Fun fact about Lauren of Harwell Godfrey that you might not know: she had two prior and very successful careers before launching her eponymous line of fine jewelry. The first, as an advertising Creative Director and Art Director, had her creating content for the likes of Adidas, Levi’s and Ray-Ban. Then, she decided to follow her heart (and her stomach) to the inaugural class of the San Francisco Cooking School in 2013. After graduation, she scored stages (the internships of the cooking world) at beloved Bay Area institutions Bar Tartine and Chez Panisse. Let us tell you from experience, the girl can cook. While it might seem weird that the love child of art direction and cooking became jewelry — well, we don’t really think so. Take one part mental creativity + 1 part working with your hands and you can see how accessories make sense. Her first foray into jewelry was with her handmade (by her!) leather and raw gemstone major statement necklaces, which won her a loyal following. Fine jewelry was the next logical step — and BAM — here we are today. Harwell Godfrey fine jewelry has aesthetic roots in ancient textiles and ethnic patterns, and is handcrafted in 18k gold with precious gemstones and vivid enamel. Designed with healing energy in mind, each gemstone is thoughtfully handpicked to enhance the wearer’s experience. From literal references to the Four Elements to figurative references to block printing and weaving in cultures from long ago, the collection brings a sense of history to modern day precious heirlooms. Read on to learn more about the things that make Lauren tick!
“If you have it, wear it. I love a cocktail ring with jeans and a t-shirt. Don’t save it for a special occasion.”
What was your first job?
It was at a store called “Cracker Jack Gift Company” in Redlands, CA. They paid me to sit in the window and create customized art on various acrylic goods (boxes, frames) with paint pens and stickers. I had quite a following. I think I was 14.
What is your daily uniform?
Lately it’s been all about a well tailored blazer (Celine, St Laurent, Dries Van Noten), t-shirt (Rag & Bone v-necks, Sold Out NYC, Made Worn), high waist/straight leg jeans (Frame, Trave), sneakers (Freda Salvador, Golden Goose, Common Projects) and glasses (Jacques Marie Mage).
Beauty product you can’t live without?
I can’t possibly only give one! The entire Marie Veronique + Kristina Holey line, Vintner’s Daughter Active Botanical Serum and RMS Lip2Cheek in Beloved. I switched to clean beauty products a couple of years ago and there’s no going back.
What was your last big purchase?
I was recently in Paris with Randi and Meaghan… can I plead the 5th?
Next time FFR is visiting your home base, where do we eat?
This is a hard one. There are SO many special restaurants in San Francisco and I’m so worried that some of them won’t be opening their doors again post Coronavirus… My go-tos are Zuni, State Bird Provisions and The Progress, Nopalito, but I could go on and on.
What’s your signature scent and what three words would you use to describe it?
I actually created a signature scent for my lockets and wear it every day! Three words to describe it: all-natural, woodsy, unisex.
Where’s the last destination you visited that inspired your work?
I find inspiration everywhere, but I would say the patterns and detail in the tile work in Morocco left a lasting impression.
What was the first piece of jewelry you bought for yourself?
The piece that comes to mind is a gold and diamond Buddha from Buddha Mama. I wore it throughout my pregnancy in the hopes of giving Buddha energy to my son. For a three year old, he’s a fairly kind bro. Thanks Buddha Mama!
Advice for someone looking to change their career path?
Be realistic - don’t expect to switch paths and be at the same level you currently are. It takes time to build a career. It also takes time to be profitable. Thankfully I had For Future Reference to help set my expectations - not an easy job for them as I am VERY impatient! Last, be honest with yourself - do you have something (a product, a point of view, a service, etc) that people will want or need?
Piece of jewelry you never take off?
You’ll rarely find me without my rainbow foundation bead necklace.
What’s your morning coffee/ tea order?
IRL it’s an almond milk cappuccino. In shelter in place life, it’s PG Tips black tea with Three Trees Black Sesame Seed Milk.
Fun fact people may not know about you?
I designed the merch for Norah Jones’ first big tour.
What’s the best advice you’ve received?
I have a terrible memory, but it’s something along the lines of, there’s only one you. Be that person and you’ll be original.
What’s your advice on how to style jewelry?
If you have it, wear it. I love a cocktail ring with jeans and a t-shirt. Don’t save it for a special occasion.
The gemstone you’re currently lusting after is:
Emeralds. Emeralds. Emeralds.
What's your go–to cocktail?
My husband makes the world’s best margarita. It’s hands down my fave cocktail on the planet.
Here’s his recipe:
2 parts Blanco Tequila (we like Tapatio)
1 part fresh lime juice
1 part agave syrup
To make the agave syrup: bring 1 part agave nectar and 2 parts water to a boil. Take off heat and add 1 more part in ice. Store in the refrigerator.
What was the last thing you bought online?
A bocce ball set. Just hit send.
What does one free hour to yourself look like?
I already mentioned I have a three year old. An hour to myself is a rare luxury, especially during this shelter in place situation. If I am lucky enough to get an hour, I’ll probably wash my hair and blow it out with my Dyson Airwrap. I’m obsessed with that thing.