The Story
Welcome to Rivage Atelier, my name is Tessa Howes-Krijgsman. I have always been obsessed with anything that glistens and sparkles, earning me the family nickname of Magpie. In 2020 I turned to the art of jewelry making and it has brought me such an abundance of creativity and joy. I love thinking of new designs and the pure concentration and mindfulness of creating each piece.
Wearing a beautiful piece of jewelry is such an empowering experience, it gives this extra bit of confidence, flair, joy and well-being. I take classes at Jewelry Arts in New York, the New York Fashion Institute and the Jewellers Academy in London. While my jewelry style will continue to evolve, my signature style is a beautiful combination of gold or silver with gemstones and elevated Japanese glass beadwork. I love making my pieces multi- dimensional, where it is a beautiful piece from different perspectives and can often be worn both ways.
Materials
Each piece is made by hand in my private atelier with the finest materials. I love working with beautiful gemstones, Japanese glass beads, freshwater pearls surrounded by either solid gold or silver. This allows for longevity of each carefully crafted piece.
I stand behind making pieces which are comfortable and light as well as hypoallergenic. I believe that working with the finest materials allows the strength of the gemstones and the symbolism to shine through stronger.
Vision
Atelier Rivage was created as a hommage to my summers by the mediterranean coast. The jewelry reflects the luxury, glamour and vivid colors of the coastal towns and natural surroundings.
I love mixing elevated beadwork with more traditional forms of goldsmithing to create unique and timeless pieces which range from statement jewelry to pieces for every day wear.
My vision is to make coveted wearable pieces of art, one of a kind which gives the wearer confidence and beauty.
Ethos
At Rivage Atelier we strive to make jewelry as fair and sustainable as possible. We achieve this in through the following methods:
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All of the jewelry is made by hand using traditional goldsmithing and beading techniques.
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The majority of the pieces are one of a kind or made to order. The majority of the elements of the jewelry pieces can be re-used. For customers who need their purchase quickly we have several pieces 'ready to ship'.
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Rivage jewelry packaging is made from recycled materials.
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For every piece of jewelry bought a donation will be made to the Arbor Day Foundation. A global nonprofit inspiring people to plant, nurture and celebrate trees. The foundation is, along with its network, responsible for planting more than half a billion trees. For more information visit the Arbor Day Foundation website here.