Meet Heather Maertens | Jeweler and Owner of Maertens Fine Jewelry

We had the good fortune of connecting with Heather Maertens and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Heather, why did you pursue a creative career?
Since childhood I have known that I would have a career that allowed me to use my creative talents on a regular basis.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
After attending Gem City College in Quincy Illinois where I studied jewelry design, fabrication and hand engraving I moved back home to Maryland and worked for a few years at a jewelry store. My journey as a business owner started after that in a makeshift jewelry studio in my basement at home. I sold handmade jewelry that I created at juried art shows and to art galleries along the Northeast coast. Finally I opened my own store that featured all types of jewelry with a focus on custom designs that I handmade. Through the years, my store, Maertens Fine Jewelry has become known for our jewelry collection that I have designed and created. The collection features jewelry that celebrates life by the water with pieces such as seahorses, anchors and compasses. It was not the easiest road but it was fun. When I first opened my store I was normally one of the youngest people at jewelry conventions and seminars. I was almost always the only woman in jewelry fabrication classes. There were times when it was challenging to be taken seriously by sales representatives and even clients. Thankfully, that has been changing over recent years. Women have definitely found their place and are making their mark on the jewelry industry.
One thing that has given me an advantage as a jewelry store owner is that I have working knowledge. I don’t just sketch jewelry designs, I hand craft them. So, I know how to design and create a piece of jewelry that is not just beautiful but is well made and will withstand the tests of time. I create jewelry that is heirloom quality.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Let’s see….we would have a crab feast with our local favorite cocktail, the Orange Crush at a great, casual waterfront restaurant like Stoney’s. We could go antiquing and looking for upcycled items in Southern Calvert and St. Mary’s County at cool shops like the Mermaid’s Cottage and Vintage Source.
Of course, I would take them to see my store and check out our hidden gem, Solomons Island. Solomons has fabulous little shops and restaurants. We could have a spa day at Jacqueline Morgan and finish with cocktails at the iconic Tiki Bar.
My favorite spot in my hometown, Chesapeake Beach is the Wheel. It’s the best place to check out local music, enjoy seasonal cocktails and just relax in a friendly, outdoor setting.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My shoutout definitely goes to my sister in law, Kim Harkins. She has been by my side through this entire journey of owning my own business. Kim is our store manager and so much more. She is the smiling face that our clients know and recognize. Kim guides our guests through the process of designing custom jewelry pieces and purchasing special gifts for loved ones. She is as levelheaded about business decisions as she is fun and creative. She is the backbone of our sales team and has taught our team members the importance of great customer service. All of my best memories regarding my career include Kim.

Website: https://maertensjewelry.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MaertensJewelry