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Indie Designer Interviews: Elizabeth Jewelry

Filed under: Accessories, Style in the News, Interviews

Elizabeth Jewelry necklaceWe 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 to introduce Oregon-based jewelry designer Molly Rahe of Elizabeth Jewelry (named after Molly's daughter). Molly uses only high quality materials in her work, which embodies a sophisticated elegance.

Tell us a little about yourself and your work. When I first got into the jewelry business in 1988 I set records and received awards, however, what I really wanted to do was to own my own company. So when my daughter Elizabeth was born, I spent countless hours designing and developing jewelry. I used my previous experience with other designers such as Monet Jewelers and Liz Palacios to further express my art. I helped pioneered the art of beaded jewelry in the Northwest and now teach and mentor emerging artists.

Elizabeth Jewelry is now the number one selling line of beaded jewelry in numerous stores in the Northwest, and is also found in national catalogs. Many of the beads used in Elizabeth Jewelry are exclusive to my line, and you will find them no where else.

Elizabeth Jewelry incorporates only the finest materials. Only Sterling silver, 14k gold filled and gold vermeil are use along with the genuine semi-precious gemstones, freshwater pearls, Swarovski Crystals, and Cubic Zirconia.

Elizabeth Jewelry is founded in principals of quality and value. Every handmade piece is backed by lifetime "No-Fault" guarantee. Just mail back the remaining beads, and if no beads are missing there is no charge for remaking the piece of jewelry! No kidding! Even if your cat made it a toy, if you have all of the beads, I will restring it free of charge. Fees apply is additional beads are needed for repair, but they are usually nominal. There is a $2.00 charge for postage. So when you have a piece of Elizabeth Jewelry, you can be assured that you will have it for life! I also make single earrings at half price if you loose one.

Elizabeth Jewelry earringsHow did you get started as a designer? I was the top seller for Monet Jewelers back in 1989, #1 in sales internationally, I fell in love with merchandising, and creating new designs became a dream at that point.

What inspires your work? Historical fashion from the 1920s to the 30s. My daughter, Elizabeth, who is a real beauty. Nature. Everything is from nature anyways.

Who are your favorite designers? Monet and Liz Palocios and Tiffanys

What are your top fashion & beauty must-haves? A good pair of deliciously fun yet comfy shoes. My Sterling cabachons. I have a dozen in different colors waiting at my door, so I am never without one.. I can put them in one handed! Which is great if you have kids!

Any advice you would give to aspiring designers? Give. Pass out all teachings you have learned to the next person. Do not fear. Especially don't fear others stealing ideas or styles. Always meditate on the positive, no matter how "facts" many be.

Where can people find your work? My web site has a store listing, which is about 25 stores. I also have a show schedule on my website. My work can also be found at my etsy shop.

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