Recycled gold, conflict-free diamonds, and the cutest jeweler up the central coast. Yep, we’re tucked into the San Luis Obispo, California studio of Jess Hannah this morning talking Moleskines (obsession-level), Fleetwood Mac and the coolest snake ring out there. Jess’ new brand jewelry line, J. Hannah, is a little sassy, simple, and full of meaning. Drool over her work (pictured above), enjoy a glimpse into a day-in-the-life of an independent jeweler, then get to shopping with our special offer for readers below!
Maybe it was being around my mother’s constant crafting, or maybe it was my father’s appreciation for finely constructed furniture and automobiles, but for as long as I can remember, working with my hands and expressing my creativity has been a part of my daily routine.I first discovered my love for jewelry early on when I inherited some incredible pieces after my grandmother passed away. These weren’t simple costume rings and necklaces, they were elegant and exceptionally crafted, timeless, and held the charm of a different era. When I began working with gold, I found inspiration in these pieces and today they are still some of my favorites in my jewelry box.I believe jewelry should be designed to make you feel connected to it. So I aspire to create jewelry for how it should be worn, never taken off. From the designing to the naming of my pieces, I hope to bring beauty, confidence and power of celestial proportions to the modern woman.Global consciousness is a priority for me. When it comes to my work, I only use recycled solid 14kt gold and conflict-free diamonds. When it comes to my brand, I make a point of highlighting women-run businesses (you go girls!) and featuring items only handmade in the USA.
Name:
Jess Hannah, J. Hannah Fine Jewelry.
Daily necessity:
Tea.
To get the creative juices flowing I...
Doodle in my sketchbook.
Favorite object on my desk:
I have mostly tools on my desk (AKA jeweler’s bench). My favorite tool is definitely my torch. I’m a bit of a pyro.
Favorite morning of the week:
Nothing beats sleeping in on a Sunday. Mondays are second because I love getting emails on Monday morning.
At 10:00 am I am usually:
Checking my email or working on social media.
My favorite current project is:
It’s a secret! I’m working on a limited edition collab… stay tuned for more details.
My favorites paper goods:
I have tons of the little Moleskine Cahier Journals
. One in my purse, one in my bedside table, one on my desk. I like to draw ideas when they come to me, so I don’t forget them. I am also a list-making addict. I make a to-do list every single morning. I also use them to write down my dreams. It’s always interesting to look up the meaning when you have an odd one.
Soundtrack in the studio:
I really love older stuff. I listen to Fleetwood Mac and Talking Heads and Tom Petty on repeat. Currently, I have also been listening to a lot of Haim – they are so girl power, I love it. I am also a big fan of public radio.
Most common visitors:
My cat Olive always wants to see what I am doing. She is very inquisitive and sometimes even sits on my lap as I work.
The snack we always keep on hand:
I love really crunchy grapes. Also, lately, I have been slicing up cucumbers and eating them with salt sprinkled on top.
Easiest way to brighten up the space is:
Plants! I have little cacti and other succulents all over.
Favorite way to spend the lunch hour:
Eating lunch! I’ll make something at home or meet a friend or boyfriend for lunch. I like to get out of the house and walk around. It’s a nice way to break up the day.
My necessary extravagance is:
Going out to dinner. Good food is worth the splurge.
My top distraction is:
Instagram! Always on it…
Books always in studio:
I have this great book on how to draw jewelry for fashion.
Organizational item I can’t live without:
iCal. I schedule everything I do on iCal. I am also really into color coding. People are always really amazed when they see my iCal, it’s funny.
Love Jess’ jewelry creations as much as we do? Use promo code 20OFF4U (“twenty off for you”) for 20% off your first purchase on JHannahJewelry.com!
