Amy DiGregorio and I met way back when in Santa Barbara.  We have kept in touch over the years, supporting one another's endeavors and sharing our stories.  I always smile when I put on one of her creations, not only because her creations add that extra special sparkle but also because I think she's fabulously amazing!

[October 27, 2008]

What is your main project these days?
To keep my jewelry line as eco-friendly as possible. All of my jewelry pieces are handmade in the USA (by my two hands!), made from recycled or fair trade metals, recycled glass or untreated fair trade beads and semi-precious gemstones. I also adhere to values that contribute to a stronger and healthier global community whenever possible.

What is a project you haven't started yet - or maybe only started a little - that you are dying to sink your teeth into?
I'm ridiculously excited about the possibilities for my 2009 Spring Collection. I'm creating sketches that will incorporate thick, rich materials - wool rope, linen swatches, silk ribbon – collaborated with the fine-wire and faceted gemstones I've used for my previous collections. I'm projecting to launch these bold/feminine intricacies by January!

I know you are a travel nut like I am - how do your journeys and adventures influence your jewelry designs?
Travel is actually what inspired my very first jewelry line! I always find myself blazing with creativity while shopping the exotic street markets in foreign lands. While abroad, you taste new tastes, see new sights, hear new sounds… You're broken free from your normal routines and thoughts, and new ideas are born.

Share one of your favorite travel snippets.
The day before my 30th birthday I had missed a train in Bangkok only by seconds. Though I couldn't understand their words, I could see that several employees seemed very concerned that I had missed the daily 500-mile ride to the mountains. Before I was sure of exactly what was happening, a cop had me on his motorcycle, speeding through the traffic-crazed streets of the city, with the weight of three people if you include my massive backpack. We teetered back and forth through the rain on a bike that was no bigger than a Vespa until we finally caught up to the train. Thanks to the cop's kindred spirit (and his demand for a very large tip), I arrived in Chiang Mai on time and my birthday plans were kept the following day… Spa treatments, rich food, and the most incredible night market shopping I've ever experienced.

If money were no object and your safety were guaranteed, where would you love to go?
Israel. I'm intrigued to learn more about the culture and history, as well as take in the wondrous sites. I've read that Ein Avdat National Park is a freak of nature - a pool of icy water in the hot expanse of desert.

Who would you love to create a custom piece of jewelry for?
My Grandma. She passed away a few days after her birthday in 2001, just a few months before I launched my jewelry business. I would've loved to learn what kind of ingredients she'd have me whip up to match her innate sense of style and elegance.

Thank you Amy!!