Gillian Stevens has enjoyed much success since launching Dewdrop Designs in 2005. Her handcrafted jewelry, leather goods and totes have been featured in O. Magazine, Garden & Gun and countless other publications. But Stevens’ newest creations are a bit more personal.

“I’ve always been obsessed with ceramics,” Stevens says, so she started taking classes about a year and a half ago. “It started as a passion, but I wanted to make some gifts for some special girlfriends.” In her Charlotte home studio, Stevens began making ceramic beads, which are strung together to make talismans, similar to blessing beads. A talisman is generally defined as something meant to protect and bring good luck. Some of the pieces incorporate charred wood, plus shells, rocks and other bits and pieces Stevens has collected over the years. The talismans became so popular, she began selling them at Blackberry Farm in Walland, Tenn., Montage Palmetto Bluff in Bluffton, S.C., and now, Sozo Gallery in Charlotte.

After suffering personal loss, Stevens found the beads and all-natural elements comforting and thought others might as well. 

“The tactile nature was soothing for me. I wish I had something to hold and rub in my dark moments,” Stevens says. “It’s something that keeps you grounded.”  SP

Dewdrop Designs’ talismans are displayed and sold at Sozo Gallery at 904 Pecan Ave. sozogallery.net