Embracing Metalsmithing
The moment I entered into that metalsmithing class and crafted my first pieces I felt an instant connection to jewelry. Remembering that it took only a few basic tools to soldered components together to make chain bracelet and a gemstone necklace in a bezel setting.
Jewelry Makes
First pieces made in metalsmithing class - Chain bracelet, amethyst gemstone pendant and bangles.
Celine Bracelet
Assembling links on chain bracelet.
This experience fueled my curiosity and knew there was more to jewelry making than what I initially learned in class. I dedicated myself to self teaching - spending countless hours practicing, researching and experimenting trying to determine the type of jewelry I wanted to create. Although I faced some setbacks along the way it did not discourage me. I continued to push forward.
To further enhance my skills I signed up for additional courses on setting stones in wax, watched tutorials and refined my skills of the different techniques. I showed up with my presence each day being a student of the craft learning all I could about metalsmithing.
Metalsmithing Tools
Saw frame, chasing hammer, hand file, soldering pick, measuring tools and polishing mandrel.
I started to make more pieces and increase my knowledge about the aspects of production and soon realized creating jewelry resonated with concepts of what I enjoyed and continued to embrace it.
Fabricating, sourcing materials, taking photos of jewelry or styling it to display - it’s a process that I’m drawn to and thrilled to immerse myself in each day.
Fabrication Technique
Forming wire around mandrel to make jewelry component.
Metalsmithing is exhilarating presenting lessons you didn’t encounter before. The ability to transform materials into wearable jewelry takes skill, imagination and patience that offers an opportunity to continually learn and expand the boundaries of what is possible with creating.
Taking this class changed the trajectory of my career guiding me towards a path filled with intention. This experience enabled me to explore creating beyond the surface igniting a spark that brings me inspiration.
Looking forward to this journey and will keep progressing in making jewelry that is an expression of artistry in each piece that I make.
