This designer's jewelry is informed by nature and alway one-of-a-kind

NORTH PORT — One of Inga Puzikov former real estate clients recognized Puzikov’s talent for fashion, design and love of colors and set her on a different career path.

Now Puzikov, who has lived in North Port for 15 years, is the owner of Jewelinga Designs. It offers unique, statement pieces that are made of semi-precious stones and sterling silver.

Puzikov was working as a Realtor in the Boston area when “a beautiful lady from Greece by the name of Zoe introduced me to her creations while I was working on selling her property.”

“(She) showed me the ropes on how to put necklaces together and bought me to places where I could buy materials, as well as shared some of hers to get me started. I tribute my success to her.”

Puzikov discusses where she gets her idea, her favorites pieces to make and her creative process. This Q&A has been edited for clarity.

Where do you get your ideas?

Being a Virgo, which is a sign of the Earth, working with natural stones was a truly organic match for me. I draw my inspiration from Mother Nature, who creates pieces (more beautiful than what we could ever imagine) every day. My job is just to highlight it the best way I can.

Why jewelry making and not some other artistic pursuit?

I think once an artist. always an artist. I do paintings as well and even tried to do a little thing with glass while working with different media for different art pieces. However, working as a stylist for fashion shows always was and always will be my favorite. I see jewelry as a “cherry on top.” No outfit can ever look its best without accessories. Making jewelry and collaborating to make something amazing in a fashion world is a passion of mine.

When and where did you start your company?

I am just a humble crafter and design my pieces at home. However, because each is one of a kind, I had great success selling them in most pristine stores, boutiques and galleries. I also love craft fairs, art shows, pop-up boutiques and parties.

What is your favorite object to make and why?

I can make earrings and bracelets, but my favorite will always be necklaces, especially long ones. In terms of stones, my favorite is pearl (being a sign of good taste and high class), turquoise (which heals depression and instantly just gives you positive energy and puts you in a good mood) and corral (which attract love, passion and good for heart chakra).

What do your customers like to buy?

My customers like to buy different pieces. I enjoy being able to help pick the right one, the one that represents them, and they can put their name on it. So, someone may be shy and love small pieces, but even as as introvert, have a vibrant, shiny personality. Someone feeling very comfortable with bold statement pieces and with a “Here I am” attitude, may need something that suits their mood and complements their outfits. Style is a deeply personal thing.

What makes your jewelry unique?

My vision, my style, the fact that it is handmade and one-of-a-kind. I take a big pride in the fact my investment in the accessories world was noticed. I was many times a nominee and a winner of Boston Fashion Awards as well as the Nula Award for supporting the community through art and fashion.

I read a 2020 Facebook post that says you make “statement jewelry pieces using leather, metal and wood, as well as precious stones and more.” Is that still accurate?

It is pretty accurate. I like to do something different and mix wood and natural stones, for example. If nature gives us all those tools, why not use them?

Writing is essential to calming my stressors. What impact does jewelry making have on your state of mind?

Exactly the same. I think if a person has a creative outlet, it is an amazing opportunity to help yourself feel better and bring something beautiful into this world. The more smiles we create, the better. My absolute favorite time to create is on a beach. Seeing blue sky, beautiful warm water and gentle sand puts me into creative mood instantly. I think this kind of energy is being carried on through the art as well.

Is there a jewelry project you have never done that you desire to do? What is the obstacle?

I have plenty of material, but the life of the artist is never over, and you are just as good as your next creation. I hope to create something one day that will be special enough to outlive me. What will it be? Life will show! Stay tuned....

How and where do people find your artwork?

People are welcome to contact me through my website: Jewelinga.com.