Category: Jewelry Making

Beginner to intermediate glass bead making project In the summer of 1978 at 32 years old with 3 children and one on the way, I knew my future included a nursing career and a larger house with a big yard.

Numerous skilled lapidaries have made gemstone butterflies. I remember George Gali’s bright gem butterflies featured at his many show booths, each delicately perched on an attractive mineral base. I also recall the butterfly pins and pendants of Ray Karr. I once saw a collection of gem butterflies at a California show that looked so real…

Intermediate project. Editor’s note: Kate Drew-Wilkinson is featured on page 38 of the December 2000 LJ; see “Sense of Drama.” Some of you may have seen my tide pool beads made with Spectrum flat glass remnants. The beads are layered with many kinds of latticcino – essentially, rods of different colors

For this project, use unfinished or bleached wood beads in you favorite shape or size. You do not want any stain or varnish on the beads you are going to paint.

This bracelet and earring set was designed by Leah Levin, one of the designers at my company, Nina Designs. The original was made in garnet, but you can substitute any gemstone beads you like. Amethyst, onyx, and labradorite are good alternatives.

Before embarking on this project, let me give you a little background on the evolution of this design. I originally used the forging hammer (necessary for this project) at the beginning stage of forging spoons. When I first began creating jewelry for my livelihood, I wondered how else these hammers could be used.

Adding a new curve to fine jewelry His jewelry is easy to spot. The sensuous meandering forms are irresistible. The elegance and balance are captivating. His artistry attracts the jewelry-buying public; the techniques draw in other makers. His innovative jewelry has been shown in museums and fine jewelry stores around the world.

Reticulation permits the studio jeweler to create unique textures on silver or gold – but it takes a deft hand on the torch to get the desired results.