Beetle Creek was founded in January of 2003 by Charlene DeFrees. Charlene brings over 15 years of design experience to this jewelry line with unique styles appealing to women of all ages—you’ll even find some boutique pieces here for the youngsters in your lives. Nothing is mass produced so you can enjoy your truly "one-of-a-kind” treasure.
ABOUT
THE JEWELRY
To ensure durability and quality, every one of my creations
is made by hand using high quality crystals, gemstones and glass.
Metal findings are generally sterling silver or 14k gold-filled (unless
stated).
OUR NAMESAKE
The Beetle, a symbol of good fortune,
was held sacred by the Egyptian First Dynasty. They were also early
pioneers in the production of solid glass beads. This technology allowed
all people, both rich and poor, to share in the protective and fortune
giving powers thought to exist when wearing these beads.
Today, Beetle
Creek sets out to create beautiful, practical and unique jewelry products
using only high quality beads and gems.
From the Designer ~
INSPIRATION
My inspiration comes from over 15 years
of design experience in and a deep appreciation of quality handcrafted
one-of-a-kind items. My greatest effort is to make every item unique.
Color is also one of my first considerations when beginning a new
design. Color combinations range from invigorating and fun to serene
and tranquil.
HOW IT STARTED
I have always done something creative.
As a child I was the one always coloring, drawing and collaging. This
love of creativity continued through High School and eventually on
to an Interior Design program in college. After many classes of painting,
drawing, sculpture and design, I started to develop my own "style".
I went out into the working world as a junior designer at an Architectural
firm. My career progressed very nicely and I absolutely loved what
I was doing. Still, all the while, I knew I wanted to start using
my creative energies in a more personal way. But I was still searching
for that perfect . . .thing. I envied people who had found their passion
and could just lose all sense of time when they were creating.
Shortly
after my first daughter was born in 2001, I began to look for a way
to release some creative energy while caring for a newborn. I tried
scrapbooking - not for me. I tossed around some ideas of starting
my own design business but that was just overwhelming and not personal
enough. Then one day I woke up, literally, and thought . . . jewelry.
It really was just that simple.
I went out that very afternoon and
started poking around some local craft shops. Honestly, I got a little
carried away. It feels like I bought the entire store's inventory
of beads, gemstones, stringing materials, findings, etc. I found that
making jewelry was another form of sculpture, only you could wear
it! I then poured myself into learning everything I could, and made
my own designs. I'm STILL learning!
I decided that this was a great
opportunity to start my own business. I had always wanted to, but
never had anything to sell or the time to put into it. At this point
in my life I had both. So now it's growing, slowly but surely. Honestly,
it never could have happened without the support of my husband. His
patience and willingness to help with EVERYTHING has been a true blessing.
What can you say about a guy who will get up at crack of dawn on a
Saturday morning to haul our stuff 90 miles to a craft show. Thanks!