Moose Spotlight: Crafting Unique Jewelry with Intention
"Letting the design just happen means nothing is a mistake. It's an intuitive and beautiful experience to create in that way."
- Leah, @rebelle_jewellery
MEET THE ARTIST
@rebelle_jewellery on Instagram
Leah Parravano is a jewelry artist based in Lindsay, Ontario, Canada, with over seven years of experience in creating unique, intentional pieces of jewelry. Her brand, Rebelle Jewelry, combines her love for rocks and minerals with her passion for creating talismans and amulets that are both powerful and feminine. 💚
"I've always been attracted to finding and collecting special rocks since I was tiny," Leah says. "I started by putting them on shelves and in boxes but I always wanted to keep them close to me. Making jewellery was the answer! Each stone has an energy and a personality. Creating talismans and amulets is now my passion!"
After working in a different field for nine years, Leah made the bold decision to quit her job and attend George Brown College's Jewellery Arts Program in Toronto, where she honed her craft and developed her signature style. "At school, I was the 'turquoise girl' as it was very clear that's all I wanted to use to make my projects," she says. 🤩
Firsts are almost always special and Leah still remembers her very first customer. She said that it was her best friend, who has continued to support her and spread the word about her unique jewelry designs. "Support from friends and family is huge because word of mouth is the best way to advertise, in my experience," she says.
Her brand name, Rebelle Jewelry has a special meaning. She explained that the name Rebelle, which means "rebel" in French, reflects Leah's unconventional approach to jewelry making. "I wanted a name that spoke to how I make jewellery," she explains. "My pieces are far from traditional and I make them all with intention in order to transform them into talismans and amulets. Rebelle is a powerful and feminine word to reflect me, my brand, and my pieces." 💚
Let's take a look at some of her beautiful creations!
Handmade Necklaces by Leah Parravano of @rebelle_jewellery on Instagram
THE DESIGN PROCESS
Leah's jewelry making process is intuitive and organic. "It can vary but my favorite process is being called to a gemstone and listening to what it wants to become," she says. "Letting the design just happen means nothing is a mistake. It's an intuitive and beautiful experience to create in that way."
Her designs are influenced by styles of the past, with an ethereal hint of the macabre. "I'm drawn to antique jewelry and the history behind it," she says. "I love the way it's made and the stories it carries. I try to bring that into my work in a contemporary way."
Here are a few more stunning creations by Leah!
JEWELRY DESIGN TIPS, TRICKS, AND HANDY TECHNIQUES
What's one design tip you one to share with your fellow artists?
"Overthinking and overplanning will make a beautiful piece of jewellery but intuition makes a special one."
One piece of technical advice on creating.
"Always try new techniques and go with the flow. If something doesn't feel right, move on to the next."
Any words of encouragement or tips to those who are starting out in the world of jewelry-making?
"Be patient and kind to yourself. Use full days just discovering and playing without the goal of finishing a piece. If you have a passion for creating, it will be evident in your work."
Lastly, here is her message to the universe:
Leah Parravano is an amazing jewelry artist with a true passion for her craft. Her pieces are unique, powerful, and full of energy. We can't wait to see what she creates next! Check out her work on Instagram at @rebelle_jewellery or on her website at www.leahparravanojewellery.com
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