Today we’d like to introduce you to Maddalena Bearzi.
Hi Maddalena, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Born in Italy, I have been drawn to nature for as long as I can remember. Summers spent with my family on the astounding island of Sardinia instilled in me a profound love for the wild. I would lose myself for hours in the turquoise sea, fascinated by its vibrant marine life.
This deep-rooted connection to the natural world eventually became an integral part of my life’s work as a marine biologist, writer, and jewelry maker. As a scientist with a Ph.D. in Biology and the co-founder of the environmental nonprofit Ocean Conservation Society, I am devoted to studying dolphins, whales, and other marine animals, always keeping conservation in mind. As an author, I write about the beauty of nature and the need to protect Mother Earth. At the bench, I create jewelry pieces that take inspiration from nature.
In the early days, my jewelry designs combined sustainable fabrics with solid elements—repurposed metals, upcycled vintage charms, and carefully selected stones—to create textured pieces. Over time, my vision as a designer shifted toward organic metal jewelry, and I began working with fine and reclaimed silver and gold, as well as precious and semi-precious stones. I also explored bronze, brass, and copper, employing different metalsmithing techniques to shape distinctive forms and subtle color variations.
By prioritizing reclaimed materials and upcycled components, I always strive to merge creativity with sustainability.
Though I now call the large metropolis of Los Angeles home, inspiration from nature is never far away. It may emerge while watching ocean waves during one of my on-the-water surveys to study dolphins, observing a bee on a flower in my backyard, or a pebble on the shore.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
I oversee nearly every aspect of my eponymous jewelry company. From designing collections, sourcing materials, and handcrafting pieces to managing production, marketing, and client relations. While juggling these responsibilities can be demanding, especially considering my other careers as a marine biologist and a writer, the challenges are met with gratification. The greatest reward is when clients recognize the craftsmanship woven into my designs. Their appreciation reinforces my dedication, making every effort worthwhile.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
Each piece in my jewelry collection is meticulously handcrafted in my Los Angeles studio. My designs span rings, earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and versatile unisex pieces—crafted to suit diverse personal styles and budgets. One of my signature themes, “Incendio” (meaning wildfire), captures the uncontrolled wildfires and their devastating impact on our ecosystems in California.
I recently expanded my work to include accessories, featuring pieces designed to enhance both personal style and home decor. From belt buckles to hat brooches, each item is handmade using sustainable materials.
Today, my collections are showcased in art galleries and exclusive boutiques across the U.S. and internationally, and they are available online at www.maddalenabearzi.com. Excitingly, some of my designs will appear on the set of the upcoming season of And Just Like That… premiering this summer—so stay tuned!
My jewelry is known for being one of a kind and handmade. I believe my clients appreciate the attention to detail and the time invested in making each piece!
While there are many exceptional jewelry designers, perhaps what sets my work apart is my strong connection to the natural world. This bond is reflected not only in my jewelry pieces but also in my writing and fieldwork as a marine biologist. This allows me to bring a perspective that is entirely my own.
How do you think about luck?
I was fortunate to be exposed to nature from an early age, an experience I deeply appreciate—and I owe much of that to my parents.
While that early exposure shaped my perspective, I believe that success in business also comes from unwavering passion and dedication.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.maddalenabearzi.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maddalenabearzi/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/maddalenabearzijewelry/
Image Credits
©maddalenabearzi
