My signature design process (copyrighted finally!) is called Sprinkled Silver. Which means what exactly? I KNOW this is what you are thinking! Sprinkled Silver is my name for the process of fusing sterling or fine silver into copper. How and Why did I create this process? The basic answer is... because it was fun! I have been playing around with copper and silver since I … [Read more...]
Corrugated Jewelry? Yes!
If you haven't guessed by now. I love to texture my metal as I create my designs. So when I became aware of the corrugation process, I was intrigued. First of all I purchased the book. Metal Corrugation by Patricia McAleer. This colorful book introduces the metalsmith (that's me) to a new method of creative expression--metal corrugated jewelry designs. I read it cover to … [Read more...]
Hematite Gemstones; Gorgeous but NOT Magnetic
Yes that's right. Contrary to popular belief, hematite is metallic but NOT magnetic. However, many specimens contain enough magnetite to be considered such. What is so special about Hematite?? A lot! Hematite is a dense material with over 70% iron content. it's metallic luster when polished is beyond beautiful Many suggest that this gem will stimulate our … [Read more...]
Peek into my Design Process: Texturing
Texturing Metal is one of my favorite ways to create designs. I love the way texture adds to the basic metal. It gives it dimension and makes the designs more interesting. There are LOTS of ways to texture metal. Here's a peek into two of the ways I use most frequently. Corrugation. This means literally, to shape into folds or parallel and alternating ridges and … [Read more...]
How do I create Pure Metal Earrings?
I love working with metal. Can you tell? Creating my collection of Copper and Sterling Silver PURE METAL earrings requires lots of elbow grease. First I texture the raw metal. This is usually done by hammering but can be done with a rolling mill as well. The metal must be softened (heated) before starting the texturing. Since the metal becomes distorted from the … [Read more...]
