Jewelry Smithing

 Today, I wanted to share with you a few handmade pieces I made in college. I had to fulfill a certain type of credit, and well a small metals class did just so. Since I had 10 years of experience in a dental lab, I figured it would be a fun challenge. Little did I know I would fall in love with jewelry smithing! A lot of the tools were very similar to dental tools, and on the same scale! Turns out, I'm a natural! 

There is a lot of jewelry out there these days, especially on sites like Etsy. While, I do indeed think much of it is beautiful, I don't feel that it is unique. The majority of it is pre-made pieces that are purchased and assembled. There is just something so special about manipulating your materials, using a torch, soldering, and  coming up with unique textures. 

I've been struggling with the idea of opening a shop and making these handmade metal pieces from scratch. Problem being ,they take quite some time to design, create, and assemble. They would really have to retail for a bit higher than the majority of the stuff on the market. I've considered stay local and working craft shows and local boutiques to see how this type of thing would sell. I am not sure the fate of an Isn't that Sew shop, but I know I'd sure like to give it a try!

While your at it, have a look at my professors site, she makes the most beautiful tea pots I've ever seen!

// Handmade Copper Cuff with "T" pin texture and forged copper rod accent \\

\\  Handmade copper necklace/broach with bezel setting and fabric accents   //

// Hand forged copper necklace with handmade chain mail and heat/liver of sulfur patina \\

\\ Handmade copper broach with liver of sulfur patina //

\\ Silver ring with unakite bezel set stones and a Florentine finish //

// Copper dish/stand with heat/liver of sulfur patina and hammer texture \\