Knoxville business crafts timeless elegance with recycled metals
Newly nestled in the Old City, ACF Jewelry stands as a beacon of artisanal craftsmanship and sustainable practices.
Founded by Amanda “Caroline” Farris, ACF specializes in creating unique, handmade pieces that blend artistic vision with ethical production. The combination of Farris’ dedication to utilizing safe, high-quality materials and her commitment to sustainability sets her business apart in the world of bespoke jewelry.
A journey rooted in passion
As the creative force behind ACF, Farris brings a deep-seated passion for metalsmithing to her craft. Each piece she produces is meticulously handmade, reflecting her dedication to quality and artistry. Her journey began with a love for creating beautiful, meaningful pieces that people can cherish. This passion evolved into a business that prioritizes sustainability and ethical practices, ensuring that every creation is not only beautiful but also responsibly made.
From a young age, Farris was fascinated by the transformative power of metalwork. This interest blossomed into a formal education in the field, where she honed her skills and developed a unique style that blends modern aesthetics with traditional techniques.
Ethical craftsmanship
ACF Jewelry’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its use of recycled metals. Approximately 90 percent of its line is made from recycled silver, gold-fill, rose gold-fill, brass, copper and solid gold. This focus on recycling not only reduces waste but also ensures that the jewelry is nickel-free, catering to customers with sensitive skin.
This ethical approach to sourcing materials is a cornerstone of the shop’s philosophy. Farris and her team carefully select suppliers who share their commitment to sustainability and ethical practices. This ensures that every piece of jewelry is not only beautiful but also aligned with the values of environmental stewardship and social responsibility.
The ACF Endless Chain™
One of the standout offerings from the company is the ACF Endless Chain™. This innovative concept allows customers to create hyper-customized jewelry, perfect for gifts or special occasions. The Endless Chain™ appointments can be booked for weddings, parties or private events, providing a unique and memorable experience for guests. This on-site service underscores ACF’s commitment to creating personal and meaningful connections through its pieces.
The Endless Chain™ is more than just a product; it’s an experience. Customers can choose from a variety of chains and charms, each one crafted with the same care and attention to detail that defines all ACF pieces. The result is a one-of-a-kind piece of jewelry that holds special significance for the wearer. The ability to customize and personalize these pieces makes them ideal for commemorating special moments or celebrating personal milestones.
New street-level location a home for creativity and community
ACF Jewelry is entering a new chapter with the opening of its street-level downtown location at 112-2 E. Jackson Ave. Starting Aug. 10, this space will serve as the primary hub for ACF’s signature services and experiences, operating primarily by appointment. This new location is designed to enhance accessibility and engagement with clients, providing a welcoming environment where customers can explore the shop’s offerings in a relaxed, intimate setting.
The new space will offer a full jewelry service menu, including the trademarked ACF Endless Chain™ service. Additionally, the location will host private and semi-private group parties, creating opportunities for shared experiences centered around the art of jewelry-making. The space is also set to feature limited retail offerings, including a curated selection of ACF products and works by other local artists.
One of the first visual artists to be showcased in this new space is Blake Deal, a Knoxville-based talent whose work is celebrated for its dynamic use of color, texture and scale. Deal’s pieces will be on display and available for purchase, offering visitors a chance to support local art while adding a unique piece to their collection.
Deal’s art is not just visually captivating; it also carries a deeper significance. He recently received a challenging cancer diagnosis, and in response, the ACF community is rallying to support him during this difficult time. You can contribute to Deal’s GoFundMe campaign at https://www.gofundme.com/f/a9m3d8-support-blakes-cancer-treatment-costs.
Community engagement and events
ACF Jewelry is not just a business; it aims to be an integral part of the community. The brand actively participates in local events, fostering connections with customers and other artisans. These events provide opportunities for the public to see the craftsmanship up close and engage with the creators.
Farris and her team believe in the importance of giving back to the community that supports them. They regularly participate in local craft fairs, markets and other events, where they showcase their work and connect with customers face-to-face. These events provide the opportunity to share their story, educate the public about their sustainable practices and build lasting relationships with their customers.
The future of ACF Jewelry
Looking ahead, ACF aims to expand its reach in its new location while maintaining its core values of sustainability and ethical craftsmanship. In a world where fast fashion and mass production often dominate, ACF Jewelry stands out as a shining example of what is possible when artistry and ethics are at the forefront of a business.
For those looking to stay connected with the business, book appointments or to simply learn more about its practices, the best way is through visiting its Instagram page (@acfjewelry) or its website (www.acfjewelry.com).
brittany@blanknews.com
