Helen Ethel Jewelry

Location

Phoenixville, PA

What makes your jewelry unique?

Natural gemstones are at the heart of my work. Most often, a gemstone will inspire an entire piece and because of this my work is produced in small, often one of a kind, batches. I have always found beauty in imperfection and love to work with oddly shaped gemstones and set them within asymmetrical settings. The majority of my designs are created with a minimalist aesthetic with the intention that multiple pieces can be worn together, or a single piece, when worn alone, can stand on its own.

Why is sustainability important to your art?

We can not continue to take and take and take from this precious earth. I seek to reduce waste and my carbon footprint by using recycled metals (silver and gold), vintage findings when possible, as well as responsibly sourced gemstones, and recycled packaging. I also collect and recycle the metal sweeps, or scraps, left over from my work.

What do you do to give back?

A portion of the proceeds from my Fauna series is donated to animal charities - bee conservancies and local animal shelters.

WHAT DO YOU HOPE YOUR ART INSPIRES IN OTHERS?

I hope that my work inspires connection within others. Be it a connection to a memory that a gemstone conjures in the wearer, such as an opal that recalls memories of one's grandmother, or perhaps it's a connection to the metaphysical healing properties of a gemstone. I hope that my work can be appreciated beyond wearable fashion and be regarded with a sentimental, intrinsic value to the wearer. I also hope my pieces inspire joy and self-confidence when worn.