The great thing about jewelry is that you can wear it in any season, and spice up your fit even when it’s too hot to wear extra layers. Nashville is home to countless talented jewelry designers who make their art in town. They do so at all price points, so whether you’re looking for a high-dollar piece or something affordable to lift your spirits (or just to shout your love of the tomato), you can find something handmade, local, and one-of-a-kind.
Mclaine Richardson bought Margaret Ellis Jewelry when her mentor, its eponymous owner, retired in 2013. She relaunched the brand, keeping the name as an honor, but now often refers to it as “ME.” At ME, Richardson makes and sells 18K gold, sterling silver and other pieces from a Berry Hill studio, which is open to the public. Hang out on the patio, pet the shop dog, and pick out a new bauble. ME designs are also sold at Alice on Charlotte Pike.
This East Nashville jewelry designer has been making bright, modern, affordable pieces for two decades. The gift shop is also stocked with lots of other fun non-jewelry items, including puzzles, hats, scarves, and books. Currently, the inventory includes many tomato-themed items, so stock up for Tomato Art Fest before they sell out. Check out their blog for tutorials and class information if you want to try some DIY.
One of my favorite pieces of jewelry is from fellow Inglewooder Jennie Okon. It’s a big dome ring with a secret miniature world inside. I look at the trees and the river and dream of being outside when I’m at my desk. Okon sells at events around town, most recently the Gay Farmers Market and Nashville Pride. You can also buy from her website and then pick up in her studio near Riverside Village, where you’ll be tempted by more shiny objects.
Judith Bright is a thoughtful entrepreneur who turned her passion for making jewelry into a national brand and her second act. A former nurse, she taught other artisans to handcraft designs, which can be customized with specific gemstones from the studio in 12 South (one of the OG locally owned businesses in the neighborhood). And she trained the next generation: Bright’s son, William, is now the company CEO.
