Left: This Sun Burn gold-filled necklace has that golden appeal and flavour. Right: Fashionable is definitely a word to describe this necklace - just look at how the pendant pops.

One year ago she took a well-needed break from her career as a management consultant in the United States of America. Today, Katherine Cooper is the designer behind the jewellery line Piece by Peace.

"It was exhausting. I never felt stable and I was just always on the go, working sometimes 15 hours for a day. I was burned out and needed a break from the corporate world. Because of this, I decided to come home," said Cooper. This break was, perhaps, what she needed to find her true passion and delve into her creative side.

For the year, Cooper transformed her hobby of jewellery making into a business. "The designs are all in my head, sometimes at five o'clock in the morning, or in the middle of the night, I will get an idea. And sometimes it is really about trial and error."

Jewellery for women

Specialising in necklaces, earrings and bracelets for women, the young entrepreneur utilises various materials. "I use quality material because I think about durability so I will use gold-fill and antique brass. And for stones, I use turquoise, coral, pearls, chalcedony, amethyst, topaz, sterling silver and crystals, just to name a few."

The pieces are designed for persons 25 years old or older and reflect different moods. "Some are bold, dainty, trendy and can be worn according to how you are feeling."

For now, all the pieces can be found on the newly established online store: Baubles and Threads. Customers are able to view and purchase the different pieces, as well as T-shirts which she has sourced. "A lot of people ask 'Baubles and Threads, why that name?'

Brainstorming

Well, I was brainstorming for a name for the online store and I thought of baubles, which means ornament or jewellery, and threads, meaning the different forms of clothing. Hence the name Baubles and Threads and I think it sounds cute," said a smiling Cooper.

Although online shopping has become extremely popular, Cooper recognises that some persons prefer to see the physical item. "I plan to have monthly trunk shows to show what is available and have a touch- and-feel show." She also plans to have some of her pieces available in local stores in the near future but is at present building her clientele and name through her online store.

After purchasing an item, customers receive a personalised touch by the designer. In keeping with the company's slogan- 'Pretty things with a divinely simple message', each package is sent off with a message. "A Bible verse is sent with the package in a way to lift people's spirit," explains Cooper .

With a hobby that started to cut cost while being fashionable, Cooper notes that since the launch of the online store earlier this month, the response has been very good. "The feedback has been wonderful and I can say things are going great. The website is of good quality and people are more encouraged to shop online."

Ways to expand

Cooper is always looking for ways to expand her business as any good business person would. "By the end of the year I hope to have my own T-shirt line and I also want to do jewellery pieces for men." While most of the techniques she uses in designing are self-taught, she looks forward to doing some courses which will enhance her creativity.

Not giving up entirely on her job in the accounting field, Cooper just recently finished a project as a freelance consultant. However, she hopes that one day she will be able to retire and focus fully on her new interest. And, of course, create more time for her other leisure activities such as going to the beach, occasional partying and enjoying her friends' company over a glass of wine.

Visit her website:www.baublesandthreads.com

latoya.grindley@gleanerjm.com

Left: Roots meets elegance in this Cotch on the Rocks piece. Right: This stepping stones, gold-filled necklace will definitely step its way to your heart after you see how it accentuates your neckline. - photos by Colin Hamilton/Freelance Photographer

You will not be able to resist this set.

Amethyst, Topaz, Peacock Pears and Sterling Silver Beads and stones are the materials used to create this Hammered cross pendant necklace.