Interview with Ying Li
A professional and experienced jewelry designer, Ying Li has a wealth of experience in the field. She has been designing bespoke jewelry for over 6 years.
Designer Interview
25 June 2023
I studied Art and Design at Hunan University of Technology in China. I became a designer after graduation. To be honest I didn’t think too much about my career at that time. I chose to be a UI designer in the IT field because the wage is much higher than others. Then I was busy all the time. When I realized something, 5 years had passed.
Then I began to think about myself, my career, my interests, my hobbies, and my life. My sister, who runs her own jewelry studio, invited me to join her as a jewelry designer. This is an area I have never touched before, so I am not sure if I can handle it or not. One day, some memories suddenly popped into my head. I dressed a Barbie doll, picking clothes and accessories. This was my original thought, I wanted to make others beautiful. My decision was made then.
I learn everything I can about jewelry design. Read books, take courses, look for materials, etc. My jewelry design career began.
Then I began to think about myself, my career, my interests, my hobbies, and my life. My sister, who runs her own jewelry studio, invited me to join her as a jewelry designer. This is an area I have never touched before, so I am not sure if I can handle it or not. One day, some memories suddenly popped into my head. I dressed a Barbie doll, picking clothes and accessories. This was my original thought, I wanted to make others beautiful. My decision was made then.
I learn everything I can about jewelry design. Read books, take courses, look for materials, etc. My jewelry design career began.
Our studio is not big, with only four people. We run our own brand called "MY.WANCE Gemstone and Jewelry". We sell gemstones as well as our own original design pieces, and we also create bespoke jewelry for customers.
I believe that design is a fundamental element that can make things organized and logical. For example, consider a book, after design, it becomes much easier to read because the font size is appropriate, word spacing is reasonable, and paragraphs are clearly defined.
I understand that most people have regular jobs and can't wear anything too extravagant, so they tend to be less selective. However, I enjoy designing jewelry that is not too over-the-top but still special for those individuals.
The first piece of jewelry I designed was a pink rough spinel bracelet. I still remember the most difficult part was how to set the gems, as they don't have regular shapes and can't be set using a regular setting. Fortunately, after doing lots of research, I was finally able to figure it out.
My favorite gemstone is spinel. They come in all kinds of colors, including red, pink, purple, green and so on. They are hard and sparkling, which is why I love them the most.
I enjoy creating things when I am alone, in a quiet and silent environment. This is when I can listen to my inner voice and feel the most creative.
Meaningfulness is the most important aspect that I focus on when designing. I strive to create things that are meaningful for both myself and my customers.
It depends. Sometimes I feel really down, sometimes I feel up, sometimes I feel very calm, and sometimes I feel excited. I need these emotions to help me create.
I feel accomplished when my designs are realized. The sense of accomplishment is what drives me to continue designing.
Unique design, exquisite craftsmanship, customer recognition, and accreditation by professionals are all important factors to consider.
A design's practicality is my first consideration. While an innovative, creative, and colorful design may be visually appealing, it is not good if it cannot be used.
Interview about Daphne Brooch and Pendant Grand Interview