Check Out Carly Waters’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Carly Waters.

Hi Carly, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Being a descendant of many lineages of artists and creators and being the daughter of a farmer raised on the precipitous cliffs of Big Sur, I can safely say I have an appreciation for beauty and the natural world. My artistic interest, encouraged by my parents and my environment, blossomed and evolved in all of the right ways. Much of my inspiration growing up was drawn from the rugged splendor around me — the gentle roar of the waves, the glimmer of an abalone shell, and the smoldering sunsets I was able to enjoy. It was from all of this that the idea of CWD was born.

I remember first experimenting with rocks and jewelry design as a kid. I tumbled some rocks I found on the beach, made them into an earring and necklace set and gifted them to my mother (which I still believe she has). Later in High School, after being reintroduced by a friend with some wire and pliers, I began to experiment again. I would mix semi-precious and precious stones without pretense or plan. As I channeled my creativity into this loved art form, most of my skills were self-taught, although I did learn to do torch work at a local night class. In 2017 I formally launched my company, starting with several exclusive local retailers. Now, I have an e-commerce site as well as select retailers and a growing rolodex of clients on the West Coast.

When you think of my jewelry- think simplicity and distinction. I proudly source my gems all over the world – opals from Australia, tourmaline from Afghanistan, and of course many gems from the majestic lands of India. Teardrops, hexagons, and oblong cuts being of the most coveted pieces. My pieces are designed with moms and everyday wearers in mind. Vibrant gems that are easy to wear separately or layered. And at an approachable price point for most anyone.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Of course, there are ups and downs to everything. In the beginning, I remember being overwhelmed doing everything myself. Now I am in network with great people to help with my business needs and it makes all of the difference!

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I proudly design and produce jewelry for my company based in Carmel, CA. I am known for dainty necklaces, simple, sparkling gems and shells strung on delicate chain. Petite beads mixed with charms on string. I enjoy the entire designs process, finding new sources for gems, and creating pieces for people to use and enjoy for many years. I love seeing my clients enjoy their pieces or gift them to another. I look forward to expanding on my techniques and designs in the future. For these reasons, I am proud of my company.

What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
My Mom’s side of the family resides in the greater Los Angeles area, so it is honestly my home-away-from-home. There is much to enjoy and explore when it comes to Los Angeles. It is such a place of great cultural diversity, amazing weather, awesome beaches. I love how it is two hours from Palm Desert, making that an easy day trip. I love it when I go downtown to do business, the people in the jewelry trade are from all over – Persians, Armenians, Koreans, etc. It makes me proud to be connected to such a diverse city- and one of such commerce and industry as well. What I do not like about LA is the smog and the traffic…. the rest of it is great though.

Pricing:

• Hexagon Necklace: $80
• Teardrop Lariat: $110
• Gemstone Anklet: $90
• Gemstone Beaded Necklace: $150
• Abalone Heart Necklace: $1,400

Contact Info:

• Email: CarlyWatersDesigns@gmail.com
• Website: www.CarlyWatersDesigns.com
• Instagram: @CarlyWatersDesigns
• Facebook: @CarlyWatersDesigns
• Other: Pinterest: @CarlyWatersDesigns