j.hengen

My interest in jewelry began with a random class taken at FIT solely for pleasure. Sufficiently hooked, I began a quest to learn the full spectrum of the jewelry business. Thirteen years later, I feel I have only scratched the surface of this vast trade but it’s hold on me is as strong as ever.

Key to this self-education were various apprenticeships — from a 8×10 workshop packed with chain-smoking Russian jewelers to large corporate manufacturing

firms and sprinkled here and there with special workshops under inspiring individuals.
In previous incarnations I’ve held jobs as diverse as designing and building wrought iron gates to hand painting women’s apparel. I’ve lived in many different places and traveled extensively. All this has led to a vision of my craft that is multifaceted and ever evolving.

After 17 years of living and working in NYC, I took a leap of faith and moved to the bucolic farms and mountains of New York’s black dirt region. I can no longer walk to my casters or pick through gemstones at a busy exchange in a moments notice but the mental clarity and peace that I have found here is more than a fair trade.
My studio also acts as a modest storefront nestled in the woods of Sugar Loaf, NY which is a tiny village of artisans working from their homes, many of which date back to the 1700’s. You can find me down a path called Romers Alley which is right across from the town’s only tavern,

The Barnsider. I am basking in the beauty of this place, every season is spectacular and only 50 miles from New York City.

I have also incorporated pottery, a long time hobby of mine, in my studio.

I am incredibly happy to be able to switch from metal to clay as my mood dictates.
Should anyone be in need of an escape, to breath clean mountain air and replenish spirits, I welcome you to visit Sugar Loaf and be sure to make it down Romers Alley!

Directions to studio click HERE