Today we’d like to introduce you to Judith-Ann Ward.
Hi Judith-Ann, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Growing up in Gallatin, Tennessee, I dabbled in many mediums and was inspired by all types of art. After graduating from the University of Tennessee in Martin, I moved to Atlanta where I became a Fashion Merchandiser. My next move was Raleigh, North Carolina. Later, I decided to take some jewelry-making classes and before I knew it, I was in about 30 shops throughout North Carolina and Tennessee.
We then moved to Tennessee and I continued to keep up with shops in both states until I was diagnosed with breast cancer at age 39. I took some time off to re-evaluate and got back in the industry strongly in 2016 after moving to Franklin. I’m still in a few shops in Tennessee but since Covid, I’ve had to change my strategy with so many shops closing and not buying as much at once. I now do a lot of Trunk Shows, Art Crawls and Pop Ups!
I’ve been featured in the Register and Havenliving magazines!
My designs are primarily one-of-a-kind as well as a few classics that I repeat. I work with natural, authentic stones combined with silver and gold. It’s so fun to see someone’s face when they’ve found just the right piece to complete an outfit or to treat a friend or family member!
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I would say being an artist is usually not an easy road therefore the phrase “Starving Artist”, however with challenges one always grows and why not look at the bright side since we have a choice. Through my years, I tried oil, acrylic, stippling, pointillism and many others but until I started making jewelry, I had not found what I really loved and what would provide a way to make a living.
Of course, getting cancer at age 39 was not expected or wanted but no one has a smooth ride all the way through life. We just have to make the best of each situation and learn as we grow!
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
As far as my jewelry designs go, everyone loves how comfortable and light my jewelry is. I hear that a lot and that makes me happy because I want the entire J.A. Gems experience to be a good one.
I also use clasps that are easy to put on and take off. Also, most of my designs are one-of-a-kind which everyone loves. I think most of my customers enjoy the idea that they have something no one else has!
Creating something for the first time is my favorite part of making jewelry. Especially, after going to a bead show and bringing all my new findings to my studio, I can hardly wait to get started!
In terms of your work and the industry, what are some of the changes you are expecting to see over the next five to ten years?
I’m open to the idea of being in big department stores but it would require me to give up my one-of-a-kind idea which is one of the things that sets me apart from others. I would love doing more of what I’m doing now which is working with shops at Art Crawls, Trunk Shows and Pop Ups and being consistently busy all year with that! And of course, keeping up my current shops and boutiques that carry my jewelry daily and well as finding more!
Pricing:
- Necklaces between $69-$125
- Earrings between $42-$78
- Bracelets between $89-$98
Contact Info:
- Email: Ja@jagemsjewelry.com
- Website: Jagemsjewelry.com
- Instagram: j.a. gems
- Facebook: J.A. Gems.
Image Credits:
Malone Breland
Monique Deboliac
