Meet Jamie Sigmon of Rye Jewelry in Central Phoenix

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jamie Sigmon.

Jamie, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
About two and a half years ago, I was talking with a friend about how unhappy I was in my corporate retail job at the time. Being unhappy in my career was making me unhappy in life, but after 10 years in the business, it was hard to imagine making a significant change. I was telling this friend about ideas I had and opportunities I wanted to pursue, and they stopped me and said, then why aren’t you? It was a huge wakeup call for me and I dove head first into my jewelry business, while simultaneously beginning my yoga teacher training. I went in with no idea how to run a business and learned as I went along. I spent that first year doing a ton of local shows, figuring out how to use Etsy and connecting with amazing people in the local handmade community. Fast-forward to now, I feel like I’m still learning every day about how to run a business! After finishing my 200-hour teacher training, I knew I wanted the healing arts to be just as big a part of my career as jewelry, and luckily the two go hand in hand. I love crystals and as I create pieces, I focus on the healing properties of and Reiki-infuse each stone I work with. I’ve begun using crystals when I work with clients on yoga and meditation and I am currently working on a crystal healing certification. This year, I completed my Reiki master training, advanced Yoga Nidra training, holistic nutritionist specialist certification and 500-hour yoga teacher training. I love the work I do now and as a result, I’m much happier and more fulfilled. By taking the steps necessary to make a change in my life, now I get to spend my days creatively, actively and helping others.

Has it been a smooth road?
There’s been plenty of struggles! Going back to school was a huge challenge, and as much as I loved all of the classes I took it was incredibly time consuming. Starting a business with no real knowledge of running a business has left me confused and frustrated many times, and I still encounter situations where I have to reach out for help or take the time to do some research. Since I went from a full time job to a brand new business, financially it hasn’t been easy. Luckily, I had saved a lot prior to the change, but it’s taken some time to get to a point where it feels stable. Jewelry is everywhere and there’s so much amazing and beautiful handmade jewelry in the world as well as here, in Phoenix. I think everyone who steps into a handmade business struggles with how to make themselves stand out. One of my favorite things about the handmade community here is how supportive everyone is of one another. I got a ton of help and advice from everyone I’ve met along the way!

So, as you know, we’re impressed with Rye Jewelry – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
Rye jewelry is handcrafted stone and crystal jewelry inspired by nature and its ability to heal us. Most of my jewelry is wire-wrapped and I make a point to keep the wrapping simple in order to showcase the beauty in the stones. Some of the more popular items I make are wrapped large stone necklaces, wrapped bead stud earrings, and lava and stone bead essential oil bracelets. Recently, I’ve started creating shadowbox and terrarium necklaces using crystals, moss, flowers and leaves. They’re like tiny crystal fairy gardens! Each of the crystals and stones I use is infused with Reiki for enhanced healing properties and good energy. I also use crystals when I see clients for private yoga, Yoga Nidra, and Reiki sessions.

Let’s touch on your thoughts about our city – what do you like the most and least?
I love so much about Phoenix! I moved here about 5 years ago, after having lived here for a while as a child. When I was looking for places, downtown wasn’t even on my radar because there was so little going in the area when I was younger, but as soon as I spent some time in the area I knew it was where I wanted to live. There’s so many great spots for food and drinks, music and art. I spend a lot of time at the art museum! Spending time outdoors is important to me, so being able to drive just fifteen minutes to hike is something that would be hard for me to give up. The desert is beautiful but it’s also great having forest, canyons, lakes, and beach all within a few hours drive. And, I know I said it before, but I love the handmade community here!

As far as the least, I’d probably say the same as most people, the heat can get to be a bit much in the middle of summer.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.ryejewelryshop.com
• Email: info@ryejewelryshop.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/ryejewelry
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/ryejewelry

Getting in touch: VoyagePhoenix is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.