You’ve often heard of the phrase new phone, who dis? Something Aleda can say about the progression and development of her jewelry skills and aesthetic, as she has intensely been honing her collection while finding her place in the jewelry industry. As much as she wanted to create dainty, floral motifs resembling something a mini woodland fairy would wear, this wasn’t her vibe. With Egyptian history as one of her passions — she soon realized that a scarab motif brings her more joy than it should and went with it. Always Aleda was born. Her scarab pendants soon became her best-selling piece, with collectors from all over the world coveting one (or several) to add to their necklace layers. Aleda adapted the design — now offering three different sizes — one even has enamel. Her latest scarab takes on a matte finish with a bold feel, being one of the largest.
Aleda’s jewelry designing antics have been her thing since she could remember, but truly started when she worked for a local jewelry store as a photographer back in 2012. She was supposed to be behind the camera most of the day, but ended up being back in the jewelry workshop, constantly asking the jewelers questions and watching/listening/learning. It was no surprise to them when she announced she was going to start designing and making jewelry herself. A few of her first steps into training was getting her hands dirty with some basic repairs and good ole trial-and-error. By that time, New Approach School for Jewelers was calling her name and she completed both the Basic Bench course (where she learned torch techniques and retipping prongs) and the Basic Stone Setting course. September will mark three years of having her own jewelry business, which is a milestone she is very proud of!
I have been a huge fan and friend since the very beginnings and I think it is fascinating to see someone so passionate about what she does, as well as the incredible improvement month after month. I own several pieces from her, one of which I almost never take off and often forget I’m even wearing. The Chunky Link Chain is what I’m talking about and I’m obsessed. The heftiness of the piece is wonderful and I love that each link is handmade by Aleda. If you put it next to a mass-produced chain of similar style, it’s almost laughable. I highly recommend going for it if you’re considering — it really has become a staple for me.
Aleda is looking forward to creating new designs, as her and her family recently made a big move. Her workshop is now big and spacious, and she can’t wait to get to work! Her goal is to create one new design per month, which is really exciting. She has put aside benchwork and custom work to make this goal happen in order to fully focus on creative thinking and pushing her skill beyond. I look forward to see what she creates!
Above photos are from a campaign I shot for her earlier this year!
