Moose Spotlight: Everyday Statement Pieces Inspired by Nature

"I think the biggest thing for me is to try to find balance. It's so easy to get stuck in your own head, especially when you're struggling with something. Remind yourself to recharge!"

- Sarah Wallace of @one_seed_designs

MEET THE ARTIST

@one_seed_designs on Instagram

THE JOURNEY TO CREATING JEWELRY

This is jewelry artist Sarah Wallace from Albuquerque, New Mexico. She has been making jewelry for 3 years now. Her creations are seen on Instagram @one_seed_designs 💚

For Sarah, there wasn't a big lightbulb moment when she began creating jewelry. She shared she actually found silversmithing on a whim! However, she has been hooked since her first class. Adding, "I never considered myself artistic before smithing. My work is inspired by the varied and incredible landscapes of New Mexico. The deserts, mountains, and rivers I'm surrounded by all inspire my work."

She started out by taking classes at a fantastic local studio, Meltdown Studio. It really helped her to focus on the fundamentals and to get feedback from other talented smiths. Sarah thinks, as a beginner, the best thing you can do is keep going. Don't compare your journey to others. Your skills will grow with practice.

Not only is Sarah's very first piece sold memorable, it was also quite interesting! She shared, "I opened my web shop on April Fool's day because I am a business genius. A very kind friend of mine bought a necklace from me on the first day my shop was open - it was such a kind gesture and I'll always remember it." How fun is that? 🥰

With an awesome brand name, Sarah said One Seed Designs actually comes from one seed juniper. Elaborating that she wanted a name that connected to the natural world and reflected where the pieces are made. Moreover, she explained that junipers grow slowly and concentrate most of their growth in their roots - what you see on the surface may be only 30% of the plant's biomass. Sarah likes that symbolism. ✨

Let's take a look at some of Sarah's amazing creations!

Blue Moon Turquoise Ring by Sarah Wallace of @one_seed_designs on Instagram

Half Moon Turquoise Ring by Sarah Wallace of @one_seed_designs on Instagram

Turquoise Jewelry Rings by Sarah Wallace of @one_seed_designs on Instagram

ARTIST'S DESIGN STYLE

Just like first times, AHA! moments are also quite special especially to artists. Sarah told us it happened when she made a multi-stone ring for the first time. She said, "It felt like such a monumental achievement and I was so thrilled. Recently I learned how to do chip inlay and it was an almost equivalent aha! moment. There's something magical about learning how to do something that was previously mystifying."

THE DESIGN PROCESS

"I am a very tactile designer, which is my nice way of saying I'm terrible at drawing," explained Sarah. She said she has to plan things out by seeing the stones and moving them around on her bench. Sarah has to get a literal feel for the pieces as she's constructing them. "I am trying to get better at translating my ideas to drawings; it is a work in progress."

When asked to describe her design style, Sarah said that almost all her designs start with the stone. "I try to create metal forms and accents that compliment what the earth has already built. I want my jewelry to be everyday statement pieces. They're a classic southwestern style but with a twist."

Here are a few more beautiful pieces by Sarah:

Turquoise Dangling by Sarah Wallace of @one_seed_designs on Instagram

Handmade Turquoise Earrings by Sarah Wallace of @one_seed_designs on Instagram

JEWELRY DESIGN TIPS, TRICKS, AND HANDY TECHNIQUES

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

"I think the biggest thing for me is to try to find balance. It's so easy to get stuck in your own head, especially when you're struggling with something. Remind yourself to recharge! Also you never know which of your other interests will resonate with your audience. I started sharing pictures of porcupines and now they're everyone's favorite!"

One piece of technical advice on creating.

"Quality tools are a lifesaver! You can go far with DIY and basic tools, but when you settle into a style or technique that you use a lot, it is worthwhile to get tools to make your life easier."

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

"Keep going! Don't compare yourself to others! Ask your community for help - there are so many kind silversmiths. And don't try use a rawhide mallet to try to force a stone into a bezel setting, it'll seem like a good idea at some point but it will only end in heart (and stone) break."

Lastly, here's Sarah's message to the universe:

Sarah Wallace Blog Feature by Turquoise Moose