It’s all about the bond between nature and creation.
This collection springs from an instinctual drive to gather, echoing humanity’s ancient hunter-gatherer heritage and forging a deep connection with the landscapes that shape me.
Gathering infuses my work with a deep sense of place, shaping my experience and response. I am captivated by the timeless dance between water and land, and the stones born from this interaction. Through my time spent collecting at the undeveloped riverbanks of the Hudson, I’ve formed a profound connection to these stones and landscapes, which fuels my creative process.
My work honors the artistry of erosion, revealing the sculptural forms shaped by nature.
As a jeweler, I seek out stones whose unique contours inspire specific imagery, carefully selecting and categorizing them for design. My stone archive serves as a library of natural shapes, offering both inspiration and a deep connection to the earth, imbuing each piece with meaning that transcends mere beauty.
Metalwork as Function and Form.
I craft simplified, stylized forms inspired by the human skeleton, thoughtfully designed to connect with the body. Complementary mate pieces interact through links that suspend and frame the stones. Their silhouettes evoke Asian architecture and geometric shapes, blended into abstract forms reminiscent of organs, vertebrae, or botanical elements.
The metal pieces, patterned in repetition and defined by linear simplicity, suggest an industrial sensibility. To temper this, I hand-forge the metal using a bluestone anvil, imparting a natural irregularity that mirrors the stone’s texture. This texture enhances oxidative darkening, creating a variegated grey and black patina that adds depth and character.
Jewelry as a Path to Spiritual Connection
The mindful observation of nature has long been woven into meditative practices across cultures, just as jewelry has been integral to spiritual rituals throughout history. This work, rooted in my own spiritual exploration, resonates with modern insights into the healing power of nature mindfulness. Beyond adornment, it serves as a conduit for connection, linking body, mind, and spirit to the natural world and the mysteries of our existence. To deepen this connection, I carve evocative words into select stones, sparking curiosity and shifting perspectives by engaging different aspects of the psyche.
Commitment to Sustainable and Responsible Sourcing
By thoughtfully hand-gathering my stones in small, mindful batches, I avoid the destructive impact of the mining industry on the earth, its people, and the landscapes it scars.
I source sterling silver and gold from a New York refiner who provides reclaimed metals. Guided by strong environmental values, I have carefully refined my artistic process to balance inspiration with sustainability. By using responsibly sourced industrial materials and incorporating locally hand-gathered elements, I strive to honor and protect the Earth’s resources.
