About the Artist

Historically Inspired Designs began in 2006, almost by accident! While looking for ways to pay the mortgage on my new-old house in Richmond's eclectic Northside, I began creating jewelry for sale at Historic Jamestowne during the hectic 400th anniversary year. Focused on providing high-quality, affordable hand-crafted jewelry for the museum store market, the business grew quickly. Historically Inspired Designs products can now be found at museum stores across the Commonwealth of Virginia and around the country.

In 2007, I expanded Historically Inspired Designs to focus more attention on the retail market. My products are now featured on several ecommerce websites including Etsy, Mintd, and Dawanda. I can also be found at select fine craft shows and markets around Central and Northern Virginia, particularly during the holiday season.

My nine-to-five job is working as a museum curator, so I spend my days steeped in the past and it has deeply influenced my style.

My jewelry is inspired by the materials, patterns, shapes, colors, and textures of the past. I love to work with ceramic, glass, freshwater pearls, cloisonne, and sterling silver as well as a wide variety of found and salvaged objects. My emphasis is on creating classic and modern designs that both evoke the past and are completely wearable today.

I also offer a unique line of handmade accessories and housewares that nicely complements my jewelry. Featured products include magnets, pocket mirrors, paperweights, and trinket boxes made using original antique magazines, dictionaries, maps, and other ephemera.