Q&A: Kerrie Yeung Jewelry

 Kerrie Yeung Jewelry is a modern jewelry company out of Brooklyn, New York that specializes in unique hand-crafted pieces. I caught up with the creator Kerrie Yeung, to learn more about the process of creating jewelry that makes a powerful statement.

Enjoy the interview below. 

To learn more about Kerrie Yeung Jewelry be sure to check out their website and facebook page.

1. How did you get your start in designing jewelry?

I fell into studying Jewelry and Metalsmithing when I took an introductory course during my first year of college at RISD. I was really attracted to the idea of working with my hands on small components. Before devoting my studies to jewelry design, I actually considered furniture design but I quickly learned that working with massive objects was not really my forte.

2. What inspires you to create?

I love looking at historical jewelry, especially ancient gold jewelry. The amount of time and labor spent on the pieces is just extraordinary. It’s always inspiring to see what can be created by hand with just simple tools.

3. What do you love about working with the materials you use?

Many of my rings start as wax carvings. I love wax because it’s very a forgiving material that’s fun to experiment with. As a metalsmith, I enjoy playing with fire and melting metal. The entire process from wax to liquid metal to finished product is like magic!

4. Do you have a favorite piece you have made ?

My favorite piece from The Originals Collection is the Pod Studs.  I went through many iterations and samples to get the proportions and the size of little dots just right. Plus, I’m such a fan of dots!

5. Describe your style aesthetic.

I’m drawn to simple well-made designs. I tend to stick with my uniform which consists of a good pair of black jeans and a well-fitted white tank top. I shy away from anything that’s too extravagant or over designed.

6. Any current obsessions you would like to share?

I’m obsessed with, and started collected anything with, a positive sign. I’ve even made a pair of earrings with the uplifting symbol. Lately, I’ve also fallen in love with Cereal Magazine. The photography captures simple objects and landscapes in the most tasteful way, highlighting beauty in our everyday surrounding. It’s a feeling I aspire to capture in my own work.

7. What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?

My mom always told me that I already have more than I think I need, and to make the best of what I have now. I remind myself of this everyday.

8. What is one jewelry item you think is a “must-have” for every women?

I think there’s something very powerful about the classic signet ring. Signet rings go back to ancient Egypt and were used as an individual's personal seal. There’s an authority to this ring that I think every women should possess!

9. Any advice you would like to give to aspiring jewelry designers?

Be proud of what you make and don’t be afraid to tell people about it! The best part about this art form is that you can wear it so when others see you, they immediately see your work too. Embrace that!

10. Any exciting designing plans for the upcoming months?

I’m planning my next collection, and I hope to incorporate stones and/or diamonds in my new designs. I’ve been wanting to work with stones for a while now!