For the Love of Jewelers: A Jewelry Journey Podcast Presented by Rio Grande
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Rio Grande Tech Team members Shane Hendren and Paulene Everett talk shop and answer jewelry-making questions from viewers on the latest episode of Tech Team Tuesday. Topics include permanent jewelry, arc welding, jewelry education, favorite tools and more. Do you have a question you would like answered? Leave it in the comments or reach out via email at podcast@riogrande.com Save 10% on all Bonny Doon tools and equipment when you use code BONNY10 at checkout. Now through March 31st, 2024.
Peter Gilroy, owner of Bonny Doon Tools in Taos, New Mexico, joins Rio Grande Jewelry Tech Team member Shane Hendren on the latest For the Love of Jewelers Podcast episode. Peter shares how he balances the many hats he wears running a two-person operation at Bonny Doon as well as his passion for creating unique, timeless pieces for his customers. Joining Peter on the podcast is machinist Therese Keltner, who shares her thoughts on making tools for other makers. Manufactured exclusively for Rio Grande, Bonny Doon hydraulic equipment offers unlimited fabrication capabilities in an ergonomic, easy-to-use and durable package. Create perfectly formed bracelets, rings, earrings, components and more. Use promo code Bonny10 to get 10% off all Bonny Doon tools at RioGrande.com. The Promo Code ends 3/31/24. Shop Bonny Doon: https://tinyurl.com/3aybnpja
Shane Hendren and Phil Scott of the Rio Grande Jewelry Tech Team answer customer questions weekly on Tech Team Tuesday. In this episode, they discuss engraving, stone setting and other questions from our viewers. Be sure to join us live each week at 11 a.m. MT on our YouTube and Facebook profiles to learn more about jewelry-making techniques, tools and other shop talk. Want to have your question answered live on the show? Leave a review or comment, and we will do our best to answer it live and on this podcast. You can also email us at podcast@riogrande.com. Use promo code Bonny10 to get 10% off all Bonny Doon tools at RioGrande.com. The Promo Code ends 3/31/24. Shop Bonny Doon: https://tinyurl.com/3aybnpja
Middle and high school jewelry programs are booming across America as upcoming generations discover this captivating artform that combines creativity, critical thinking and endless potential! This episode of For the Love of Jewelers welcomes Bryan Peterson of Bozeman High and Stacy Smith of Gallatin High School—two enthusiastic Rio for Schools instructors from Bozeman, Montana, who empower aspiring teens to learn new skills as they help forge the next generation of jewelers. They join co-hosts, Paulene Everett of the Rio Grande Jewelry Tech Team and Mark Nelson, Rio for Schools Education Coordinator, to discuss the younger generations’ growing interest in jewelry fabrication and metalsmithing.
Kicking off season five, our For the Love of Jewelers Podcast co-hosts, Paulene Everett and Shane Hendren, chat with the 2023 Fall Design Challenge Winner, Benjamin Claus. Tune in as they discuss the concept and inspiration behind his prizewinning design, . They discuss his path to jewelry making, the joy of connecting to other creators and clients through social media and the value of taking risks on one’s journey to self-actualization.
Boline Strand, artisan and winner of the For the Love of Jewelers Summer Earring Challenge, draws creative inspiration from the minimalist traditions of Denmark while exploring themes of growth and transformation in sculptural jewelry design. With a background in painting and mosaic work, she experiments with form and color through traditional gold and silversmithing techniques, creating “wearable sculptures” in karat gold, recycled sterling silver and natural gemstones. Boline joins host Courtney Gray in this episode of the For the Love of Jewelers podcast to discuss the power of symbolism and the influence of her personal history on the evolution of her design aesthetic. Learn how the concept of “play” and her “use what you have” mantra informs her creative process as she discusses the honor and aftermath of winning Rio Grande’s Summer Earring Challenge.
