Foundation
Republic Design, established in 2009, is my full service custom jewelry design and repair company. My one-woman show began when the sluggish economy forced my former employer to let me go from a custom manufacturing shop one fine spring day. That summer, I divided my time between job searches, odd jobs, and helping my friends and family with their jewelry-related issues. The first started to take up less and less time, while the latter began to snowball. On the way home to my native Des Moines from an interview in downtown Chicago, it finally hit me...
The job I was seeking was under my nose all along.
One lawyer, one accountant, and one LLC later, Republic Design was born.
Many of the pieces I make are one of a kind. The gallery features custom platinum, gold, and silver pieces set with a variety of gemstones. For these unique pieces, I work closely with clients to create anything from a simple solitaire engagement ring to the realization of an elaborate pearl cocktail ring. This design process can take the client and I anywhere from one consultation to several months of correspondence. However, once the design is confirmed, it takes approximately 4 weeks for me to hand craft it. Loosely, I call this part of my work 'House of Lords.'
However, I have been working on designing and manufacturing a line of pieces ready to ship out within three days, affectionally called 'House of Commons.' The Astrology Constellation Pendants feature stylized constellations of each of the Zodiac signs. Hand-engraved on a small sterling silver disk, these pendants make for a subtle expression of personality.
I will also periodically feature limited edition sterling silver and gemstone pieces. I love unique precious and semi-precious stones that result in creative, but versatile, pieces. Check out my shop for the "bijoux du jour," with stunning rose quartz or amethyst "spike" earrings and pendants.
I will also help you replace or repair any favorite item. Trust me, I am familiar with that sick feeling one can get when a beloved piece is damaged or lost. I have replicated several pieces from clients' photos, descriptions, and insurance documents. And from remounting diamonds to resizing rings, just contact me of Republic Design via email for an estimate.
Alexa Heffling, owner
I decided to become a jeweler freshman year of high school. It combined my love of science, my artistry, and my nutty attention to detail into one delicious cocktail. I have always been fascinated by miniatures, especially when they functioned. For example, a tiny pair of scissors the size of my thumbnail is awesome. But a tiny pair of scissors the size of my thumbnail that can actually snip paper? VERY AWESOME.
After high school, I attended the University of Iowa in Iowa City and messed around in the departments of Art, English, and Geoscience. (Seriously, my transcript reads like that of a schizophrenic, but I had a plan.) After I received my B.A. in English, I moved to Carlsbad, California to attend the prestigious Gemological Institute of America. Part laboratory, part school, and part world-class museum, GIA provided me with my Graduate Jeweler Gemologist degree (G.J.G.) certifiying me in gem identification and grading, as well as providing me with a basic set of bench skills for manufacturing and repair.
I returned to Iowa after 2 years on the West Coast and worked for over 2 years in a custom manufacturing shop in Des Moines, IA. I survived being laid off when the economy slacked in 2009, and was inspired to start my own business.
This is my fourth year as a business owner, first year as a home owner, and launching a website seemed the next logical step. I am a newlywed working out of my basement shop in Des Moines. Despite my lack of advertising, business has been so good I have had a wait list for my 'House of Lords' custom pieces. Email me and get in line!