Moose Spotlight: Creating Lasting and Classy Jewelry

"Never give up on a piece, step away if you need to, but keep trying, and overcome your holdups!"

- Olivia of @texannabelles

MEET THE ARTIST

@texannabelles on Instagram

Meet Olivia, the artist behind Texana Belles. She started smithing around October 2021, and her creations can be found on Instagram @texannabelles.

THE JOURNEY TO CREATING JEWELRY

What got Olivia started in creating jewelry is quite heartwarming. She shared, "My dad and I always wanted to learn," her dad passed away last year, and so Olivia decided to start out on her own, learning as she goes.

Her brand name, Texanna Belles is actually inspired by Belle Starr, who was a woman outlaw in her area back in the 1800s. Texanna is actually the name of the area she lives in. "I love the vibe of a fancy lady outlaw vibe so we rolled with it!"

Remembering her very first sale, Olivia was very nervous to send it out! She only got started smithing back in October of last year. She made a ring for herself, then designed a floating cluster cuff next. When she posted a photo of it on Facebook, she got about 75 custom orders for ones just like in a span of 2 days! "It honestly blew my mind. I was so inexperienced and still had no clue what I was doing."

What an amazing way to put your work out there for people to see, appreciate, and even wear!

Let's take a look at some of Olivia's creations:

Jewelry Cuff by Olivia of Texanna Belles

Handmade Ring by Olivia of @texannabelles on Instagram

Handmade Jewelry by Olivia of @texannabelles on Instagram

ARTIST'S DESIGN STYLE

Most of her design inspiration would be from vintage native American jewelry, or pieces Olivia sees. "I'll take a little of this and a little of that, and create something all into one a lot of times."

Olivia likes to try and be unique with her designs. Curious if there was ever a point where she almost gave up on a design, she said it hasn't happen yet, but she'd say her most frustrating moments are when she'd burn something and she would have to start over. Her favorite pieces are her Telluride Rings.

Let's check out more of her creations!

White Buffalo and Golden Hills Turquoise Ring by Olivia of Texanna Belles

Turquoise Pendant by Olivia of @texannnabelles on Instagram

Turquoise Cuffs by Olivia of @texannnabelles on Instagram

Turquoise Jewelry by Olivia of @texannnabelles on Instagram

THE DESIGN PROCESS

When Olivia creates, she likes to do it slow and steady.

For her, the most challenging part overall is the business/behind-the-scenes part. "The calculating up how much you think your piece is worth based on time you spent plus materials. It gets easier but just being new, and putting yourself out there with your pricing, trying to figure out what others think you're worth as well. It's definitely and intimidating thing until you establish a name for yourself as an artist and have some work to show for it. (Then it's still kinda intimidating sometimes 🤪).

JEWELRY DESIGN TIPS, TRICKS, AND HANDY TECHNIQUES

What's one design tip you one to share with your fellow artists on creating?

"I would say just try your hardest to stay true to your own style. It's okay to look to others for inspiration, but don't copy other artists' exact pieces, who spent hours coming up with their designs."

She added, "Try to have your own vibe and stick with it to create your "look" that people recognize you for. Never give up on a piece, step away if you need to, but keep trying and overcome your holdups. And share share share!! Because I want to see your creations and cheer you on!"

Any words of encouragement or tips to those who are starting out in the world of jewelry-making?

"Go for it!! Enjoy the journey."

Lastly, Olivia's message to the universe: