Today we’d like to introduce you to Kimberly Hamby.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
I’ve always been a creator — someone who loves to take what exists and reimagine it into something new. For years, crafting was simply a passion. I was fascinated by metal and metalwork, often making pieces to give away or hosting small gatherings to help others explore their own creativity through mine.
Everything shifted after a personal turning point several years ago. Following a head injury, my drive to create became overwhelming — almost unstoppable. Whether it was trauma or simply a spark waiting to ignite, it gave me an outlet and fulfillment I can’t fully explain. In February 2025, I opened my Etsy shop, followed by my own website in June, and since then my passion for metalsmithing and jewelry design has only grown. What began as a hobby has become a thriving small business rooted in passion and tradition.
As a second‑generation metalsmith, I feel honored to carry on a craft that’s fading in today’s world. Handmade still means something — it carries soul, story, and character that no laser or mass production can replicate. Every piece bears the mark of human hands, and that’s what makes it timeless.
I am the primary designer and metalsmith, though my granddaughter occasionally “walks in” to help — offering fresh ideas and sometimes contributing to pieces. Her younger perspective keeps me current and adds a playful balance to my work, while I remain the main creative force behind the shop.
I create jewelry using high‑quality sterling silver, metals, leather, gemstones, and turquoise — sourcing materials from within the USA whenever possible. Our collection blends Southwestern, rustic, and minimalist styles, offering both ready‑made pieces and custom creations. I carefully select genuine gemstones, Navajo Pearls, premium metals, and leather, while hand‑forging sterling components — ear wires, connectors, and whatever else I can coax or shape from metal.
Jewelry‑making is more than a business — it’s a cherished family tradition that connects generations. Metalsmithing is my passion, and I’m dedicated to preserving these traditions in a changing world. Above all, I value my customers and hope our creations bring them as much joy as I feel in making them.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Current Obstacles in Jewelry
Metal Prices: Precious metals are volatile, with costs nearly doubling this year alone
Visibility: Getting your name out there is tough in a crowded market.
Global Competition: Overseas companies often copy designs and sell at discounted prices, sacrificing quality.
Sustainability & Ethics: Customers increasingly expect responsibly sourced materials and transparent supply chains.
Market Shifts: Lab-grown stones and changing consumer preferences are reshaping demand.
Digital Pressure: Standing out online requires constant marketing, SEO, and social media presence.
Despite these challenges, the joy for me is in taking an idea out of my head and turning it into a design — that creative process is what keeps me moving forward.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
My “day job” is as a Sr. Director of Coding for a large hospital system, a role I’ve held for over 30 years. I love what I do and thrive on mentoring others, helping them find their success and grow in their careers. Leadership and teaching have always been central to my professional life.
But my heart lies in jewelry design and metalsmithing, a passion I pursue late into the night each day. If I could do it full time, that would be my dream. What began as a simple hobby has grown into a thriving small business, where I specialize in handcrafted Southwestern and rustic-inspired designs. I work primarily with sterling silver, turquoise, gemstones, and leather — creating pieces that honor heritage craftsmanship while offering modern versatility.
I’m most proud of the authenticity behind my work. Each piece is handmade with meticulous attention to detail, and I often forge my own sterling components — ear wires, connectors, clasps — to ensure quality from start to finish. My granddaughter occasionally joins me, bringing fresh ideas and a younger perspective, but I remain the primary designer and metalsmith. Together, we keep our designs rooted in tradition while staying current.
What sets me apart is the soul I put into each piece. I don’t just make jewelry; I tell stories through metal and stone. Customers often say my work feels personal, grounded, and full of character — and that’s exactly what I strive for. Jewelry-making is more than a craft for me; it’s an outlet, a family tradition, and a way to connect with others through something lasting and meaningful.
Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
The most important lesson I’ve learned along my journey is that mistakes are not failures — they’re stepping stones. People often say insanity is doing the same thing over and over, then why does practice make perfect? Each repetition teaches us something new, and that’s how growth happens.
Love yourself first — it truly matters. Life will throw stones your way, so be proud of the ones you sidestepped and grateful for the wisdom you gained from the rest.
Life is a learning trail for all of us, so dig deep and find your passion — the one that calms your soul like a warm hug around a campfire. And above all, be compassionate. Everyone’s carrying their own burdens, and none of us qualify as the “rock dealer.” We’re here to lift each other up, not weigh each other down.
Pricing:
- Full range – $25-$150ish
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.allyk.shop/ and Etsy https://allykjewelry.etsy.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/allykjewelry/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576756135672
Image Credits
All the credit is mine and my trusty camera.
