We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Jennifer Odell a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Jennifer , thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. We’d love to hear about a project that you’ve worked on that’s meant a lot to you.

One of the most meaningful projects I’ve had the honor to create was what I call an “Alchemy Project” which is the transformation of a client’s unworn jewelry into new, cherished pieces. In this case, it began with a striking oval canary diamond ring, a wide platinum band set with the canary diamond in the center and two white baguette diamonds on either side. My client no longer wore it, and together we envisioned something more personal, feminine and wearable. I re-set the vivid yellow diamond into a handmade 22K gold ring, surrounded by tiny diamonds along the band, giving it warmth, incredible sparkle and new life. The baguette diamonds became elegant white gold double studs. By reusing the stones and refining the metal, I created modern heirlooms that honor the original piece while reflecting who she is today. That, to me, is the true magic of handmade jewelry: transformation with both beauty and meaning.

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’m a goldsmith and jewelry designer based on Cape Cod, MA and Montclair, NJ, where I handcraft fine jewelry that celebrates transformation, memory, and wearable art. My brand, Paris & Lily, was born from a lifelong love of ancient jewelry and a desire to create pieces that carry meaning with their sparkle.

I began jewelry school at the age of 40 after both a corporate career in industrial psychology and then several years of an entrepreneurial project. I was honestly craving something creative and emotional. I came into this work through a deep fascination with ancient cultures and their jewelry, the survival of their jewelry through today and how their jewelry held emotion. I have an incredible interest in how a piece of jewelry can mark a milestone, tell a story, or connect generations. Over the years, I’ve built a practice rooted in old-world goldsmithing and modern heirloom design, where each piece is made by hand in 22K or 18K gold using techniques that honor tradition while embracing contemporary form and family nostalgia.

I’m known for my repurposing commissions or what I call my “Alchemy Projects.” These are collaborations with clients to transform their unworn or inherited jewelry into new treasures that feel deeply personal and wearable. It’s a process that often carries both emotional and creative significance while preserving the spirit of a piece and giving it new life.

In my retail studio on Cape Cod I also offer ready-to-wear pieces and have taken a local craft tradition, the Nantucket Basket jewelry, and reimagined it into fine jewelry. These are unique pieces which have been featured in national magazines and often the reason for a client’s pilgrimage to my little studio.

What sets my work apart is the intimacy of the process. I’m involved in every stage, from design sketch to final polish – ensuring each detail reflects both the material and the story behind it. My clients often tell me they feel seen and understood, that the jewelry becomes a part of their own narrative.

I’m most proud of creating a brand that values meaning over mass production where luxury feels soulful, connected, and enduring. For me, jewelry isn’t simply adornment; it’s a form of storytelling and personal significance- one that captures where we’ve been, who we are, and what we choose to carry forward.

How can we best help foster a strong, supportive environment for artists and creatives?

Since transitioning fully into a creative career, I’ve made it a priority to connect with and learn from other artists and makers. What I’ve discovered is that within the luxury space, there is an extraordinary network of small-batch and handmade artisans. Whether in jewelry, home, clothing, and accessories – I have found amazing artists creating with intention and integrity.

To truly support a thriving creative ecosystem, we need to value craftsmanship and individuality over mass production. That means seeking out and supporting handmade work, shopping small, and celebrating the artistry behind each piece. Every purchase from an independent maker helps preserve traditional skills and sustains creativity.

Are there any books, videos, essays or other resources that have significantly impacted your management and entrepreneurial thinking and philosophy?

When I made the decision to pursue jewelry making as a business, I joined a professional organization within the jewelry industry, began reading trade publications, and attended shows and networking events. At the time, it felt daunting to be stepping into a new creative field where so many others had already established their place. It required me to really put myself out there in a way that felt different from past professional experiences.

Looking back, I’m so grateful I did. Immersing myself in the industry and learning its language, meeting other makers, and understanding both the artistry and business sides gave me the foundation and confidence I needed to grow. The connections I made and the knowledge I gained from those early experiences continue to shape how I approach my work today.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://parisandlily.com/
• Instagram: Paris_and_Lily
• Linkedin: Jennifer Odell, Paris & Lily

Image Credits

All photos taken by William Heuberger