Moose Spotlight: Carefully Handcrafted Sterling Silver Jewelry

"Making jewelry has given me a creative outlet to express myself and to make the jewelry I've always dreamed about."

- Stephanie Sheley

MEET THE ARTIST

@wildalpinesilver on Instagram

Meet the amazing jewelry artist behind Wild Alpine Silver, Stephanie Sheley, based in Ridgway, Colorado. She's a self-taught silversmith with a 1 year experience. You can find her creations on her Instagram account with the handle @wildalpinesilver.

THE JOURNEY TO CREATING JEWELRY

Stephanie has always been fascinated with turquoise and silver jewelry, especially native American design. She shared that she's always so drawn to it all and it had been a dream of hers to learn how to make it. One day, she finally took the steps to do it! Ever since, Stephanie said she's been so happy!

"My silversmithing journey has been so fun and all consuming, in a good way!," Stephanie mentioned when we asked her to talk about how she got started. She also shared she has spent so much time watching YouTube tutorials, reading books, and researching blogs to learn anything and everything silver related. Through this journey, she has made friends with so many talented creatives who have been so helpful to her. She adds that it has been such a blessing; elaborating that the silversmith community is truly special. (We couldn't agree more!)

Wondering if there's a story or meaning behind Stephanie's brand name, she said she knew she wanted something related to the mountains simply because she loves them and they're beautiful. So, when she along with her partner were rambling off different names, Wild Alpine Silver stuck.

Here are some of Stephanie's gorgeous creations!

Turquoise Necklace by Stephanie Sheley of @wildalpinesilver on Instagram

Handcrafted Ring by Stephanie Sheley of @wildalpinesilver on Instagram

Handcrafted Jewelry by Stephanie Sheley of @wildalpinesilver on Instagram

ARTIST’S DESIGN STYLE

When creating something, whether it be a jewelry piece or even a new recipe, we get that one moment that makes us feel genuinely happy! For Stephaine, she remembered feeling really pleased the first time with a designs was after she created the first femme bolo. She explained that it wasn't a very complicated setup but the final product turned out exactly how she had imagined it. She recalled being so excited to share it with everyone. :)

Take a look at these beauties by Stephanie!

Turquoise Bolo by Stephanie Sheley of @wildalpinesilver on Instagram

Handcrafted Bolo by Stephanie Sheley of @wildalpinesilver on Instagram

THE DESIGN PROCESS

"I'd describe my design process as organized chaos," Stephanie said she doesn't really draw up her designs or write anything down. She explained that she just works with whatever pops into her head while she's at the bench and start making. Right now, she said she's working on trying to draw things out so she doesn't forget all of her ideas.

Upon asking to describe her design style, Stephanie said, " My design/style could be described as native American inspired mixed with some grunge aspects. I like making statement pieces that draw people in."

JEWELRY DESIGN TIPS, TRICKS, AND HANDY TECHNIQUES

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

"I don't know if it's necessarily a design tip but my suggestion is to always wear your PPE! Wear your damn mask while soldering, polishing, etc. We need to protect our bodies and especially our lungs."

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

"Just keep going! Don't get discouraged because you're not where you want to be yet. It takes time and a lot of practice. And, especially, don't compare your work to others. Everyone is one their own journey and are at different stages. So just do you!"

Lastly, Stephanie's message to the universe:

Stephanie Sheley of @wildalpinesilver Blog Feature by Turquoise Moose