We recently connected with Daria Wang and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Daria thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. When did you first know you wanted to pursue a creative/artistic path professionally?

I have a background in architecture and have been studying and working in this field for about a decade. However, at some point, I experienced a serious burnout at work. It made me question myself—what had changed, and why did I feel so unmotivated compared to before? That’s when I realized I was craving more artistic expression in my life.

Architecture, while creative, is primarily a service-oriented job, where many of your ideas get filtered through supervision, budget constraints, and clients’ personal wishes. I often found myself frustrated when only a small fraction, maybe 5%, of my initial designs were actually implemented.

To reconnect with my creativity, I started exploring new artistic outlets as hobbies, first by taking ikebana classes, then drawing illustrations, and eventually making handmade accessories. What I discovered was the immense energy and inspiration I gained from having complete freedom in my creative process, with no external constraints.

Before long, I had created so much jewelry that I began gifting it to friends. That’s when it dawned on me: I could take this further and create a brand that allowed me to share the stories and beauty behind every piece. And that’s how Herland Jewelry came to life.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I am the heart and hands behind Herland Jewelry. My journey as a jewelry artist began in Yinchuan, a city in the Ningxia region of China, surrounded by the breathtaking Helan Mountains. While visiting my husband’s hometown, I became captivated by the area’s rugged beauty, especially during our hikes through its untouched slopes. It was here that I first explored the art of jewelry making, deeply inspired by the land’s raw beauty and grace.

The name Herland blends “Helan,” in honor of the majestic mountains, with a celebration of feminine energy and strength. It represents a place where resilience and elegance are woven into every creation. Each piece is handcrafted with love, passed from one heart to another, inviting those who wear it to embrace their own inner light. Like the enduring presence of the Helan Mountains, Herland offers a foundation of support, encouraging wearers to feel balanced, centered, and confident in their own self-expression.

At Herland, I craft jewelry using gemstones, dry flowers, and organic textures—materials chosen not only for their visual appeal but for the stories they tell. Every item is unique, drawing from nature to create something deeply personal. Whether it’s the delicate form of a flower or the intricate patterns of rocks and leaves, my jewelry connects individuals with the spirit of Mother Earth.

What began as a personal passion has now evolved into a brand, allowing me to share the inspiration behind each piece. I’m grateful for the journey Herland has taken so far and the meaningful relationships I’ve been able to build with my customers. Many return for the handcrafted uniqueness of my work, and these connections are truly rewarding. My hope is that my jewelry encourages others to reconnect with the natural world and the stories that shape us.

For me, Herland is more than just jewelry—it’s a celebration of nature’s nurturing and uplifting power.

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

Making the decision to transition from my architecture career to become a creative artist and entrepreneur took a lot of courage. It felt like starting from scratch, as though all my past successes and experiences were reset to zero. For some time, I struggled with imposter syndrome and a lack of confidence, fearing judgment from others because I couldn’t quite figure out who I was in this new role. When I claimed to be a jewelry artist and entrepreneur, my inner critic would always question me: “You can’t call yourself that. You just opened your shop a few months ago. You’re not successful enough to say that yet.”

However, with the support of my family and close friends, I began to realize that my past experiences were still valuable. My architecture degree and professional background didn’t disappear; they were an integral part of my creative journey. Not only do I have proficiency in graphic software, but I also bring skills in photography, thanks to my experience with rendering visualizations. My four years of art studies helped me develop an artistic eye, and working in a team-oriented environment has shaped my management skills. I recognized that although I was changing my path, the knowledge I gained from architecture was still part of me and still relevant.

Through this journey, I’ve come to understand that my experience might resonate with others who are also considering a shift toward a more artistic career but fear that their previous work or education won’t be valuable anymore. It’s common for new entrepreneurs—like myself—to feel uncertain or deal with imposter syndrome when stepping into a new identity. But I’ve learned that feeling this way is completely normal. It doesn’t mean you’re starting from scratch. In fact, when you reflect on your past, you realize that everything you’ve learned along the way is an asset that will support your growth in ways you might not have imagined. No matter where you come from, the skills and knowledge you’ve acquired will help guide you as you forge your creative path.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

The most rewarding aspect of being an artist is the creative independence I have in the process. I love that I get to choose the designs for my jewelry; I don’t take custom orders, which allows me to stay true to my vision. Some pieces naturally resonate more with customers, and that’s perfectly fine, but I still have the freedom to create what excites me. Each piece holds a special place in my heart, regardless of its popularity, as they represent my creative thoughts and ideas.

While I’m deeply grateful for the bestsellers that help sustain my business, I also cherish the pieces that aren’t as widely recognized. They reflect my artistic expression in a different way. This creative flexibility fuels my passion and provides the energy and motivation to keep going. The support from my customers allows me to continue pursuing my vision while running my business.

Another part of the joy comes from packing each order, knowing that someone, perhaps far away, will wear the piece I crafted. It’s incredibly special to think that my work could become a part of their memories or experiences. I’ve had customers buy my jewelry as gifts for loved ones, and it’s an honor to be a small part of that. I truly value these connections, even from afar.

Being a creative entrepreneur not only allows me to fully express myself, but it also fosters a deeper connection with the people around me. Every interaction, whether through my work or the stories shared by my clients, brings me closer to understanding the impact of what I create. It’s a fulfilling reminder that creativity has the power to bring people together and spark meaningful connections.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://herlandjewelry.etsy.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/herland_jewelry/

Image Credits

Daria Wang, Laura Luo