Meet the co-founders of New York City Jewelry Week, Bella Neyman and JB Jones. With a Master of Arts in History of Design and Curatorial Studies, Bella is an established historian, independent curator and journalist specializing in contemporary jewelry and currently serves as the mastermind of programming for NYCJW. JB Jones employs her background in creative direction, having served on The Site UnScene platform for emerging street artists in Los Angeles, to oversee event initiatives, marketing and social media content and educational programs. She also co-hosts NYC Jewelry Week’s podcast Rough Cut, one of the largest jewelry industry podcasts in the United States. Tune in as host Courtney Grey stirs memories and asks big questions of the cultivated, self-proclaimed “crazy” women of NYCJW.Pouring their hearts out with pride, they share how they joined forces to produce a weeklong, city-wide festival of over a hundred live and virtual events, fostering a sense of community and inclusivity, encouraging makers, curators, independent designers and brands to tell their story through jewelry.
Peter Gilroy is an industry innovator and artisan forged by his passion for rock climbing and self-inspired mantra, “Choose adventure.” After working during summers for his uncle, master goldsmith Phil Poirier, and internalizing years of jewelry-making knowledge, Peter now owns Bonny Doon Hydraulic Presses and Tooling. Additionally, he runs his own design business, offering jewelry, hats, belts and accessories. As a true advocate for sharing knowledge, he often teaches classes on die making and using Bonny Doon tools and machinery. Listen in as he chats with host Courtney Gray on this episode of the For the Love of Jewelers podcast about combining his passion for the outdoors with designing artistic, meaningful jewelry. Through creative experimentation and fearlessly turning mistakes into successes along the way, Peter shares his perspective on artistic freedom. They discuss the importance of “play” in the learning and design process, a brief touch on the history of Damascus steel and so much more!
Jeweler, entrepreneur and influencer Nick Noyes creates one-of-a-kind heirloom jewelry designs, favoring high-karat gold, a stunning spectrum of custom-cut colored gemstones and intricate hand engraving. After years of creating handcrafted wire-wrapped jewelry to sell on the music-festival circuit, Nick attended the New Approach School for Jewelers to further develop his craft, and his evolution continues. In this episode of For the Love of Jewelers, Nick joins host Courtney Gray for a candid discussion of his creative path, his journey from music-festival wild child to high-end custom jewelry artist, balancing work and parenthood, the role of sobriety in his personal and professional success and so much more!
In Swahili, moyo means heart. Monica Stephenson, founder of ANZA Gems, founding collaborator of two NGO’s—PACT and the Tanzania Women’s Miners Association (TAWOMA) of Moyo Gems—and President of the Board of Ethical Metalsmiths has devoted her career to responsible and fair-mined jewelry practices. A documentary film project in East Africa led her to the edge of a tsavorite mine, and the rest is history still in the making. Monica has spent the better part of the last decade working with women in the supply chain—an oftentimes invisible resource. “The reason we focus on women is that when you benefit women, the entire community will benefit. Theres a ripple effect to everything,” she says. Bringing passion to every opportunity, Monica joins host Courtney Gray in this For the Love of Jewelers podcast episode devoted to uplifting women, serving mining communities that serve us and the growth of a fair-mined industry.
Sarah Sides, CEO and owner of Love Weld and Permanent Jewelry Solutions (PJS) has experienced exponential growth since 2020. Her national Love Weld brand, currently in eight different locations across the United States, anticipates nearly doubling its storefronts by the end of 2023. Its sister-company PJS teaches welding safety and permanent jewelry best practices. By offering high-quality chain and charms, and using the right technology, Sarah’s storytelling business model creates personal meaning for every one of her customers. “That’s the brand right there. That’s the concept. That’s where it needs to go,” Sarah shares. Learn what inspired Sarah’s successful entrepreneurship (hint: it may have been a hip-hop icon) in this For the Love of Jewelers podcast episode dedicated to community and connections.
Writer, journalist and curator Vikki Tobak is the author of Contact High and Ice Cold: A Hip-Hop Jewelry History. In collaboration with pioneering jewelers, rappers and other industry artists, her work—of provocative essays and poignant photography—documents the creative subculture within hip-hop. “Early jewelers had to understand something about hip-hop, which is that hip-hop loves customization, and they love remixing and . . . having something different from everybody else. That applies to the music . . . the fashion . . . and the jewelry,” Vikki says. Listen to a star-studded For the Love of Jewelers podcast episode filled with stories of iconic designs worn by hip-hop’s greats. From Biggie’s Jesus piece to Rocafella chains, this episode is one for the books!
