In the Studio with Ivry Belle Jewelry

Ivry Belle Russillo of Ivry Belle Jewelry is renowned for her fabulous style and her unrivaled wit. She is also widely known as one of the Island’s most elegant jewelers. Her lockets, rings, bracelets and earrings reflect the beauty of the Vineyard landscape, and also her three years of intensive study at Art Studio Fuji in Florence, Italy. There, she learned stone setting and hand engraving using all traditional Florentine techniques. Russillo received a diploma for intensive jewelry making, casting and design, and a second for jewelry engraving and stone setting. “Not to brag,” she says, “but I have a certificate in Sewing and Tailoring from Art Studio Fuji, as well.”

Russillo's education did not end there. She continues to take classes, and most recently attended a week-long course at GRS Training Center in Emporia,Kan., learning a Western Bright Cut style of hand engraving. “If you’ve never been to Kansas,” says this Vineyard native, “you should go. It’s a pretty awesome place.”

How did you find yourself in Florence, Italy?

I was bored out of my gourd here on Martha's Vineyard at age 22, and was like, "I gotta get out of here!" So I did a lot of research and found Art Studio Fuji.

What was the best part of being at Art Studio Fuji?

We made all our own findings, metals and wire, and I loved every minute of it. You started at the bottom, first making your material, then creating your design with thought and guidance to the ultimate euphoria—completion.

What pieces are you working on right now?

Right now I’m designing large cuff bracelets in the shape of fish. After I finish making these pieces, I can kick 'em up a notch and hand engrave all the details.

What is your favorite metal to work with?

Gold. It’ s such a clean metal and polishes like a dream.

Your favorite gem?

I love blue topaz.

Where can people find your work?

in Chilmark, in Oak Bluffs, and in Vineyard Haven, and on their website: www.siouxeagle.com.

I am also in the middle of setting up my own website, www.ivrybelle.com. And, of course, you can always be a fan of my business page on Facebook at Ivry Belle Jewelry.

What is your favorite piece of jewelry that you own?

Right now it’s a branch ring I made in 14 karat yellow gold that I pair up with another ring that has aqua marine and bezel set diamonds all around.

When is your favorite time period for styles of jewelry?

The '40s through '60s, around the time Elizabeth Taylor was raking in her most lavish jewels. I’m very fond of the quality workmanship of stone setting and hand fabrication that was expressed then by Cartier and Bulgari.

Where do you go when you are procrastinating?

Sometimes I go to the library, just to do some sketching. Then I find a book on how to not feel like a loser when you should be getting work done.

Who are the other artists on this Island that inspire you?

Honestly, I never really feel inspired by other artists or famous artists of our past. I believe in experience, creation and methods, mixed with daydreaming.

Where is your favorite place to go swimming?

My favorite beach is Squibnocket.

What is your favorite Island winter activity?

Probably working on my jewelry. It’s the best time of year to get a lot of work done, for the lack of excitement that occurs here on Martha's Vineyard.

How about in August?

I love Illumination Night. My house is part of the Camp Ground Association, so I have friends and family over and we walk around the soaking in all the beautiful illuminations.

What is something you have to do/have/eat/listen to in order to be productive?

My bed has to made, my dishes clean and I need to have tons of makeup on in case someone stops by unannounced, so I look somewhat pulled together. After hours of engraving and jewelry fabrication, your eyes get tired. Tired eyes make you look ugly.

Look for shows featuring Ivry Belle jewelry this summer at and .