Understated yet chic is the best way to describe Aurora Palesca's jewelry collections.   Her designs have an effortless attention to detail, which is mirrored in her business and branding philosophies; each necklace is tagged with a stamped leaf, and every piece of jewelry comes in a beautiful handmade hemp and silk pouch.  But beauty isn't her only concern, her business has a strong conscience too, and she takes great care to source materials that are both socially and environmentally responsible.  Here, she answers some questions about her work. 

You seem to have a strong ethic about using fair trade products in your work. How has this affected your designs and pricing?

Yes, maintaining a sustainable and ethical business is VERY important to me! That being said, it also requires a huge investment of time and resources. I have to spend quite a bit of time reading and thinking of new ways to make my designs ever more socially and environmentally friendly. I sometimes feel that I spend more time researching than I actually spend designing!

I know how you feel.  To compete in such a competitive market, everyone has to have something unusual or unique.  I spend a great deal of time looking for unusual stones or pearls that no one else in my market is using.  I do enjoy this research though.  I would imagine it would be more challenging to find products that fit within a sustainable ideal?

Yes, the selection of fair trade and recycled products is still very limited, so I am  bound by the offerings of just a few companies. I also sometimes have to settle for stones that are not certified “fair trade”, but that are ethically sourced by companies that I have come to trust.  It has taken me months to find my suppliers, and prices are typically high. Many other jewelers can quickly find what they need from one of the large jewelry supply stores without very much effort. I really have to dig.  

This, however, has had a positive impact on my design. It has forced me to think out of the box and to get very creative about how I approach my materials.

It's interesting that you find inspiration in the challenge of working with limited materials.  I think that says a lot about an artist's natural talent.  What keeps you motivated if you do get frustrated?

The pride that I feel in my work. As long as I feel that I can do my job well, I have a very strong creative drive. I also love getting compliments!

Can you name another jewelry designer whose work you admire?

One of my favorites is Magally Lopez. Her style is so intricate and unique, while still being feminine.

Do you find the process of experimentation frustrating or inspiring?

Both! There are days when the ideas just keep flowing, and then there are those other days... I have to stay focused, and always remember that only a fraction of my experiments will make my final cut. Usually the rejects will eventually evolve into something fabulous, they just need the time.