Artist and metalsmith Candias Smith is a proud native of New Orleans. Since childhood she has been a lover of unique designs and fashion. She attended New Orleans School of Metalsmithing, and has been practicing her craft since 2015.

In 2017 Smith founded Iris 1956 Jewelry, which started as a hobby. She named the brand as an ode to her loving mother, whose middle name is Iris and who was born is 1956. Inspired by her African heritage and New Orleans culture, Smith crafts using the lost ancient lost wax casting technique. The brand tells a story of perseverance and encourages women, especially BIPOC women, to be proud of who you are and where you come from and to never give up on your dreams. Her desire is that each piece is passed down as a modern-day heirloom.