Stuart Nye Sterling Silver Jewelry | Maple Leaf Brooch & Earrings

About Stuart Nye

Stuart Nye jewelry, founded in Asheville, North Carolina, is renowned for its handcrafted silver pieces, especially those featuring botanical themes like dogwood, pine, and azalea. Stuart Nye began crafting jewelry in 1933 during the Great Depression, when he set up a small workshop in his garage. His signature pieces quickly gained popularity due to their craftsmanship, simplicity, and affordability. Using mostly copper and sterling silver, Nye’s designs emphasized hand-cutting and shaping techniques that distinguished his jewelry from mass-produced items of the time.

One of the hallmarks of Stuart Nye jewelry is its timeless floral and nature-inspired designs, which have remained largely unchanged over the decades. His dogwood flower motif, for instance, has become iconic and symbolizes the beauty of the Southern Appalachian region. The studio continued Nye’s dedication to traditional craftsmanship, even after his passing in 1965, by training local artisans and maintaining handcrafting methods.

Today, Stuart Nye jewelry remains a testament to high-quality, handcrafted American jewelry, with each piece still made in the Asheville workshop. Collectors and vintage enthusiasts value these pieces for their classic designs and connection to Appalachian artistry.