Daily Inspiration: Meet Vanessa Barcus

Today we’d like to introduce you to Vanessa Barcus

Hi Vanessa, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Talisman started as a tiny little in-house jewelry line at the store I used to own, Goldyn. We sold a lot of fine jewelry and so after a while it just made sense to make our own. The collection has evolved a ton since I closed that store and took this on full time. I learned to do the metalsmithing myself along the way, and over time it became my art.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Of course the pandemic was a huge hurdle to get through, like it was for all small businesses. I am thankful to be nimble and strategic. That was when I started leaning into my own client list, in addition to wholesaling.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
Talisman Fine Jewelry is my collection of sculptural heirloom jewelry, which I hand-form in recycled 14k gold. My intention was to create everyday jewelry pieces that still have a wonderfully weighty, substantial feel. They’re modernist, minimalist, and yet at the same time have an ancient sensibility. What some don’t realize about the collection, however, is that each piece is energetically charged and imbued with intention – “talismans” in the most literal sense of the word. I wanted every design to stand on its own, but each one also serves as a functional healing piece. In that way the collection rides the lines between art, everyday jewelry, and sacred adornment.

What matters most to you? Why?
Connecting with clients in an authentic, meaningful way. I love making commitment jewelry and jewelry to mark transitions in life for that reason. I also love creative expression, whether that’s through my own artistic work, or through helping others express themselves through personal adornment. Helping people feel seen as their true selves is a part of that as well.

Pricing:

• $110 and up

Contact Info:

• Website: https://talismanfinejewelry.co/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talismanfinejewelry/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/talismanfinejewelry

Image Credits
Vanessa photo by Mare Amor, Talisman lookbook images by Matt Nager