|
Not Just A Jewelry Designer by Carol Theilen
What started as a dream now materializes in stones, metals and glass.
Ever since she began discovering the world, designer Melissa Nissalke has loved rocks. It wasn't enough to pick up pretty pebbles; Mel wanted more. So she earned a BS degree in geology, thinking that a career in rocks would be her mountain of achievement. While climbing that mountain, she also understood that stones tell stories, and capturing those stories is what she really felt called to do.
"By listening to natural stones, we can learn about the earth's past, its present, and even glimpse into its future," Mel explains. Each type of stone used in her jewelry designs is selected for very specific reasons and features. By blending different materials, she is able to bring together regions of the world in unique presentations of beauty. Mel has also studied and practiced the art of stained glass, designing lamps and windows and incorporates these experiences into her art today.
Inspired by the sense of discovery in her own children, Mel looks for the unique and unusual to build her creations from. Through relationships with international contacts, she is able to find incredibly beautiful materials at reasonable costs, resulting in unique and unusually beautiful jewelry pieces at very affordable pricing. One example is an agate available exclusively through one distributor. Referred to as the dragon vein agate, this stone is believed to have protective qualities. After receiving the agates, Mel was able to create a design including sterling silver and faceted black agates, resulting in a necklace she wore to a social event that someone literally begged to buy off her neck.
Another way Mel is able to keep costs low for her and her customers is to set up a website instead of a physical store. She also refuses to charge shipping, handling and postage fees, insisting that people don't need hidden charges to get a good deal from her website. Operating as full time mom, wife, jewelry designer, business owner, customer service and sales person and photographer, there are few moments she is not a whirlwind of activity.
"My friends and family have always loved my gifts," Mel laughs. "That's why I decided to share this creative outlet with more than just them. It is my way of sharing with others what I have learned to appreciate from the gifts the earth has given us." Mel launched her dream into reality in January of 2009 with the creation of Flying Dragon Studios. The studio showcases all pieces available for purchase, and also allows anyone to custom order something even more specific to their needs.
The site can be viewed at http://www.flyingdragonstudios.etsy.com.
About the Author
Carol Theilen and her husband live outside the Minneapolis, MN area on a 15 acre wooded area. She has been writing since her childhood and found a career as a copy editor, article writer, and senior editorial advisor. She may be reached for consultation at northernwrites@izoom.net.
|
US $58.50
