Designers By The Bay

I belong to the Women's Jewelry Association (WJA) and they recently put on their yearly event, Designers By The Bay. It is basically a showcase of all women Northern California designers open to the trade only. It was great to see old friends and meet new designers that I have long admired. Shreve & Co. hosted the event that was full of schmoozing, industry insiders, champagne and delicious treats.

On a serious note, I really began thinking about how far women have come in the jewelry industry. Really, 20-30 years ago women jewelers were virtually non-existent. It was a trade for the boys club. And, certainly no women owned and operated their own jewelry design businesses. It feels rewarding to be part of a changing industry and proud to know so many women designers that, like myself, struggle to succeed in an over saturated and predominately mass produced market. That night I felt proud for each and every one of us and realized the importance of what I'm doing. It's just jewelry, and it's not just jewelry all at the same time.

my talented neighbor, jeweler Alice Roche