Integral to The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale’s mission is telling the stories behind the small businesses Scouted in each Volume. The story begins in print and continues online, after all. As you peruse Volume 2, we are thrilled to continue our story-telling mission with Member Spotlights.
Photographed by Carrie Evans Photography.
After nearly a decade in New York City cutting her teeth in the jewelry business and a stint in Denver designing and working with Metalmark Fine Jewelry, Phoenix native Abby Snow, is back in the desert. And she brought the chic Metalmark with her, opening her own store in the recently redeveloped and local boutique enclave The Fredrick on Missouri.
The move was serendipitous: both an opportunity to return home and to help grow the Metalmark brand with intentionality. Today, Abby dedicates her passion and considerable talents to creating wearable works of art that reflect clients’ unique sensibilities. Or helping them discover designs from emerging and established designers to add to their jewelry boxes.
Recently, we chatted with Abby Snow about – in her words – the “happiness business,” building relationships, and — of course — sparkly jewels.
Photographed by Carrie Evans Photography.
The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale: Welcome back to the Valley! What called you back home after a decade in New York?
Abby Snow: I always knew that I wanted to move back to Phoenix to be closer to family, and when a friend of mine announced via social media that she and her husband were creating a beautiful, mid-century shopping complex filled with local businesses, I jumped at the opportunity to be a part of it. I think I was one of the first to express interest. It was years in the making but I’m so happy with where we are and I love The Fred and all it has to offer.
The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale: We love The Fred, too. It’s truly stunning and such a wonderful addition to Phoenix. But before diving too deep into Metalmark and your space at The Fred, let’s chat about you and your career. How did you get into the jewelry business?
Abby Snow: I moved to New York after college and sort of fell into the jewelry industry. I landed my first job with high-end watch & jewelry company, Chopard, and fell in love with the industry. From there I made strategic career moves that allowed me to learn all aspects of the jewelry business. And after almost a decade away, I brought my passion for the industry back to Phoenix with me and opened Metalmark.
The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale: On behalf of the Valley’s ladies, thank you. It’s such a joy to have a jewelry boutique like Metalmark around town. For those who haven’t had the privilege to visit Metalmark, how would you describe the brand?
Abby Snow: Metalmark is a fine jewelry boutique featuring a mix of emerging & established designers from all around the world. We also offer custom design services, creating one-of-a-kind pieces for clients. We pride ourselves in our uniquely curated stores and having something to offer for every style & price point.
Photographed by Carrie Evans Photography.
The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale: As an entrepreneur, you wear many hats. Which is your favorite?
Abby Snow: Designing custom jewelry for clients!
The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale: What does that process look like?
Abby Snow: At Metalmark, we work with clients on everything from re-designs using client-owned stones and metals to new custom pieces. Each project starts with a lengthy discussion of budget, stone preferences, and inspiration, which informs our in-store sketch. Our production studio uses the sketch to create a computer-aided design (CAD) for client approval. Clients can view the CAD in 3D, making it easy to see the piece from a variety of angles and make small adjustments. We then create a wax of the design clients can try on to ensure each detail is as they imagined. Once approved, the magic happens. Finally, our skilled craftsmen meticulously set each stone to create an heirloom-quality piece.
The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale: We can’t imagine how rewarding it is to bring a client’s imagination — and investment — to life.
Abby Snow: We always say we’re in the “happiness business” because purchasing jewelry is usually surrounded by a happy or momentous occasion. I love the idea that we’re creating heirlooms for our future generations to love and enjoy.
Photographed by Carrie Evans Photography.
The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale: Of course, you also have an array of fabulous designer jewelry in store, too. Who’s your current favorite?
Abby Snow: One of my favorite designers we carry is Azlee - the designer Baylee has such a refined collection and unique point of view, drawing inspiration from her world travels. I love her medallions and the ability to build a collection over time. Another notable designer that’s fairly new to Metalmark is Celine D’Aoust. Her collection is delicate, yet so detailed and wearable!
The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale: We’ve notice you’re wearing both. In addition to a few others… What’s your approach to styling a jewelry collection?
Abby Snow: I’ve always loved fashion and getting dressed and styling my outfit is something I’ve enjoyed since I was little. I think of jewelry as an extension of the outfit, so it usually comes together based on what I’m wearing. But I always have my core pieces that I never take off and those need to go with everything I wear.
The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale: How many pieces do you think you wear daily?
Abby Snow: Oh wow, I never thought to count before but between all the piercings in my ears, rings on my fingers, and necklace layers, I probably wear 20 or so pieces a day!
Photographed by Carrie Evans Photography.
The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale: It’s only fitting! Aside from the obvious (access to the most gorgeous jewels), what’s the most rewarding aspect of your work?
Abby Snow: It’s an honor to be the go-to for gifts, engagements, anniversaries, and so many other special occasions. I’ve had the pleasure of meeting so many wonderful people since the store has opened, many that have become close friends. I’m so looking forward to nurturing and those amazing relationships as we move into another year of business here in Phoenix.
The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale: Speaking of Phoenix, what do you love about living and working in the Valley?
Abby Snow: I love being back in the Valley because my family is here. After 10+ years away and growing into the person that I have become today, I feel so fortunate to return to Phoenix and open a business that’s near and dear to my heart. Even better is that I have my family and friends here to cheer me on.
The Scout Guide Phoenix & Scottsdale: Lastly, can you share a few of your favorite spots?
Abby Snow: Of course! For restaurants, Valentine Phx, Belly Kitchen & Bar, Stoop Kid, Provision Coffee, Glai Baan. My spots for shopping are the Market by Modern Nest, Local Nomad, Camelback Collonade, Camelback Flowershop, Vida Moulin. I also love the Uptown Farmers Market and my kid’s really enjoy the Phoenix Children’s Museum.
Metalmark Fine Jewelry is open at The Fred (1215 E Missouri Ave, Suite #7) Tuesday through Sunday from 10:00 to 5:30pm. Stop in to shop their fabulously curated collection of jewelry or inquire about creating a custom design.