Sixteen years ago, I took a leap and opened Geralyn Sheridan Designs, a jewelry gallery born from a lifelong love of creating. This journey into jewelry design was no overnight decision—it was a culmination of years spent exploring different materials, from colorful telephone wire creations as a child to ceramics crafted into wearable art for friends and family.
My path took a turn into banking and real estate, but the pull of creativity was always there, waiting for the right moment. Eventually, a single metalsmithing class rekindled that spark, and I knew I had to follow my heart. By 2008, after a whirlwind of preparation and working with a local mural artist to design the storefront, I opened the doors to what would become my artistic home.
From that very first day, the gallery has been a space where stories come to life through jewelry, and the joy that clients bring has been the most rewarding part of my journey. Each piece I create holds a story, from heirloom rings renewed with modern touches to custom designs that capture moments of love and celebration. I’ve had the pleasure of meeting wonderful clients and suppliers who share my passion, and it’s been these connections that make my work fulfilling.
Jewelry, to me, is a beautiful blend of art and science—a meeting point between creativity and technical skill that keeps me forever inspired. I often say I haven’t done my best work yet because each day at the workbench brings something new, and I’m constantly excited to see what ideas will take shape. Continue reading this blog post to learn more about my journey so far.
Pictured below is the "Jewelry Box" mural, painted by a renowned mural artist from Chico and depicting an open jewelry box with people climbing in and out. This building was featured in the local mural directory for many years (and possibly still is). In late 2022, after completing repairs from a break-in in October 2021, I painted the building purple and rebranded it from "The Jewelry Box."
Looking back, I can still remember my very first sale: a vibrant necklace crafted from telephone wire that one of my mom’s friends bought at church. It was bright and busy, a style that still shows up in my work today in different ways. That early experience taught me the magic of sharing something I created, and it planted the seed for everything that would come. Each piece I design now still carries that thrill—the joy of creating something meaningful for someone else.
My journey hasn’t been without challenges. In July 2014, I experienced one of the hardest moments in my business when my store was burglarized. I remember receiving the call from the alarm company, the shock of arriving to shattered glass and broken displays. It was a difficult time, but with the support of friends, family, and good insurance, I was able to rebuild and reopen. I chose to keep going despite the emotional toll because I believe in this work and the joy it brings to my clients. Security remains a priority, and that experience has only made me more determined to create jewelry that brings happiness.
Pictured below are me and my daughter behind the counter.
People often ask what “making it” means in the jewelry business, and for me, it’s simple: success is seeing a client connect with a piece I’ve created. When someone chooses one of my designs to celebrate a personal milestone or as an everyday reminder of something special, I feel all the satisfaction I need. Jewelry has a unique way of telling a story, and being part of those stories is incredibly fulfilling.
The connections I’ve built within the industry are also central to my success. Over the years, I’ve learned that good relationships—with clients, suppliers, and other jewelers—are the true foundation of a thriving business. I’ve been fortunate to join organizations like the GIA Alumni Association and my local Rotary Club and Chamber of Commerce, and these communities have been instrumental in both my personal and professional growth.
Throughout the years, several collections have come to define Geralyn Sheridan Designs. My Ribbon Candy Collection holds a special place in my heart; its curving, looping designs are inspired by the ribbon candy I adored as a child. A friend once pointed out the resemblance, and it brought back such fond memories that I knew I had to translate it into jewelry. This collection has become my signature style, one that feels both nostalgic and timeless.
Then there’s my Freestyle Collection, which is exactly what it sounds like—fun, spontaneous, and full of life, much like the everyday experiences that inspire it. My Mitsuro Hikime pieces, on the other hand, allow me to explore sculptural curves, blending art and technique in a way that challenges me to refine my craft. Each piece and collection has a unique story, and while it’s hard to choose a favorite, I love knowing that every design has meaning and intention behind it.
In the sixteen years since I started, I’ve seen so many changes in the jewelry industry. Handmade wax carving, once a common method, has shifted toward CAD design, and the rise of lab-grown diamonds and eco-gold reflects a new commitment to sustainable, ethical practices. My clients have become increasingly interested in knowing the story behind each piece—the sourcing of gems, the materials used, and the care taken to create something that respects both craftsmanship and the environment.
This focus on sustainability has always been close to my heart. From the beginning, I chose to work with recycled gold and American-mined gems when possible. It’s inspiring to see so many others in the industry embracing eco-friendly practices, and I love that my clients appreciate handmade jewelry that aligns with these values.
Photo of ribbon cutting below. I love being involved in my local community!
As I celebrate this milestone, I’m both grateful for the journey and excited for what lies ahead. While much of my focus has been on running the retail side of my business, I’m looking forward to spending even more time at the workbench, where my true passion lies. Creating meaningful, beautiful jewelry is what brings me the most joy, and I’m thrilled to continue making pieces that my clients can cherish for years to come.
Thank you to everyone who has been part of Geralyn Sheridan Designs—whether through purchasing a piece, sharing a story, or simply being a part of the community that’s grown around my work. Here’s to sixteen years and to many more filled with creativity, connection, and craftsmanship.
0 comments
