Yard Girl Jewelry

Though she migrated before her first year in high school, Erice Reid has never forgotten the land of her birth. Orginally from Spanish Town, St Catherine, the high-school English and special education teacher in Philadelphia, can now add 'jewellery designer' to her resume.

But this is an arena she never planned for. She told Outlook, "Jewellery design is not something that I planned on ever doing. However, it is something that I now enjoy and love." Her line is inspired by her two passions - art and culture.

"In 2011, as Jamaica's 50th Independence approached, I decided to design a colourful and non-traditional pendant to commemorate the occasion.

"As a mixed-media artist, I am always inspired by the colours, beauty, and vibrancy of the African and Caribbean cultures, and wanted to somehow incorporate this into the jewellery line. After designing the map of Jamaica pendant and receiving positive feedback from family, friends, and even strangers, I decided to continue working on the line. As an artist, designing is a way for me to express my creativity and even my feelings. For example, our 'screw u' pair was inspired by an experience I had. At that particular time, I was unable to express my frustrations, so I designed the earrings instead."

She explains that the pieces are designed with 'Yard Girl' in mind. However, she feels that her line appeals to all women, regardless of nationality or ethnicity.

"The woman or girl who wears Yard Girl Jewelry doesn't belong to a particular demographic; she is beautiful, confident, proud, vibrant, playful, and timeless," she states.

She adds, "I wish to have a successful jewellery line at home (Jamaica) and abroad - one that celebrates our culture and helps to bring awareness and support to various non-profits within our diaspora."

Reid has partnered with Love Unlimited Foundation, a summer camp dedicated to providing school supplies and holiday gifts to children in St Ann, Jamaica. "This spring, persons who donate US$40 or more will receive a pair of Yard Girl Jewelry's 'love u' earrings," she said.