Meet the Designer: Dan-Yell Jewelry

Danyell Rascoe's jewelry brides the space between geometric and soft, organic and modern. She uses solid gold, silver, and precious gemstones for dynamic designs that you'll treasure for years. Here's what she had to say about new beginnings, evolution, and the joy of seeing someone in her work.

Did you always know you wanted to be a designer?

I always wanted to be a designer, but fashion was my first love. I was working for designer Alpana Bawa, and traveling to India for work. I started buying loads of jewelry during my travels which ignited a new obsession. I was ready for a career change, started taking jewelry making classes, and was immediately hooked.

How long have you been in the trade?

I’ve been making fine jewelry for almost 17 years. My newest collection, Dan-yell, is 9 years old.

What does your business look like now, versus when you started?

When I started, it was very gemstone focused in 18K and 22K gold. Now, using 10K and silver, I can add more emphasis on more shape and form, with gemstones coming in and out of focus.

What’s the most challenging part about being a jewelry designer?

It's what most small businesses deal with.... wearing many hats. I want to get lost making, but you do have to step away from the bench sometimes.

What’s your favorite part about being a jewelry designer?

Seeing someone wear my work. I still get a little giddy when I see someone wearing a piece of jewelry I made.

Who is another jewelry designer that you admire/do you have a mentor in the jewelry industry?

There is so many amazing designers doing amazing work. Ted Muehling & Gabriella Kiss are OGs. Caroline Ellen is a friend and mentor. Samuel Guillén & Sayumi Yokouchi are contemporary art jewelers that I admire, and they inspire me to keep the craftsmanship in my designs.

Do you have a favorite piece that you have made?

I have many, but currently it's the Theresa signet ring with pave diamonds and Psylli snake charm holder necklace. My Luar hoops, they are flat-ish hoops that tightly hug the lobe, paved with stones. And the Horea drop earrings, which have no gemstones, but are a series of lentil shaped circles and ovals that subtly reflect light as they move.

Do you have a favorite metal or stone that you prefer to work with?

Too many to choose from but I love love a vivid green Tsavorite Garnet.

Do trends in the industry affect the way you design a new collection?

No, I tend to design in a continuum letting my designs guide me to the next idea, but I do look to see what people are wearing on the street, high and low fashion.

What’s your favorite piece of jewelry from your own personal collection?

My favorite piece of jewelry from my personal collection is gold cuban link chain that my late Uncle gave me when I started making jewelry. He told me to melt it down for gold... I told him no and I will wear it forever!