Andrea Moore

Austin jewelry designer Andrea Moore combines natural gemstones, metal and artistry to create her one-of-a-kind Gypsy Born Designs. Her handcrafted jewelry has been described as vibrant and instinctual; every piece is made with an extraordinary attention to creativity and craftsmanship.

I found Andrea at Stitch Austin and couldn't wait to spread the word.

Q: What inspired you to create your collection?

A: As long as I can remember, I've been very visual. I am constantly exploring how adornment (in any form) can create interest and if successful, enhance the original, simplistic beauty of things. Whether the subject is a blank wall, empty vase, or simple dress, I believe adding interesting details, texture, color, and occasionally a little sparkle communicates a certain "joie de vivre". I still pinch myself that am able to satisfy this passion by creating jewelry that others choose to wear to express their own style.

Q: What inspires and influences your designs?

A: I am most inspired by designs that only Mother Nature could create: for example, the symmetry of a seedpod, the gnarls of a tree trunk, the patterned shimmer of a butterfly wing. While I adore these things, I am also attracted to luxurious fabrics, sparkling chandeliers ... a certain elegance in design. I am most happy when I am able to successfully marry these contrasting aesthetics into my jewelry... natural shells, rough lava rock, or sinewy leather in harmony with refined and glamorous elements of sparkling stones, fine gold wire, and shimmering chains.

Q: What are a few top picks on your play list?
A: Music is an important part of who I am and it usually creates the backdrop to my day. Most recently played in my studio would be: Calexico/Iron and Wine (In the Reins), The Black Keys (Thickfreakness), John Scofield (A Go-Go), Adrian Quesada (Ocote Soul Sounds), Stanton Moore (III), Led Zeppelin (How the West Was Won), Anders Osborne (Ash Wednesday Blues)

Q: When did you realize you had hit a sweet spot?

A: I guess that would be a few years ago when it dawned on me that I had fans and collectors outside of my friends and family. When I realized my pieces were being sought out, not just an impulse buy, I thought hmmm, maybe I've finally found my look, a recognizable design direction that people are responding to.

Q: Where can we find more Gypsy Born Designs?

A: Gypsy Born Designs can currently be found in Austin at Eliza Page, Wildflower Organics and also at www.gypsyborndesigns.com

designer insider
posted - beth / 1:41 PM / 01.14.07