WHO ARE YOU, WHERE ARE YOU FROM, & WHAT DO YOU DO?
My name is Melissa Giglio, the metalsmith and owner of January Jewelry, located in Columbia, SC.

DESCRIBE YOUR PROCESS.
Metalsmithing has such a metamorphosis involved from the beginning of the design process to the completed piece. I work mainly with sterling silver, brass and copper, and enamel. I use a jeweler’s saw to cut shapes, hammers to create texture, files and polishers to finish the piece to perfection, and even enamel that is fused to metal to add color to my work. High quality stones are also used, where I handcrafted and set the bezel and stone in fine silver.

WHAT INSPIRES YOU?
Delicate femininity inspires my designs and shapes. I love negative space and fine beautiful lines. Earthy colors and shapes are pulled into my designs in an organic and geometric way, perfectly combined for the best composition in jewelry design.

FUN FACT ABOUT YOU.
I used to be an art teacher in North Carolina!

FAVORITE THING ABOUT DOWNTOWN AUGUSTA.
I’ve never been to Augusta! I’m so excited to find my favorite place to eat!

WHY DO YOU LOVE TO DESIGN, CREATE + MAKE?
I love to create something from nothing. The process involved with just any idea in my head, to crafting it out of metal is such a fun process for me. It keeps my busy mind challenged and engaged. It is gratifying to see a completed piece as I’ve watched it transform. It’s also equally gratifying to see women light up when they wear my jewelry or when the piece holds special meaning for them. I love that I’ve been a part of the process.

WHAT IS ONE PIECE OF ADVICE YOU WOULD SHARE WITH OTHER ARTISTS + MAKERS?
Find your voice and your authentic vision for your work. No one can replicate your essence.