Looking for the perfect present? These versatile accessories will elevate any outfit and delight even the most stylish person on your list.
In our Featured Shop series, we shine a light on a standout shop from Etsy’s talented seller community, offering readers a behind-the-scenes look at their process and story. This month, it's all about the stunning handmade jewelry from Gem & Blue.
When made with the customer in mind, a piece of jewelry can act like a mirror: expressing and reflecting your unique sense of style and personality into the world. And in Gem & Blue's universe, the sky's the limit—a necklace can be a sunbeam, earrings can be tiny bolts of lightning, and a ring can be a delicate pearl moon. Named one of Etsy’s best earring shops, the Denver-based jewelry company run by metalsmith and stone-setter Krista Young offers adornments that, in her own words, “hold an air of power and confidence.” Krista blends silver and gold with a dazzling array of gemstones (think moonstone, lime turquoise, jade, lapis, aquamarine, and many more) to craft bold-yet-understated pieces. “Because most of my jewelry is made to order,” she says, “I really am making unique pieces for each customer.” Read on to find out more about her inspiration and process, and to explore Gem & Blue’s elegant and expressive jewelry.
SHOP: Moss agate necklace from Gem & Blue, $83
SHOP: Pearl shell necklace from Gem & Blue, $72
SHOP: Raw aquamarine stud earrings from Gem & Blue, $87
SHOP: Oyster turquoise ring from Gem & Blue, $75
Why Gem & Blue should be on your radar: Whether you’re looking for chunky hoops, charm necklaces that reflect your style (mini mushroom or a tiny cowboy boot, anyone?), or a shimmering ring, each of Gem & Blue’s pieces are perfect as a gift to a loved one (or yourself)—and made with true care. “Quality materials and craftsmanship are highly important to me,” Krista says. “Most pieces begin as a basic drawing, which is often based on a stone I’m wanting to highlight or a sentiment I want to convey. I then carve a wax mold of the design for casting or hand forge metal to get a physical piece. From there I remove imperfections, sand, polish, and set stones. I put my hands on every single thing that is shipped out.”
The best investment pieces for your wardrobe: With such a gorgeous and stylish selection, it’s hard to pick just one piece of jewelry from Gem & Blue’s collection. But two rings rise to the top as the shop’s bestsellers: the earth-toned spotted jasper ring, with deer-like markings, and the mesmerizing, multi-colored oyster turquoise ring. “These are my favorite pieces to make because no two stones are the same,” Krista says. Plus, customers get to choose the exact stone that they like best for a custom ring that’s unique to them.
SHOP: Bambi jasper ring from Gem & Blue, $85
SHOP: Venus pearl necklace from Gem & Blue, $64
In their own words: “Sometimes I see a piece of art that speaks to me and translate it into a necklace. Other times, while traveling, I use new scenery as inspiration. My brain is always thinking of new ways to create. I keep a sketchbook close so I can record my ideas.”
SHOP: Citrus bead necklace from Gem & Blue, from $62
SHOP: Mini mushroom necklace from Gem & Blue, from $56
Follow Gem & Blue on Instagram and Facebook.
Lifestyle photos by Joy Masi. Product photography courtesy of Gem & Blue.
