Gioni Originals, 452 Thames St, Newport, RI 02840, US

"Building on a background in repair work, I learned new techniques for designing and forging new pieces by trial and error. As soon as one new skill was mastered, I would try another until I was confident enough in my abilities to offer a wide variety of designs in sterling and 14 karat gold." Jim Breakell, founder. Jim Breakell career as a silversmith began with an apprenticeship in Newport, Rhode Island, home of traditional craftsmen since colonial times. He worked in a small shop specializing in the restoration of antique silver pieces-some of them made by Newport's own smiths centuries. His interest soon turned to creating his own designs. In 1972 he opened his first shop and began making one of-a-kind pieces. Joan Breakell joined the company when she married Jim in 1980. They outgrew a series of workshops as designs caught on. At one point, they worked out of their basement, but it became clear that wouldn't work for long. Today they design and produce their work with a group of talented and specially trained silversmiths in workshop in the heart of historic Newport. The skills they perfected in those early years are used every day to produce a rich collection of silver and gold designs inspired by nature and New England's storied maritime heritage. Our work has been worn by Rhode Island's Governors for ceremonial occasions. It has been featured in a New Yorker Magazine cartoon and articles in fashion and industry publications. One of our proudest achievements is a spot in the National Archives for the Broccoli Pin that Jim Breakell designed and made. We sent it as a gift to First Lady Barbara Bush after President George H.W. Bush banned broccoli from the White House menu. We also sent one to the Clintons and the Gores, who wrote to thank us and let us know they were broccoli fans, during the 1992 presidential campaign. As islanders, we are intensely aware of the importance of environmental sustainability in business and personal decisions. Though EPA regulations forbid many of the most harmful practices in mining and metal refining, we do our best to further minimize impact on the environment by reusing and repurposing material wherever possible. J.H. Breakell & Co also contributes annually to local environmental groups and organizations promoting an end to hunger and domestic violence. Our workshop is located in Newport, but our jewelry is shipped to thousands of customer around the country.