By Kat Fragoso

NY Handmade Collective member Sandrine Valentine of Sandrine B Jewelry makes pieces to preserve memories and amplify the beauty of nature. Her jewelry reflects the moments of life that speak to her. She is inspired wherever she is: her hometown of New York City, when traveling, or in her childhood homes in Lyon and Corsica, France.

NYHC: Tell us about what you make.

Sandrine Valentine: I memorialize antiques, discarded found objects, and remnants from nature. I like to infuse a story into each piece of handmade jewelry I create. I also choose a name for each piece after what it represents to me. It may be a person, something in nature, or a specific place. I believe this process of naming each piece of jewelry as a process of memorializing an imprint in time.

NYHC: Where do you live?

SV: I live in Bushwick, Brooklyn. The neighborhood is thriving with artists.

NYHC: What is unique or different about your process and/or designs?

SV: For each piece of handmade jewelry, I “cast” my object of inspiration. Casting is the process of generating a mold or a model pattern. Using this mold, plus an ancient technique known as the “lost wax” process, allows me to hand make jewelry to be durable and adds substantial heft to each piece. My jewelry is made with recycled metals, fair-mined gold, and responsibly-sourced gemstones, so each piece can become an heirloom that can be enjoyed today and for many generations.

NYHC: Do you have any favorite pieces? What makes them special to you?

SV: Because there is a story behind each of my pieces, it is hard for me to decide which one is my favorite. Currently, I am designing a collection inspired from old rattan furniture and I am really loving it.

NYHC: What is your favorite tool or supply?

SV: My favorite supply is the gemstones I’ve purchased from initiatives that partner with Artisanal and Small Scale Mining Associations. By purchasing my gemstones in this supply chain, I am ensured of the provenance of the stones. This process also empowers people throughout the supply chain, supports communities, and protects the environment in which the gemstones are mined. I believe this is an investment towards a more responsible future.

NYHC: Is there a new piece/opportunity/change that you're excited about?

SV: I have been working on my website and recently added e-commerce. I expect that my website will completed by the end of the summer 2021.

NYHC: What advice or tips can you share with other makers?

SV: My advice would be to find your niche for your brand as opposed to trying to tailor to every customer. Also, do not compare yourself with other makers.

NYHC: Share an important lesson you've learned from running your business.

SV: I have learned to delegate what I am not good at or don't have the time to attend to. That includes taking product photos.