My Story
Unique pieces crafted by hand just for you
THE BEGINNING OF A JEWELRY ARTISAN
The best decision I ever made was to dedicate 18 years to raising my kids. As we all know, being a mom is the most important job in the world. Raising my children was truly a gift.
But as the kids got older, I had a lot more free time. I decided to look inward and engage in some self-care. Part of this journey included having a dialogue with myself, deciding what was next.
I've always enjoyed working with my hands; pottery, knitting, painting. Although enjoyable, it wasn’t “it.”
I liked things from the earth, like beads and stones specifically. I came to life in a bead store in NYC; I felt it the moment I walked in the door. I started beading bracelets and necklaces, experimenting with colors, shapes, and textures. I’m proudly self-taught. I bought the proper tools, researched and acquired materials, and after many trials and errors, my first sellable necklace was born.
I've been hooked ever since, and am passionate about creating necklaces that make women feel good as soon as they put one on.
How My Shop Started
My first piece was sold in a truly unique way, and is the reason that I now have my designs available to the world.
I was on an airplane wearing one of my necklaces. The woman sitting next to me turned and asked me where she could buy one like mine. After telling her that the necklace was handmade by me, she asked if she could buy it. I sold my first necklace off of my neck, and that was the start of Ilissa Michele Jewelry!
100% Original Designs
Each and every design is inspired by my own personal style. You won’t find these designs anywhere else.
Just the right amount of boho chic, uniqueness, and statement making.
Hand-Crafted by the Owner, Ilissa Michele
When you decide to make an Ilissa Michele piece yours, I personally take your desired design and produce it by hand from scratch in my workshop.
Materials Carefully Selected & Sourced from All Over the World
One of my favorite parts about being a jewelry artisan is the process of selecting materials. My favorite materials to work with are chain, leather, and gemstones. To me, design is not just about the way something looks, but how the materials feel in your hand and their meaning. For instance, one of my favorite stones is the Labradorite. Not only are they beautiful, but historically they’ve been valued as a stone of transformation.
Mix & Match
I want every piece to say something about the person who wears it. I want to share my designs with you, but I’d also like you to have a hand in capturing your own unique look. With this in mind, one of the pillars of my design philosophy is to make my pieces compatible with each other. For instance, wear a necklace with no charm, or add a charm for a whole new look. Or, pair multiple necklaces together for a layered look.
Versatile
Whether it’s the beginning of your work day, or the beginning of a memorable night out, I want you to feel confident about your look. These high-quality, original designs can be worn with any style, and for any occasion.
I can't wait to share my passion & personal style with you!
Please browse my designs by clicking the button below.
