State University where I studied Business with a concentration in Marketing.  I have always been interested in starting my own business.

Do any designs come from outside of the brand?

I’m a one-woman show!  I design and fabricate all my designs myself.

What has been the highlight of your career so far?

It’s hard to pinpoint one singular moment, but especially over the last couple years, it’s been incredibly gratifying watching my business grow and change into what is has today. 

Which of your current designs is your favourite?

Anything Emerald. I’m in a bit of an Emerald phase and I am loving both my Colombian Emerald Rings.

Who would you most like to collaborate with?

I really like collaborating with other jeweler friends. My good friend, Nicole Richardson of Nico Rich is an incredible designer and with our different styles and skills we often brainstorm ideas together.

What is your favourite sort of thing to design? Why?

Rings, absolutely!  I actually have to carve out time for earrings, necklaces and bracelets.  When I shop for gemstones, I just can’t help but be designing rings while I’m browsing. I love wearing rings and each one just feels like a miniature sculpture.  They are more satisfying to complete than anything else.

Would you say your work is directed at a particular trend or group of people?

The marketer in me would not be happy with I’m about to say, but I design what I like and what I would wear.  I think current trends inspire me, but I don’t force designs to fit into a particular group or trend.

What are a few of your likes and dislikes in terms of design and style aesthetic?

I love fresh and clean designs that are modern, but feminine.  I think I follow that look whether it’s in my designing or the clothes I wear or how I decorate my home.  Clutter and overly designed items tend to make me feel a bit claustrophobic.

What are your favourite things about your job, any negatives?

My favorite thing is my customers; I really have the sweetest and most gracious customers there could be. I also love being my own boss.  Of course, that comes with some negatives, but holding all responsibility just makes me stronger and I wouldn’t give it up for the world.

Have you any plans for the future? When can we expect your next collection and where do you hope to be in five years?

I slowly released a smaller spring collection that I normally would this year.  My husband and I are expecting our first baby in July so I will be taking some time off this summer, but still plan on working on a small fall or holiday collection. I want to give myself enough wiggle room while I settle into motherhood.

How do you find creating bespoke items for Etsy customers?

Most of the items in my Etsy shop are made to order.  I really prefer it that way.  Each piece I make has someone’s name on it, which makes the process for me even more special.  Working with customers on custom pieces is equally as rewarding.  I really enjoy collaborating and coming up with the perfect design.  Nothing makes me happier than a thrilled customer!

Please tell me about the creative process that went into your current collection. What techniques were used?

The create process, as I mentioned, typically starts with the gemstones.  I have a big shopping trip once a year and I gather ideas and a list throughout, but allow a lot of room for just being inspired by the cuts or colors of gemstones that I find.  I usually have an idea right then and there of what I want to do a particular stone, but I also do a lot of sketching when coming up with a collection.  I fabricate all my designs from raw materials using traditional metalsmithing techniques such as forming, sawing, soldering, multiple stone setting techniques, and of course, polishing and finishing.

Where would you really love to see your work?

It would be so fun to see my work on a celebrity!  I think that would be such a fun surprise and I definitely wouldn’t be picky about who was wearing one of my pieces!

Do you have a team working with you to help manage the brand?

Not really. I have help with end of year accounting and brand design, but I still drive all of that.  I have my hands in everything.

How do you feel fashion/jewellery can affect an individual’s image and/or self-esteem?

For me, it changes everything!  I think a new or special piece brightens your day, puts you in a better mood.  A bigger smile makes everyone look and feel better.  Having that something special on your body that makes you feel prettier, happier or sexier can really make you stand up taller.

How do you choose which precious stones that you want to use?

Cut and color are usually foremost in my mind when it comes to choosing stones.  There are often stones that I’m just drawn to and have to have them!  And, when I get a lot of requests for a certain type of stone, I try to find those in cuts and qualities that I enjoy working with.  It’s also really important to me to buy my stones from suppliers I know and trust.

To check out the rest of Erin Jane’s work, click here. We at The Upcoming are a huge fan of unique and special pieces such as these, so definitely go and be inspired by this gorgeous collection!

Elizabeth Finney