Actor turned Yosemite park ranger turned jeweler. Alissa Bailey's path to metalsmithing certainly wasn't linear, but the work she creates echoes the experiences of her past. Chaparral Jewelry is handmade in Oakland, CA. Each piece feels like a memory of a favorite landscape. Her use of topographically accurate details is balanced with softer, handmade textures, symbolic shapes, and precious gemstones.
Alissa and Lindsay (Aster's owner) are jewelry besties: they have shared a studio space since 2019, and grown their businesses alongside each other ever since.
Lindsay: What is the story behind the name of your collection?
Alissa: I'm originally from the midwest, and moved to California about 15 years ago to follow my dreams. My life changed forever following that decision to move west, and I instantly fell in love with California. Especially with its epic mountain ranges and the soft rolling shills that surround the Bay Area. The chaparral bush, found all over California's terrain, quickly became a symbol/reminder of how much I love this state, and how it forever changed my life.
L: What is your favorite technique or process in jewelry making?
A: My favorite jewelry fabrication technique has to be working in wax. Wax carving is the reason my business is what it is today. It has allowed me to create these little topo maps in metal. The options are endless with what you can achieve in wax carving, and lost wax casting.
L: What is inspiring you right now?
A: Right now, I'm having so much fun with lapidary and inlay. I LOVE finding stones that complement the terrains I'm creating in metal. I love finding little landscapes or oceans within a rough piece of turquoise or agate.
L: What's the best piece of advice you were given as an artist?
A: The best piece of advice I was given was to know that success takes time, and nothing happens overnight. Try your best not to compare yourself to others.
L: Do you have a favorite piece in your collection?
A: Currently, my favorite pieces are my Due North Engagement Rings. They are the first line of engagement rings in my collection, and I'm very proud of them. I also love sourcing the Montana Sapphires for each settings.
L: What's on your studio playlist:
A: Current playlist consists of songs from Heated Rivalry, lol
L: What do you do for self care?
A: Hiking and running are a big part of my self care. Oh, and I also find birding and gardening a HUGE way to relax and unwind.
L: Who's another artist (jeweler or other media) that you admire and why?
A: My studio mate, Lindsay Ansley of Adeline Jewelry. We have shared a space together for nearly a decade, and I wouldn't have it any other way. She is a constant source of inspiration.
L: Do you ever consider other career paths? In a parallel universe, what would you be doing if not making jewelry?
A: I would be a actor. This is what I did for most of my life leading up to becoming a park ranger. I miss it dearly the older I get.
L: Bonus question: show us your pet(s)!
A: My studio poodle/partner in life:
