Meet Danica Stamenic.
Since 2017, Danica has built a devoted following for her carefully chosen vintage pieces and one-of-a-kind custom designs. In 2020, she launched her evolving capsule collection of original work, through which she explores purity of form and materiality, seeking comfort, balance, and a quiet harmony between timelessness and modernity. Working with ethically sourced and vintage or antique stones and recycled gold, these deeply intentional pieces feel like natural yet striking extensions of the human body. Each piece is designed and produced locally in Los Angeles, with Danica hand-carving most pieces herself.
- What is your favorite technique or process in jewelry making?
I carve wax to make a majority of my jewelry, but as much as possible I prefer to use hand tools and take away material slowly. Obviously this makes the process slower, but it’s very meditative and exploratory. It’s easy to miss some beautiful form that’s trying to emerge when you rush!
- What is inspiring you right now?
I’m visiting my family in Virginia and feeling really re-inspired by all the rivers and creeks, the woods, the ancient mountains ground into hills…!
- What’s currently on your studio playlist?
It’s usually some rotation of spiritual jazz, British techno, triphop, punk, folk, classical. I usually listen to entire albums when I work (or audio books!). Some recents: “Afro-Harping” by Dorothy Ashby, “Screamadelica” by Primal Scream, and my friend Yves’ new album “The Well,” from her band Mug. When clients stop by I get indecisive about choosing a vibe, so I do like to put on an NTS playlist when clients stop by.
- Who’s another artist (jeweler or otherwise) that you admire, and why?
My friend Jasmine Albuquerque, who is a dancer, choreographer, performance artist. It feels like some unspeakable collective emotion has crystallized, like a physical imprint remains after she and her dancers leave the stage.
- Do you ever consider other career paths? In a parallel universe, what would you be doing if not making jewelry?
In my daydreams I would love to make beautiful clothes, or be a sculptor, or an architect!
