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"I like to challenge the ideals of traditional jewelry by blending conventional materials to create neoteric pieces," says the designer. "I believe in the permanence of the piece, and one of my greatest inspirations is in knowing that people will treasure their jewelry, hopefully for generations." Melissa links the modern with the traditional whenever possible. Her unique expression is clearly influenced by her passion for travel, art and culture. Melissa studied traditional silversmithing at the Instituto de Allende in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, and European design principles at the University of Barcelona. Prior to studying abroad, Melissa majored in art history at the University of California, San Diego, and received her Bachelor of Arts degree in jewelry design and sculpture from San Francisco State University. Nearing a decade of design, Melissa reflects on the moment she knew this was her calling. Shortly after starting her company in 1997, Melissa was questioning if she should take the risk and dive wholeheartedly into her fledgling jewelry design business. While flipping through TV channels, Melissa stopped at "Just Shoot Me", a sitcom she had heard of but never seen. As she idly watched the program, one of the show's many supermodels sauntered across the screen wearing a Melissa Joy Manning necklace. "It was the ultimate sign; it showed me that the business was meant to be." Melissa says, "I believe everything happens for a reason, and if you pay attention, there are signs everywhere. I've been thankful ever since for having the courage to pursue this, because I love what I do."
In many ways, the San Francisco Bay Area native's career choice seemed fated. Melissa made her first piece in pre-school, a ceramic bead necklace that her mother still treasures. Today, she designs product lines for both men and women, and, in Winter 2005, launched something new: a line of women's handbags. Always moving forward and broadening her creative strokes, Melissa focuses on speaking to the individual rather than the masses. Melissa believes, "My jewelry is not an accessory, but an expression. My pieces aren't about buying into what mass media tells you you should be, but about finding a piece that speaks to the individual and echoes their personality. I believe that jewelry can influence the way you feel; it can say and mean something different to every wearer." Melissa purchases her materials, found worldwide, from only domestic suppliers. Each piece is handmade to order in her Oakland, California studio by her in-house production staff. "We are so fortunate to be able to do what we love and make a living through our art. We are immensely grateful that we are blessed with the ability to pursue our passion," Melissa says.
Using 14 or 18 karat yellow, pink and green gold, sterling silver, semi-precious and precious stones, hand-selected bones and found objects, each design evokes a different emotion. Melissa explains, "I enjoy pushing people's perceptions of ‘precious'. I like to question the use of precious materials by using them as elements within a design rather than endpoints of a design. My pieces should call into question the use of a material. I want people to stop and wonder how I did what I did and, more importantly, why I did what I did."
Melissa's deepest inspiration is drawn from reclaimed and recycled pieces that she uses to create her one-of-a-kind designs. Drawing from indigenous and non-Western cultures, this collection reflects the belief of the spiritual value of talismans. The pieces are as much a piece of history as they are art. "Non-Western cultures strongly believed in using every part of an animal. In this practice, tribes were assured that they did not waste or dishonor the spirit of the animal; it was the ultimate honor to the chain of life. Bones are a sacred part of that belief." Melissa explains, "It was thought that teeth and claws carry the spirit of the animal within them, and when used in tribal dress, transfer this spiritual power into the wearer. By wearing the talisman, it was believed that the animal's spirit was kept alive forever. When I find a piece that is over 150 years old I am intrigued by its beauty, spirituality and history. I am honored to create something so powerful; a piece that is both respectful of our histories and mindful of its spiritual value; something that I believe is infinitely more precious than a diamond."
Melissa continues to take risks with her designs, but takes pride in the continual growth and development of her company. Now a portfolio company of Pacific Community Ventures, Melissa understands that her art is a business as well as an expression. Melissa studied business at the Renaissance Center in San Francisco and received a business certificate in 1997. Melissa remains involved with Renaissance, serving as a mentor and frequent lecturer. In 2004, she was honored by the Center as "Entrepreneur of the Year". "Building a solid business is very important," Melissa explains. "I am committed to a high company standard and on-shore development. I use only American distributors, and am proud to have my business based in the United States. I believe in creating both a strong artistic workforce and community." She credits her success to staying true to herself and to the amazing support of her friends, family and co-workers. "I truly enjoy what I do, and am so amazed that I get to do it- especially with such an amazing group of people."
Melissa Joy Manning jewelry can be found in over 250 high-end boutiques and specialty department stores worldwide. Her pieces have been featured on numerous magazine covers and fashion spreads, in feature films, television programs and music videos. Melissa's celebrity clients include Jennifer Aniston, Sandra Bullock, Sheryl Crow, Cameron Diaz, Jennifer Lopez, Debra Messing, P!nk, Jessica and Ashlee Simpson, Usher, and Catherine Zeta-Jones.
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