Welcome, RAM Jewelry Designs/R.A. Mateen!

About Me:

RAM Jewelry Designs (RJD) specializes in hand-crafted, beaded jewelry -- one-of-a-kind and limited edition. Our products are for those who appreciate unique, eclectic design crafted with quality materials. I use semi-precious gemstones, wood beads, shells, bone, fresh water pearls and various types of specialty glass. I support Fair Trade and utilize products that support cooperatives and community associations in the developing world. I have loved jewelry ever since I can remember, but my passion for beads is rooted in my awe at witnessing the process of bead-making in West Africa. I am impressed by the way community-based groups turn the most rudimentary of raw materials into works of art. I get my inspiration from the myriad of texture and color of different types of beads from all over the world ─ each with its unique origin and story. I had collected beads for years, but didn’t know what to do with them until I took a class at a neighborhood bead supply store. Using the beads I had amassed, I started applying the techniques. The result was a flood of orders from friends and associates who were drawn to my approach to style using traditional materials. That was five years ago—and I haven’t looked back since.

Gender:

Gal

I am a/an:

Independent Artist/Designer, Independent Retailer

(Designers only) I create:

one-of-a-kind and limited edition handcrafted jewelry.

(Designers only) I am willing to do:

Consignment, Wholesaling

(Designers only) My work is sold at:

my Website: http://www.ramjewelrydesigns.com

Website:

http://www.ramjewelrydesigns.com

Website #2:

http://www.rmateen.etsy.com

Favorite Music/Musicians:

Bach, Marin Marais, Sergio Mendez, George Benson, Earl Klugh, Ashford and Simpson, Brenda Russell, India Arie, Nina Simone, Duke Ellington, Sarah Vaughn, Ella Fitzgerald, Enya, Salif Keita, Donnie Hathaway, Stevie Wonder

Favorite TV Show & Movies:

No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency; House; Saving Grace; Jeopardy, Mystery! on PBS, Bill Moyer's Journal, Harry Potter, StarTrek, Lord of the Rings

Favorite Books / Authors:

James Baldwin, Toni Morrison, Alice Walker, Ralph Ellison, Stephen King, George Orwell, Mary Oliver, Maryse Conde,