Interview With Jean Jackson of Double J Jewelry

Intelligent. Creative. Independent. These are all words that accurately describe Jean Jackson, artistic mind and founder of Double J Jewelry. This unconstrained jewelry artisan makes every piece of jewelry by hand. In many of her pieces you can see the time consuming process of wire wrapping, an elegant jewelry crafting technique that lends a sculpted and exotic look to earrings, necklaces and more. All her items are accented with specially handpicked semi-precious gemstones, glass beads and crystals resulting in colorful, sparkling and one-of-a-kind works.

For a mini biography on this talented artist: Jean currently lives with her husband and daughter in the East Bay area of San Francisco, where she was born and raised. She works in hospitality, but still keeps her passions alive by accomplishing her real job of helping to make women feel beautiful through her jewelry.

I recently had the opportunity to communicate with Jean and here’s what she had to say:

Were you always interested in designing jewelry?

I have always been interested in arts and crafts, but jewelry became my passion 3 years ago. I didn’t get heavy into design until 2 years ago. The first year I spent reading and dabbling and approached it as a craft, but now I have grown to see the artistry.

What’s been the most difficult part of running your own business? The easiest?

Paperwork is the most difficult because it takes away from creating. Keeping up my inventory sheets, pricing, sales, invoices, show applications and taxes are enough to drive me mad. In addition to that, the website is a true struggle for me because I’m not the most technical person in the world.
The easiest part for me is creating, and next to that is meeting all the great people who value the work of independent artists like me.

Is there a theme to your designs?

Not really. I just make what I like and hope others like it too. I do however really enjoy wire wrapping, anything gold or copper and lots of crystals. My goal is uniqueness and glamour when creating my pieces.

Are you a self taught jewelry artist?

Yes. I love to read and challenge myself. I do puzzles and crosswords to help keep my mind sharp and learning jewelry techniques on my own is a great exercise for the brain. Especially wire wrapping! There are tons of great books and magazines on jewelry making. I did take one class on fusing silver and hope to do lots of it in the future.

Do you find that living in the San Francisco area helps inspire your creations?

Definitely. There is no other city in the world like San Francisco. The beauty of the city alone is inspiration. But the artisan community is large and in demand. “Independent” is a word that is worshipped and cherished in the Bay Area. The amount of resources for people to create and share their art is endless. Some of the best days are spent going to Haight Street, or visiting the street vendors by Ghirardelli Square or on Telegraph in Berkeley. You will see things you’ve never imagined. The artists of the Bay Area have taught me to be true to myself and have confidence in my work. And most important, to have fun.

Does your daughter help you with your jewelry?

If I make her. (smile) No, she enjoyed it in the beginning, but now that she’s a full blown teenager and has better things to do with her time, she’ll only help if she can earn songs from iTunes for each piece she helps me make. I think she knows that I appreciate her help and most of all the time we get to spend together being creative.

Why do you feel that independent jewelry designs appeal to so many women?

The designs are generally more interesting. Plus you know that the artist is going to make one-of-a-kind or limited editions of their jewelry. We women are sentimental and we love a good story. Buying jewelry from an independent artist means you’re getting something special. And when you wear that jewelry you are reminded of a great day at a festival, or a charming night at a wine stroll, or fun afternoon at a girlfriend’s home at a jewelry party, or a romantic getaway in a place like Mendocino. It’s simply special.

Sangria Necklace
The long stranded Sangria Lariat Necklace ($35) can be worn wrapped around the neck or long down the front. Make sure that your shirt’s neckline isn’t too high, as you want the flashy glass beads and crystals to look good contrasting against your favorite top. Two mahogany Chalcedony drop charms dangle off the double end of this necklace, which comes from the Food Collection of Double J. [buy it]

The Matrix Bracelet
If you really love The Matrix Bracelet ($16), make sure to get the matching earrings and necklace that make a complete set of this cinematically inspired piece. Made with clear Swarovski crystals, a sky blue gemstone teardrop, silver nuggets and grey pearls, this is one piece that enhances both blue jeans and ballroom gowns. This comes shipped in a darling jewelry bag or box as well! [buy it]

Orangutan Earrings
When I happened upon the Orangutan Earrings ($38) I instantly knew that these were my favorite. The clever use of copper and orange does invoke imagery of the colorful fur of the great ape which this piece is named for. Made with copper toned pearl, orange and brown faceted Swarovski crystals and copper wire, these earrings are unique and meant for someone who appreciates the craftsmanship behind the beautiful design. [buy it]

For more information about Double J Jewelry, please visit Jean’s website. Also, you can click here for Jean’s Etsy page.