BY MACEY LAVOIE

Viviane Hebel’s story (and her inspiration) began six years ago when she picked up City of Bones, the first book In Cassandra Clare’s Shadowhunter Chronicles series. She fell in love with the world and the rune designs. Since then she has added countless book-inspired pieces to her website, each one as magical and inspiring as the last.

I was first introduced to her work when I was hunting on the Internet for the perfect Jade pendent. I wanted one that was similar to the one described in my favorite book. Hebel Design appeared and was filled with jewelry from some of my favorite books. If you’re looking for a little piece of literary magic, this is the place for you.

What got you started in the art of jewelry making? And what inspired you to make book-related jewelry?

Jewelry began as a challenge about 13 years ago, when a friend liked a very pricey necklace she saw at a trendy store window. I said: "I can make that for you,” and so it began. Of course that was only assembling ready-made components. Soon I had the need to make my own pieces and so I got into metal-smithing and then I got hitched for life. About six years ago, I read Cassandra Clare’s City of Bones and I fell in love with the world and the Runes, I had to make them and luckily she let me bring them to life!

How long have you been making jewelry?

For over 12 years now.

How do you find so many unique materials and metals for your pieces?

I have several suppliers for all my jewelry-making needs and then it’s a lot of research online and the streets to find the right piece! I can say that I have bought materials from every continent. The Internet is a magical place.

Do you have a particular favorite among the book series you draw inspiration from? A favorite piece?

They are all kind of my children so it’s hard, but I always tend to like the pieces that were more challenging to develop. The Morozova Collar, The Clockwork Angel, The Nephilim Wing (Jace’s Wings). Also, the bigger the world, the bigger the possibilities!

Are you working on any new pieces? Are you adding to the list of book series you work with?

Yes and yes, I am always on the works! Everything is to be revealed soon.

Have you ever gotten feedback from authors about the pieces you create?

Always, I never list anything without author consent. The collaboration has to be close to stay true to the stories.

I noticed you support the organization We Need Diverse Books. What got you involved?

Because we are all different and we all like to read stories that touch us in a way. For that, we need diversity!

Anything else you think we should know?

I love my job! And I it makes my day that I can make other people happy with my work. I really love to hear the feedback I get and how my jewelry turns into little amulets of some sort. Lucky charms or cherished heirlooms someday. The little treasures that give meaning to life.

You can visit Viviane's website here.