In an era dominated by mass-produced jewelry, one jeweler stands out by creating pieces that embody the simplicity and beauty of nature. Mt. Lebanon resident Larissa Graudins of Rissi Designs [1] specializes in using sterling silver and semi-precious gemstones, drawing inspiration from the organic patterns and textures found in streams, stones and little moments of everyday life. This results in designs that are both elegant and understated.
The jeweler’s journey began in her youth, with an innate love for creating things by hand, and time spent learning various jewelry techniques. This early passion lingered, eventually reigniting as an adult in search of a creative outlet. The tactile experience of working with different materials provided a perfect medium for artistic expression.
Nature serves as the primary muse for this jeweler. “Most of my ideas are inspired by nature and the materials I use,” she explains. This connection to the natural world is evident in her work from the dotted texture on a pair of earrings, to the organic placement of gemstones on a cuff. Larissa explains ideas come from anywhere and everywhere, drawing inspiration from items around the house, vivid dreams and walks around her neighborhood near Beverly Road. All of these contribute to the unique and organic feel of her pieces.
While the jeweler appreciates designs from various cultures and historical periods, Rissi Designs tend to be more contemporary and modern. Noted from the oxidized silver, bright sterling silver, and the blue and brown gemstones, there is a modernity to the work, hinting at Bauhaus. The customer often finds the “clean and simple” aesthetic in her pieces particularly appealing. The goal is to create jewelry that brings happiness to the wearer. “It always makes an arts and crafts show better when I have a customer that leaves my booth wearing a piece of my jewelry right away and a big smile,” Larissa shares.
Traditional metalsmithing methods such as designing, sawing, soldering and polishing form the foundation of Rissi Designs, but Larissa is always on the lookout for new tools and techniques that can enhance the work.
For those interested in experiencing this local jeweler’s work firsthand, she will be showcasing her creations at the Mt. Lebanon Artists’ Market [2] this fall on September 28 and 29. This event provides a platform for direct engagement with the community, allowing people to appreciate the craftsmanship and passion that goes into each unique piece.
