About Me

Hello and welcome to 'by Barbe Jewelry', a small jewelry studio nestled along the banks of Lake Erie. My name is Barbe, I'm the artist/designer/maker aka one woman show.  

‘By Barbe’ jewelry reflects my belief in artistic self-expression, big and bold individuality and feeling comfortable in your skin. I create jewelry for people who love to express their artistic side by wearing something that is dramatic, unique, and bold. Jewelry should make you stand out and help you feel unique in a sea of sameness. My work is more than just adornment – it's a feeling, a statement and a reminder to always be your daringly stylish self. 

All pieces are 100% handcrafted with love in my little attic studio with help with my furry studio assistants. I'm a multipotentialite and my work reflects some of my many interests. I try and use as many and diverse materials as possible- from gemstones, recycled plastic, vintage parts, upcycled laminate, wood, etc... For me, new materials lend themselves to new ideas and keep me growing creatively. 

I have been passionate about jewelry, fashion and expressing yourself with a personal style because of my favorite Grandmother June. She had great style and always wore the most amazing clothing and jewelry, even while bedridden in the last few years of her life. She taught me to do many handcrafts while alive. Her advice “Always make what you wear your own” has been firmly implanted in my brain every since.

As I grew older, I feel in love with creating jewelry as well as the cultural and psychological aspects of adorning ourselves. I have taken classes in college and from amazing jewelry artists and spent a lot of time learning on my own. I love learning new techniques such as electroforming, powder coating, enameling, reactive metals in addition to traditional silversmithing. Over the years my jewelry has evolved from traditional Native and Russian bead weaving, bead embroidery, vintage repurposed jewelry, resin work, mixed media/found object jewelry, electroforming and currently powder coating. I have taught jewelry crafting, worked for a jewelry supply company, created charms that were sold in Michaels, sold in stores and galleries throughout the country and have numerous jewelry projects published in books and magazines. I also collect a LOT of jewelry.

I know that the right piece of jewelry can show the world a part of who you are, it can make you feel confident and empowered and it can change your mood. I hope that you find a piece that speaks to you and makes you feel like the big, bold, beautiful work of art that you are.

xoxo - Barbe

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