Presentation is everything . . .

I have been sharing my thoughts, words and jewelry with you here in blog posts and emails for a while now. So it's here that I decided it was time to personally introduce myself and share with you a bit about me, my story, the process and the jewelry.

My creative journey began quite some time ago when I discovered the beauty and value of antiques and collectables. I fell in love with periods and styles of the past in everything from furniture to fixtures, home decor, everything Christmas, clothing, accessories and of course, jewelry.

My love of hunting and collecting turned into an obsession and eventually a business. Partnering with my Mom and sister we open a resale consignment shop and named it A Silk Purse.

Here is a salvaged piece of our old store sign. It serves me now as a treasured garden backdrop.

There is folklore behind the name which comes from an old proverb “You can't make a silk purse from a sow’s ear”. As the story goes this was proven untrue and it translates to the affirmation that beauty and redemption can be found in the most unlikely places, people and things.

A Silk Purse is reborn here as ASilkPurse.com with my jewelry. It honors the memory of my mom, my dad, a shop that was and days gone by. It's a special place; it's my heart.

I believe in limitless possibilities and an evolving creative process. My inspiration comes from a true appreciation of the innovation and artistry that exists throughout the history of fashion jewelry.

Self taught, I am a creative with an eye, a vision, an idea, a design. It is my mission to create a legacy of art jewelry that is a reflection of the past, a statement in the present, and an heirloom for the future.

I offer vintage-inspired, original design, one-of-a-kind handmade jewelry using re-purposed vintage jewelry parts and pieces, vintage buttons, stampings, filigree, stones, beads, chain and findings as well as new, reproduction and old “new” stock components. There is also the occasional unconventional vintage element(s), which could be anything!

Each piece is individually conceived, curated and created by hand using basic jewelry making skills, materials and techniques. I often utilize a variety of media such as paint, ink, patina, adhesives, resin, wax, enamel, glitter, lace, fabric, trims, ribbon, paper, leather and cord.

Every original design is created with an appreciation of combining old and new in an effort to evoke a unique personality and style. It is designed to make you feel special and to experience the depth of beauty that comes from artisan jewelry that is inspired by timeless fashion and tradition. It’s an ode to classic style that remains true in the face of ever changing fashion and trends.

I am driven by my long-time love and admiration of period fashion and the class, drama and elegance of the past. I take inspiration and passion from bits and pieces of history to bring you a version of fashion jewelry that is relevant to you, your style, your personality and your story.

Thank you so much for taking time to share with me today. It’s been a pleasure!

With timeless jewelry that’s always in fashion -

Warm regards,

Suzanne