Love of jewelry launches new endeavor for Marion woman

One day Gina Magnussen, 38, of Marion, became fascinated with a wire-wrapped beaded ring. So much so that she wanted to see if she could create something similar. After her first attempt was a success, she decided to try her hand at creating other unique jewelry pieces. And thus The Letter M Jewelry was born. This self-taught artist continues her jewelry-crafting journey five years later.

Q: What is it that you make?

A: Anything you would find in a jewelry box. I have created a line of necklaces, bracelets, earrings and rings.

Q: What three words best describe what you do?

A: Create, beautify, inspire.

Q: Where do you find your inspiration?

A: I find inspiration from the tiny sparkle of beautiful beads. I love sitting down in my home studio and digging my hands in a bowl of different shapes, colors and textures. I like to imagine who will wear my art. It's like a story when I wonder what the ending will be.

Q: What's the best part about being a crafty/creative person?

A: It gives you the freedom to put flare into anything you want to make.

Q: Do you remember the first craft project you ever tried?

A: As a young girl staying with my Grandma, she was always cooking or doing crafts. It was fun to watch her work and I admired her love for crafting new recipes and projects. She taught me how to bead a rosary. It was something about completing the final wire loop that gave me a sense of accomplishment.

Q: When you become rich and famous for your work, what will you do?

A: I would like to continue this path. I am passionate about using my creativity. So maybe if I become rich I can use real diamonds for the sparkle in my designs.

- By Katie Mills Giorgio, Correspondent