M16 JEWELRY STORE

Service

Web Design, Marketing, Metal Working, Illustration Branding

Client

M16

Year

2022-2023

Overview

I established M16, a not-for-profit jewelry company, utilizing my metalworking skills acquired from   the Crucible, with the primary goal of empowering future artists.I personally designed and created all the jewelry pieces and developed the website, ensuring a cohesive visual and brand identity. All proceeds from this endeavor are directed towards funding art scholarships for underprivileged youth, making art more accessible and fostering the next generation of creative talents.

DEVELOPMENT

Armed with a mood board and few pounds of sterling silver wire, I set to work designing a collection of earrings that could showcase the artist within everyone. I wanted each design to be unique and have a personality of its own while still maintaining cohesion throughout the brand.

Over weeks of development with the designs and the most efficient way to hand manufacture each wire design, I was able to shoot product photos. I wanted a variety of photos to choose from so I shot with a blank backdrop as well as a more colorful, youthful one.

PRODUCT 1: HONEY EARRINGS

A bold yet lightweight fashion statement that allows you to wear your heart on your ears with love. Handcrafted with sterling silver.

PRODUCT 2: Reach For The Stars

Reach for the stars with these charming sterling silver earrings. Lightweight and playful, they are an ideal accessory for elevating any look.

PRODUCT 3: Saga

Embrace your inner adventurer this sword-shaped earring. Hand-forged in sterling silver, this piece is ideal for those who wish to make a statement of resilience and individuality.

Web & Branding

In addition to the earrings themselves, I created illustration branding and a website for the company. I decided on the name M16, another name for the Eagle Nebula. Given the company mission of supporting future artists, what better representation than a cluster of young stars?

IMPROVEMENTS TO SITE

Although I've put a temporary hold on M16 due to limited studio access, I wanted to improve the website as a passion project. Including a more refined design, the site was created with careful consideration of both target consumers and biggest potential contributors.

IMPACT

After studio and material expenses, M.16 ended up earning over $500! In combination with co-hosting a fundraising gala, I was able to help raise $105,000 for The Crucible. This significant fundraising effort plays a pivotal role in providing art scholarships to underprivileged youth in Oakland, offering them opportunities to explore and develop their artistic talents.