Hello, and thanks so much for visiting Rustica Jewelry! I'm Linda Blume, the owner, artist, designer, and maker of Rustica!
I began making jewelry in 2009 while still a full time scientist. I have a BSc and MSc in biology and chemistry and worked in the pharmaceutical and research field for about 10 years. In 2008, I took a job with the marine fisheries service which landed me in New Jersey, and coming from Colorado that was a huge change! Not knowing many people, and being a crafty person, I knew I needed to pick up a new hobby or project to occupy my time. Since I love hands-on creating, I decided to make myself some earrings as I was always searching for perfect pair with no luck. How hard could it be, right? Well, after buying some beads, wire and a few tools, I got busy and was hooked! Over the next several years I took a few classes, read tons of books, watched a lot of YouTube and taught my self more advanced metalworking techniques.
As my collection of jewelry grew, I started attending small craft shows to sell my new creations. I remember my first show making a profit of $35! In 2010 I joined Etsy and have been on there since. As my business grew it became more of a struggle to balance a full-time job and a side business. Fortunately in 2015 I was able to "quit my day job" and run Rustica full time! Currently I am coming up on my first full year of running my business and couldn't be happier! It is hard work, a bit stressful and times and long days but totally worth it.
Along this journey I have learned so much about business, creating, selling, marketing, but more importantly I have learned self confidence, independence, and realizing what is truly important in my life. I have created a business which is continuing to grow year after year, and have created a way of life in which I can determine my happiness and freedom. It is truly wonderful for me to design my day and work according to what benefits my productivity rather than conforming to someone else's "work day".
I have also met so many wonderful people that have been so encouraging and helpful! I feel so fortunate to have build a relationship with so many amazing clients that have been so supportive over the years! I cannot say thank you enough to these people that have helped make my dream a reality!
Julia Richards says...
I just found you on Pinterest and I love your story and your creations.
My creativity has just had a needed booster shot, thanks to you!
January 14, 2018
sonia silva says...
Hello Linda
I read your article and it make’s me so happy.
I’m portuguese, and I worked for 30 years with cildren.But the shool closed and I had to do something. So I make a jewelry cours with a portuguese artist Valentim Quaresma, and I learn alots.With any money to start a business, I try now to do some pieces and sale to my friends. So friends have friends and I hope people like, maby is a start.
I miss alote my job as a teather, but in portugal with 55 years old, is not easy to find a job.
Live must go on, so let’ see what is going to happening.
Best wishes
Sonia Silva
March 07, 2017
sonia silva says...
Hello Linda
I read your article and it make’s me so happy.
I’m portuguese, and I worked for 30 years with cildren.But the shool closed and I had to do something. So I make a jewelry cours with a portuguese artist Valentim Quaresma, and I learn alots.With any money to start a business, I try now to do some pieces and sale to my friends. So friends have friends and I hope people like, maby is a start.
I miss alote my job as a teather, but in portugal with 55 years old, is not easy to find a job.
Live must go on, so let’ see what is going to happening.
Best wishes
Sonia Silva
March 07, 2017
nancy says...
Hello Linda, I was so happy to read this article in the APP this morning, and so thrilled that you were able to change your life for the art that you love and are so successful at.
I am retiring from fulltime work the end of 2016 and am totally obsessed with bead jewelry, so I am working on items that are rather complex that I too can sell on Etsy or elsewhere that will pay for by beading habit :D
I am looking forward to viewing your website as soon as I am done here, and can’t wait to see what you have created. Thanks to you and the APP for a great story and best of luck to you and your hubby assistant!!
Thank you~
April 30, 2016
Rebekah says...
I love to hear inspiring stories of people finding their passion. My search for unique pieces has always been a challenge. Your designs are so universal and to know they are all being handcrafted makes them that much more enjoyable to wear!
March 22, 2016
Paola Morandi says...
Hi LindA I am Paola Italian , livings in Caracas really admiring you and your art
Congratulations the wander full pieces you creat express all about you.
March 15, 2016