Symmetry Jewelers Designers: Crafting Elegance in New Orleans
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By: Jyssica Schwartz
Located in the vibrant city of New Orleans, Symmetry Jewelers & Designers stands as a distinguished establishment, meticulously crafting exquisite jewelry for over four decades. This beloved local treasure has become deeply ingrained in the rich artistic traditions of the Crescent City.
Their design philosophy emphasizes custom, handcrafted pieces that reflect New Orleans‘ cultural richness, blending traditional techniques with contemporary aesthetics.
The jewelers actively engage with the local community, infusing the city’s vibrant culture into their designs and participating in various community initiatives.
The Legacy of Symmetry Jewelers & Designers
Tracing its origins back to 1975, Symmetry Jewelers & Designers was founded by Richard and Tom Mathis, along with Judie Held, who shared a vision of creating a jewelry store that would showcase custom creations alongside unique, locally and globally sourced treasures. This esteemed establishment has since become a beloved institution, renowned for its excellence and commitment to preserving the artistic heritage of New Orleans.
Over the years, Symmetry has been guided by key figures who have contributed to its success. Today, the establishment is under the careful stewardship of Connie Thompson and Anna Hollinger, who continue the tradition of inspiring customers and providing art-forward jewelry crafted with precision and care.
Mastery in Craftsmanship
At Symmetry Jewelers & Designers, each piece of jewelry is a testament to the mastery of craftsmanship that goes into its creation. The jewelers employ a range of techniques, from traditional metalsmithing to cutting-edge technologies, ensuring that every detail is executed with the utmost precision.
The quality of materials used is of paramount importance, with Symmetry sourcing only the finest gemstones, precious metals, and other materials from reputable suppliers. This commitment to using only the best ensures that each piece not only looks stunning but also stands the test of time.
Design Philosophy
Custom Creations and Client Stories
One of the hallmarks of Symmetry Jewelers & Designers is their ability to create custom pieces that are truly one-of-a-kind. Each custom creation is a collaborative effort between the jeweler and the client, resulting in a piece that holds deep personal significance.
Take, for example, the story of a client who wanted to incorporate her grandmother’s diamond into a new setting. The jewelers at Symmetry worked closely with her, listening to her vision and crafting a stunning ring that not only showcased the diamond but also reflected her personal style and family history.
Another client, a local musician, sought to create a unique piece that captured the essence of New Orleans’ vibrant music scene. The result was a stunning pendant featuring intricate metalwork inspired by the city’s iconic wrought-iron balconies, with a gemstone that seemed to pulsate with the rhythm of the city’s heartbeat.
These stories, and countless others like them, are a testament to the skill and dedication of the jewelers at Symmetry, who pour their hearts and souls into every custom creation.
Engagement with the New Orleans Community
Symmetry Jewelers & Designers is deeply committed to the local community, participating in various events and initiatives that celebrate the rich culture and heritage of New Orleans. From collaborating with local artists and businesses to supporting community organizations, Symmetry is an integral part of the fabric that makes the city so unique.
One of the ways Symmetry engages with the community is through their participation in local art walks and festivals. During these events, they showcase their latest creations, often featuring designs inspired by the city’s iconic architecture, music, and art scenes.
Additionally, Symmetry has partnered with local schools and organizations to offer workshops and educational programs, sharing their knowledge and passion for jewelry-making with the next generation of artists and craftspeople.
The Artistic Influence of New Orleans
New Orleans is a city that has long been a muse for artists of all kinds, and the jewelers at Symmetry are no exception. The city’s unique blend of cultures, its rich history, and its vibrant energy all serve as a constant source of inspiration for their designs.
From the intricate ironwork that adorns the city’s historic buildings to the rhythmic beats of jazz that fill the air, the jewelers at Symmetry draw inspiration from every corner of New Orleans. They might incorporate the intricate patterns of a wrought-iron balcony into a bracelet design or capture the energy of a second-line parade in the movement of a pendant.
Even the city’s culinary traditions find their way into Symmetry’s designs, with jewelers taking cues from the bold flavors and vibrant colors of New Orleans’ iconic dishes, translating them into stunning pieces that are as unique as the city itself.
Sustainability and Ethical Practices
In addition to their commitment to preserving the artistic heritage of New Orleans, Symmetry Jewelers & Designers is also dedicated to sustainability and ethical practices in their sourcing and production processes.
They prioritize working with suppliers who adhere to responsible mining practices and fair labor standards, ensuring that every piece of jewelry they create is not only beautiful but also ethically sourced and produced.
Symmetry has also implemented various eco-friendly initiatives in their studio, such as recycling precious metals and gemstones, and using energy-efficient equipment to minimize their environmental impact.
Visiting Symmetry Jewelers & Designers
For those seeking to experience the magic of Symmetry Jewelers & Designers firsthand, a visit to their showroom in the heart of New Orleans’ Uptown neighborhood is a must. Located at 8138 Hampson St, the showroom is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm.
Upon entering, visitors are greeted by a warm and inviting atmosphere, where they can browse the stunning collection of jewelry on display or consult with the knowledgeable staff to discuss custom designs.
Symmetry also hosts special events and showcases throughout the year, offering visitors the opportunity to meet the jewelers, learn about their techniques, and witness the creation of new pieces firsthand.
Whether you’re a lifelong resident of New Orleans or a visitor seeking to take home a piece of the city’s artistic spirit, a visit to Symmetry Jewelers & Designers is an experience not to be missed.
Jyssica Schwartz is the Managing Editor at Inside NOLA, with extensive experience in business development, writing, and project management. As an accomplished author of six books and three journals, Jyssica's passion for storytelling is evident in her meticulous content creation. At Inside NOLA, she crafts engaging articles that highlight the vibrant culture, history, and unique aspects of New Orleans. Whether detailing the best po'boy spots, guiding readers through the historic French Quarter, or sharing the city's rich musical heritage, Jyssica's work perfectly captures the essence of life in the Crescent City. An optimist and cat lover, she brings entrepreneurial spirit and a deep love for New Orleans to the Inside NOLA team.
