American Artist Appreciation Month Series
Ever since she discovered her passion for art and jewelry at a young age, Vanessa Mellet has been creating distinctive rings, earrings, and other wearable pieces celebrating the beauty of nature and the power of personal expression.
Raised by artist parents and deeply influenced by her early years in Peru, the Santa Cruz–based designer infuses her work with a global perspective and a love for natural gemstones. Mellet’s handcrafted jewelry, available at the de Young Museum Store in San Francisco, reflects both her artistic heritage and commitment to sustainability.
We caught up with Mellet in celebration of American Artist Appreciation Month to learn more about her creative process, inspirations, and the many benefits of supporting local artists.
Museum Store Sunday (MSS): Hi Vanessa! It’s nice to meet you. Can you tell us about yourself and your journey as an artist?
Vanessa Mellet (VM): I am a jewelry designer and maker based out of Santa Cruz, California. I was born to artist parents who traveled the world, and was surrounded by art and creative people since I can remember.
My early years were spent in South America—mostly Peru—where the vivid colors of local markets, rich heritage, and the vibrancy of nature left a permanent mark on my aesthetic sense. I explored many media in college before focusing exclusively on jewelry at the age of 21.
MSS: Tell us more about your jewelry and how you bring your pieces to life.
VM: My jewelry tells color stories inspired by nature using recycled metals, gems, and enamel. I love working with color, and motifs from nature such as flowers and birds. One of my favorite things to make and wear are rings with large gems because they can be seen and enjoyed by the wearer. They are the perfect accessory!
Rings designed by Vanessa Mellet
I fabricate my pieces in sterling silver, using various techniques such as soldering, sawing, granulation, and casting. Once the piece is done, I polish it and set the stones. I use sterling silver and semi-precious stones. I work with recycled precious metals and semi-precious and precious gems.
MSS: What do customers love most about your jewelry pieces?
VM: Customers love the delicate designs, colorfulness, high quality, and the beautiful gems. They always mention how many compliments they get!
MSS: Why is it important for shoppers to support local artists?
VM: As an artist, I believe that handmade things have a different frequency and that the love a creator puts into an item is transferable. Buying local also supports your local economy and has a much lower carbon footprint.
MSS: Tell us about your relationship with the de Young Museum and the de Young Museum Store.
VM: I have been working with the de Young Museum Store since 2018. As an art lover and member of the de Young Museum since 2006, it is an honor to have my work represented by an institution I love so much. I believe art is important and has numerous positive contributions to society.
Mellet’s jewelry pieces, available at the de Young Museum Store
MSS: What’s your favorite museum store-related memory?
VM: Taking my 7-year-old niece to the de Young Museum Store and seeing her excitement, comments, and observations about the products being sold at the store. Of course, she wanted to see where my work was displayed. The museum store staff is always so gracious and friendly!
MSS: Where can people follow you on your journey as an artist?
VM: They can follow me on Instagram (@vanessamelletjewelry) and Facebook.
Support Local Artists Like Vanessa Mellet in Your Community
One of the easiest ways to support artists in your community is by shopping for gifts, clothing, accessories, home decor, books, toys, and other locally made items at museum stores. More than a souvenir, your purchase is an investment in culture, creativity, and community.
It also fuels your local economy, supports museum programs you love, and builds a deeper connection to the places and people that make your community one of a kind.
Ready to shop with purpose all year round? Use our store locator to find museum stores near you.
Don’t forget to mark your calendar for Museum Store Sunday on November 30, 2025, too! With exclusive events, limited-edition items, artist meet-and-greets, and holiday-ready finds, it’s the perfect time to discover something unique and meaningful for anyone on your list.