Since the onset of the farm-to-table movement, the importance of supporting local providers has been at the forefront as we ask ourselves where our food comes from. And last spring, we challenged readers to pose the question to themselves: “What Story Do Your Clothes Tell?” After our introduction to Nisolo, we were captivated by the movement of conscious consumerism. And today, we bring area artisans into focus, spotlighting seven local jewelry makers that can be found at a number of local retailers. Their work, while vastly different, shares two common traits: intriguing stories and rich history.
As Nashville continues to grow, so does our hometown pride. And our local artisans are a bragging point, making it easy to shop local and buy handmade. The following list is merely an introduction to our city’s talent, who share a love for their craft.
1. Freshie and Zero
From a young age, Beth, aka “Freshie,” had an affinity for providing jewelry at a reasonable price. It was not until her postcollege years that she discovered hammering and wires as her medium of choice. Inspired by blissful memories and childhood pleasures, she continued creating jewelry and discovered her signature style. With that, Freshie and Zero was born.
The delicately feminine, modern jewelry line is crafted in a small studio tucked away in downtown Nashville. Filled with music, laughter, hammering and wiring, Beth is known for producing stunningly simple pieces in her studio, with each piece fitting seamlessly into any jewelry collection and boasting an approachable price point. Available for purchase online and at these local retailers: Obelisk, A Thousand Faces, Art and Invention, O.liv Body Bar and Sassafras Shop
2. Miriam Designs
After meeting Ronza, a former addict, Gracie Moakler, owner of Miriam Designs, stamped the word “hope” on a necklace, and her journey as a jewelry maker, teacher and source of empowerment began. Inspired by stories of addiction, restoration and redemption, Gracie mixed a new-found passion of art with purpose. Miriam Designs helps local women who have come out of addiction and recovery by providing opportunities for employment, acceptance and growth. Laughter, hope and unconditional love are all components that go into creating the jewelry. Available for purchase online and at these local retailers: Acme, White’s Mercantile, Posh, Sisters of Nature and Batch (opening next week)
3. Seraphine Designs
Inspired by the beauty of Mother Nature and the raw elegance of stones, Brooke Seraphine, founder of Seraphine Designs, was moved to create her distinguishing chokers, which kick started her jewelry line. Her love for travel and fashion can be seen in her work, which has expanded to include earrings, rings, necklaces and bracelets. Influences from different parts of the United States, Central America, Europe and Asia allow her to bring culture into her designs. Brooke has found the perfect combination of strikingly modern and simply classic. Available for purchase online and at these local retailers: Emerson Grace, Emmaline and the TRUNK.
4. Jennifer Jeremias
Jennifer originally hails from Washington, D.C., but we’re glad that she now calls Nashville home. Her work initially began with the repurposing of vintage components, but through her studies at Corcoran College of Art + Design, her focus shifted. She turned her attention to metalsmith work and the creation of original jewelry designs and started her own collection: Jennifer Jeremias. Geometric shapes and sleek, clean lines are main characteristics of her pieces. Available for purchase online and at these local retailers: Emerson Grace, Emmaline, Gas Lamp Antiques Too, Hey Rooster General Store, Serendipity and The Trunk.
5. Made by Ranger
In 2008, Stephanie Kincheloe developed Ranger, a music project that acts as an umbrella to all of her creative endeavors: music, photography and design. Since the start of the company, Stephanie has explored the craft of jewelry making through Made, a line composed of unique jewelry pieces made of wood, copper and raw brass that are inspired by her travels. We love the natural beauty of each piece and have found ways to incorporate them into our daily attire. Available for purchase at these local retailers: Hey Rooster General Store, Local Honey and Sisters of Nature
6. m.florita
Best known for her Skyline Collection, Marrah Florita, aka m.florita, has become a household name in Nashville, and her love for the city shines through in her jewelry. With a home studio right here in Music City, Marrah has continued to expand her collection with inspiration from flea markets, magazines, warehouses, gemstones and more. Her creativity flows through her work, which is composed of vintage elements, gemstones, hammered and hand-stamped metals, each made with great attention to detail. Available for purchase online and at these local retailers: Moda, The Beveled Edge, Sisters of Nature, Posh, Pony Show and Johnnie Q
7. Goodman Spalding
Close friends Jennifer Goodman and Ann Spalding began crafting jewelry in 2008. Over the years, their style has evolved, but their draw to old coins, religious medals and semiprecious stones has remained. They blend these unique finds with matte gold, bronze and brushed silver chains to create one-of-a-kind pieces. The boldly feminine necklaces and bracelets are the result of a collaborative effort. Available for purchase at these local retailers: Apropos Day Spa, Color, Lulu, Margi’s Chair & Chair Alike and Spruce
Keep your eyes peeled for additional features highlighting local artisans who make Nashville unique!
