about

For 30 years I have been hand-fabricating jewelry from precious metals. My journey began as a dental technician, where I learned to craft dental work from gold—training that taught precision, patience, and an appreciation for fine metalwork. In the mid-1990s, I landed in Alaska where I attended a local silversmithing workshop. My metals training was reawakened and I dove into jewelry-making with serious intent.

Originally from Central Oregon, I returned home in 2000 where I deepened my metals education. Over the years I have continued to learn through workshops with many of the region’s best metalsmiths, incorporating new methods and perspectives into my studio practice. In 2011 I took the leap to full‑time maker, building contemporary collections from my home studio in Bend, Oregon.

In 2024 I moved my studio to Valdez, Alaska, to join my husband — a seasonal resident there for much of our marriage. I’ll be back in the lower 48 at times as I settle into this new rhythm. It’s a fresh adventure, and I’m excited to keep creating: handcrafted sterling silver and mixed‑metal pieces accented with gemstones and pearls, informed by three decades of metalwork and a life threaded between Oregon and Alaska.

process

I love metal as a medium because it has almost limitless possibilities. Design ideas come from so many things – often repetitive shapes and textures that I see in both the natural and man-made world. I also draw inspiration from 20 years of working in the field of architecture – years spent both before and after my jewelry making journey began.

Called fabrication, I make every piece by hand from metal sheet, wire and tubing – sawing, shaping and soldering elements together. To include my love of texture I use several techniques –  roll printing, etching, fusing, hammering and reticulation. I give dimension to many of my pieces by soldering forms that are hollow and lightweight, with stones and pearls used typically as accents rather than the focus of each piece. My goal is to create memorable pieces that speak to the wearer.