About Melissa James
Melissa's process for creating and designing jewellery begins with an idea. That idea comes from either the shape, colour or markings on the stones she is working with. Placing them in different configurations can create an outline for a piece and when she is happy with the result she will put it together. It is then Melissa might decide what else to add - maybe a hammered metal shape, or a series of shapes, or possibly an antique brooch or artefact. There is always a delightful surprise when serendipity occurs.
"Picking up stones started on beaches in Cornwall. On my travels over the years I have picked up stones and artefacts wherever I go which requires doing a cull of my finds before returning to base. So I suppose it is a natural progression to being a jewellery designer.
Making jewellery started over 25 years ago in a small way but quickly grew, taking over as a business from painting murals, marbling, wood-graining, etc.
It has been a happy progression and one that changes and grows all the time."