Harwell Godfrey is a San Francisco based fine jewelry brand founded by Lauren Godfrey, with aesthetic roots in ancient textiles and ethnic patterns. We're grateful to have Harwell Godfrey as part of our McMullen community and roster of Black-owned brands. Read a below interview with Lauren, and get an inside look into the inspiration behind our new pieces at McMullen. 

Q

Where do you currently take inspiration from? 

LG: "I find inspiration everywhere! Currently I’m very inspired by vintage African textiles and weavings - I find the way simple geometry comes together to create intricate patterns fascinating. I’m also very inspired by place - I’ve been spending a lot of time at my home in Sonoma and the access to nature has been very inspiring to me. "

Q

What does it mean to you to be a black designer? 

LG: "It means so much, but very importantly it means that I have a chance to model this career path for other Black creatives. We are underrepresented in the world and fashion and design, so it’s important to be visible and show that there is a market for our work and point of view."

Q

Your designs reference ancient textiles, ethnic patterns, and spiritual elements. How does spirituality influence your brand? 

LG: "I am compelled by the healing nature of stones and jewelry as talismans. I am a believer in energy and that aspect of my personal spirituality does influence my work which in turn influences my brand. My pieces are all about good energy, and some of them protective energy — like my take on the evil eye."