For the past seven years, Cindy Mitchell of Gem Designs, has watched her jewelry making hobby transform into a budding business. Cindy has always embraced jewelry as "wearable art" and originally, looking for a cost-effective alternative to more traditional jewelry, made pieces for her own personal wear. As it turned out, Cindy was her own greatest marketing tool! The overwhelming positive feedback from friends and family inspired her to share her craft with others.
Cindy's designs reflect her true passion for her craft and her love of experimentation. There is a piece for everyone's taste. In her line, she works with a wide variety of gems, semi-precious stones and metals. She shared with us the fun she has experimenting with different cuts of stones, color combinations, and patterns. Also, it should be mentioned that Cindy does amazing work with metal clay. She is one of a few Bermudians that work with this unique medium, and Cindy thoroughly enjoys using it saying, "Metal clay is so versatile... making pendants, charms, rings, toggles and jewelry components incorporating natural and fireable stones, transforming any natural and organic material into a 99% fine silver piece of jewelry or art." We had the opportunity to see one of her metal clay projects inspired by nature, a beautiful silver casting of vine pod.
At an open house for Gem Designs in December, we were able to witness the wide variety of pieces on show; everything from long-strand necklaces to stunning chandelier earnings. Some gems were more recognizible than others but every color of the rainbow was represented. Some of her "best-sellers" include anything in the blue-green hues and her pearl pieces. The prices range from $35 through $600 depending on the materials used. Cindy walked us through her "sourcing" process which involves trips to worldwide gem and semi-precious stone shows. She has a steadfast commitment to quality and it is her extensive knowledge of gems, semi-precious stones and metals that leads her to the best materials.
Needless to say, there is something for every one at Gem Designs and if in the unlikely scenario that there isn't, Cindy is happy to take on commissioned work. If you just love a specific kind of stone or metal, or need a piece that works with a specific color scheme, Cindy is happy to source all the materials you covet and will work with you in the design process.
Cindy hosts tupperware-type parties where she will show off her pieces, either at your house, or her own. During such parties Cindy makes herself available to do while-you-wait basic adjustments, such as altering the length of a necklace. If you want to get in touch to schedule a party, find out what pieces she has available or learn about her upcoming open houses, Cindy encourages you to visit her website www.mygemdesigns.com, email her at gemdesigns@gmail.com, or call her on 441-534-9584. Her pieces are also for sale at Windjammer 2 Gallery at the Fairmont Hamilton Princess. Be sure to keep your eye on Cindy and her designs, as she continues to do training and take classes to learn and perfect new techniques.
