The Story / Designer
Barb McSweeney
“Everyone brings their own sense of rhythm, movement, and style to the pieces they choose to wear. Much of my joy comes from creating pieces that synergize with the person wearing them.”
… to design and create unique and distinctive jewelry that captures both the timeless romance of the classic pearl and the joie de vivre of today's empowered woman.
Imagine…waking up to the splendor of snowcapped peaks painted with golden rays from the days’ first light. The stillness is complete – sounds muffled by the freshly fallen snow. The day beckons – Come!! Experience! Enjoy! Get active and immerse yourself in the wonders of nature that surround you!
And so I did.
This is Stowe, VT. If you haven’t been – add it to the bucket list.
This is where I spent my youth. The beauty enveloped me daily. I relished every season and would explore new vistas via skiing, mountain biking, hiking and horseback riding. I traveled through lush forests, swimming in – very brisk – mountain fed streams, ‘rock walking’ true alpine tundra that dates back to the Ice Age. It was diverse, beautiful and, serene yet exhilarating at the same time.
In the company of nature, yet alone with my thoughts and ever-growing creative spirit,. I came to know the wonders of natural design and appreciate the unique characteristics surrounding us all.
And so I came to see symmetry and beauty in what nature offers. What a wonderful upbringing!
Later, I was accepted into the Ringling College of Art & Design, an internationally renowned Art School. . This was an honor and an opportunity not to be missed. What anamazing institution of creative development and outlet.
The journey began and I made the trip from the gorgeous mountains of Vermont to some of the best beaches in the world in Sarasota, Florida. I began my studies at the acclaimed Ringling College of Art & Design. The talent of both staff and students is impressive and my time there further expanded my creative universe.
As a graduate, I later managed and directed my own ad agency for 18 years, where I partnered with several national accounts creating their visual print collateral.
It was during that time, which coincided with my raising my new family, that I discovered the pure beauty and life of gemstones. Since 2004, my passion for art has now evolved into my dream career as a custom jewelry designer.
... showing my jewels
from the trunk of my car to
Saks Fifth Avenue
Bloomingdale's
and luxury resorts including
The Ritz-Carlton ...
My unique creations were ‘discovered’ by Saks Fifth Avenue in 2006 and I then went on to show with Bloomingdale's. I remain active presenting at various luxury resorts including The Ritz-Carlton locations, private trunk shows, fundraising at galas, designing personal collections, and here ... online.
My heart moves in sync with the world of non-profits. It is important that we give back and strengthen our community. I do so by using my time, talents and treasures to help non-profit organizations increase the awareness of their cause and assist in raising the much needed funds to ensure the success of their mission. Over the years I have aligned with numerous worthwhile organizations in our community including InStride, Meals on Wheels, Key to the Cure, Easter Seals, Goodwill, Shelterbox USA, Boys & Girls Club, Josh Provides, Children First, American Lung Association, Women’s Resource Center, St Judes, Senior Friendship Centers, Make-a-Wish and many more.
Pearls have fascinated people from the time they were first found in artifacts in Mesopotamia until the present and are among nature's most fascinating creations. In fact, pearls are unique among gemstones because they do not arise from the depths of the earth but rather from the sea. They require no special cutting or polishing to maximize their lustrous beauty, which has been treasured since ancient times and ensures that pearl jewelry is always in style.
“Pearls are believed to attract wealth and luck, as well as, offer protection. Known for their calming effect, pearls can balance one's karma, strengthen relationships, and are believed by many to keep children safe. The pearl is also said to symbolize the purity, generosity, integrity, and loyalty of its wearer.”