Progress Report: Brecciated Jasper Ring!

As promised, here's where I'm at on the Brecciated Jasper Ring I introduced you to in a recent post! The more I work on this ring, the more I love it. It's a simple design and really not "outside the box" at all, but a great project to build a good foundation of skills upon. I can't wait to complete it next week. I chose the stone because of its interesting variations.  And because I have practically nothing red in my wardrobe (does 1 top count?) and a deep red stone can add a splash of color to any outfit. But after doing a little research I learned that Jasper is thought to be a calming stone, bringing inspiration to those seeking balance in life. I don't subscribe to new age philosophy by any means, but it is believed to increase focus on goals and stimulate artistic inspiration.  Hmm. Who knew?  I am feeling rather light and airy today, which I'll attribute to the Brecciated Jasper Ring - because creating, learning, and working with metal and stone always makes me happy.

I attached the twist frame then trimmed, filed
and buffed the edge to a smooth round.

This is the shank formed of double half round
sterling silver wire - ready to be attached! 

When you see these pieces again, it will be as a completed ring!
And when you see me, I will more than likely be wearing it.

At The Bench

For a very long time I've wanted to learn the craft of silversmithing. Some say it's a "dying" craft, but because of my love of all things jewelry related I'm not ready to use such harsh terminology. A few years ago I took a class at Arrowmont School of Arts & Crafts in Gatlinburg called "The Missing Link". I'll have to show you the i.d. bracelet I made in that class sometime. This current class is in conjunction with Middle Tennessee Gem & Mineral Society and I'm really enjoying it! Not only is it fairly close to my studio, I'm learning skills I can use in my existing designs and gaining inspiration for future collections! So far, my only injury has been a seared finger from a blazing hot nickel, but that's another story. Enjoy these pics, and I'll keep you posted on the progress of my projects!

Project #1 - Twisted Sterling Silver Bracelet!
I wear this almost everyday. 

Project #2: Rose Quartz Pendant
The gallery wire I used for the bezel has
 a sweet inverted heart shaped pattern.
Simple and pretty - I like it a lot.

The base, bezel and bail are all polished sterling silver.

I thought you might like to see works in progress, and this is
the start of my ring! Believe it or not, the pendant started out
looking like this too.  I'm using fine silver - it will be interesting
to experience the difference of working with fine as opposed
to sterling silver.

Here I've added the Brecciated Jasper stone,
 just to give you an idea of what it will look
like when finished.

As Seen On...

We recently met ICM Awards New Artist of the Year Laura Dodd! She fell in love with our Anna Bracelet so much that...she took one home with her! You can get one here. This beautiful photo is by Kim Lancaster.