Carol Knoblow

Regal
Meet the Designer-Artist


Where do you live?
After residing in Southern California for most of my adult life, approximately 2 years ago I relocated to Pennsylvania to be with my fiancé.

Describe your artistic style.
I actually have two distinct styles, one combines a minimalist approach with uniquely cut, aaa, flawless gems that typically are larger in size, for a look that is both elegant and high drama. My other style, typically seen in my bracelets, is comprised of delicately hand wired colorful gems and pearls.

What inspires you as a designer-artist?
I actually began to design jewelry when I was going through an incredibly difficult period in my life. My ability to design just manifested out of nowhere. It is evident that the "right brain" was attempting to soothe the "left brain" in a time of trauma. So, believe it or not, my designs typically manifest when I am stressed, etc.

What materials do you most enjoy working with?
Topaz, pearls, fine silver, oxidized sterling, Balinese findings, 14/18Kt.

What is the name of the piece you submitted with your success story?
Regal

What inspired this design?
I purchased the 3-4mm freshwater pearls, the mint and pastel blue. I loved the mint-colored pearls, they were gorgeous. So the piece was designed around them. I pulled out other materials, rolled them around on my 160 year old desk and began to work.

How did it come together?
It was planned to be a combination of gems and pearls but it took on its own life as I was creating it.

Share Your Background


When and how did you begin making jewelry/beading?
I am a civil defense attorney by profession. Approximately 8 years ago a physician put me on a medication that caused a crushing depression. It took 8 months for another doctor to diagnose the first physician's error, i.e., that it was a medication that was causing the crushing depression. Out of nowhere I began to design jewelry, my right, creative brain took over to soothe my left brain in a time of incredible trauma.

Who introduced you to beading?
Me!

Do you have an artistic background?
Well, I was good in art throughout school, but I am a defense attorney by profession.

How did you discover Fire Mountain Gems and Beads®?
By googling about for findings.

What other hobbies do you have?
Writing.

Beading Success


What role does jewelry-making play in your life?
I literally design as I breathe. I dream designs.

If you used jewelry-making as a way to bring in income, how are you selling yourself and your jewelry?
I have an Etsy shop; I also am approached when I am wearing one of my pieces.

Do you participate in any charity fundraisers?
Yes, I've donated pieces to a variety of charities.

Any advice for aspiring jewelry-artists?
Yes, be original. Do your best to develop your own style. Do not become overwhelmed by an accomplished designer to the point wherein you begin to copy rather than create. It is ok to "copy" in your own room, simply to develop skills but when you decide to market your work, do your best to market your own designs.