Jewelry Artists

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Suzanne Suber

"Crystal" (with a French accent)
 Meet the Designer-Artist

Where do you live?
Estero, Florida

What inspires you as a designer-artist?
I am inspired by the beauty and richness that surrounds us. From the emerald green waters off the Gulf Coast of Florida, the aquamarine and sapphire of the Caribbean, the colors of sea shells and flowers, blue skies dotted with puffy white clouds, the vibrancy of semiprecious stones, the rich styles of the Renaissance of Europe and endless cultures of our world, the collections of beauty stored inside my heart and subconscious is what inspires me.

What medium do you work with mostly?
Soutache, Crystal Passions crystals and pearls, Czech glass beads, semiprecious stones, ultra suede, etc.

Why did you become enchanted with this style of jewelry-making?
I became enchanted by soutache jewelry when I first saw "Helen of Troy" by Anneta Valious. It reminded me of the beautiful fine hand stitching that I learned from my grandmother in France when I was very young. She was a true artist with needle and thread. At first I had a hard time finding the supplies I needed and I was a bit rusty. Now it brings me so much pleasure that it is difficult to put down or be away from for more than a day. The technique is very therapeutic for me.

Where and How do you sell your jewelry?
I mostly sell my creations at art shows, presentations, luncheons, trunk shows and online. http://frenchmermaidcollection.blogspot.com

What is the name of the piece you submitted with your success story?
Crystal (with a French accent)

What inspired this design?
The crystal focal inspired this bridal showpiece. It seemed to create itself one stitch at a time.

How did it come together?
Hand-embroidered soutache jewelry is my specialty. I start with my focal, assemble complimenting colors of soutache braid, crystals and pearls, Czech glass beads, semiprecious stones, etc. I start with an idea in my mind and apply fine hand stitching. Then the creative process takes over as beads are lovingly cradled within more layers of soutache braids. I never know what the finished product will look like, but I'm always pleased with the results.