Influenced by Byron Bay’s natural beauty, a passion for gemstones and a desire to forge her own path, Marli Funston created Juno Stone and Silver with her mother in 2014.
“I was just importing jewellery and selling it, but I could really see a gap for good quality genuine gemstone jewellery made with the gorgeous handmade Thai Hill Tribe Silver, and also for raw gemstone jewellery,” says Marli. “I [have an] inherent love for that intense focus style in the making and design process. There’s something so meditative and satisfying in finding gems that ‘sing’ together.”
Now, the self-taught artist can be found nearly every Saturday at Brisbane’s Davies Park Market with the occasional interlude in Northern New South Wales, surrounded by her striking compositions. Rings, necklaces and bracelets burst with larimar, aquamarine and moonstone. Raw stones are handpicked and inform the design of a given piece, while beaded jewellery tends to start with an origin stone or piece of silver.
“The jewellery we make and design is almost always one of a kind,” says Marli. “I might begin with a certain theme or idea, but often it takes on its own path along the way. The ‘heart’ of a Juno piece is quality and balance.” Although, one could argue that the heart is each piece’s ability to tell a story.
Marli says that her pieces are inspired by elemental stories, ones that capture the imperfections and beauty of nature. “I suppose I try to create these kinds of stories as best as I can in my work. I also think it’s pretty magical how gemstones are made. I think they deserve to be represented in a way that displays their beauty completely,” she says.
Looking for new avenues to channel her creative energy, Marli’s next project will be sustainable, ethical fashion. Holyfolk is set to introduce natural dyed linens, organic cottons and handwoven fabrics that pair with Juno jewellery.
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