The bullet rim necklace

This is just one piece in series of necklaces to complement the bullet ring and earrings series. 

Target Practice - The Bullet Ring

The final product - I love it!

I have not done any rings beyond a series of  creative one offs for myself. But when I made the last pair of earrings from bullet casing heads, it really seemed like a natural extension to create an adjustable ring with many of the same processes. Ha. Little did I know that I would have a whole series of creative challenges arising from forming the metal band.

Nickel Sheet

After cutting the head off the bullet, I measure and cut the nickel 

A few steps later...

At this point I have filed, textured, annealed, and drilled the band. I am using a nail to rivet the bullet rim to the band. A little creative thinking arising from some previous issues. 

The riveted bullet head. 

I have already made his and hers bullet rings. More to come!

Getting back into the studio

Broken glass, lightly tumbled...

Sawing the head off a bullet.

Earring prototype.

Getting back into the groove in my studio after relocating to Macon. I am going through a creative overhaul of sorts, but at the same time revisiting many of my original influences. 

Flaming Skeleton - Wearable Art I Admire

Creative inspiration feeds into my hopper in diverse and sometimes unexpected ways. But the above necklace, while bearing little resemblance to my own work, really is a no-brainer in its appeal. In January, I visited the Detroit Institute of the Arts for the first time. While relatively little wearable art was on display, this is a piece apparently maintains a place in their permanent collections. The workmanship of the piece is amazing. Here is a link to the DIA's picture of Flaming Skeleton #3 which is much better than my own picture. Joyce Scott's work overall is just awe inspiring. 

I have used skull imagery in many of my pieces, and I am attracted to bone as well. Traditionally skeletons are a reminder of life's fleeting pleasures. But I prefer to think of skeletons as symbols of change and transformation. 

Crinoids and Lavastone Necklaces on Leather

Simple unisex styles, featuring my signature wrapped wire frames with complementary clasps. 

This piece is a rare crinoid fossil, a type of marine creature which is millions of years old. This piece is notable, because it shows the "arms." Metaphysically, crinoid fossils enable the wearer to remain grounded in the material world, while simultaneously understanding and reaching for spiritual concepts and ideals. On a practical level this stone aids in business relationships, transactions and accomplishments. And importantly in today's world, crinoids help to release outmoded patterns and to be receptive to fresh innovations.  

This is lavastone, in a graceful teardrop shape. It has a lovely matte, black color that is at once understated and striking. Lavastone is great for for anyone who needs more fire in their lives. The energy of fire is direct, powerful, impassioned, and headstrong. It can be very useful for those who are indecisive, timid,or who generally feel weak. Lavastone was used by American Indians when entering battle for strength and clarity.

Feels like October to Me

In general, I think that the jewelry we wear is a reflection of who we are and what we love, and perhaps what we hope to become. Having said that, sometimes a person just takes a look outside and thinks, "Wow, I really love this time of year!" and there is a deep resonance on that level.

On the left is a citrine crystal and on the right is carnelian, both fashioned with hand worked solid sterling silver, on leather.

Solar Quartz - Eternally Beautiful

Some of my recent creations have incorporated Solar Quartz; a distinctive agatized quartz, cut from stalactites. The outside of the stalactite is white and grey with a translucent layered interior. Quartz is the most abundant mineral on Earth composing 12% of its crust. Solar Quartz has properties of all quartz varieties; harmonizing and balancing while enhancing energy and thoughts. Additionally this variety is reputed to promote hope, happiness and optimism while awakening us to the beauty of nature.

When designing with these beautiful crystals, I have have chosen to keep the design simple, with the focus on it's beautiful organic shapes. Utilizing solid sterling silver for all the components, I soldered a simple circle to frame the piece. A circle is the oldest symbol on earth. In Western ideology, it represents the eternal, all possibilities, and regeneration. In astrology, the circle is an indicator of the human spirit. The top is wrapped for interest and the clasp is hand formed to complement the organic nature of the stone. The clasp is also soldered for structural integrity and long wear.