Hi, I'm Esla
Designer & Maker behind Narrow-Gauge Designs.
I’m also a stay-at-home mother of three teenagers, and my world is built around family, ballet, gardening, history, and creating. Jewelry design has become one of the most fulfilling parts of my life. There’s nothing quite like seeing a woman wear something I’ve made and knowing it makes her feel like herself.
I’ve been making jewelry since high school, when I first started beading and creating simple earrings. I don’t even remember exactly how I learned - most likely from a small bead shop in my hometown of Paso Robles, California.
After high school, life took me in other directions - years filled with dancing, college, running a Pilates studio, and raising my three children. Jewelry was quietly brushed aside during that time. Around 2015, I felt a strong pull to create again. I wanted something lasting - something more permanent than a clean house or a finished to-do list.
One day, I had a very specific idea for a bracelet and couldn’t ignore it. I pulled out my old tools, made the piece, and something clicked. I began creating for friends, and before long, that spark grew into a business.
Over the years, everything I love has slowly started to come together in my work. My designs are deeply influenced by a lifelong connection to history. I can trace that fascination back to small moments - like finding a 1914 dime in a pasture as a child and being completely struck by the weight of its age. My parents nurtured that curiosity, taking us to places like Calico Ghost Town and sharing their own experiences working in the mines near Silverton, Colorado.
Those early impressions stayed with me. Today, they show up in the details, textures, and materials I’m drawn to - pieces that feel like they’ve lived a life before they ever reach you.
Narrow-Gauge Designs is still evolving, just like I am. But that’s part of what makes it meaningful - allowing it to grow naturally, shaped by the things that inspire me most.
My husband Kevin and I
Animas Forks, Colorado
Views that Inspire
Tomboy Mine above Ouray, Colorado
Happiest when I'm finding new towns to explore
Central City, Colorado
Always looking for beauty, high and low.
Tombstone, Arizona
Handcrafted like the good ol' days
Quality over Quantity
Not everything beautiful, is still intact.
Animas Forks, Colorado
My husband Kevin and I
Animas Forks, Colorado
Views that Inspire
Tomboy Mine above Ouray, Colorado
Happiest when I'm finding new towns to explore
Central City, Colorado
Always looking for beauty, high and low.
Tombstone, Arizona
Handcrafted like the good ol' days
Quality over Quantity
Not everything beautiful, is still intact.
Animas Forks, Colorado
My husband Kevin and I
Animas Forks, Colorado
Views that Inspire
Tomboy Mine above Ouray, Colorado
Happiest when I'm finding new towns to explore
Central City, Colorado
Always looking for beauty, high and low.
Tombstone, Arizona
Handcrafted like the good ol' days
Quality over Quantity
Not everything beautiful, is still intact.
Animas Forks, Colorado
How do I measure for a bracelet?
Use a flexible tape measure and measure just above your wrist bone. Add 1/4 - 1/2 inch depending on how snug or relaxed you like the fit. If in doubt, size up - a touch of ease makes it more comfortable. If the size isn't quite right, I'm always happy to remake or exchange so your bracelet fits perfectly.
Additionally, you can find a complimentary, printable tape measure and instructions below.
Printable Measuring Tool
A printable sizing tool has been created to help you find your correct bracelet size.
- Download the printable tool here and then print it.
- Printable Sizing Tool
- Follow the instructions on the printable tool and find your size.
Measuring method
If you would prefer not to download the tool, you can measure with a string or ribbon to determine your bracelet size. We strongly advise that you measure the size of your wrist rather than the size of another bracelet.
- Using a length of string or ribbon, wrap it around the base of your wrist. To ensure a comfortable bracelet fit, we recommend measuring the thickest part of the wrist, usually the wrist joint, not on the bone.
- With a pen, mark the point on the string where the end meets.
- Measure the string in inches with a ruler.
- Narrow-Gauge Designs recommends adding .25" for a custom fit and for any minimalist bracelets. Add .50" for a loose fit.
How do I find my ring size?
If you don't have a ring sizer, you can use the paper strip method.
Wrap a thin strip of paper around your finger, mark where it overlaps, measure that length in millimeters, send me that number anytime - I can help match the correct ring size for you.
Ring width can change the fit, so I'm always happy to guide you to the size that will feel just right.
What metals do you use and how do I care for them?
I work with sterling silver, jewelers brass, copper, gold-fill and natural gemstones - chosen for their strength, beauty, and heirloom character.
Mixed metals bring a warmth, depth, and a quietly historic feel.
Care tip: Store in a dry place, wipe gently after wear, avoid contact with chemicals or perfumes (rinse off if necessary).
Light polishing with a polishing cloth will restore shine on metals and using a gentle soap with water and a toothbrush works on most pieces. Home ultrasonic machines are wonderful but not all gemstones are compatible.
How long will my order take to ship?
Most items ship within 1-2 business days. Some pieces are made-to-order, which may take a bit longer. If that is the case, it will be noted on the product page.
Need it by a specific date? Check the product page or message me - I'm happy to help you find something that will arrive on time.
The pack mule is ready and waiting, just hit send. We'd love to hear from you!
Carry the story forward
Each piece begins with something meaningful - a detail, a feeling, or a place shaped by history. These moments are translated into modern heirlooms, carrying character, sentiment, and a sense of place. Some are inspired by memory or emotion, others by your own story.
I invite you to explore and see what resonates - perhaps your next favorite piece is already waiting.