2026 responsible design Challenge
Emily Spykman
Emily Spykman is the owner of Clementine & Co. Jewelry in Santa Fe, New Mexico.
Editor’s Note: This design is no longer eligible for voting in the 2026 MJSA Challenge: Responsibly Sourced Designs.
I designed this piece as a celebration of what Mara holds dearest, and as a reflection of growth through changing seasons—both in nature and in life. Her story, particularly her connection to native plants and the outdoors, resonated with me because my own work is heavily inspired by the desert landscapes where I live. For this piece, I shifted my focus to Asheville, North Carolina, researching native plants and greenways to better understand the environment that shapes her daily life.
The design is built around a narrative told through those plants. At the base of the necklace, a triangular Indian moss agate represents sphagnum moss found in cool, marshy areas of the forest. Flanking it are Nigerian tourmalines, which I see as the lush greenway trails Mara enjoys hiking with her dog. On one side, Brazilian andalusite pears are paired with leaves to represent the central stalks of the cinnamon fern. On the other, lavender Winza sapphires evoke the blooms of purple asters, carrying color and life into the late fall.
Together, these elements create a sense of movement through the seasons, but also through different stages of life. Just as nature cycles continuously, so do our own experiences. That idea felt central to Mara’s story and became the foundation of the piece.
The construction will combine cast and fabricated elements, all in sterling silver. I plan to mold an actual fern to create a wax impression, bringing a natural, organic texture into the piece. Those cast elements will contrast with more cleanly fabricated settings, creating a balance between organic and refined forms. Oxidation will be used to deepen the texture and create a more matte finish in certain areas, while the fabricated portions may remain brighter and more polished.
I image this as a piece Mara could wear in many aspects of her life. It’s substantial and detailed enough to feel special, but durable and versatile enough for everyday wear—whether she’s meeting friends, attending a pottery class, or heading out for the day. It may not be something she wears on a long, strenuous hike, but it’s a piece that transitions easily between casual and more dressed-up moments.
