Check Out Skip Benefiet’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Skip Benefiet.

Skip, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I started Malachite Silver Co. as a hobby, as a way to pass time during the pandemic but I absolutely fell in love with every aspect of silversmithing. My assumed hobby quickly took over my life, I was spending every possible moment in my little studio, trying to get in as much time as possible at the bench. Fast forward two years of me juggling a full-time job, trying to build my own business and have a social life, I quit my 9-5 four months ago. As of now, I am giving this little business my all and pursuing my dream!

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Absolutely not. While I was juggling my previous job while also building MSC, I was working a lot of hours, waking up at 4am some days to silversmith and then work a 12-hour shift. But honestly, the long days were worth it, I don’t ever feel like I am working when I am in the studio, it truly brings me so much happiness. When they say “if you find what you love, you’ll never work a day in your life”, well that is absolutely true. I am also basically self-taught, so there is a lot of learning and mistakes happening behind the scenes.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I make quality, handcrafted, sustainable sterling silver jewelry for ethically-minded humans. I am focused on sustainability through every step of my creative process, from where I purchase my stones to how I get products to client’s doorsteps and every step in between. I source 100% of my materials from other small businesses and am committed to using quality, sustainable packaging. For this aspect alone, I am extremely proud, there is so much unsustainable jewelry and companies out there and I am thrilled to be able to set myself apart from them. While it may not be important to some people it so important to me and I want to make sure I relay the importance of sustainability through my company.

We’d love to hear about any fond memories you have from when you were growing up?
My favorite childhood memory would have to be summers spent with my grandparents. I know that everyone says their grandparents are the best but I definitely have some amazing ones. I was basically raised on the Missouri River and can’t thank them enough for getting me on the water so much. These summers built who I am as a person and ignited a passion in me for all things water.

Contact Info:

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