robinlee's Profile

From: Old Hickory, TN
Joined: August 02, 2009

About robinlee:

I began making jewelry while living in Los Angeles several years ago. I was searching for jewelry for an upcoming event, and was walking along Melrose Avenue -- looking for a unique shop that might have something interesting.

I came across an Antique Import shop that had some jewelry in the window. I went in and was fascinated! They had many antique imported (mostly from Africa and Asia) jewelry that was way beyond my budget. Also, the designs of these pieces were much too flamboyant for my tastes,...but, still these pieces intrigued me.

I then noticed that the shop had strings of hand-made metal beads behind the counter. I asked the owner, and he explained that the metal beads were raw metals hand-pounded and made in Ethiopia. Then I noticed an enormous clay bowl (the size of a large sink) filled with beautiful old glass beads. He explained that many of the necklaces they purchased abroad would fall apart in transfer -- they would then place the loose beads in this bowl and offer them for sale. Over time, this bowl had become quite full...

...I had an idea!

I told the owner of my interest in making jewelry. He told me to bring some of my pieces in when I was finished. I purchased some of the handmade metals and some of the antique beads and went on my way. About a week later I brought in 4 or 5 necklaces, and he offered to display them in his jewelry case for a percentage. That is how it all began!

Since that time I have added semi-precious stones to my work, but still have plenty of the metal pieces that I purchased from that import shop on Melrose. I even have quite a few of the old glass beads that I found in that enormous bowl!

I take great pride in my work, and in the comfort and durability of my jewelry. Each piece is truly a piece of art to me. You, too, will see the care with which I have taken in making each piece!

Some of the necklaces/chokers may be a bit on the small side. I will, however, add an extender chain or links at no additional charge, if requested.

I have never duplicated my work,...meaning that each of the pieces I create is "one of a kind" and exclusively my own design.

I hope you enjoy my work...