Jaoven Ricoeur, inspired by his father’s craftsmanship and background in art, began making jewelry during the COVID-19 pandemic as a way to reconnect with his creative side. Starting with ceramics, Ricoeur soon found himself designing and creating unique pieces of jewelry, following in his father’s footsteps. It was during this time that he asked his father to make him a necklace for his birthday, wanting something that would symbolize the connection between them. His father agreed, with the condition that Ricoeur would design and carve the wax mold for the pendant himself, which he did, creating a personalized piece of jewelry.
Upon wearing the necklace, Ricoeur received compliments and inquiries from others, leading him to collaborate with his father to create one-of-a-kind pieces for friends and followers on Instagram. In addition to the original smiling face pendant, they also added sun and moon designs, which reflected Ricoeur’s exploration of these themes in his ceramics. The sun design, in particular, held a special meaning for him, reminding him of a similar image that his mother had painted on the wall of his childhood bedroom. This evolution in his jewelry designs marked a deeper connection to his family and upbringing, making each piece more personal and meaningful.
As he continued to create unique jewelry pieces, Ricoeur began to attract a wider audience through social media, with his work being available for purchase through his Instagram page, @jaoven. His aesthetic, influenced by both his father’s craftsmanship and his own artistic background, resonated with those looking for handmade, personalized pieces that told a story. Each piece created by Ricoeur and his father represented not only their shared creativity but also the relationships and memories that inspired them, adding depth and sentimentality to the jewelry.
The process of designing and creating jewelry became more than just a creative outlet for Ricoeur; it became a way to honor his family and heritage. Working alongside his father to bring their designs to life allowed him to express his own artistic vision while also paying homage to the craftsmanship and creativity that had been passed down to him. Through his jewelry, Ricoeur found a way to connect with others, sharing not only his love for craftsmanship but also the stories and memories that inspired each piece. This personal touch resonated with customers, who appreciated the thoughtfulness and care put into each handmade creation.
As the demand for his jewelry grew, Ricoeur found himself expanding his offerings and reaching a wider audience online. Through social media, he was able to showcase his designs and connect with customers looking for unique, meaningful pieces of jewelry. The positive response to his work encouraged him to continue exploring new ideas and creating pieces that reflected his personal style and story. Each design became a reflection of his journey as an artist, blending tradition with innovation to create pieces that held special significance for both himself and those who wore them.
In a time of uncertainty and isolation, Ricoeur’s journey into jewelry-making served as a source of joy and fulfillment, allowing him to tap into his creativity and share his passion with others. Through his collaboration with his father, he was able to merge his artistic talents with his family’s legacy, creating pieces that told a story and connected people in a meaningful way. His unique approach to jewelry design and his commitment to craftsmanship set him apart in the industry, attracting a loyal following of customers who appreciated the artistry and authenticity of his creations. As he continued to explore new ideas and expand his collection, Ricoeur hoped to inspire others to appreciate the beauty and significance of handmade jewelry, honoring the craftsmanship and tradition that defined his family’s legacy.
