Jody H. Rusconi moved to Humboldt County in 1976 and opened Graystone Jewelers in 1984.  Trained as a biologist as well as a jewelry appraiser and designer, she learned how to run a business after many years (and just plain luck) developed what was known of by many as the finest jewelry store and jewelry design house on the North Coast.  Having the opportunity to sell the business in 2006 allowed her to spend important time with family and she now enjoys teaching as well as learning from local quilt artist through Scottie Dog Quilts.  She continues to be involved with the Humboldt Wildlife Care Center (Injured wildlife rehabilitation), long distance road-biking as well as traveling with her husband Lee.

Quilting is a new and exciting art for her, but much of her ability with composition and color in jewelry translates well into fabrics.  Non-traditional quilting is her main interest and the ability to watch students open up to new ideas brings her a great deal of pleasure.