April 4, 2016
Cordillera Necklace
Maker Spotlight
Cordillera Necklace is a sight to behold, and we can’t wait to get our eyes on these beauties in person at our San Francisco Fair. Designer Sylmarie gives us the inside scoop on her designs!
Where did your business name come from? Is there an interesting history behind?
A chain of mountains is called cordillera in spanish. I thought the name was perfect for what I wanted to do because of the “flowiness” of mountains and their instant power. You pronounce the “ll” as a “J” in spanish.
Have you always been passionate about design?
Yes, I’ve always been passionate about design. When I was living in Puerto Rico I used to design flyers and posters for art exhibitions and plays. I’m very interested in how color, shape and even font can’t persuade you to look at something. To read it or even to buy in just because it’s pleasing to your eye. I think is so cool that we can adorn ourselves. Designing jewelry is also about causing a pleasing effect.
When/Why did you start working in this particular craft/field?
Designing in the computer is something that I definitely enjoy but it didn’t fulfill me completely. I needed to add my hands into the mix. I like to design with my hands. Where I can draw the designs and also build them. With jewelry I can do both, I can feed my eyes with a series of sculptures, nature, even rocks and then translate these figures and shapes into ideas, something smaller and minimal.
What has been your proudest/favorite moment since creating your business?
I think my proudest moments are showing off my new collections to my family. It brings me the best feeling, knowing that they are also proud of me. Or going to sell my stuff at a fair and I see somebody coming in wearing a Cordillera necklace.
How does the city you live in influence your work?
New York can be over stimulating sometimes, but it helps me remember. Because I’m far away from home it helps me canalize memories into pretty ideas and it makes me feel closer. So in a way the city does influence my work, the city helps me remember who I am.
What made you take this leap into being your own boss?
It feels good to be able to manage your ideas without being restricted. If something doesn’t work out you also have to figure out yourself. This may seem like an awful amount of responsibility, but it’s just great to be able to say that it was all you.
What are some inspirations for your work?
I pick up inspiration from shapes seen in nature. I enjoy the work of Brancusi and the mix of concrete and organic in the work of Javier Senosian. I get inspired by words and memories.
What are some tips or suggestions you’d like to offer to fellow makers?
Don’t be afraid. You might mess up a couple times, but that is where all the cool stuff comes from.
These gorgeous necklaces will be on our minds all month! If you’ll be in the Bay Area at the end of April be sure to stop by our San Francisco Fair.
All things Cordillera Necklace: