Today we’d like to introduce you to Sandrine Valentine
Sandrine, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I’ve been on an incredible journey since 1996, when I first moved from France to the United States. Art has always been close to my heart, but it wasn’t until 2008, at a jewelry show in Arizona, that I found my true calling—jewelry making. Something just clicked that day. By 2012, I was ready to launch Sandrine B. Jewelry, and I’ve never looked back. I’ve always had this love for collecting discarded treasures, little pieces of nature or forgotten objects, and turning them into something beautiful. I love the idea of creating jewelry that’s not only wearable but tells a story, capturing memories and moments. My pieces are crafted right here in New York City, working closely with talented artisans who share my vision for transparency, responsible sourcing, and traceability. For me, it’s more than just designing jewelry—it’s about honoring the earth and the beauty that surrounds us. Everything I create carries that ethos, and I’m so grateful to have built something that resonates with people who appreciate that same sense of connection and meaning.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Building Sandrine B. Jewelry has been a rewarding journey, but it hasn’t been without its struggles. Even now, I continue to face challenges along the way. In the beginning, learning the technical aspects of jewelry making from scratch was daunting. While I always had an artistic eye, understanding the craft’s fine details took a lot of time, trial and error, and constant growth. Starting the business in 2012 came with its own hurdles. Running a creative brand while managing the practical aspects, like marketing and finances, continues to be a balancing act. My commitment to ethical sourcing and transparency is also an ongoing challenge. It’s not easy to find materials that meet my high standards of sustainability and responsibility, and ensuring that everything I use is traceable can be complex. But it’s a non-negotiable for me, and I continue to invest in those relationships with suppliers who share the same vision. Even now, as the brand grows, I sometimes feel the pressure of the competitive jewelry industry. There are moments when I question if I’m doing enough or moving in the right direction. But despite these struggles, my passion for creating meaningful, responsibly sourced pieces drives me forward. Every challenge I face helps me refine the brand and stay true to my values.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I’m the founder and lead designer of Sandrine B. Jewelry, where I create unique, handcrafted pieces that tell a story. My work is centered around transforming nature’s wonders and discarded treasures into wearable art. Every piece I design is a reflection of my love for the earth and my commitment to responsible craftsmanship. I specialize in creating jewelry that is deeply connected to nature and sustainability. I work with ethically sourced materials, focusing on transparency and traceability. My designs are often inspired by natural elements like seashells, coral reefs, and other organic forms. I also have a passion for giving new life to forgotten objects, turning them into meaningful pieces that evoke memories and personal narratives. I’m known for creating jewelry that goes beyond aesthetics—it’s about storytelling. People recognize Sandrine B. Jewelry for its commitment to sustainability, responsible sourcing, and creating one-of-a-kind pieces that feel personal. My collections, like the Unearthed Collection, reflect this ethos of honoring nature while crafting something timeless and wearable. I’m most proud of building a brand that stays true to its values. Crafting each piece with care, knowing that every material is responsibly sourced, and seeing my jewelry connect with people on a deeper level—that’s what fulfills me. I’m proud that I’ve been able to bring together artistry and environmental consciousness, creating jewelry that both celebrates and protects the earth.
Can you share something surprising about yourself?
Something surprising that most people who know me or my work might not realize is that my journey into jewelry design was completely unexpected. Before discovering this passion, I hadn’t considered jewelry making as a path for myself. It wasn’t until I attended a jewelry show in Arizona in 2008 that I stumbled upon the craft, and it felt like a lightbulb moment. Up until then, art was always part of my life, but I never imagined it would lead me to create wearable pieces that would become my life’s work.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://sandrinebjewelry.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sandrinebjewelry/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SandrineBJewelry/
Image Credits
Leah Huang for the one photo of the model with the gloves, Fred De Vos for the photo of the ring on the grey background and Eleonora Trullo for the photos of the jewelry on the plant, on the tree and the photo of the ring held in a fist and the model with the hand back in the neck.