better together with HANNAH FERGUSON JEWELRY

Photo by Abby White Photography.

Hannah’s two daughters, former students of mine, are blessed with an enchanting imagination and a curiosity for learning. It was no surprise when I heard Hannah was creating jewelry. Creativity runs deep in this family. 

How did you get started and where did you get the idea to create jewelry?
Basically, I have always had an appreciation for fashion and an intense desire to create. About two years ago, I started researching jewelry and learning more about what I liked and why. I basically just started paying attention. As my knowledge and skill level grew, I began attending gem and jewelry shows in various cities, such as Las Vegas, Tucson, and New York. Relationships with vendors from the east to west coast formed and I began to refine my line. Overtime, I became more proud of my product.  I consider myself self-taught and I remain humbled by the doors the Lord has helped open for me. 

Emily Cook, co-owner of Six One Five, is a neighbor and good friend. She bought my first custom piece that I wore to a neighborhood dinner party. She literally went home that night wearing the necklace. I was so excited and grateful. With this new found courage, I approached Sebastians, the first people to believe in me and take a chance on my work.  They have always had impeccable taste so to house my line there is a dream.  Stanley Korshak, and The Shak have also been extremely supportive and I’m so excited to be involved with them as well. Needless to say, I am humbled.

Please explain your custom work.
I feel like it’s a total collaboration and an honor when someone asks me to create something special for them.  There’s a lot of trust involved and the process is so rewarding. Their immediate reaction to the end product is well worth the time it takes to create a piece. I listen to their stories, the reasons behind the piece, and goals for creating a custom item and then give my own suggestions. During the meeting, I sketch designs and leave our collaboration with a basic idea. There are several rounds of sketches before the piece goes into production. My custom work encompasses a broad range from the first letter of child’s names to monograms, or even a meaningful icon. I’ve been doing custom work for about a year and a half and each piece is unique to the owner. 

What were you like as a child? And did you grow up in a creative environment?
Yes, my mom is an artist. As a young child, I was very imaginative always putting on plays. During college, I did some voice over work. Throughout my life, I have always wanted to maintain a creative outlet. My mom is a wonderful example, showing me when you are doing what you love you will be successful. She came into painting later in life and feels happiest when she is creating. I am grateful creating jewelry came at this point in my life. Our children are in full day school now and I have the time and energy to devote to my work. But being a mom is my first priority.

Your pieces are exquisite. The materials you use are incredible and unique to your style. Tell me about the various materials and how they become a part of your work?
I love pairing opposite, for example a rock with diamonds. Something unexpected. I tend to work in neutrals. I enjoy finding something and making it unique. I also enjoy including items with a story or a history. Some of the materials I use include fossils, petrified wood, Agate, Pyrite, and antique or vintage beads.  There is a lot of thought, which goes into the materials I use, including where and how they are placed. I am currently working with all kinds of gold, matte gold, white gold, and yellow gold. 

Regarding your work, do you have anything exciting coming up?
Yes, on October 30th & 31st at Stanley Korshak’s, The Shak,  I am having a trunk show, which will also run through the weekend. And I am thrilled to say this show is during Partners Card.

Hannah Ferguson Jewelry can be purchased at...
STUDIO Sebastians
Stanley Korshak

For custom orders she takes personal appointment.
To see Hannah’s work please visit http://hannahfergusonjewelry.com or
follow her on instagram: @hfergjewels

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