ALAN GOLDIN

“The shape is everything.” If I had to, in one sentence, sum up my approach to jewelry design, that would be it. My focus is one-of-a-kind, hand-crafted pieces in silver and gold with semi-precious stones.

Some designers start with a stone and design the setting around it. For them, the stone is the focal point, and the design is there to enhance it. In my work, stones, when I use them, are there to embellish or accent the shape, like punctuation. Gemstones have to be an organic part of the design and not look like they were stuck on as an afterthought. I prefer light to shine through the stones, and I love inclusions; they add an organic, natural imperfection.

Why make one-of-a-kind pieces? Because I have a thousand different designs in my head and I want to produce as many of them as I can in my lifetime. I want to appeal to the consumer who seeks out and appreciates uniqueness. Like a painting, each piece is given a title. In the world of “wearable art” jewelry, there is some jewelry that is only considered to be jewelry because it could be worn, but wasn't necessarily made to be worn. I think of my jewelry as art, but it is definitely made to be worn. I would rather make a piece that becomes a woman's favorite and gets worn often, than make something that's kept in a case and trotted out only for special occasions.

People who own my jewelry think of it as more than decoration. It becomes a pet, a friend, an ornamental companion. Like clouds, everyone sees something different in the shapes and as a result, they become good-luck charms, fertility symbols, amulets, talismans.

My Charity: The Trevor Project   Mission Statement:

The Trevor Project is determined to end suicide among LGBTQ youth by providing life-saving and life-affirming resources including our nationwide, 24/7 crisis intervention lifeline, digital community and advocacy/educational programs that create a safe, supportive and positive environment for everyone.