About the Artist: "For as long as I can remember, I’ve been a creative person. I was born and raised near Cleveland, Ohio with an artistic mother who taught and encouraged me to create. From sewing and crafting as a child, to painting, drawing, and metalsmithing in high school. In college, my love of art and design took me to New Orleans, where I continued my studies and explored ceramics, printmaking, and fiber art at Loyola University." "I started Heart’s Desire Jewelry while living in the San Francisco Bay Area because I love working with my hands to create something beautiful for others to enjoy. I have always felt the need to live a creative life. To me, living a creative life means listening to your heart and soul, to bring to life your most passionate dreams. Recently, my heart has brought me to eastern North Carolina where I continue to learn, explore, create and live in gratitude. Thank you for your interest in my art."About My Materials "I’m committed to seeking out materials that are remarkably unique, so that I can craft jewelry that tells a story of intrigue, interest, and inspiration. Every element surprises me and captures my attention, whether it’s a rare gemstone, a shimmering pearl, or other exotic elements like ancient fossils and artifacts. I’m fascinated by color and textures, often drawing on my everyday experiences like bright hues from blossoms in a garden, the shapes in a city scape or the way waves on the ocean catch the sunlight." "It’s important to me to take great care in how I source my materials, so I make a commitment to work with suppliers I trust and respect. Many of my gems are cut by a family-operated business based in Jaipur who I admire because of their ethical business standards, and because they’re artists themselves. Another supplier whom I appreciate is a world traveler; she often presents her gem findings to me in their natural state, as close to how she found them as possible–unearthed and without enhancements. I use .925 sterling silver, .999 fine silver, gold-fill, vermeil, and solid gold. To lessen my environmental impact, I work with vendors who sell recycled metals, and I recycle my metal scraps, as well. It’s a small step, but it can make a big difference to minimize my effect on the environment, which I hope can help promote a healthier world." Want to see more of Ann Marie Hodrick's work, and others? Visit our Instagram!