The Raw Materials

A few years ago, I was fortunate to be invited to join my friend and jewelry designer, Kathleen, to go to the International Gem and Jewelry show.  In the enormous warehouse filled with lines of tables, literally overflowing with gems, she guided me to her favorite wholesalers and then let me loose to all the temptations around me.  I use many different materials, semi-precious stones, wood, bone, different metals, glass and crystals. And I always use solid silver or gold dipped clasps and the strongest and best wire. I especially love the rough cut and natural semi-precious stones, the translucence of the color, the smooth texture and irregular shapes. They tend to be the most heavy, which adds a little dilemma to air travel!