We are so excited to be celebrating a decade of Valerie Madison Fine Jewelry! Learn more about our founder, Valerie's, experience getting started in the jewelry industry, her favorite memories, most cherished pieces, inspiration, and advice she would give her younger self or others wanting to start a career in jewelry.
Getting to know Valerie
What first inspired you to get into designing jewelry?
I have always been an observer of details – my friends joke that I can see things they haven't even noticed. I started making jewelry in college as a way to pass the time, and my passion for it quickly grew. With that passion came confidence in my ability to design pieces that not only have intricate details but are also comfortable and functional.
What drives, inspires, or motivates you?
Beauty and the ability to execute things well. One of the things that sets me apart from other jewelry designers is that I had years of experience at the bench which means that I understand how goldsmithing and stone setting work. That’s an invaluable trait that ensures our jewelry is going to be made right and you can trust that I will be able to design pieces for you that are not only beautiful but they will also last.
Are there any of your designs that stand out to you and why?
My Sacred Heart pendant is a design that resonates with me strongly due to my upbringing but I think I’ve also managed to design the piece with symbolism that my customers will appreciate, too, plus, it's just so pretty to look at! My hope is to have more time soon to work on more pieces like this because they give me a specific joy that is different from other areas of my work.
Do you have a favorite gemstone or material to work with? Why is it your favorite?
Gold, first and foremost. The first time I worked with gold, I melted it on accident because I was impatient and hadn’t developed the skills. I learned to work with gold over the years and really came to understand it and it’s temperament, learning how far you could push it and how you could set stones in it. Fast forward to today and I no longer work at the bench but gold forever changed my life and I love to see how the industry continues to innovate and evolve with this timeless material.
What advice would you give yourself 10 years ago when you were just starting out?
If I could give myself advice from 10 years ago, I would say to trust myself and my abilities sooner. Embrace the challenges and learn from them, as they are essential for growth. Surround yourself with a supportive network and never underestimate the power of persistence. And go easy on yourself, you're only human.
For someone interested in starting a career in designing jewelry, what advice would you give them?
For someone interested in starting a career in designing jewelry, my advice would be to immerse yourself in the craft and never stop learning. Take the time to develop your skills, whether through formal education, workshops, or self-teaching. Network with other professionals in the industry to gain insights and build relationships. Trust your creativity and don't be afraid to experiment with new ideas. Most importantly, be patient and persistent; success in this field often comes with time and dedication.
Looking Ahead
Where you do you see Valerie Madison Fine Jewelry 10 years from now?
As a Seattle native, I'd love to explore having a shop in a different neighborhood, like West Seattle. I see Valerie Madison Fine Jewelry becoming a recognized name in the industry, known for our commitment to quality, sustainability, and unique designs. I envision expanding our presence both online and through additional brick-and-mortar locations, reaching a broader audience while maintaining our personalized customer experience. We'll keep innovating with our designs, staying at the forefront of trends, and fostering a positive, inclusive company culture that reflects our values. Ultimately, I want our brand to be synonymous with timeless elegance and exceptional craftsmanship.
What goals do you have for the future of your company?
I’d like to continue down our path of being a reputable jewelry store in Seattle and grow our presence among Seattle residents and beyond. I will always, always be your trustworthy source of jewelry online, too!