CEO of the American Gem Trade Association (AGTA), John W. Ford, Sr. states, “that if you’re in the sale of colored gems, you need to be associated with ethically-sourced gems.” At the helm of an organization whose members share this mine-to-market mentality, John confidently knows that every AGTA gemstone, “comes with ethics. It comes with disclosure. It is a peace of mind.” John’s jewelry journey began nearly four decades ago. Through entrepreneurship and decades of award-winning designs, his passion for colored gemstones—especially Australian black opals—naturally led him to his current position. Before his inaugural AGTA GemFair™ Tucson, John sat down with For the Love of Jewelers podcast host Courtney Gray to discuss details on colored gemstones, cultured pearls and the latest collaboration between AGTA and Rio Grande. It’s all included in this engaging fourth season premiere episode!
Patricia “Trish” Carruth is a third-generation jeweler, custom engagement ring specialist and owner of Your Personal Jeweler in Royal Oak, MI. Her exposure to the industry began as a young child in her grandfather’s jewelry pawn shop. There, Trish developed a fascination with engagement and wedding jewelry, and the stories that brought these pieces to the business. “I actually wanted to be a wedding planner throughout college … but then I planned my own wedding …,” she laughs. The first jeweler to design the Black in Jewelry Coalition’s Together by Design Award, Trish’s path is one of talent, resiliency and opportunity. Tune in to the Season 3 finale of the For the Love of Jewelers podcast for a heartwarming discussion about family, commitment and the passion to design.
Nellie Barnett, corporate communications manager for the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), co-founder and communications chair for the Black in Jewelry Coalition (BIJC) and founder of NellBells Fitness discusses equity in the jewelry industry. In this episode, Nellie sits down with host Courtney Gray to discuss the history of BIJC and its Together by Design competition. “I think, when it comes to storytelling, the most important aspect is authenticity…That’s what keeps them coming back,” Nellie shares. Tune in to an amazing story about a couple’s love, an artisan’s talent and the bridge that connects them together in the latest For the Love of Jewelers podcast.
Jeanette Caines, director of Jewelry Arts, Inc. in New York City shares her secret to becoming a renowned master goldsmith. “Once you learn to control the flame (…), thats your universe. You can control anything,” she says. Her bench of knowledge is deep—beyond her well-documented expertise in ancient jewelry-making techniques. Jeanette authored #1 Best Seller and a #1 New Release, , and is working on publishing a second work, . She has designed gemstone-setting tools and created a breadth of free YouTube tutorials. “You want to change the world? Teach!” she says. Imparting her decades-long exploration of gold, soldering and granulation, Jeanette offers wisdom, skill and insight in this lively For the Love of Jewelers podcast episode with host Courtney Gray.
Rich Youmans, publisher at MJSA and executive director at the MJSA Education Foundation shares about collaboration, connection and the renowned publication. “People come to us (…) to make their jobs…, their lives easier…, and to get that feel that we’re all working together to create something that’s better,” he says. Rich’s latest project is on reviving jewelry-trade apprenticeships and he is working closely with educators, organizational leaders and master jewelers. MJSA has set an ambitious goal of creating the first jewelry apprenticeship certification program adopted by the U.S. Department of Labor and apprenticeship.org. Join Rich, in this interesting For the Love of Jewelers podcast episode, as he sits down live with Courtney Gray, to discuss his knowledge, optimism and flexibility on the future of jewelry education.
Innovative jewelry artist and gallery owner Allen Aragon draws from traditional Navajo, Pueblo, Hopi and Acoma themes for his fresh approach to pottery and silversmithing. To create his signature jewelry, Allen sets intricate handmade ceramic paintings in sterling silver. Through his unique process, he creates one-of-a-kind earrings, rings, bolo ties and concho belts. Along with jewelry, he showcases his line of miniature pots and sculptures at his Albuquerque storefront and studio. In this For the Love of Jewelers podcast episode, Allan discusses his family heritage, growing up on a ranch near Chaco Canyon, his childhood fascination with pottery fragments and his creative process. He also talks about his recent foray into making NFTs based on his jewelry designs and the self-care routines that keep him creating.
