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Recently, I’ve discovered some very talented artisans who are designing unique, one of a kind jewelry using natural gemstones, crystals, and geodes. I’ll be featuring interviews with them about their designs throughout the summer on the Bohemian Blog, as we focus on fashion that nourishes, harmonizes and enhances the body, mind and spirit.

First up we have Ginny O’Shea from New York. Her jewelry can be purchased on ArtFire.  Enjoy!

Kala: Hi Ginny, Thanks for doing this interview. I’m the proud and delighted owner of one of your beautiful pieces, a rose quartz necklace. What drew me to your work was your extensive use of natural stone work and gemstones in bold designs. How long have you been making jewelry and how did you get started?

Ginny: Hi Kala, I’ve been making jewelry for just about two years now. When I lost a bead to a pair of earrings that a friend had made for me, I went to the local craft store to find a replacement. Couldn’t find the exact bead, but what I did find was a whole new way for me to express myself through making jewelry. I bought a few tools and beads and that was it!

Kala: You mix a variety of gemstones together and the colors and dramatic designs are eye catching and make a statement. It’s what attracted me to them as I felt the energy in each piece and the confidence in the message it was trying to convey. How do you connect with the stones you work with and what is your process for creating each design?

Ginny: I start by purchasing gemstones that appeal to me. I tend to like a rustic chunky look for my necklaces. The stones just jump out at me and I have to have them! Sure, you can make a necklace to go with a specific outfit, but for the most part, I randomly lay the stones that I think will work together out on my work table. Then the colors and textures that belong together become clear to me. Those are the ones that get played around with until the design is decided upon. Eventually there’s always a necklace in my house that will go with any given outfit!

Kala: You’re also a musician. What commonalities have you found between music, art and design?

Ginny: That’s a great question Kala. I would say that when you create things that you like, the sense of accomplishment and joy is something that you want to experience again and again. It never gets old! So whether you sing a song, design a piece of jewelry, or decorate a room, you are expressing yourself in a unique way. There’s real satisfaction in that.. I’ve read that when the brain experiences anything new, whether it be a beautiful view, or new book, or even a new scent, it stimulates your whole being and lifts you to a state of enjoyment that fights depression. I really believe that’s true.

Kala: Do you accept custom orders? What has been your most favorite design of all to date?

Ginny: Oh yes definitely! My favorite piece to date would have to be this geode necklace.

I love when a necklace features one geode as a pendant, but this one has five! That’s five sparkly amazing miracles of nature glowing around your neck.

Geodes or Drusy is when a crystal formation occurs over time on a stone, and each one is beautifully unique.

Kala: Are there any limits to what can be used when making jewelry?

Ginny: I believe there are no limitations when it comes to designing jewelry. I can honestly walk into a hardware store and find a lot of possibilities! But I know my heart belongs to gemstones. They are each so unique and beautiful and earthy to the touch.

Kala: Looking at another one of your designs here, this is the rose quartz necklace that I fell in love with. Describe this for us… and how did you decide upon this layout?

Ginny: This design came from the stones themselves. The sugar candy looking Rose Quartz stones just spoke for themselves, leaving me to keep within a simple design. They are so soft and feminine and perfect. It’s Rose Quartz at it’s best.

Kala: You’ve followed your passions in life, from music to design. What advice would you give to other women who are thinking about following their passion and embarking on a new career?

Ginny: My advice would be, and it’s so simple, to quote Earl Nightengale, “just do your work”. That’s it! Do your thing. When you have a passion for something and do it day after day, something marvelous happens. Your positive energy comes back to you. It happened with my music, and I’m so excited to be in this place in my life. When you love what you do, it shows and people connect with that. Yes, it takes time, but all successes take time. Don’t look back, just do your work.

Kala: Do you have plans for expansion? I’ve seen jewelry and stones now being woven into bridal veils, clothing, purses and home decor. Where do you think your work will take you?

Ginny: I’ll go wherever this takes me! I don’t mind being challenged, because that’s what makes us grow. Right now I’m working on an instructional DVD about getting started making jewelry. I’d like to help people save time, money and hours of frustration that get wasted when you’re a beginner and you have no idea what a crimp bead is or what kind of stringing wire you’re supposed to use. It’s all very confusing!

Kala: This next piece here is most intriguing. Tell us about it…

Ginny: This is one of my favorites! The blue Lapis beads I knew needed a bold pendant. I found this slice of drusy Agate and knew they should go together. Then I added a second row of Lapis because I felt the size of the pendant required a more substantial row of beads.

Kala: Who is Ginny O’Shea, if you had to describe yourself in three sentences or less, or if a friend were to describe you, what would they say?

Ginny: Ginny O’Shea always sees the glass half full! I’m positive, hopeful and grateful for all the good things in my life. My daughter says, “Mommy always needs a project” I guess she’s right.

Kala: Beyond the jewelry, What inspires you?

Ginny: Songs written in minor chords
Spending time with my daughters and appreciating what truly caring, responsible and intelligent young woman they’ve turned out to be
Random acts of kindness
My husband’s huge heart that’s equally matched by his depth of integrity
Watching my two dogs greet guests at the door sporting , yes , doggy jewelry!!
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Ginny’s Bio: I grew up, one of seven children, on Long Island, NY. My mom was always doing creative activities from making our Halloween costumes to writing articles for the local newspaper! She set a great example for her kids to not be afraid to go for whatever you want to accomplish in life. I’m married to a wonderful man and have two grown daughters. I’ve been a singer/songwriter for 20 years, and am now enjoying this new adventure. I feel so blessed to find such joy every day in my craft. I’m honored to share my creations with all of you. Thank you!

Discover the artistic vision and jewelry of Ginny O’Shea on ArtFire

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