Today we’d like to introduce you to Jane Han.
Hi Jane, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My journey began with something very simple—doodling.
During class, I would sketch with pencil on Post-it notes or draw on my friends’ shoes out of boredom. My mother noticed these drawings early on and recognized my artistic instinct, which led her to encourage me to study abroad in the United States.
As a fine art major herself, she wanted me to experience a less rigid approach to art education than what I had known in Korea, and to learn by seeing and feeling more of the world. I initially began my creative path in fine art.
The turning point came during high school, when someone who saw my work suggested that my highly detailed, pattern-driven drawings could translate naturally into jewelry design. As I researched further, I became drawn to jewelry as a medium that exists between fine art and function. To me, it felt almost fantastical—using gemstones as paint and metal as a pen.
In college, learning not only design but also metalwork, stone setting, and 3D modeling allowed me to fully translate my ideas into tangible, wearable pieces. Being able to create objects that could be worn, owned, and lived with made the medium even more compelling, and I felt an immediate sense that this path aligned seamlessly with my strengths and creative voice.
Beyond aesthetics or luxury, I wanted my work to carry meaning. When I first arrived in the U.S., I often felt like an outsider. The language barrier and cultural differences made it difficult to form connections, and at times I felt fragile—like a being struggling to survive in an unfamiliar environment.
Those emotions became the foundation of Rare Revival, a jewelry collection inspired by endangered species. By transforming unfamiliar and vulnerable creatures into wearable forms, the collection reflects themes of adaptation, protection, and coexistence.
Today, I work in New York as a technical jewelry designer while continuing to develop my personal practice, using jewelry as a medium to quietly communicate stories, emotions, and lived experiences
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I consider myself fortunate, but I also believe I was well-prepared to seize those opportunities when they came. I discovered my path early on, and once I did, I was able to move forward with the strong support of my family and those around me, which made my journey relatively smooth.
I always set high goals and aim for the next level, but I’m not someone who just dreams without action. Along the way, there were moments when I felt pressure or fear, and I often questioned whether this path was truly mine, driven by a desire for recognition for my work. Early on, I think I was more sensitive to others’ opinions than I was to enjoying the process itself.
But as I continued creating and exhibiting my work—including at international shows like Romania Jewelry Week—I gradually gained confidence in my path. Challenges were always there, but by planning carefully and taking things step by step, I learned and grew from each experience, which has shaped who I am today.
Now, I focus more on what I want to create, design, and express, rather than external validation, and through this process, I find true joy and fulfillment in my work.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I graduated from Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) with a degree in Jewelry Design. I currently work as a Technical Designer at Alexis Bittar in Brooklyn, where I actively participate in both the design process and the full development of 3D models into finished pieces. This role has allowed me to gain hands-on experience at every stage of production, from concept to final execution, while deepening my understanding of jewelry and fashion trends. I’ve also had the opportunity to work on major projects such as New York Fashion Week, which has provided me with invaluable exposure to the industry.
Alongside my professional work, I continue to pursue personal projects and collections that allow me to express meaningful messages and explore themes important to me. My ‘Rare Revival’ collection, inspired by endangered species, has been exhibited internationally, including at Romanian Jewelry Week, and I was honored with a Gold Award at the IDA International Design Awards. These experiences have given me the chance to fully explore my creativity and convey deeper stories through my work.
The combination of professional experience and personal projects has been extremely enriching. At work, I develop technical skills, gain practical knowledge, and stay attuned to market trends, while my personal projects allow me to fully express my creative vision and messages. Together, these experiences have shaped me into a versatile designer, capable of balancing artistic expression with technical precision, and I feel deeply fulfilled by both aspects of my career.
Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting out?
One piece of advice I would give to those just starting out is to stay curious and be willing to learn at every stage. When I began, I didn’t fully understand how much persistence, preparation, and hands-on experience would shape my path. I wish I had known earlier that making mistakes and exploring different techniques is not only normal, but an essential part of growth.
It’s important to actively participate in every aspect of the craft—whether it’s modeling, design, or understanding production processes—because each experience builds both skill and confidence. Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there, whether through competitions, exhibitions, or collaborations, as these opportunities will teach you lessons that books or classes alone cannot.
Most importantly, stay true to your own creative vision and message. It’s easy to get caught up in comparisons or what others expect, but focusing on your own growth and expression will ultimately lead to meaningful and fulfilling work
Pricing:
- The collection is not currently available for sale
Contact Info:
- Website: https://janehanjewelry.com/
- Instagram: metal.xtl
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jinyoung-han/
Image Credits
Photographer: @mandeebphotos
Product Photographer: @jacksnelson.art / @ossa_yun
MAU: @jonahssong
Model:@suilpagan
Model:@theofficial_austinn
Model:@cydney.williams
Graphic Designer: @_tonyxyz_
