Paola James’ art helps women rise up
10/2/2024
Paola James’ studio at Mainframe Studios includes an array of jewelry from around the globe, including her handmade jewelry and items from other artisans.
James opened up her studio, Piedras Haseya, in 2023. Piedras means “stones,” and Haseya is a female Navajo name meaning “she rises up.” James chose the name as she wants to empower all women.
She makes necklaces, earrings, bracelets and pendants containing wood, shells, stones, crystals and other natural materials. It began as a hobby eight years ago. When she sold $400 worth of jewelry at a market, it gave her the inspiration to do it full time.
In 2020, James moved from New Jersey to Iowa and applied for a small business loan. She opened up a kiosk in Jordan Creek Mall. There, business boomed, as she added inventory besides her own custom-made items.
In 2022, she became pregnant. Knowing she couldn’t bring a baby to the mall, she looked into different options.
“Mainframe came at the perfect time. It was a blessing to be here,” she says.
James attends a gem show in Arizona to obtain materials. Conch shells from her native Costa Rica are part of the jewelry she makes. She also repairs, repurposes and makes one-of-a-kind pieces. She sources stones from different countries to help other women jewelry makers.
A woman from Ghana offers earrings made from Krobo beads, which are African beads made from recycled glass.
“Western culture dumps garbage in Africa,” she says. “They use this as a source for making money.”
James buys crystals from Brazil and purchases wholesale jewelry from a woman from Kenya.
“I try to support these types of businesses,” she says. “They are sustainable.”
James also sells jewelry boxes and coin purses made in Costa Rica.
“It’s another way to help my people in developing countries. I prefer to get my sources locally, to support mine and other countries,” she explains.
The marketing and financing of her craft is the most difficult, yet essential, aspect of her business. She’ll purchase items from Ukraine, which have increased in price.
“I do a lot of international purchasing, and shipping costs increased because of the war in Ukraine. I ask, do I raise prices, too? If I do, people complain,” she says.
Additionally, she sells crystals at her shop and at booths at various farmers markets. She knows how crystals can heal.
“I bless crystals before I ship it or sell it. I cut fresh lavender and sage and talk positive. I want people to feel that positive energy,” she says.
In addition to her jewelry business, she is one of only two doulas who speak Spanish in Iowa. She also teaches kids at the BWell Foundation how to make jewelry and often donates items for community fundraisers.
It’s important for her to give back to the community. She’s invited other women to sell items at her booth and doesn’t charge them.
“It’s important to help women rise up,” she says.
Piedras Haseya is located at Studio 406 at Mainframe Studios (900 Keosauqua Way, Des Moines) and local farmers markets or visit https://piedrashaseya.com.
