Style Setters: The Jewelry Brief Interviews Melissa Joy Manning

It is the “Wow” factor that initially draws your eye to the jewelry of Melissa Joy Manning. Her agates, quartz, druzy, and diamond slices are true products of the force of nature. Each stone is highlighted in a carefully hand-crafted mounting that enhances its beauty. The designs are organic, stunning and eminently wearable.

Based in Oakland, California, Melissa has been designing and producing American-made jewelry since 1997. Her commitment to environmental and social sustainability, as well to serve her local community, is an inspiration to us all. Melissa graciously agreed to answer a few questions for the Jewelry Brief, but I encourage you to visit her website for a more in-depth look into her work and philosophy.

What is the main source of your design inspiration?

I draw my inspiration from multiple sources. Primarily I find myself influenced by nature and its confluence with modern society and industry. Right now I think I’m attracted to simplicity of metal work and raw, natural stones because of my reactions to technology and globalization.

How would you describe your personal (jewelry) style?

I’m pretty simple personally. I wear the same jewelry every day; stacking rings, mixed gold bangles and hoops. However, I always add some twist depending on my mood- a great, organic middle or first finger ring; a statement, long necklace or a pair of my diamond and agate slice earrings. I’m usually in jeans, so I use my jewelry to add the style and mood to my outfit.

What are the most important elements of sustainable design?

Being truly sustainable! Sustainability is a lot more than calling yourself “green”. We are a certified “green” company by the County Of Alameda in California. We went through rigorous testing to receive our accreditation for our manufacturing processes; from energy use and waste treatments to work environments of our staff. We also only purchase our metal from another certified company who deals in recycled metals. Aside form being environmentally sustainable, I think it’s incredibly important to be socially sustainable. Not only do we hand make our jewelry onshore in the United States, we offer living working wages and great benefit packages that include 100% of health insurance benefits and matching investment opportunities so that our employees can plan for their futures. I’m proud to say that this isn’t a trend for us; we’ve been supporting on shore labor and sustainable manufacturing since our inception in 1997.

What can we look for in up and coming trends in materials, colors, etc of responsible design and manufacture?

I hope that we can see a return of micro manufacturing in the US. I’d like to see more consumer products made in the US under controlled, sustainable environments. I also hope that we will see consumers realize that they have the ultimate control of industry and make choices that will create positive change. As to color and materials, I’ve learned never to guess where the industry is going. For me, I’m beginning to think about an idealized union of nature and technology and how that may look…. here’s hoping it’s pretty!