Wednesday, April 17, 2013

The Urban Pearl Studio




I was supposed to be a boy according to my dad and was going to be his hunting and fishing buddy, but instead, he got another girl. He loved the idea that I was always tagging along when he went to the basement to 'make sawdust' or went out to fix the sprinkler heads. I'm really blessed that he taught me so much about using my hands and understanding how things worked. Between inheriting my grandfather's engineer brain and my dad's hobby skills, I've never been afraid to get my hands dirty and just do it.



Multi Strand Pearl Necklace - Statement Keshi , Kyanite Box Clasp

The arts were a very important part of my childhood and thankfully my parents allowed me to follow that path. I started creating at such an early age and would make things from scrap, fiber, metal and wood.

I tackled building a chair, learned to sew (definitely not from my mother), taught myself how to make Ukrainian Easter eggs, and was making jeweled objects and ornaments all before I became a teen.


Coin Pearl Necklace - Statement Gray Coin Pearl Choker Necklace w Box Clasp


High School elective courses were all art based, graphics, printing (the old typesetting method) and wood shop.  Very unhappy when the core classes got in my way of the arts so I convinced the school system to allow me to create a curriculum to help accelerate students to graduate early and head to college. One of my funny life stories was explaining to my college professors that I had to take my final exams early so I could go graduate from high school.





So on to college and after a few very dull math and science classes I was finally allowed to enter my chosen path.

First on my checklist was the amazing jewelry lab where I chose to work in precious metals and gemstones.



Pastel Pink Chunky Bracelet with Chestnut Brown Animal Print Smoky Topaz


Starting from the raw basics of ancient jewelry methods to the most modern technology, I was very fortunate to have come away with information I would use for a lifetime.

I just hope someday to be able to design and afford a studio equipped with similar equipment.






Statement Multi Strand Pearl Necklace w Marta Howell Designer Blue Topaz Pendant


 After school, art was not an open field for a career at the time so as life does, it took me down another path.

The good news is, I am in such a wonderful place now that I am able to once again pursue my passion in the jewelry industry.

I've been selling on Etsy for four years and now have 3 Etsy shops and 1 Non Etsy E-Commerce websites.


 In the years of working with beads,findings,precious and semi precious stones, I have landed on pearls as my favorite material. Being the water baby that I am, my love of all things ocean, lake, river, pool and bath tub is what drew me to working with pearls. Pearls = weddings.
Asymetrical Baroque Peal Earrings


It never even dawned on me that I might be working with the likes of the TV created Bridezillas and luckily my experiences have been the exact opposite. I let them know right up front that my job is to take the stress of jewelry decisions and purchases away from them. Let me do the worrying and allow them to relax and enjoy the ride.

Multi Strand Sunny Yellow Pearl Necklace, Statement Quartz Box Clasp

It's been really fantastic getting to know some of these women and I thank them over and over for allowing me to be a part of their very special day. Hands down, I'm the lucky one!





24 comments :

Bob J24-7 said...

An awesome profile! I love learning more about each and every one of you. Very inspiring!

SendingLoveGallery said...

wonderful! enjoyed learning more about our very own Blinger :D

LittleBrownBird said...

Lovely jewelry! And if I ever get married, Urban Pearl will have another sale!

LoveStoneArts said...

A little glimpse of the terrific lady behind the funny avatars. Thanks for a wonderful read.

capitalcitycrafts said...

Another wonderful person and talented artist, thanks for sharing!

Michele said...

Another great artist from the JETs!!! and definitely one that makes me smile with her humor!!!!

Ribasus said...

You are one busy, talented lady Blinger! THREE shops. OMG. I can barely keep up with two. You have a definite brand there, and your dedication to your work really shows. Blessings on your head♥
Auntie Ribasus

Mollie Ann said...

Ah Blinger, this is a treat for sure! Your writing style is as beautiful as your jewelry, which is saying a great deal. Thank you for sharing your creative story with all of us!

Beadsme said...

Blinger, you are a wonder and I can't wait to meet up with you. Even hubby is looking forward to it.

Unknown said...

A beautiful story to match your beautiful art!

JillreOzmay said...

Thank you for sharing Lynn! All of your shops are terrific and it was fun reading your post!

Brooke said...

A fun and inspirational read, AND lovely jewelry. Thank you to the bloggers for putting this together too:)

SatinDollCo said...

Amazing profile and a great story.

TheSilverBear said...

Lynn you're a wonderful designer with a true talent. Loved reading your story!

WanderingJewel said...

Great profile! I really enjoyed reading about you and your work

Ida @ Adroit Jewelers said...

Great glimpse at what makes you who you are. Thank you for sharing it.

Unknown said...

Fabulous profile! Fascinating to learn your path!

Unknown said...

What fun to read so much interesting information about my Texas partner! Love your shops, your designs, and your inspirational story. Hopefully we will be able to meet up in person soon!

Unknown said...

Hey Lynn,

I am so glad to have read more about you and your awesome journey to where you are now. You've been such a blessing to the team with your humor on one side and your insightful views on the other. Wishing you continued success!
Donna

Unknown said...

Beautiful work and its always fun to hear about the journey.

Tracy said...

What an awesome story and awesome work :)

What a "gem" of a gal to have on this team. You make us all smile :)

t

Wanda said...

It amazes me every time I read one of our Jet profiles. Each successful in their own way, multi talented, and so creative. Wonderful story Blinger!

Anonymous said...

Lovely to read about Lynn's story.

MadeByTammy said...

Fantastic blog post and artisan profile! I love reading and learning more about you, Lynn! Very Cool that you are working with the show Bridezillas. I also, taught myself how to make Ukrainian Easter eggs when I was young.