My Story

As a kid, I always loved making things. I enjoyed building, beading, painting, sculpting, sewing... It did not matter what it was, as long as I was trying something new and creating with my hands.

I am lucky to have a family that likes to travel, so I also grew up exploring nature, cultures and collecting things from all over the world. I loved studying the items that I gathered - figuring out how they worked, how they were made, or what I could make with them.

My love for nature brought me to the west coast and my interests led me to degrees in both Art and Mechanical Engineering. I have spent many years engaged in engineering work - designing products, studying materials, and exploring manufacturing processes. Engineering work has inspired me to be constantly observing, making, and experimenting. I also spend as much time as I can exploring nature, creating, and living simply.

I always want to be creating and exploring.

I founded Matilda Reye to have a place where I can continue to make things with my hands, where I can continue to explore new processes and materials, and where I can share what my curiosity creates. I want my jewelry to be simple enough to wear everyday, but surprising enough to make you want to take a closer look. All of my pieces are carefully hand fabricated by me in my studio in Inverness, California where nature calms and inspires me everyday..

When I am not making or designing something, you can find me searching for adventures on rocks, wandering in mountains, and enjoying different cultures all over the world with my husband and two little girls.

Thanks for reading!

Jan - Founder & Artist