Feature Friday - Q&A with Michelle Chang of Michelle Chang Jewelry

As you all know by now, I just L-O-V-E skull jewelry.  Perhaps it's the former search and recovery dog handler in me.  Irregardless, I was thrilled when I stumbled on Michelle Chang Jewelry.  The first time I found her was on her Etsy store but when I saw that she also has her on website....THRILLED!

What I really love about her skulls is that they aren't what you typically see.  They are a unique combination of dainty and tough.  Perfection.  Personally, my favorite is her Baby Skull Necklace in 14K gold with diamonds on a sterling silver chain.  Her stylized interpretation is just wonderful.

So, I hope you enjoy today's Feature Friday Q&A with the stunning Michelle Change of Michelle Chang Jewelry!

Michelle Chang in her studio.

1.  What prompted your passion for jewelry and jewelry design?

I have a love for accessories and a background in fine art and design.  I loved sculpture when in school, so to me jewelry making allows me to dip from all those wells.

2.  What is your favorite piece or collection?

The snake tail line.  Its simple, elegant and easy to wear.

Mini Mismatched Snake Stud Earrings in 14K gold with diamonds, $228.  Also available with ruby or sapphire eyes.
These are another of my personal favorites by Michelle Chang.  So cute & can be worn every day with anything!

3.  What would your perfect “jewelry day” involve / be like?

Lots of orders, with happy customers writing to me about how pleased they are with their purchases.  Introducing new products is always interesting..to see the reaction.

This is my FAVORITE necklace by Michelle!  The Baby Skull Necklace in 14K gold & silver with diamonds, $246.
Isn't it wonderful?!?!  It's perfect to wear every day but edgy enough for a night out.

4.  Thus far, what would you say is your proudest jewelry moment or memory?

When I had my first solo show on FAB.com which sold out most of my pieces within a day.

5.  Where do you find your greatest inspiration?

There is no "greatest"...practically everywhere...but I love nature as the best source of inspiration.  You can’t do better than mother nature...merely pay homage. 

Tiny Ring Earrings in 14K gold, $138.

6.  In your personal wardrobe, do you find that you gravitate to one particular jewelry accessory (rings vs. necklace vs. bracelets vs. watches, etc.) more often than others?

Most of the time, necklaces - as rings are hard to work with since I use my hands. 

I Heart U Necklace in 14k gold & sterling silver, $134.  This is a perfect gift necklace!

7.  When putting together an outfit, how do you feel about mixing metals, designs and even new with vintage pieces?

I actually like doing that.  Mixed metals and mixed periods I think makes perfect sense these days...as fashion is now not clearly defined by a specific trend or aesthetic.  There seem to be more of a trend towards individual and unique expression which includes mixing and matching anything and everything. 

Ok, so this is my other 'Wish List' necklace from Michelle Chang...The Double Block Letter Initial Necklace in 14k gold, $368.
I adore it!  It's perfect for customizing (I'm thinking one letter is rose or white gold & one in yellow...) & everyday wear. 

8.  Layering seems to be a trend that is here to stay, for now. What are your feelings on the layered look?  How do you like layered necklaces with layered bracelets plus layered rings? 

I personally like layering but you can’t layer without thought...seems like sometimes people layer too much.  Fewer pieces can have more of an impact.

Double Baby Skull Ring in 14k gold & silver with diamonds, $350.  Perfect to bring a little edge to
a set of vintage, stacked rings.  This ring is subtle but has a big pressence!

9.  What advice would you give to budding jewelry designers? To budding fine jewelry collectors?

Try to be individualistic.  I don’t really scrutinize too much what other designers are doing...of course totally ignoring them is impossible, but too much looking at other people can curtail your unique tendencies.  

For jewelry collectors:  Just buy and wear what you feel comfortable and drawn to.  That way you will be wearing what makes you an individual...jewelry should emphasize your aesthetics and tastes.

Flash Question - Dream trip destination?

Africa

Snake Necklace No. 2 in 14k gold, $590.

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