Today we meet Jamie Wolf, the jewelry designer behind her namesake luxury jewelry brand. Jamie who began her career as a ballet dancer for the New York City Ballet first began designing jewelry during her time with the ballet, before ultimately deciding to leave the ballet to pursue a new career as a jewelry designer full-time.
The timeless pieces that the brand is known for will bring a touch of elegance and femininity to life’s special moments. In this interview Jamie gives us an inside look into how her time in ballet influenced the aesthetics of her designs, the pieces she wears everyday and what she enjoys most about working with clients to create bespoke pieces.
When did you first come up with the idea to found your namesake jewelry brand?
I began designing in 2001. At the time I was dancing for the New York City Ballet. Like athletic seasons, between performing periods we had weeks at a time without work. That time off became an opportunity for me to explore my creative ability in design. The more I learned, the more engaged I became with the process — the design component and the business component. After five years of designing during my time off, before, after, and between rehearsals, I decided to pursue my business wholeheartedly and leave New York CIty Ballet.
What was it like going from being a dancer in the NYC Ballet to designing jewelry?
I think my career as a dancer was actually great preparation for starting a small, luxury business. The discipline, devotion, and attention to detail I learned are integral to my brand.
How did your time as a dancer influence the ascetic of your designs?
I believe that femininity is timeless and beauty is often found in the finest detail.
If you had to describe your jewelry in three words what would they be?
Chic, timeless, wearable
What is the process you go through when designing a new piece?
My inspiration and process differs from piece to piece – sometimes it’s about creating the perfect setting for a specific stone, sometimes I actually have a client in mind, and sometimes it’s simply what I would want to add to my collection.
Which of the pieces do you have in your personal jewelry collection?
I love all the studs – they are just so easy, wearable, and unique. I wear the locket and the ID bracelets with my kids’ names all the time.
Where do you source the gemstones and metals used in your pieces?
The stones are conflict free and the gold is recycled. The pieces are all hand made for the collection in NYC.
Out of every piece you’ve ever created, do you have a personal favorite?
I couldn’t choose!
You also create bespoke jewelry for clients. What do you enjoy the most about working with clients one on one?
I really enjoy the process – it’s such a nice shared experience.
Your pieces have been worn by celebrities such as Julia Roberts and Zoe Saldana to Olivia Munn and Reese Witherspoon. What is the best part about seeing such well known personalities wearing your jewelry?
It’s so nice to see the jewelry on!
Shop the brand and follow along on Instagram @jamiewolfjewelry
All images via Jamie Wolf.
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