Castaway Gemstone Necklace

“When I'm stuck creatively, I walk away from whatever it is I'm trying to do. It all usually becomes clear on my runs in the Santa Ynez Valley hills where I live and work.”

Ellen Bartfeld describes her creations in simple terms: "Each is made with love." And inspiration often comes from the customers themselves. "I might be asked to find charms that are part of a wedding or bridesmaid theme," says the glass artist, who crafts her wares in California’s Santa Ynez Valley. "Every suggestion is a creative opportunity." Even when her pieces are not personalized, they are still personal. "I envision them on a dresser or by the bed, holding objects that have a special meaning."

Explore the full collection by Ellen Bartfeld