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Since Tara Levitin was a 9-year-old elementary school student growing up in Houston she expressed an undeniable talent for creating something out of nothing; that something being delicate pieces of jewelry. Continuing her childhood passion into her adult life, Levitin moved to Los Angles where she received a degree in Fashion Merchandising, then after a brief stint in New York City, Levitin decided it was time to make her dream a reality. She opened up an online boutique, LeviticusJewelry.com shortly after her daughter’s birth in 2005, where she shares her passion and creativity for handmade jewelry with the rest of the world. Her jewelry can be seen at Toronto Fashion Week or worn by TV personalities such as LA Ink’s Pixie, Rachel Ray and Leigh Lezark from the Misshapes.  Chic harnesses, demure charms and unconventional designs made out of every metal from copper to silver are what make up the look of Levitin’s creations. To learn more about Levitin or simply browse her newest designs check out LeviticusJewelry.com.

Q: What inspired you to create your own jewelry line? Are there specific jewelry designers that have inspired your work or passion to become a jewelry designer?

A: I have been making jewelry for myself since I was in elementary school. Movies, music and my mood inspire me. I am often inspired by found pieces that I turn into elaborate pieces.

Q: While at the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising what did you study? Did you study jewelry making or has it been a completely organic process going from a childhood passion to an adult business?

A: When I went to FIDM I studied fashion merchandising because I always dreamed of owning my own boutique. I opened up my online shop in 2005 after my daughter was born. I wanted to be self-employed while doing something that I love to do.

Q: Where can women purchase your jewelry? Do you have a store in Houston or another Web site where women can purchase your jewelry?

A: The best place to order my jewelry is www.LeviticusJewelry.com, because I update my online shop weekly with new pieces and often send out coupon codes to my customers.

Q: Where do you see Leviticus Jewelry in 10 years? Do you want to become a mainstream, widely distributed brand or still retain a more underground status?

A: I would love for Leviticus to be carried in shops all around the world. I am not into having my brand be underground but I would always like to be able to make my pieces by hand to assure quality.

Q: Do you have any employees? If so how many and what are their responsibilities within Leviticus Jewelry?

A: I don’t have any employees, never had. I would love to have some in the near future to help me with packaging and shipping. Right now I do my own advertising and marketing, product photos, make each piece of jewelry by hand, and keep my website updated. I also like to make sure that I email each customer personally after they make their purchase. I really like how I am able to be on a personal level with my customers.

Q: Why did you decide to move back to Houston and start your business there?

A: My entire family lives here in Houston; this is where I was raised. I guess it was just a matter of time before I moved back because I am an extremely family oriented person.

Q: It says in your online bio that you seek inspiration for your jewelry all over the world. What countries have inspired your collection? Are there certain cultures that have had a major impact on your designs?

A: I wouldn’t say that one culture in particular inspires my designs. Sometimes when I am out looking for pieces to incorporate into my designs I will find one that exudes a certain feel and I just go with it.

Q: How would you describe your personal style? Would you say your jewelry is an offspring of your day-to-day style?

A: Honestly, my style changes on a day-to-day basis, so much so that it gets a little ridiculous at times (in a good way of course!) I think that is why my line has a little bit of everything.

Q: If women from outside of Houston want a custom made piece what is the best way to contact you? What process do you go through with your customers who want custom-made pieces? Should they send a written description, sketches, etc?

A: It is best if the customer has a general idea of what they want, metals they like, if they want it simple/complicated, etc. Then we can just go from there and work together to get the perfect piece for them made. Customers can email me at tara@leviticusjewelry.com

Q: Why do you love making jewelry? How did you first discover your passion as a child? Was there a specific moment where you remember falling in love with creating jewelry?

A: One of my earliest memories of jewelry making is from when I was 9-years-old. I had a box of random odds and ends that I collected and I would sit down and dump out everything and place different pieces together to see what would work for different necklaces. I have always loved making jewelry and it makes me so happy to be able to share my designs with people all over the world.

LeviticusJewelry.com