I collect vintage tools and enjoy using them every day. I love the idea that a hammer used by another jeweler 50 years ago is making a mark on my work today. One of my favorite things is my bench, which was my father's, and I've used it for over 30 years. I consider it a talisman.
I'm drawn to the unusual, and collect stones that reflect this. The vast array of beautiful material that comes from the earth remains a wonder to me. Often my designs are motivated by the stones, and complementing their beauty is all that's needed. In business since 1984, I make each piece by hand in my Prescott, Arizona studio.
My technical approach is simple and low-tech. I use traditional fabricating techniques such as shell forming, fusing and reticulation. Incorporating gold adds contrast and richness to the pieces. I use 24kt in Kemu boo and 22kt gold bimetal.
The stones I use are carefully curated for color, quality of cut and unique intrinsic characteristics.
I draw every design to work through the lines and refine the flow. Ultimately arriving a balance where nothing is added and nothing taken away.
