my story
Me with my little assistants, Charlotte & Annika. Photo by Alyssa Fortin Photography
I grew up in the shoreline town of Madison, Connecticut. I started creating jewelry when I was ten and set up my first stand at the end of our driveway. I’ve been creating jewelry ever since. I took courses in painting, drawing, and sculpture at Tabor Academy in Marion, Massachusetts (known as "The School by the Sea") to hone my design skills. At the University of Texas at Austin, while pursuing my degree in art history, I was particularly inspired by Byzantine, Mesoamerican, and African art and jewelry. But it was after college, while living in Denver, that I mustered up the courage to officially start my own business. As the great sculptor Henry Moore said, “To be an artist is to believe in life.” With that in mind I left my job working at a nationally prominent art gallery and started FALK Jewelry Designs. I’ve never looked back.
I now live in Madison, CT with my husband, three daughters, 2 big dogs and a flock of chickens. We just recently moved here from Hingham, MA (we spent 11 years there and I found much of my inspiration there…the South Shore and Boston is just the best!). Now, the natural forms I find while beach-combing the coast of Long Island Sound inspire me; if the sound isn’t calling my name, then the cities of NYC or Boston is.
As you browse my work, I hope you sense the beauty and balance I’ve discovered. Certain collections have a more urban, edgy feel to them while the coast inspires the softness of others. For several years I have specialized in integrating precious or semi-precious stones and gems with precious coral. I confess that I’m obsessed with the beauty and natural forms of red and pink coral.
Following in the footsteps of my forebears, I’ve studied at the Rhode Island School of Design perfecting my skills in the lost wax casting technique. In addition to creating bold pieces tailored to the individual, I have also found a niche creating unique, but complimentary, sets of necklaces, bracelets, and earrings for brides and bridesmaids. My customers love knowing that each piece is a unique design that is part of a limited edition. I’m here to help you tell the world you are a special person with a keen eye!
Photo by Ellie Finn Photography