We love all of the amazing independent designers out there. In order to find out more about just what makes all of these creative types tick, we present to you an ongoing segment called Indie Designer Interviews.

We'd like you to meet designer Jean Jackson of Double J Jewelry. This San Francisco area based designer creates one of a kind jewelry by wrapping fine-gauge wire, beads and stones into intricate sculptural formations, which lend an exotic and unique look to her jewelry.

Tell us a little about yourself and your work. Double J Jewelry is a collection of fashion jewelry that features hand sculpted and wire wrapped pieces using a variety of metals with semi-precious stones, Swarovski crystals, pearls, and high end glass beads. Uniqueness and glamour are the main appeal when I'm designing the jewelry.

I love the West Coast. I was born and raised in San Francisco. As a teenager I used to hang out on Haight Street or sneak over to Telegraph Avenue in Berkeley to buy stuff from indie designers. Those times had a real influence on my style and current way of living. I'm always rooting for the little guy. I think this is why my main goal like so many other indie designers is to keep my jewelry affordable. And I believe I've been able to create some great looking jewelry while keeping costs down. I really love gold and copper, and recently fell in love with rose gold which you will be seeing in my newest collection.

How did you get started as a designer? I gave up a career to stay home with my daughter who was in elementary school at the time. So I really had to start watching my wallet. I have always been crafty, but with a tighter budget I began to pay more attention to how things were made and began making things instead of buying them. I would make a bracelet here, a necklace there, or an occasional gift for a friend. The feedback was always kind and eventually I was making more and more jewelry. It took over my dining room. Then one day my sweet husband says to me "Do something with this stuff, I want our dining room back!" So I began doing craft fairs, and found a couple of shops near my home that support local artisans. It has become a full-time job and I love it.

Any advice you would give to aspiring designers? Confidence. You have to love what you are doing and believe in yourself. I know that's easier said than done, I'm my own worst critic. But I do love the jewelry I create. I create it with good intentions and passion and I think my clients can feel that. I always remind myself that jewelry is very personal and my jewelry is not for everyone. You can't be all things to all people. Just focus on what you love. And have fun!

What inspires your work? Everything. The clothes in my closet, food on my plate, graffiti, a favorite song, rocks, anything. I get a lot of ideas just from seeing a sea of stones and crystals at my local bead store or gem fair.

Who are your favorite designers? I prefer indie for the one-of-a-kind or limited edition pieces. I love Solsis, created by designer Stephanie Engel. She creates amazing clothes for the soul. The colors and fabrics are unbelievable. I also really dig Velvet Leaf. They create eco-friendly fashion. Really cute and creative designs.

What are your top fashion & beauty must-haves? I love wearing jeans with cute tops. Love tank tops. I have curly hair so I like my messy buns. Mascara and gloss are all I need.

Where can people find your work?
www.DoubleJJewelryDesigns.com
www.DoubleJJewelry.Etsy.com

Or if they are in the SF Bay Area, they can catch me at a local art festival or visit Artist Xchange in San Fransisco, or HandWorks in Danville. I keep my events page on my website current, so please visit anytime.