I first met Andrea Tedesco at a friend's gathering, where she was showing her jewelry collection. I immediately fell in love with all of the pieces displayed. The design of each necklace, earring and bracelet is so unique and the semi precious stones integrated into each are rich with color. There are pieces available at a variety of price points. What I love most about the collection is that the necklaces and bracelets can be used as key pieces when creating a layered look.
Andrea, based in Bethesda, began designing jewelry for fun in 2004 and has turned her passion into a business. Her collection is created out of her home studio. I recently had the opportunity to sit down with Andrea to talk about what inspires her, what she is currently working on and what pieces of jewelry every woman should have.
Check out my Q&A with Andrea and my favorite pieces from the Andrea Tedesco Jewelry collection below.
What do you love most about designing and creating your own jewelry?
That I get to express my personal style. My work is always changing and growing with fashion every year, which makes it exciting and challenging.
How would you describe your designs?
Delicate and unique. Most of my pieces are designed with a little trend yet it is a piece(s) that can be worn for years to come.
What is your source of inspiration? What keeps you motivated?
My inspiration comes from within. But attending the Gem and Jewelry shows helps with my creation process. When I come across new stones and chains, I rush home to my office and puzzle the pieces together. It might not come together right away, but I know having new materials gets my creative juices flowing. My motivation is my daughters. It's nice to work from home and have them see my work firsthand.
What are some of your favorite materials to work with?
I’m constantly changing my materials, but mostly I enjoy working with semiprecious stones, antique pendants from India, Asia or Greece,14kt gold filled or 22kt vermeil wires or chains. Lately, I have been working with nylon and silk strings to make bracelets and necklaces with either 14kt gold filled chain or small vermeil beads.
What designs are you currently working on?
Spring and summer are fun seasons. I've been working on bracelets with colorful beads and funky chains. Long necklaces with semi precious stones. 14kt gold filled necklaces that can be wrapped around the neck several times or be worn long.
What is your favorite piece of jewelry you own?
I have definitely made some personal pieces for myself that I have been wearing for years. One being an antique pendant with a warrior goddess symbol. I can layer it with other pieces. I have designed a piece called the Scrapple, which has been selling for many years. I love it because each piece is original. I use leftover chain and stones to create a unique piece everytime.
Is there a piece of jewelry that every woman should own or invest in?
A piece that is sentimental or has some meaning. That can be an heirloom piece of jewelry from the family or an object or stone that has some meaning. I also love a nice watch. Although, I don’t make watches 🙂
What has been your proudest moment as a designer?
All the press I have received from various local magazines in the area has been thrilling. Also, growing my business and seeing strangers wear my pieces.
To find out where you can purchase Andrea Tedesco Jewelry, click here . You can also connect with the brand on Facebook to keep up to date on the latest designs.
