Stephanie Occhipinti, Jewelry Designer:
"I create fine hand-finished gold vermeil and silver jewelry, inspired by the beauty of nature and always emphasizing self-expression. I believe jewelry is beautiful, uniquely personal, and is the ultimate heirloom! I want a timeless, yet unique, aesthetic that is eye catching and spiritually uplifting, expressing empowerment and originality."
ABOUT Stephanie
Stephanie Occhipinti is a native Long Islander, an industry-renowned, award-winning jewelry designer, wife and proud mother of two college boys. Her passion and love for jewelry started as early as 5 years old. At the first chance she would head straight to her Grandma Ray's jewelry box to try on her beautiful treasures. She knew she would be a jewelry designer by the age of 15.
Studying at the prestigious Fashion Institute of Technology in NYC, Stephanie graduated with a degree in Jewelry Design and has honed her craft through three decades of behind-the-scenes jewelry designing for some of the most successful fine jewelry brands in America. She continually reinforces her presence in the industry by designing for a select group of high-profile brands.
As an active supporter and volunteer for the United Cerebral Palsy Long Island, and founder of the Jewelry Design Professionals' Network (JDPN), a Not-For-Profit, giving back to the community is essential for Stephanie. She is also a proud recipient of several prestigious awards, including Jewelers of America New Design of the Year, Diamonds Today Awards, Dazzle Diva Award for WJA , among other design recognitions and associations.
"For your unique spirit."
Stephanie Occhipinti Design is artfully crafted demi-fine gemstone jewelry. Creating an unexpected harmony in each handcrafted design, her pieces come to life from pencil drawings and watercolor paintings to exquisitely crafted collections. Knowing every woman has her signature sense of style and a unique spirit, Stephanie's focus is to inspire power, grace, and a sense of integrity in timeless designs. Stephanie aspires to create jewelry for your unique spirit.
EMPI Collection inspiration: EMPI means "flying swallow" in traditional Japanese style Shotokan Karate, a style of martial arts that Stephanie has practiced for over twenty years. Characterized by swooping up and down motions, this choreographed form of movement mimics the flight of that spirited bird. The EMPI Collection is "jewelry for your unique spirit." As a personal nod to inner strength and her powerful inspirations, Stephanie includes a signature knot in many of her designs representing her black belt, a message of empowerment, passion for life, and the martial arts.
Stephanie's Journey
Designs, Inspirations and Travels
This is one of my first concept sketches of swallows in flight. The sculpted birds are seen throughout my EMPI Collection.
EMPI Collection
Strength, grace and inspiration come in every form.
“It’s ready to be cast, set and polished!”
This original swallow bypass ring wax carving was created by the late James Bilello, Master Wax Carver.
“Nature always amazes me.”
This Lotus Flower from my Japan trip this summer has a similar texture to my engraved swallow wings.
”The Winged Halo Ring”
In its raw silver state shows how much attention and detail goes into finishing it. Its decorative back plate adds balance and all around beauty.
“What a beautiful day.”
It was so much fun working with my model Tess on a photo shoot. The jewelry looked so amazing on her.
Photo shoot prep with Shelby
"Belle of the ball"
My favorite posted image from 2016.
“It was pretty cool!”
My first sale ever was with Jay, a local of Bridgehampton at the BH Guild Craft Fair.