Woolybear Artisan Jewelry

Woolybear Artisan Jewelry (named after our St. Bernard) is designed and handmade by me in my home studio back in the woods of northern Vermont. There I use semiprecious stones and vintage objects to create jewelry that is funky and feminine, with a bohemian feel. I also like to give a playful nod to beautiful objects from the past.

My company began 20 years ago as a spin-off from my fiber design business.  I was crocheting hats that were adorned with strings of beads, and at some point I realized that I enjoyed making the strings of beads more than the hats themselves. So I happily veered off into jewelry design, and kept the name.  Some people think that "Woolybear" is a silly name for a jewelry company ("Who wants fuzzy jewelry??"), but as yet I haven't felt inspired to alter it. And I delight in paying homage to the memory of my sweet 200-pound pup.

Much of my work is one-of-a-kind.  I love to incorporate interesting vintage and antique pieces into my necklaces.  Favorites include miniature penknives, mechanical pencils, perfume vials and buttonhooks. My knife necklaces have been universally popular over the years. I like to describe them as feminine and “edgy” (no pun intended).

I also design double and triple-wrap bracelets using a variety of semiprecious stones. Some are accented with rough nuggets or Tahitian pearls. These bracelets feature a strong magnetic clasp, which makes them a breeze to put on and take off by oneself without begging for help. Great on a rushed morning. The triple-wrap can also be worn as a necklace.

Woolybear Artisan Jewelry is known for its unusual and subtle color combinations. My art background has nourished my sense of color over the years, and colorplay has become one of the hallmarks of my jewelry.

I spend a great deal of time searching out the highest quality stones for my pieces. This means that you are receiving stones that are clear and reflective, with precise faceting and intense hues. Likewise, I use only the best quality clasps, crimps and stringing materials. Your bracelet or necklace will be sturdy, even though it may look delicate, and I will gladly repair anything for just the cost of the return postage.

I love to hear from my customers. Please be in touch!

Barbara

barbara.whitchurch@gmail.com