FOXYCAT Jewelry: Designer Spotlight

Why We ♥ FOXYCAT Jewelry

Turquoise and Handmade are two qualities in jewelry that I have a hard time resisting. There is something so special about handmade, one of a kind jewelry. You are truely taking home a piece of the artist. And Turquoise.. I mean what’s not to love? Turquoise is a timeless gem that is believed to bring protection, healing, courage, friendship, and luck. So, as you would image, I fell head over heels the first time I saw FOXYCAT at Swirl Boutique. Not to mention Erin, the designer, is a doll!! Quality is key in all FOXYCAT pieces which is why Erin uses American-mined turquoise and will travel to Arizona to purchase stones from reputable lapidary artists. If you love FOXYCAT as much as I do, make sure you keep reading to learn more, and where to shop!!

“In a world of mass production, it is my goal to create jewelry that is made by hand and made to last.” –Erin Ballard

How long have you been designing/making jewelry and at what point did you decide to make it your career?

I always knew I needed a career with constant creativity, which is why I began my journey in cosmetology. After a year of working in a salon, I was unhappy and knew I needed to make a change. At this crossroads in my career path, I decided to take a metalsmithing class. It wasn’t long until I traded in my hairbrushes and blowdryer for a torch and hammers. I poured my all into soldering and setting stones from my home studio in San Clemente, Ca. I’ll never forget the feeling the first time I sawed a design out of a sheet of brass. It was one of those, “YES! I want to do this forever” moments. Changing a career path is scary, but I’m so thankful I did.

What is the inspirations behind your designs?/What inspired your most recent collection?

I am forever inspired by Native American jewelry. My grandma passed down most of her Navajo jewelry collection to me, and my appreciation continues to grow. It’s timeless, beautiful, and completely unique- all things I strive to achieve with my jewelry.

How did you decide on FOXYCAT as the name of the Brand?

Rolls off the tongue doesn’t it? I guess when you mix a kitty enthusiast with a love for 60’s/70’s music and culture, a Foxycat is born.

How would you describe your personal style?

Nothing makes me happier than jeans, a t-shirt, and the right pair of boots. I love combining simplistic, classic looks with bold jewelry. I’m a big believer that any style should be functional but fun. Throw a black leather jacket in there and I’m in heaven.

What FOXYCAT piece do you find yourself wearing the most?

I’m usually head to toe silver and turquoise, but I can’t leave the house without one of my Pony Boy rings- sterling silver horseshoe ring set with a unique piece of turquoise. It’s my go-to, good luck, everyday ring.

What’s next for FOXYCAT?

As an artist, I’m constantly trying to challenge myself. I put my heart into creating one of a kind, quality pieces, whether it’s a new collection or custom order. My goal for this year is to expand FOXYCAT into more local stores. I am excited to see what the foxy future holds!