This week’s OTMRA Member Spotlight is Redbud Jewelry, which is located in the heart of Wells Street.

Redbud Jewelry is the studio and shop of goldsmith Janeane Karbassi. Janeane started her professional life as an actress. After feeling burned out in her acting career, she took a beginning metalsmithing class “just for fun”. Now, she creates one-of-a-kind and limited run jewelry crafted to be passed down to future generations. Each piece is handmade in the Old Town shop with ethically sourced and recycled materials. You will usually catch her working at her bench if you stop in.

Redbud Jewelry’s passion lies in the idea of “slow” fashion. They work totally by hand, not using any casting from molds or designs in computer programs. They fabricate each piece of jewelry completely by hand using saws, hammers, anvils, torches, etc. This style of work is a nod to Janeane’s Chickasaw heritage. In this way, Redbud Jewelry is trying to keep the techniques of traditional metalwork alive that have been practiced for centuries.

Janeane’s process focuses on centuries-old hand fabrication techniques that give her pieces heart. For her, handmade work is an extension of herself, an investment in the highest quality materials, and a desire to keep this art form alive.

The shop is very small – just Janeane and a shop assistant who do all of the work themselves in-house. They offer a line of ready-to-wear jewelry that is available to purchase in the shop. In addition, they also do custom work of all kinds and teach fun one-night classes where people can come into the studio and make their own rings in sterling silver with our tools.

We host BYOB ring-making classes every weekend. It’s a fun way to get together with friends, but also a glimpse into the metal working process. Plus, you’ll leave with your own handmade silver ring!

Janeane enjoys having Redbud Jewelry in the Old Town neighborhood for plenty of reasons. “The Old Town area has a history of being home to some great Chicago artists. While a lot of larger businesses and restaurants have moved into the area recently, the residents here still seem to really appreciate having small businesses and an artist studio in the neighborhood. It’s great talking with people and shop owners who appreciate the work being done in the studio.”

You can find information on their classes, custom work, and the shop at their website: redbudjewelry.com