Discover handcrafted jewellery that blends contemporary design with timeless storytelling.
Amy Bixby translates personality and sentiment into handcrafted jewellery, using contrast, subtle texture and luminous gemstones to create pieces that are at once contemporary and timeless. Each design is informed by the character and stories of the people she works with, resulting in jewellery that feels considered and personal. The work is guided by craft, detail and a quiet sense of enduring beauty.
What drew you to the world of fine jewellery, and what keeps you inspired to create?
I was drawn to the world of jewellery through the excitement of creating tiny wearable works of art. I continue to be inspired by my customers and in the challenge of creating new and interesting designs.
Your work has a distinct softness and intentionality—how would you describe your signature style in your own words?
My signature style is one that employs contrast, texture and sparkling all-natural gemstones. I often use asymmetry in my design approach and simple yet bold design elements to draw people in and take a closer look. I prefer a brushed or hammered finish in my jewellery that really showcases the metal’s natural qualities and has that essence of being individually hand-crafted.
Where do you begin when designing for a love story? Is it the stone, the setting, or something less tangible?
I begin with the person, or the couple I’m designing for. It’s important to get a feel for who they are and ensure they feel comfortable to share their personality and style with me. From there I try to guide them with images of previous work of mine for examples and then play around with gemstone and material options and sketch up some ideas. It’s a unique and intimate process connecting with someone this way, I really love being a part of their journey.
How do you approach storytelling through materials—whether it’s a recycled gold band or an heirloom gem?
From my perspective, it’s the customer who tells the story through their choice of materials. This unfolds through the personal approach of working through their design and listening to their stories and desires. Ultimately culminating in a piece of jewellery that represents those significant life moments.
What does “made to last” mean to you when it comes to wedding and engagement pieces?
Each piece of Amy Bixby Jewellery is individually handcrafted with care and attention, not mass-produced in a factory off-shore but created by me, with the intention that it won’t just be something to wear on your special day, but a robust piece that can be passed down for generations. In addition to wedding and engagement rings, I specialize in jewellery for the bride and bridal party as well (such as earrings, pendants and cufflinks), pieces that will remain treasured for many years to come.
Can you talk about the emotional weight jewellery can carry, particularly in the context of commitment and ritual?
Jewellery has always been more than an adornment. In the context of commitment and ritual, it becomes a vessel for memories, identity and emotions. Through the permanence of precious metals and gemstones, jewellery holds its value physically and emotionally through sentimental significance.
For couples unsure of what they’re looking for, how do you help shape something that feels true to them?
When I meet with a couple, I am careful to ensure we are a good design fit right off the bat. It’s important that my customers understand and appreciate my style and approach first and foremost and that it aligns with their character. From there, I believe it helps to try on some pieces to get a feel for what they like on their hand. Quite often after seeing a colour of stone, or style of band on their finger, the starting point for the design becomes clear.
Your pieces often feel both contemporary and timeless. How do you strike that balance in your design process?
I think this balance comes down to good design. Good design should be timeless. It should showcase elements and aesthetics that fit as a whole and surpass fleeting trends.
What are some of the less obvious considerations that go into crafting a ring someone will wear every day for life?
Some of the less obvious considerations are the overall practicality of a ring that is intended to be worn every day. Can you tuck your hand into your front pocket, can you pick up your child, ride a bike or wear it at work? It’s important that your ring isn’t something that hinders you in everyday life but is designed to be easily and joyfully worn.
And finally, what’s bringing you joy in the studio right now—are there materials, shapes, or stories you’re particularly drawn to?
Right now I am really enjoying incorporating Champagne Diamonds into my designs. I have always loved the warmth and sparkle of this stone, but lately they’ve been getting more attention and appreciation from my customers, so I’m excited to start posting a few of my recent commissions featuring Champagne Diamonds. I also love that Gold is much more popular now, either Rose or Yellow, it also has a warmth to it that looks lovely on the skin.
Learn more by visiting amybixby.com and @amy_bixby_jewellery. Explore Amy Bixby on the Together Journal Online Directory.
Amy Bixby Jewellery
