Handmade jewelry for sensitive skin
Handmade jewelry sold by the artist, I make jewelry using wire wrapping and basic metal smithing techniques to create one of a kind jewelry. You can see my entire catalog online, or you can come to the shop to see it yourself, or discuss a custom order.
I use niobium, titanium, and Argentium sterling silver to create jewelry that won't irritate your skin. Custom orders welcome. Read more information about nickel allergies at www.naturallynickelfree.com
Keywords: Jewelry, Nickel-free, Allergy-safe, Handmade, Artisan, Handcrafted, Custom Orders, Jewelry Design, Sold directly by the artist, Small Business, Independently owned, Des Moines Iowa
Interview Q&A
How long have you been in business?
Since 2010
What is your primary product or service?
Artisan made nickel-free jewelry.
How did you first become interested in your line of business? (if owner) - What is your background? (If owner or store manager)
I have a nickel allergy, myself, and when I started piecing together the answers to many of my own questions, I began to believe that I had some things to share that others would care about. As my knowledge developed I decided to develop my jewelry making skills and begin creating jewelry that was both unique and safe to wear. I began by selling online at ArtFire. I now have an online presence in three locations, I sell at occasional local craft shows, and I have some items for sale and the shop, which my husband and I rent locally.
How do you differentiate yourself from other businesses in your category and area?
Jewelry in general is a pretty full market, but my jewelry is safe to wear even if you have a nickel allergy. I do not churn out the same pieces over and over, each piece is made one-at-a-time and is one-of-a-kind. I am also available for specific questions and custom orders. I have spent hours, weeks, and months doing my own research on everything from the nature of metal itself, to how skin allergies work.
How many locations do you have and do you have plans to expand?
Besides my online shops, my current location is at 2620 E. 9th Street. This is a shared location with my husband's computer service business, which allows us both space to grow and meet our customers. I would like to establish a regular schedule of my own so that customers can always find me. I would also like to start doing a few more craft shows each year. I am open to doing jewelry parties in local homes, and would love to share details with anyone who is interested in hosting.
Provide detailed directions to your location
The shop is at the corner of E. 9th Street and Morton Avenue in Des Moines. You can take I-235 from either direction, then take the E. 14th Street exit heading North. Continue until you get to Morton Avenue (you will begin to see buildings for Grandview College here), and turn left. continue 5 blocks until you get to E. 9th Street. Parking is available southbound on E. 9th Street, or eastbound on Morton Ave. The address is clearly marked near the door.
What type of payments do you accept?
Personal Check or Credit Card with ID. Cash with exact change only, please.
Which areas do you service?
Whoever wants to come in, or you can find my shop online and I'll ship anywhere in the world, that USPS can deliver to. http://shop.naturallynickelfree.com
Who owns your company or runs daily operations?
I run the company, but my husband and I share the shop. We each run our own business through the same storefront, making a true "mom & pop" enterprise. The hours listed on MWF are also my husband's regular shop hours, and if you come at this time, he can help you with check-out or some questions.
What are your hours of operation?
M-W-F from 8 am to 5:00 pm, or Tuesday & Thursday by appointment.
What is the best compliment anyone can give you?
Didn't I see you at the rally?
What is your favorite quote or Bible verse?
Art enables us to find ourselves and lose ourselves at the same time. - Thomas Merton