Leighann Martone of Islip spends a lot of her free time wrapping wires around stones and experimenting with different tools and supplies to make unique jewelry. She’s always had a passion for creating and expressing herself, graduating from New Paltz in 2017 with a degree in theater performance, design, and tech.
Martone, 23, got into jewelry about five years ago when her neighbor Marlo Richards started teaching Martone the basics of jewelry making. Richards eventually moved away and gave Martone bins of supplies to make jewelry with. From there, Martone watched tutorials on YouTube and experimented with different supplies with the good old trial and error technique.
Last year, Martone started taking metalsmithing classes, which is now her “ultimate passion,” she says. She loves making hand-stamped metal bracelets and necklaces—things that can be personalized by request, and are each unique in their own way. Another personal favorite are necklaces made with pébéo paint and resin (and love). Martone creates dozens of colorful marble designs, and no two are alike.
Martone currently works at the Hidden Oak Café, located in a state park that she’s always loved to frequent since she was a little girl. Aside from that, she makes and sells her jewelry—rings, bracelets, necklaces—on Esty, Instagram, and at various craft fairs throughout the year. “I’ve always wanted my own business for as long as I can remember, and this is so great because it’s something I love,” she says. “It’s just a side business for me right now.”
Leighann Martone. Photo by Annie OSullivan
Why do you feel jewelry-making is an art?
How is it not an art? (Laughs.)
Has anyone ever told you that jewelry-making is not an art?
No one’s ever said that, but I’m sure there are perceptions that it’s just a craft…whatever that means. I just think that people have the connotation that “arts and crafts” is just glue and sticks. People work years and years to perfect their skills. “Craft” comes from “craftsmanship.” I’m expressing myself through a skill that I’m working hard to perfect.
Hand-pressed metal necklaces made by Leighann Martone. Photo by Annie O’Sullivan.
What’s your favorite thing about jewelry-making?
Finishing it and getting to wear that shit! (Laughs.)
I like the process. It’s meditative for me. I get lost in it and I like the finished product. It’s just another little reflection of me, another piece of who I am. It makes me feel accomplished.