Kendria Thompson is a self-guided metalsmith, lapidarist and illustrator with a penchant for change. The owner of Solid Treasures also founded Metalsmiths for Change—a social advocacy group of artist donors that raise money through fundraisers and auctions in hopes of creating a better society. “We advocate (…) for racial and social justice through collaboration and (…) provide equitable opportunities for black artists,” Kendria says. Using her own 3D-printed designs, Kendria has made a name for herself and established a strong community of pin-wearing followers. Listen to this unstoppable artist as she shares her daily jewelry-making routines and future aspirations in this For the Love of Jewelers podcast episode.
Master goldsmith Tony Rodrigues is a 3D-manufacturing jewelry legend, the Vice President of Product Development for William Henry and co-founder of ZBrush Jewelry Workshop. An early adapter of CAD, Tony has been pushing boundaries and sharing strategies on sketching, sculpting, modeling and printing intricate jewelry designs. His detailed, sought-after pieces are worn by celebrities like Richie Ramone and even included a Vatican-certified remnant from the crucifixion cross. With detailed focus and limitless software applications, Tony shares, “I couldn’t possibly make everything I’ve ever thought of making.” Nor would he trade his career for any other. This For the Love of Jewelers podcast episode provides a candid glimpse of a down-to-earth jeweler who takes on artistic challenges because there is no other place he’d rather be.
Viviana Langhoff, owner of Adornment + Theory in Chicago is an entrepreneurial artist, interior designer and activist. A fine jeweler, Viviana’s custom designs feature intricate metalwork, unexpected hues, antique stones and historical nods. With acute business savvy, a resilient voice and a sense of humor, Viviana has channeled many different design sectors—supporting fellow BIPOC female artists, local businesses, and national and global communities. “These (…) material things, they are going to come and go. But whats going on in the world is far more important. And what someone cant take… (from) …me is my tenacity, my creativity. I can rebuild but we cant bring back lives,” she shares. Learn more about this vocal millennial, her artistry and the social platforms she creatively supports in this dynamic For the Love of Jewelers podcast episode.
Karissma Yve is the founder and CEO of Gildform, a startup that connects artists and designers with innovative technology, allowing them to take their concepts from sketch to finished piece in a streamlined process. Karissma has won numerous awards including “Best Idea for Growth” from the New Economy Initiative, “Best Pitch” from Google-sponsored Black Girl Ventures and “Best in Business.” Her involvement in the industry began over a decade ago when she started her own successful jewelry and lifestyle brand, Xenophora, in Detroit, MI. Running every facet of her business ultimately turned out to be unsustainable, and the idea for Gildform was born. Meet the visionary leader behind Xenophora and Gildform in this For the Love of Jewelers podcast episode as she shares her insights on connecting with makers, and the challenges and triumphs of breaking new ground.
Sam Alfano, certified master engraver, musician, photographer, instructor, author and watchmaking hobbyist demonstrates hand engraving and diamond setting techniques to students and enthusiasts around the world. Known for his intricate designs, precise details and flawless execution, Sam’s engravings—on guns, knives, jewelry and other metalwork—are found in museums including the Smithsonian Institute and private collections. Just as popular, his scrollwork is included on the packaging of hundreds of everyday products like Dove chocolates and was even on promotional materials for the Royal Wedding. Eager to pass on his knowledge and expert advice to the next generation of engravers, Sam laughs that every beginner should “jump in with both feet!” Tune in to this For the Love of Jewelers podcast episode to hear Courtney Gray’s exciting discussion with a world-renowned metal magician.
Jamie Schulze, director of operations for the Southwestern Association for Indian Arts (SWAIA) and enrolled member of the Northern Cheyenne tribe, organizes the world’s largest Native American art show—the renowned Santa Fe Indian Market. The annual event—celebrating its centennial year in Santa Fe, New Mexico in 2022—draws an international crowd interested in all facets of Native arts including pottery, dance, fashion, digital design and jewelry-making. Explore the history of the infamous Indian Market and its upcoming Native arts e-commerce platform, Indigenous Collections, in this For the Love of Jewelers podcast episode. Join host Courtney Gray and Jamie as they discuss meaningful partnerships, educational opportunities and highlighting the voices of so many different marginalized nations.
