about

About the Artist, Ann Schlecht
From a very early age, my journey in jewelry making began. I used to make jewelry out of anything and everything (sterling
demitasse spoons, antique buttons, sterling napkin rings – sorry Mom…). Some of my inspiration probably came from my Dad who
used to collect roadside stones – they didn’t look like anything special -- but when he tumbled them and made them into jewelry, they
became treasures.

Finally when I was 14, my parents signed me up for silversmith classes. I was trained by a silversmith-stay-at-home mom who was
looking to make money while taking care of her daughter. Little did I know then, that years later I would use what she taught me to
start my jewelry business, The Gilded Lily, after my first child was born! Sixteen years and many different roads later, I am still at it!

Over the years my business has gone from retail shops to juried shows to house parties back to retail shops (see next paragraph for
a list of stores) and more recently, websites. A brief view of my work can be found on my own site, www.thegildedlilystore.com.
Purchases can be made online through www.thegildedlilystore.etsy.com and www.thegildedlilystore.1000markets.com. Wholesale
orders will be accepted through wholesalecrafts.com.

I have participated in more than 50 juried shows and sold at many retail shops on the North Shore. Most recently, my work can be
found at Local Colors Artist’s Cooperative in Gloucester, MA (www.local-colors.og); London Venturers in Rockport, MA, Sisters We Three
in Newburyport, MA, Valerie's Gallery in Newburyport, MA, Joshua’s Corner in Essex, MA, Zinnia in Beverly, MA, Three Graces in
Portsmouth, NH, OOP! in Providence, RI, and Utopia in Redmond, Washington.

My most current focus in on simplistic, organic jewelry that feels good to wear. As my designs change over time (always a work in
progress), it is my intention to use the best materials I can find and strive to make unique and affordable pieces that can be enjoyed
for many years to come. I want my customers to feel good about their purchases, the money they have spent, and of course, their
new piece of jewelry. In my mind, my success is based on happy customers that come back again and again (and tell all of their
friends).
Thanks for stopping by…