Written September 24, 2013
To customize the jewelry that I make, I usually handmake the “findings”. Findings are what jewelers call clasps, ear wires, pin backs, etc. Basically the hardware of the piece of jewelry. Most of my beaded necklaces and some of my silver chains have a simple sterling silver hook and loop. I like these because they are unusual while being secure.
Pictured here are the hook and loop clasps on some recent Autumn themed necklaces that I made.
Written September 13, 2013
I have begun to work towards becoming a certified gemologist through the GIA, Gemological Institute of America. It will take a couple of years, especially since I will continue to work full time. So far it is very interesting for me, I just passed the final exam for my first intro course to colored stones. Besides colored stones, I will study diamonds and pearls.
Just the other day I was looking at a little bunch of green stones that I have and beginning to think about designs. Knowing more about stones in general will be a great addition to my 20 years of metalsmithing.
Above I have Prehnite, Malachite, a glass taxidermy eye, Verisite, Jade, Garnet and a Bloodstone (it turned out looking black here but it’s actually a forest green with red specks).
Written November 19, 2012
Small sculpture and paintings by Jackson Hole artist, Alissa Davies, are now in the shop. Stop in and see them, they are awesome! She used a variety of materials: wire, fabric, paper clay, acrylic paint.
She has used a lot of pod forms inspired by her childhood in and a recent visit to Maine’s seaside. Photos, left: mix, center: “Sea Objects #2” , right: closeup of “Breaking Out”
This cool piece, “Installation”, is a grouping of delicate fabric and wire pods and tubes.
This 2-painting series is acrylic paint and pencil on canvas and echos the forms of her sculptures. “Reproduction #1, #2”
Written August 21, 2012
I have hung a new exhibit in my shop, tapestries by Sheridan, Wyoming artist, Ann Arndt. She uses beautiful wool and translates her drawings and paintings to weavings. They are all for sale, so if there is an inquiry about these or others (I have 5), please e-mail me. The show will be up through mid October, 2012.
Above: “Blacktooth Improv”, “Folk Dance II: March Across Time” (closeup), “Willow Blanket”, “Prairie Blanket”
