Salikas' Jewels
Material Goods/Craft/Flea/Art
Inspiration & Process...
My jewelry is made in Detroit, MI by using recycled precious metals whenever possible, gemstones, fair trade beads and vintage materials like watch gears.
The art of designing jewelry is inspired by many emotions. Jewelry creations have been known as a means to express commitment & loyalty, commemorate lost loved ones, celebrate life achievements, glorify the beauty of gems etc. Using tools that are manually controlled, I can transform silver, wire and various gemstones into wearable works of art. Each piece of jewelry is born from the inspiration I am feeling at that time. Like any great works of art, the journey of creation varies from piece to piece.
Each design is like a song written from my heart. Some are created in just a few hours while others can take week(s), a couple months or more to bring from the realm of my imagination to reality. My jewelry making process combines traditional techniques like wax carving, soldering, welding, crafting, gem setting and polishing among new ones like CAD jewelry design and laser cutting.
The inspiration for my jewelry pieces come from many things... gemstones, travels, nature, the multitude of colors all around us and more. I use only the finest, quality materials from reputable jewelry and gemstone suppliers. My creative process: I usually fall in love with a particular stone, freshwater pearl, crystals, watch gears etc. and I start to get an idea of how I want to incorporate them into the design... whether it’s going to be a necklace, a bracelet or a pair of earrings. Once the design is conceptualized and finalized, I get to work and start to make that particular piece of jewelry.
Often times I end up changing the design as I go along and a new exciting piece emerges that I hadn’t previously thought of. I love working primarily with sterling silver but also other precious metals, wire etc. because the end result is very organic.
The Purpose ... My jewelry line is built around kindness, compassion, eco-friendliness, charity work and supporting fellow small local and USA based businesses. Eco-friendliness is very dear to my heart because when it comes to improving the environment, every effort, big or small counts. Building a culture of sustainability by making a conscious effort to reduce carbon footprints... all while turning out gorgeous bling, I use recycled precious metals as much as possible.
Charities… Giving back is one of the core values of my jewelry line and one of the main principals for the line’s existence. I donate to various women & children’s charities and youth organizations.
I’ve always loved taking everyday items and making them into something interesting... and artwearable.
I upcycle rejected cutlery/vintage flatware and transform it into striking and uniquely crafted jewelry. From old and unwanted knives, forks and spoons, I craft artistic and unique rings, bracelets, necklaces.
Each piece is unique, its form dictated by the form and patterns on the cutlery from which it is crafted. It's history, individuality and enduring nature is alluring. It has a way of being with you for a long time.
Stripped of their original value, these recycled materials are transformed into steampunk, one-of-a-kind creations that transcend traditional forms and challenge stereotypes.
Stephanie Whitfield
With the tag-line ‘Elegance Reborn and Redefined,’ Salikas' brings original designed top quality jewelry with very special and unique accessories to everyone, not just the privileged few. SALIKAS’ offers a diverse jewelry collection to suit all occasions. Made from the finest quality materials this Popup store showcases “Accessories with Attitude!
Although I've been making jewelry most of my life, in 2003, while still being employed as a career civil servant in state government, I decided to utilize my artistic abilities and passion for fashion to start designing and creating jewelry in preparation for retirement one day. I knew I could eventually parlay that into an entrepreneurial business. The beautifully crafted designs I create have been exhibited at various high profile organizational and artistic endeavors in the Greater Metropolitan Detroit area.The jewelry ranges from trendsetting to classic, earthy to ethnic and chunky to more refined. Necklaces, bracelets and earrings are handcrafted, utilizing sterling silver wire, chain and findings, and is ornamented with virtually all natural materials, such as: gemstones (precious & semi-precious). The utilization of color and natural materials, artistic designs, and attention to detail is exclusive to my jewelry. My designs are truly unique and mostly one of a kind.
Over the years, I’ve learned that circumstances don’t determine who you are or who you can become. My work is an extension of who I am. I'm influenced greatly by many things... consciousness, creativity, the cosmos, nature, healing and most importantly, uplifting others. I loved the process of connecting to my heart, designing each creation and infusing them with positive intentions and affirmations... then sending them out. I enjoy what I do. Its a blessing in every way. I love providing people with a product that they will love.
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