Designer Spotlight: Simone Richmond
A brief story of what you do and why you do it.
I have always made jewellery in one form or another. I first got hooked on friendship bracelets, and then along came beading. I loved playing with all of the different colours, and then gifting a piece to an unsuspecting friend. I spent a lot of time learning how to sew and knit between my two grandmothers, and my mother always encouraged me to explore my creative side, so I was always working with my hands. I continue to create because I love the connection it brings to people.
How did you get into jewelry design?
I spent a lot of my early adult life in jobs that I thought I was “supposed” to be doing, but nothing ever really fit. I was always making jewellery on the side for people, so I decided to go back to school and learn more about working with metal. In 2007 I graduated from the Vancouver Community College Jewellery Art & Design program.
What makes your collection unique?
I use a lot of surface texture techniques that make each piece different. It can be etching, enamel or the process of reticulation, which is a favorite of mine!
What are your inspirations?
I get my inspiration from a lot of places, but I'm most inspired by textiles, color & texture. I find that I am often draw back to lace and the wonderful shapes and intricacies of it.
How are you making a difference in your life?
The past few months in particular have been somewhat transformative for me in regards to my business. I've been learning more about how to make a better impact on the environment, and have been adopting greener studio practices. I have also been using recycled precious metals as much as possible. My business is always a work in progress, but I am learning that I can connect my core values with what I do in a way that is true to myself and brings joy to others.
What's something unusual about you that makes you “you”?
I would say that I can't stop making things. I love to bake and knit especially. Except I can't knit a lot of things so it's usually hats and scarves. Part of what I love so much is going to pick out the colours for projects.
What's the biggest struggle in running your jewelry business like a business?
My biggest struggle has been learning a lot through trial and error. I have learned something valuable from every step of the way, it's just taken a bit longer to get where I am now.
About Simone
Simone is a Vancouver BC designer specializing in delicately detailed one of a kind jewellery. She loves playing with color and texture in my pieces so that you can experience the joy of discovering a piece as unique as you are.
Facebook: www.facebook.com/simonerichmondjewellery
Twitter: @simonerichmond
Website: https://www.simonerichmond.com
Blogspot: www.simonerichmond.blogspot.com
