When was the Rory Ashton Trinket Collection founded? In 2006.

Tell me about what lead you to study design & what do you love most about designing?

I knew from the get go that I wanted to be a part of all things glitz and glamour. From a very early point in my life I was into creating and re-creating things that looked more “me”. Initially jewelry was something I just dipped my toes in, making pieces here and there for friends and anyone willing to buy. Once I realized people were willing to buy I dove in full throttle. What I love most about designing would be having the sky as my limit; I see something and know I can re-create it in jewelry form whether or not it’s a inspiring piece of art or something small like a tiny little bird.

What gave you the idea or spark to create the Rory Ashton Trinket Collection?

It really wasn’t a moment where a light bulb went off in my head…I slowly but surely figured out that people liked my work as much as I did and I took a leap.

Tell me a little about that inspires you to create?

I would say the ocean. Before I even had a knack for jeweling, I was always fascinated by the ocean. If I am alone you will find me watching the Discovery Channel ocean documentaries; with my beads out in front of me. I will literally sit down and pause the show when I see an extraordinary reef or a colorful fish and mimic the colors with stones.

Tell me about your currently items?

I want my jewelry to be enjoyed and inspire people to create new looks around the pieces; therefore they need to be attainable. I have priced everything in my current line from $30-$60.

What are some of your favorite pieces from the current collection?

My current favorite would be the “Sea Star” earring, I just love its nautical feel, not to mention it goes with everything!

What’s next for the Rory Ashton Trinket Collection? New designs? New color? New styles?

I am currently working on a new collection that I am very thrilled with. The line will still have a familiar look, but it will have more romantic, vintage tones. I will also be tying in some new textiles such as vintage silk and chandelier pieces to really bring the girlish feel up a notch. I believe this collection will be popular and a fresh take on an old color palette.

Tell me about your love of the environment and what you are currently doing to incorporate this passion into your company? What has been your customer response to this?

I really do believe small steps can create big results. I am passionate about the environment; it is where I draw my inspiration from! For the month of July I am donating 10% of all orders to The Marine Mammal Center. The center’s staff and volunteers aid in rehabilitation, rescue and research of seals, sea lions, sea otters, dolphins, and more.  This is to lend a helping hand to the animals affected by the Gulf Coast oil spill.

My entire creative process is completely done by hand. This means from beginning to end, not one high powered piece of equipment is used, no energy is wasted. Each piece radiates individuality by being quirky and having a “hand-wired” look. We have a choice as designers of any sort of media to take the more “environmentally friendly” route and that is something that from the begging has been important to me.

In general, what has been the overall response from the public to your designs?

I have been so lucky to have the following that I have. So many women have related to me as a person and to my jewelry. For the longest time I was convinced that people were buying my things just to be nice and supportive. I still get excited when someone compliments me by purchasing something. I am so close with each design; they feel like my little babies. When I see people wearing them I believe no matter what level of success I achieve, that will always be by far the best part of doing what I do.

You can find the full Rory Ashton Trinket Collection at www.roryashton.com.  You’ll love every earring and ring you see!

Congratulations Victoria Rickert!  Hope you enjoy these beautiful earrings!

Leslie Chatman is a chic thirtysomething from Dallas with a passion for jewelry.  Leslie is the owner and designer of LunaTeal Jewelry.  She also writes for the fine art of jewelry, a jewelry blog.  Follow her on Twitter: @lunateal.

Tags: fashion, giveaway, jewelry, style