10 ?s | ruth barzel, ruth barzel jewelry design

A few weeks ago, Joanna over at A Cup of Jo, featured a giveaway from the uber talented jewelry designer, Ruth Barzel, and lucky me, I won, in two ways. Not only did I receive an absolutely gorgeous pendant necklace from Ruth, in the process I was also able to be "e-introduced" to Ruth, who is extremely friendly and warm, and very generous, graciously participating in 10 ?s. Ruth launched her line of chic, classic and attainable jewelry in 2005, designing earrings, bracelets, necklaces from semi-precious and precious jewelry that are for the every woman and for any occasion. Her pieces are the perfect combination of style and ease, chunky and delicate. Her combinations of gems is simply impeccable, my favourite's being the pieces designed with shell pearls. Ruth Barzel Jewelry has been featured across the web and in magazines and her line has extended into weddings, her new Wedding Collection is being launched January 2011, which I'll be watching out for for my sister Becky's wedding.

And it seems that Ruth and I have quite a bit in common, not only is my favourite piece, the Heartbreaker Pendant, also Ruth's favourite, but we both seem to love dusk, all things gray, a sense of humour and a love for classic design. And on my next trip out to DC to see Becky in a few weeks, I hope I'll be able to pop out to see Ruth's shop. To find out more about Ruth and shop her wonderful collection please check out her site at www.ruthbarzel.com. Here's 10 ?s with Ruth Barzel.


1. What is the most rewarding aspect of what you do or what has been the most rewarding experience you've had in your career? 

The most rewarding thing is when one of my own favorite designs turns out to be a customer favorite, as well. It doesn't always work out that way, but when it does, it's so gratifying. 

2. Favourite time of day? 

My favorite time of day is dusk. 

3. Star Wars or Star Trek? 

Neither! 

4. What is one thing you would change about your industry or what you do? 

I wish that marketing didn't have to play such a big part in a business's success or failure. 

5. What is your daily routine? If you don't have one, what is one thing you do everyday? 

Work, work, and more work, with a few breaks in between to spend time with my husband and kids, read, exercise (a little), and, of course, shop! 

6. If you weren't doing what you do, what else would you do? 

I used to want to be a writer, so maybe I would have stuck with that. 

7. Favourite Colour? 

Gray. 

8. Favourite board game? 

I'm not a fan of board games, but if I had to choose a favorite, I'd pick Scrabble. 

9. Where do you see your industry or yourself in 10 years? 

In 10 years I hope I'm doing the same thing that I'm doing right now, but more and better. 

10. What do you feel is "trendy" right now and what do you feel will stand the test of time? 

Oversized, piled-on jewelry is trendy right now. Simple, beautifully designed pieces never seem to be either in or out of style.