Description of Material and Technique

I incorporate a wide variety of materials into my pieces. Some of the metals are sterling silver, 14kt and 18kt Gold, Mokume Gane, Shibuichi, Shakudo. In the stone category, I like anything that is unusual, but fine quality precious and semi-precious gems find their way into the pieces as well.

Process / Technique

All of my pieces are “One-of-a-Kind Works of Art”. The majority of my work features hand fabricated settings built around stones that I have cut. Many of the settings include double and triple overlay, with mixed metals in which I include a variety of texturing methods. On rare occasions, I will design a piece in wax and have it cast. I am currently exploring sand, cuttlebone, and tufa casting. The intarsia and inlay work are constructed by me along with most of the cabochons and large faceted stones. I will sometimes utilize designer stones if I really like them, or if the rough material is unavailable.

History

I was born and raised in Houston, Texas. I have had an interest in rocks, minerals, fossils since my childhood. I moved to West Texas in 1979 and found employment in the oil industry as a draftsman. I feel that many of my skills acquired as a draftsman, such as layout and design, balance and proportion, and geometry along with taking classes in Lapidary, Silversmithing, and Faceting through the Midland Gem and Mineral Society has provided me with a good foundation in jewelry design.

Philosophy

I do not feel as if I create anything, but rather, I am privileged to work with materials that God has created. As an artist, it is my job to use the abilities and talents given to me to unlock the stones natural beauty. Once the stone has been unveiled, the stone dictates how it is to be set. I then decide which metals, textures, and accent stones should be used until perfect balance and harmony are reached. The final result of this process produces true “One-of-a-Kind Works of Art” designed to bring many years of enjoyment to individuals with even the most discerning taste.