As you already might know, I’m Julia, the founder, designer, and creator behind Stones and Stuff Stockholm. I run the brand, design and handcraft each piece of jewellery, and manage every detail from start to finish.
The Story of Stones and Stuff Stockholm
My parents used to take me to stone and crystal markets, where the beauty of stones was always fascinating me. Yet, even back in the '90s, I remember thinking that these jewellery styles looked outdated. Over time, as I revisited these fairs, it struck me that these designs hadn’t changed. That’s when I began to think – why not give these beautiful stones a refresh, a more modern form?
However, my journey into jewellery-making didn’t begin until much later, in my mid-thirties. It came unexpectedly in the middle of 2020, when one day I stumbled upon a photo of a stone necklace and thought, "I could make something like this." At the time, I was studying online and feeling stressed, so I figured jewellery-making could be a way to calm my mind.
I bought some materials and began learning. Step by step, I was developing my skills, knowledge about stones and pearls, metals and difficult technicalities of making jewellery, which may seem simple for someone who never made it. Because I am a natural problem solver, it became my huge interest and passion, that has lasted to this day.
Today, every project is starting by curiosity, a thought "what if..." and ends on new lessons. Every creation is a learning and an opportunity to grow as a designer. I’m constantly trying out, experimenting, and exploring ways to enhance my craft and expand my imagination.
The Evolution of Stones and Stuff Stockholm
When I first started in 2020, I mainly worked with stones and crystals. But by 2021, I developed a fascination with pearls and began incorporating them into my designs. I remember making my first pearl necklace and feeling inspired by the timeless beauty of pearls.
One of my first usable stone necklaces
One of my first necklaces with pearls - today, Hanna necklace
In 2022, I became more interested in reusing materials, especially pearls and crystals. This all started when I was repairing an anklet for my sister. It sounds like a bit of a joke, but that small repair job sparked an idea – why not repurpose jewellery that’s already out there? Instead of buying new materials, why not give new life to old pieces?
The first jewellery I have repaired, for my sister, that sparked the idea for a service like that.
That’s when I started collecting and reusing materials, especially pearls and crystals, from old jewellery. I realised there were countless pieces hidden away in drawers, at second-hand shops, and flea markets. Why not take cultured pearls or mined stones and crystals and transform them into something new?
Sustainability and Connection
Sustainability and people are at the heart of what I do. Every piece of jewellery I create is named after the first person who purchases that model. This makes each of my customers a co-creator of the brand, and it’s one of the ways I stay connected to the people who support my work.
I also believe in upcycling and reusing materials. The idea of repairing broken jewellery led me to consider the value of repurposing old pieces. If you have jewellery that’s broken, out of style, or simply tucked away in a drawer, why not bring it to me? I can remake, redesign, and repair it so you can continue to enjoy it.
In fact, I love personal projects. Whether it’s an old sentimental piece or materials you bring to the table, I’ll add my own touch, and together, we’ll create something truly unique. You can be a co-creator of your own special piece of jewellery.
I am here to help you rediscover stones and pearls.
If you have any questions or would like to chat about a personal project, feel free to reach out. Whether you’re looking to redesign an old piece, donate unused jewellery, or collaborate on something new, I’m here to help.
Thank you for being here and supporting my brand.
Julia
Me in 2019, a year before my jewellery journey.
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