In the past and present, the role of bench jeweler has been a male-dominated one. Molly Smith, the owner and lead designer of Molly’s Jewelry Design, has had many customers approach and ask for the bench jeweler. Molly says they look a little surprised when she replies, “You’re talking to her.”

The passion that eventually led Molly to becoming a bench jeweler began when she was five. She loved getting her hands dirty and sculpting clay, especially as she observed her mother’s work in the jewelry industry. Molly would admire the intricate, handmade pieces the bench jeweler at her mother’s work would craft. She began working at the same jewelry store as her mother before going to school for jewelry design and stone setting.

Today, Molly’s dream to own her own business is a reality. With immense hard work and dedication, Molly’s Jewelry Design is celebrating 10years in business. Molly is also proud to have two female bench jewelers at her store, which has historically been unheard of. She adds that the future of women in jewelry is bright. “More and more females are entering this field of work every year!” Molly says. “It’s going to be dirty, it’s going to be hard, but it is very rewarding when your customers return with more projects to be completed.”

Molly loves her work. She designs and repairs jewelry with the utmost care, exhibiting professionalism and expertise that builds trust. Jewelry is often a sentimental purchase and having a favorite piece repaired requires trust in your jeweler. Therefore, Molly prioritizes building long-lasting relationships with her customers that make stereotypes fade away.

As a “Woman to Watch,” Molly is honored to be one of many successful women in the Boonville community. Her advice? “Be supportive of one another,” she says. “My hope is that being a strong female leader will inspire others to go forward with their passions regardless of stereotypes.”

Molly’s Jewelry Design
422 Main St. Boonville, MO
660-672-5074
mollysjewelrydesign.com