Life & Work with Alexandria Haynes

Today we’d like to introduce you to Alexandria Haynes.

Hi Alexandria, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
After taking a welding class at ACC and falling in love with the craft but, not the big industrial equipment, I took up foraging jewelry as it shares many similarities on a much smaller scale. I make everything by hand out of sheets and wire or through the lost wax casting method. Working with metals keeps me sharp and calm while adorning beautiful people with jewels and amulets I’ve made with love and care gives me a purpose.

I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
The constant increase in the cost of materials and cost of living make pricing my work difficult. It can be challenging to find an audience that is willing to spend their hard-earned money on hand-forged jewelry made by one person out of precious metals and gemstones. The road hasn’t hit the smooth part quite yet but I’ll let you know when it does! For now, I am learning all about the ebb and flow of having a small business and appreciating every moment.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I create one-of-a-kind gems, jewels, and amulets out of precious metals and gemstones. I love working with clients to create custom pieces and always have fun forging a wearable armory or setting stones. I try to intertwine my admiration for antiquity, black metal, and fantasy into all of my pieces. From idea to conception, every movement and decision serves a purpose.

Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
I owe this journey to each and every person who has supported my work, allowing me to spend the time improving in this beautiful craft. My day-job colleagues and employer (at a local jewelry store) are always there to help me when I have a question (or melt something!). My partner, for so much, but particularly for helping me at every market day. If you’ve seen my setup… I bring most of the living room with me!

Pricing:

• Sterling Silver Necklaces $65+
• Sterling Silver Earring(s) $20+
• Sterling Silver Rings $50+
• Most pieces hover around $100

Contact Info:

• Website: echoandmaiden.com
• Instagram: www.Instagram.com/echoandmaiden
• Twitter: www.twitter.com/echoandmaiden