Interview with Paul Michael Design

Star Wars inspired jewelry by Paul Michael Design

Today’s Mos Eisley Marketplace article features Star Wars fan and jewelry designer Paul Michael Bierker, from Paul Michael Design. Gaining worldwide attention in recent years with his R2-D2 and Princess Leia inspired ring designs, Paul has a fantastic range of Star Wars jewelry designs available. Whether you prefer subtle designs (like the brilliant Cloud City necklace or X-Wing pilot ‘sliced onion’ necklace) or bold stand-out Star Wars designs (like a Galactic Empire ring or BB-8 necklace), there is something for everyone!

With Valentine’s Day coming up soon, these Star Wars inspired ‘Candy Heart’ necklaces are the perfect romantic gift. The necklaces feature a heart shaped pendant, engraved with your choice of design – there is the classic ‘I Love You’ – ‘I Know’, Rebel Alliance and Imperial symbols, and classic candy heart phrases in Aurebesh!

Shop the range of Star Wars inspired jewelry at Geek.Jewelry – they can ship internationally!

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Star Wars inspired jewelry by Paul Michael Design Star Wars inspired jewelry by Paul Michael Design Star Wars inspired jewelry by Paul Michael Design

I recently had the wonderful opportunity to ask Paul a few questions about Geek.Jewelry, his favourite Star Wars characters, his design inspiration and jewelry creation process. Read on for the full interview and photos –

Star Wars inspired jewelry by Paul Michael Design Star Wars inspired jewelry by Paul Michael Design Star Wars inspired jewelry by Paul Michael Design

How long have you been a Star Wars fan?

I was 9 when A New Hope released. We didn’t have much money so we did not see it as kids. I lived vicariously through my neighbors recounts of the movie and my ability to trade baseball cards for my collection of miniature action figures. We made up my own stories with these little guys and then I saw The Empire Strikes Back at a friends birthday party! It wasn’t until 1982 till I saw A New Hope…(on VHS) Which is still my favorite. I was hooked. Forever…

Star Wars inspired jewelry by Paul Michael Design Star Wars inspired jewelry by Paul Michael Design

Do you have a favourite Star Wars character?

No, I have several, each reminds me of a quality I admire –
Yoda – Peace and Wisdom
Chewie – Loyalty and Patience
R2D2 – Focused and loyal He will never leave you in a lurch.
C3PO – That annoying,  but smart person in everyone’s life that you should probably listen to more….
Luke – An unexpected hero
Leia – One Tough Chick! Wasn’t taking crap from no one.
Han Solo – Reckless with a good heart.
Obi-Wan – The mentor we all need but tragically can never hold onto forever.

Star Wars inspired jewelry by Paul Michael Design Star Wars inspired jewelry by Paul Michael Design

What inspired you to design and create Star Wars jewelry?

I goofed around with some interesting motif type items. Then a commission for the first custom R2 Ring was created on a site called custommade.com by a cool artist named Joe Pagnani in Joisey sparked my insane conquest to create jewelry inspired by droids, space craft and tools from the movies. Their engagement is EPIC! It’s all history from there – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ttwsP9sgKxQ

Star Wars inspired jewelry by Paul Michael Design Star Wars inspired jewelry by Paul Michael Design

Do you have any particular favourite Star Wars fashion items/brands?

HOLY COW!  There is so much stuff now! When I made my first rings there was very little merch on the market. I like and buy anything that is clever. I am a design and content snob.

Star Wars inspired jewelry by Paul Michael Design Star Wars inspired jewelry by Paul Michael Design

How did you decide which Star Wars characters/elements to feature in your designs?

Some take years for inspiration, others are moments of creativity. Sometimes my clients inspire me to move in a direction with the design but often it’s someone saying, ‘Hey could you do this’? Sure I can LOL Sometimes before I even figure it out…

Star Wars inspired jewelry by Paul Michael Design Star Wars inspired jewelry by Paul Michael Design Star Wars inspired jewelry by Paul Michael Design

It is very rare to find Queen Amidala themed jewelry – what inspired you to create your Queen Amidala ring?

That was a custom request. Tiaras are a huge inspiration for me. I do superheroes and other ceremonial headgear as rings too.

Star Wars inspired jewelry by Paul Michael Design Star Wars inspired jewelry by Paul Michael Design

Do you have a personal favourite design from your Star Wars jewelry collection?

The R2 ring will always be my favorite. The collaboration, the entry into the market and the global response was well, amazing. I am so humbled that people say so many kind things about my work.

Star Wars inspired jewelry by Paul Michael Design Star Wars inspired jewelry by Paul Michael Design

How long does it usually take to create one of your jewelry items?

Most items take 4-10 weeks depending on how many rules of jewelry making we are breaking. We fail a lot. But when we win it’s pretty neat. I want to be known as an innovator, a disruptor of the commonplace. So we take crazy design risks and use unusual compositional ideas as much as possible.

Star Wars inspired jewelry by Paul Michael Design Star Wars inspired jewelry by Paul Michael Design

Can you hint if you have any future Star Wars designs in the works?

I have a lot of content in my head. I am working on some huge developments that will elevate our brand from mere fan art to something much more interesting. Pray for us LOL.

Star Wars inspired jewelry by Paul Michael Design Star Wars inspired jewelry by Paul Michael Design Star Wars inspired jewelry by Paul Michael Design

Can customers contact you for custom geek jewelry designs?

First, I am a bespoke maker, a collaborator, and a consensus builder. My whole life I have developed custom content so YES! I will make anything and adapt any of my designs to suit anyone’s taste. As long as it is done well.

Star Wars inspired jewelry by Paul Michael Design Star Wars inspired jewelry by Paul Michael Design

Many thanks to Paul for his time in answering my questions. I have been a long time admirer of his gorgeous Star Wars jewelry designs, I can’t possibly pick a favourite! From subtle to bold and everything in between, his designs cater to every fan. Whether you are planning a wedding, looking for the perfect romantic gift, or just want to spoil yourself, Geek.Jewelry is the place to go!

Star Wars inspired jewelry by Paul Michael Design

Photos sourced from and belong to Paul Michael Design.