Today we’d like to introduce you to Emilie Lawson.
Hi Emilie, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
In 2016, a good friend gifted me a handcrafted turquoise and silver ring. I was amazed by the craftsmanship and could not believe this could be made by hand. I have always been in love with stones and their connection with the earth.
Soon after, I started looking into the process of silversmithing. I found some helpful websites, got the basic tools and started soldering using a crème brûlée torch.
I started making a couple of items for friends and selling them for cheap (less than cost probably). A lot of the jewelry I made broke and it wasn’t meeting the quality level I wanted, but people showed interest and after a lot of practice, I started perfecting the craft.
Since then, I have made countless pieces, sold items in boutiques around Southern California and in other states, participated in local markets, took on many large projects and launched a website!
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
This has never been my full-time job. I have never depended on creating jewelry to make a living which takes a lot of pressure out of it and has kept it fun. I have been able to learn at my own pace and learn from my mistakes.
I am self-taught so it’s challenging to know if the techniques I am using are the right ones; was I using the in the right tools? Is there a more efficient way? Can I make this look different? Why is my solder not melting?
Being a mom, a wife and working a full-time job always makes jewelry a 5th or 6th priority. My dream is to expand my knowledge learn how to cast and make fine jewelry.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I handcraft sterling silver or gold and turquoise jewelry. I use turquoise the most but I also mix it up with other stones.
Throughout the process, from sourcing materials to delivering a package, I try to find the most sustainable way with the least amount of damage to the planet. For example, I use all natural stones and recycled metals. My supplies are bought locally as much as possible. My first choice is always to source stones in the US. I mail the jewelry with the least amount of packaging possible and use compostable or recyclable packaging.
Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
In the past, I have taken on more than I can handle. I have realized that this takes the passion and creativity out of the art. I have learned to take my time through each step for each piece I create which has proven a greater quality craftsmanship.
Contact Info:
- Email: emilie@greatwhitebuffalo.co
- Website: www.greatwhitebuffalo.co
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/greatwhitebuffalojewelry
- Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/Great-White-Buffalo-Jewelry-1124145407668134/
Image Credits:
Camille Hita