Jennifer Markas is the executive director of the Women’s Jewelry Association (WJA) and the former sustainability reporting manager for Tiffany & Co. The 2016 recipient of the New York Business Journal Women of Influence Award, her career has spanned the financial, creative and nonprofit industries—including as founder of Damsels in Design. “Ive never been a jeweler, but Im so excited to be around other creative people. Thats really whats been fueling my desire to be in this space for a really long time,” Jennifer says. Bringing energy and perspective to themes of diversity, sustainability and connection, Jennifer joins host Courtney Gray to share about opportunities offered by the WJA in this entertaining For the Love of Jewelers third season podcast premiere.
For many years, lapidarist Chris Gage was known as Mr. Holly Gage, of Gage Designs. A well-respected chef in his own right, Chris accompanied his award-winning wife—a certified metal clay instructor—around the country and world providing delicious meals at her workshops and local retreats. But three years ago, he suffered a trauma so intense that it altered the course of his life completely. “As horrible as the whole thing was, there is something to be gained from it,” Chris says. His positive attitude throughout an incredibly challenging ordeal allowed Chris to heal, both physically and mentally, and to begin anew creating a program helping others appreciate their own wounds. A delicate navigation of a life-altering experience, this For The Love of Jewelers podcast episode shares the pain of trauma, the love it exposes and a strong commitment to a life of opportunity and growth.
Award-winning jeweler and certified metal clay instructor Holly Gage of Gage Designs is an active conference speaker and respected author on jewelry technique. While her creative journey began at a young age, it wasn’t until mid-adulthood that Holly learned more about her dyslexia and how art helped her to find her voice and speak clearly. “[M]y creativity, visual, […] spatial strengths and problem-solving skills […] are the positive attributes; the flip side of dyslexia,” she says. Always facing life’s challenges head-on, a recent family trauma has channeled Holly’s designs in a new, brave and healing direction. In this intimate For the Love of Jewelers podcast episode, Holly shares her story of self-reflection and how she has learned to love herself, imperfections and all.
Cause jeweler, writer and advocate for fair trade jewelry, Susan Wheeler is also the founder of the Chicago Responsible Jewelry Conference and the nonprofit Responsible Jewelry Transformative. Dedicated to working with certified and ethical supply chains—emphasizing a reduced impact on the environment and the safe working conditions for all jewelry employees—Susan invites us to learn more about the journey each treasured piece takes before it is placed in a customer’s hand. “It’s sometimes hard for us to remember that someone dug that out of the earth, that somebody else cut that […] so, it’s good to remember how precious these things are,” she says. Follow the path of responsible jewelry design with Susan Wheeler and host Courtney Gray in this enlightening For The Love of Jewelers podcast episode.
Bernd Stephan, a third-generation German gemstone manufacturer, shares the foundational story behind his family’s celebrated, international brand, Herbert Stephan KG. Having been taught the value of education and self-reliance by both his father and grandfather, who founded the company in 1932, Bernd studied English and French in order to communicate with his biggest customers and gain their trust. Almost a century later, Stephan’s manufacturing niche is in creating and producing products that are difficult to manufacture from a technological standpoint and scaling large demand to meet customer needs. Today, with Bernd at the helm, the company retains its family-feel while being globally recognized for ethically sourced stones, art nouveau cameos and consistent college rings. Travel overseas for a podcast journey devoted to family, community and the gemstones that make it all possible.
Scott Hardy comes from a strong lineage of ranchers. Following a childhood spent cowboying, shoeing horses and welding, Scott’s love of handiwork led to his tinkering in jewelry for bridle saddles and buckles, and even some early attempts at engraving. Yet it wasn’t until Scott was told, “Man, do you need help,” by one of his horse jewelry idols, that he began to appreciate the true dedication, skill and artistry involved in Western design. Four decades later, Scott Hardy is a renowned master silversmith, celebrated for his intricate filigree work, lifelike engravings and his dedication to preserving the tradition of Western jewelry techniques. The first silversmith to have his work featured on a Canadian stamp, Scott is an original founder of the Traditional Cowboys Arts Association (TCAA) and is showcased in museums around the globe. Saddle up for a podcast journey celebrating the artistry, tradition and future of Western design.
