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We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Tracy Kennedy a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Q: Thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Do you feel you or your work has ever been misunderstood or mischaracterized? If so, tell us the story and how/why it happened and if there are any interesting learnings or insights you took from the experience?
Tracy: Years ago, handmade crafts often got a bit of a bad reputation—like it was something of lower quality or something anyone could make. I think that perspective missed the point of the craftsmanship and artistry behind creating something by hand. I remember mentioning I was a jewelry designer, and occasionally someone would respond with, “Oh, I’ve made jewelry with my kids,” quickly dismissing it as more of a hobby than art or a business. But over time, I realized it wasn’t just about their preconceived notions—it was also how I was presenting myself and my work. I’d describe myself simply as a “maker,” rather than embracing my roles as an artist, a designer, and a business owner. That experience taught me to really lean into my creativity, my eye for design, and to own the confidence I have in my work and my business. The best part is that it translates to the women who wear my jewelry – they exclude confidence and strength in the Rustic Gem Jewelry they wear.
Q: As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
Tracy: My journey into jewelry design started out of a desire to keep my hands and mind busy during a challenging time in my life—12 weeks of bed rest while pregnant with my second son. What began as a way to pass the time quickly grew into a passion and ultimately, a business that I’m proud to call my own.
I design and handcraft pieces using natural gemstones, 14k gold-filled, or sterling silver chain, and other components. My work is all about empowering women to show up in a room just the way they should—confident, strong, and beautiful. I create jewelry that is versatile yet bold, allowing the women who wear it to feel polished and effortlessly chic, no matter what their day looks like.
What sets me apart is not only the quality of materials I use, but also the intention behind each piece. I draw inspiration from the big city and the natural beauty of Northern California, creating jewelry that is a perfect balance of edgy and elegant, (like the name, Rustic Gem). My clients are dynamic women who juggle busy lives, and my designs are made to complement that. I’m not just selling jewelry; I’m providing pieces that mirror the strength, confidence, and uniqueness of the women who wear them.
One thing I’m most proud of is how far this brand has come since its accidental beginning! Every piece I make is a reflection of that growth – the challenges, and the passion that got me here, and an absolute love for visual balance. I want potential clients and followers to know that when they wear Rustic Gem Jewelry pieces, they’re wearing something that’s not only beautiful but meaningful—a piece that was made with love, care, and an eye for detail. It is a reflection of the strength of character in every woman who wears it.
Q: How can we best help foster a strong, supportive environment for artists and creatives?
Tracy: I really believe that our drive and desire for convenience builds impatience, and with that comes a desire for instant gratification. We can go to these big retailers and quickly get something, but it lacks meaning and uniqueness. If we all can take a quick step back, be intentional with our buying and search for unique thoughtful items, we can better support small businesses and creativity. In a world where social media is ever present, it’s easy to get caught up in trying to look like everyone else. Again, if we can step back and be intentional in our purchasing, we can better support artists and creatives.
Q: What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
Tracy: I think one of the most rewarding parts is having something physical I can see or touch, that I put thought and care into, being worn by someone and seeing how amazing they feel in that piece of jewelry. It’s a powerful thing to enable a woman to show her style, grace and strength through her jewelry, and knowing I had a part in that.
