I live in the beautiful Blue Ridge mountains of Ashe County with a wonderful husband and 2 beautiful children.  I grew up in a loving, Christian family of 6.  Mom, Dad and 3 older sisters.  Crafting of some kind has always been a big part of my entire family.  My father loved his woodworking, Mom, my 3 older sisters and I  have numerous talents with crafts such as knitting, quilting, sewing, and so much more.  Of course, I only fall into the cooking category and then only some of the time!  I am very fortunate to grow up with so many talents right in my own home.  Being the youngest, I was able to experience each one.  My favorite memories are of times sitting around the dining room table making special ornaments for our Christmas tree.  We used pearls, sequins and all kinds of beads.  I still have those beautiful ornaments and I cherish each one.  

I have always loved looking for pretty rocks and glass that were broken down by the tumbling of the waters in the new river and creeks near our home.  As a child, you could always find me in the creek behind my Grandmother and Granddaddy's house searching for what I called "treasures".  Really only "fool's gold" and anything shiny.  Our vacation trips to the beach every year were no different.  As mom and dad fished on the shore and my sisters sunbathed, I sat near them finding beautiful rocks, sea glass, sharks teeth and unique shells.  I always kept a box of stones and special pieces that I had found.  That was my very special treasure box.

I suppose that is where I unknowingly started my life long dream as a jewelry designer and creator of "Mel's Treasures".  Along with the art classes, computer classes and cosmetology school, I gained much knowledge that would eventually lead me to my love for designing.  I turned my love for collecting beautiful pieces of nature and art into making unique pieces of jewelry.  The different colors, beauty of the lampwork and gemstones that I use, inspires me to create something new each time.  I love designing items that are original, fun to wear, complimentary to the natural beauty of the wearer and most important of all.....a piece of me that I hope will one day become an heirloom.

My jewelry......made with the finest quality materials such as handblown glass lampwork beads, gemstones, Balinese, Thai Hilltribe, Indian, and sterling silver, copper, 14 K gold filled, and other precious metals.  I use genuine Swarovski crystals, Czech glass, Italian glass, Millifori and so much more, purchased from all over the world.  Each component is carefully chosen to insure my items are of the finest quality and as unique in style as possible.  I hand craft each piece with attention to color, details, quality, comfort and most of all...the hopes that your piece will one day become an heirloom.  If there is anything I can create for you or a loved one....I'm always happy to design custom pieces. 

I hope you enjoy wearing them as much as I enjoy making them.

Thank you for visiting my website and finding interest in me and my jewelry. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mel's Treasures was featured in the July-August 2006 "Colored Stone" Magazine