Daily Inspiration: Meet Meryl Smyth

Today we’d like to introduce you to Meryl Smyth.

Hi Meryl, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
My jewelry journey really began at the age of 7 when I started a rock collection. That coupled with a strong desire to make things made it inevitable that creating jewelry would become my path. My earliest necklaces had links made of staples though I later graduated to wire wrapping with silver wire. I’ve cobbled together an education learning various techniques in metalsmithing starting in high school and continuing through my thirties. It wasn’t until 2013 that I took a class in wax carving, the technique I use most now to create my work. Beginning with a solid block of wax and an idea, I slowly carve away layers until I have a design that matches my vision. The wax models are then cast into silver and gold via the lost wax casting process.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The road has been long and winding for sure. It took me a long time to be able to afford the tools and equipment I needed to create, and also find fitting workspaces. Learning and mastering jewelry making techniques is generally not a quick process in a world in which we’ve come to expect quick results. It can be frustrating just learning patience when acquiring any new skill. Finding the right audience or venue to sell is another regular challenge as well as the current skyrocketing price of metals. You must really love doing this work to keep going!

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I most love to carve wax to create my designs but I also do all my own soldering, stonesetting, and finishing. I am really proud of the evolution of my work over the years, I’ve come to be able to create jewelry I could have only imagined when I was just starting out. I like to describe my style as “fairytale meets antique treasure” as a lot of people notice an old world feel to the work but it also has a touch of magic as well. I use a wide variety of gems as well and I’m always looking for new stones and color choices that inspire me.

Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
I used to think a mentor had to look like the old style of apprenticeship but now that we have so much great content online a mentor can come in many forms. I’ve had many excellent teachers through the years in in person classes though and nothing replaces that one on one feedback. As far as networking goes, the days of gatekeeping and competition are over. We all move further ahead when we work together, I’ve found the jewelry community to be collaborative and welcoming and have found many opportunites through connecting with other jewelers.

Pricing:

• $100
• $3000

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.mythandstone.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/myth_and_stone

Image Credits
Photo of me was taken by Laila Alchaar, the rest were taken by me