About
It all started with a necklace.
As the youngest in a large family, I never expected heirlooms or inheritances. It wasn’t until a fateful visit with my nana that I understood how meaningful a piece of jewelry passed down from a loved one could be.
While watching my Nana get ready one day, I noticed a beautiful necklace laid out amongst various trinkets and keepsakes. I couldn’t help but admire its intricate, delicate cast links. “Take it,” my Nana said, with a glint in her eye. “I’m old. And it deserves to be worn and loved.”
I’ve treasured that necklace ever since. Not just for its beauty, but for the memories and feelings it holds. That necklace also sparked a realization in me: someday, I wanted to create jewelry that could be cherished and passed down through generations.
Rhode Island raised, Rhode Island made.
I’ve lived and worked in Rhode Island most of my life, and there’s truly no other place like it – a patchwork of woodlands and fields laced between small towns and cities, surrounded by sparkling cobalt-coloured ocean. It’s easy to find artistic inspiration here.
Before I made jewelry meant to last, I designed interiors meant to leave a lasting impression. For more than 12 years I’ve helped shape the look, feel and function of some of Rhode Island’s iconic interiors, as well as worked on projects in NYC, Boston and Ohio. But I couldn’t get the thought of making jewelry out of my mind.
An opportunity to work at a friend’s jewelry company just outside of Providence (also known historically as the “Jewelry Capital of the World) changed everything. It was during this time I discovered Rhode Island’s local casters, a dying breed of artisans whose skills and dedication to their craft are unparalleled. Their passion and expertise breathed life into the jewelry, turning raw materials into stunning pieces of art.
This experience lit a fire within me, and I was inspired to finally launch my own jewelry company, one that celebrated and supported local artists, local makers, and the local Rhode Island community.
Our Unique Process
At DANSEREAU, we merge the richness of ancient traditions with the refinement of mid-century innovation, creating jewelry that embodies both historical depth and contemporary elegance.Our solid casting technique, rooted in practices from over 5,000 years ago, is a cornerstone of our craftsmanship.
This ancient method, used by early civilizations in Mesopotamia and Egypt provides a foundation of timeless artistry. Incorporating a mid-century touch, we use this technique to create pieces where multiple components are seamlessly integrated into the original casting. This modern adaptation of age-old methods combines the best of both worlds, blending historical significance with contemporary design principles.
Our dedication to sustainable casting methods ensures that every piece is not just beautiful but also crafted to stand the test of time.
Ethical Materials
At DANSEREAU, we believe in creating jewelry that not only embodies beauty but also respects the world we live in. That’s why we choose materials with care and conscience.
Our jewelry is crafted from sterling silver and recycled brass, a thoughtful choice that reflects our commitment to sustainability. By using recycled brass, we reduce the demand for newly mined metals, embracing a circular approach to jewelry design that honors both the earth and the community we serve.
We also make a conscious decision to forgo plating. While plating can add a temporary shine, it is harmful to the environment and fades over time. By avoiding it, we ensure that each DANSEREAU piece remains as stunning and durable as the day it was created, designed to be cherished for a lifetime.
Locally Sourced with Care
Every element of our jewelry, from the materials to the packaging, is sourced locally from trusted partners across Rhode Island. This not only supports local businesses but also allows us to maintain a close connection to the origins of our materials, ensuring they align with our values.