Empress Collections: Ethically Sourced and Skillfully Crafted
Rachael Hughes of Empress Collections used her sensitivity to metals as an inspiration to manufacture her own jewelry line. Her process of creating and producing her jewelry sets her apart from the rest. Rachael curates her jewelry with the health of her consumers in mind as well as the environment.
When and how did you learn to make jewelry?
I am self-taught. I’ve been designing jewelry for over 10 years. I started out beading in 2010 then created t-shirt necklaces. As I got older, I wanted to start wearing more kinds of jewelry, expensive jewelry. My sensitivity to certain metals inspired me to learn more about them. I had to learn which metals worked with my skin and which ones gave me a reaction. It started off as a hobby and over time, my husband told me, “I think this is what you want to do” and I realized that it really was what I wanted to do. Him believing me and having his support system really pushed me into where I am right now.
What inspired your venture of becoming a Maker?
My sensitivity to metals from your everyday fashion stores. As I got older, I started noticing my skin would have painful reactions to cheaper metals. My love for jewelry inspired me to research and learn how to make jewelry.
What are your creation and production processes?
My creation process is intuitive, from the stones I choose to the designs I make. When it comes to behind the scenes, I use holistic solutions for the fabrication process--no harsh chemicals are used. All the ingredients I use can be found in your kitchen. I use products like vinegar, salt, baking soda, and a borax comb. It’s safer for me because I inhale everything and it’s safe for the environment!
My packaging is taking the sustainable route as well, everything is eco-friendly from the stamp I use to display my logo down to the jewelry boxes I use to ship our beautiful pieces in.
What comes to your mind when you hear the word “success”?
FREEDOM.
Diamond Cheek, Digital Marketing Coordinator
Diamond Cheek is currently studying Digital Marketing in the Masters Program at Rutgers University-Newark. She has also received her Bachelors of Science at Rutgers in Leadership and Management. Over the years, digital marketing and content creation, have become a passion of hers which has lead her to apply her skills to the virtual and physical business world.