Hi, I am Miche Meizner, owner of Shining Light Jewelry. I started making jewelry in High School in 1974. Back then, girls were not allowed to sign up for the metal shop or auto shop classes. Well, thank you Clarence Green - John Dewey H.S. for single-handedly fashioning a jewelry program. This was as close as I could get to a room full of tools. I often think it turned out for the best. If they'd have let me into metal shop I might now be making air conditioning ducts instead of custom jewelry. From there on I am mostly self taught although there were a few noteworthy educational stops on the path. I took some classes at the Revere Academy and Blaine Lewis' New Approach School for Jewelers. Both were excellent hands-on experiences under highly trained instructors. What a relief to not have to re-invent everything. I also went to the Gemological Institute of America way back in the 80's to get my certification as a Graduate Gemologist.
There is no intrinsic difference between a "mainstream" wedding ring and a "gay or lesbian" wedding ring.
What makes a wedding ring a lesbian wedding ring is simply the fact that it is worn by a lesbian as a symbol of her same-sex marriage commitment.
One other thing that might make a ring fall into the gay/lesbian category - the content or symbolism.
Back in the day, 1970's gay and lesbian symbol jewelry was an important yet subtle way to let others know we were "family". A way to be seen and identified by others who "knew".
I was only 15 when I made and sold my first lesbian pinky ring. I was already promoting my own handmade jewelry to local shops and to friends, family and neighbors.
You could say I was a Baby Jeweler and although it would be another year before I came out as lesbian myself - I think I was pegged by my customer as a Baby Dyke.
About the ring. Two things made it a lesbian pinky ring - it sported a labrys* design on the top and it was a lesbian who commissioned the ring for her own pinky.
I run an environmentally and socially responsible jewelry studio in Eugene, Oregon.
My specialy is custom designed, handmade wedding bands, engagement rings
and other precious and commemorative jewelry.
All the jewelry is made using 100% recycled precious metals; gold, platinum and silver.
I don't have a storefront
or keep any inventory. Everything I sell is made to order. My webiste is my shop and gallery.
I work with folks all over the world by phone, skype, sending sketches
and photos of working models and gemstones via email..
We can ship models and gemstones for pre-approval when necessary.
I am always
happy to answer questions and discuss your design ideas.
I look forward to working with you.
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