Gayle Guansing’s ‘Into The Wild’ Necklace, which was exhibited at Milan Jewelry Week. Photo courtesy of GoldandStones
The GoldandStones founder details her journey both as an artisan for fine jewelry and taking risks with social media
Looking beyond the intricate details and quality materials of fine jewelry remains a narrative that resonates with its wearer’s identity. And whether such is crafted into an heirloom or a representation of memories past, the artistry within bespoke jewelry sees no difference between its wearer and its inherent value.
Throughout her journey, Gayle Guansing’s fascination with jewelry began at an early age as fueled by her innate allure of precious stones. Today, with almost 10 years worth of delicately crafted pieces in the industry of bespoke jewelry, GoldandStones has since turned its founder’s portfolio of designs into a gallery of interwoven stories.
Setting Stones
Taking to hone her craft in the Gemological Institute of America, the gemology enthusiast only ever grew her appreciation for the craft; “Over the years, I began to appreciate how jewelry is more than just an accessory, it’s a form of self-expression, a reflection of personal values and a way to celebrate important moments in life,” she shares.
Despite beginning in the corporate field, the aspiring creative director took to honing her entrepreneurial facet, simultaneously amassing her design portfolio while already crafting pieces for clients on the side. Though with a less than ideal capital, the founder took the risk to cement her business online in 2015, utilizing social media platforms and a dedicated website as her means to establish the GoldandStones name to a wider audience.
Under pressure
“I believe my own journey in the jewelry industry has been shaped more by financial constraints than by my gender,” Guansing vulnerably shares. Regardless, this brought her to embrace an adaptable and resilient work ethic, leveraging on her online presence while cultivating relationships with her first line of clients through her platforms as well as the various exhibits which showcased her works to enthusiasts and tastemakers alike.
In regaining her footing, the founder, then, reestablished her pace for her career, facing the industry with a new-found outlook not only as an entrepreneur, but as the go-to jeweler for her now-loyal clientele. “Whether it’s an engagement ring symbolizing love or a family heirloom passed down through generations, I wanted to be part of that narrative,” she explains.
Seen throughout her craft, Guansing’s work radiates with the narratives of the clients she has garnered in the past nine years of GoldandStones’ service. “Ultimately, my inspiration comes from a combination of artistry, emotional connection, and the joy of bringing beauty into people’s lives,” the designer shares.
Heirlooms for inspiration
In looking towards the future, Gayle Guansing foresees a more fearless sense of self, sharing, “Don’t be afraid to negotiate for what you deserve; advocating for yourself is crucial in establishing your value in the business world.”
For the founder, she, too, understands that there is no definite approach in turning one’s passion into a career, finding such circumstances to instead be a means for women to craft their own spotlight in the industries they enter.
The creative director also sees hope for the next generation of women who have shown to empower and support the passions that guide their careers, to find strength not only within themselves but also through the connections they make along the way. “By fostering a spirit of empowerment and collaboration, I believe we can create a brighter, more inclusive future for all women in business,” Guansing shares.
Visit the GoldandStones website to learn more about their bespoke jewelry services, and visit their Facebook and Instagram pages to see more works from the atelier.
