Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Priscilla Marquez. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Priscilla, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Let’s kick things off with your mission – what is it and what’s the story behind why it’s your mission?

At Dainty Gem by Priscilla Marquez (NinaLu Designs) my mission goes beyond simply creating beautiful jewelry, it’s about helping people tell their stories through intentional, meaningful design.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

My passion for jewelry began when I was just 12 years old, creating pieces by hand and falling in love with the art of design. I’ve always had a strong creative spirit, which ultimately led me to pursue a degree in Fashion Design.

Many years later, after becoming a mother, I launched NinaLu Designs a handmade jewelry brand that I showcased at local artisan markets and community events. It was a deeply fulfilling chapter, but I chose to pause the business to focus on raising my family.

After the pandemic, I found myself drawn back to creating, this time starting with handcrafted sun catchers. That creative spark eventually evolved into my discovery of permanent jewelry a concept that was still new to me at the time. I was intrigued by the idea, but knew I wanted to do something different. I envisioned permanent jewelry that wasn’t plain or predictable, but playful, personalized, and full of charm.

That vision became the foundation of Dainty Gem by Ninalu Designs a studio where jewelry is not just worn, but designed with intention.

I wanted to create a space that felt both luxurious and welcoming a studio where anyone, regardless of budget, could be part of the design process and walk away with something truly personal. Every piece made here carries the fingerprints of its creator it’s not just jewelry, it’s a wearable reflection of who you are.

From the elegance of permanent jewelry to custom charm layering sessions, the experience at Dainty Gem is designed to be immersive, stylish, and unforgettable. I believe jewelry should feel like you whether it’s a delicate chain that captures a moment in time, or a bold statement piece layered with intention.

This brand was born out of the desire to offer something fresh: a studio where style meets storytelling, where people don’t just shop they create. With curated designs, one-on-one personalization, and an eye for modern trends, I aim to bring a new kind of jewelry experience to El Paso one that’s full of charm, creativity, and connection.

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

My creative journey is rooted in storytelling through design. From the moment I started making jewelry at age 12, there’s been a consistent thread: the joy of creating with my hands and turning raw materials into something meaningful.

My experience as a mother, artist, and entrepreneur has shaped my mission not just to make jewelry, but to create space for others to design something that reflects who they are. Whether it was handmade pieces sold at local markets, sun catchers that captured light and hope post-pandemic, or now, permanent jewelry that celebrates life’s moments my work is always about connection, transformation, and intention.

What truly sets my journey apart is my ability to blend creativity with inclusivity. I want luxury to feel accessible, and style to feel personal. I am not just following trends I am crafting an experience where everyone can feel seen, celebrated, and stylish.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

A significant turning point in my career came when I found myself balancing a demanding corporate job while trying to grow Dainty Gem. While I was grateful for the stability, the role offered little creative fulfillment and it left me with limited time and energy to invest in the brand I was so passionate about.

After months of reflection and weighing my options, I decided to take a leap of faith. I stepped away from my corporate career to pursue Dainty Gem by Ninalu Designs full time. It was a bold and scary move, but I realized that if I could dedicate so much of myself to building someone else’s vision, I could certainly do the same and more for something I created and truly love.

Designing jewelry lights me up in a way no other work ever has. It was a risk, yes, but one that felt aligned with my purpose. Since making that decision, I’ve never looked back.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.ninaluhandmade.etsy.com
• Instagram: @ninaludesign @daintygem.pj
• Facebook: @ninaludesigns @daintygem.pj
• Youtube: @ninaludesigns

Image Credits

Photos taken by Priscilla Marquez