Jewelry--Our Livelihood


Our Studio in the Springtime.  Built by Shipp and some helpers in 1986.
Judith at work.
Shipp at work.
Our art, that impulse to share our glimpse of the timeless with the impermanent world of time, flows through precious metals: 14 k gold, sterling silver, and gold-filled.  We purchase our raw materials from Albuquerque in drawn wire of various gauges and flat sheet of various thick nesses.  The scrap we generate is transformed into more abstract shapes through lost-wax casting. (A technique first invented by the Egyptians).  The wire and sheet is formed into objects of personal adornment primarily by forging i.e., hammering.  Soldering and hand shaping are also utilized.  The photos show some of the various hammers and other hand tools that we use.  Semi-precious beads and stones primarily of Chinese origin are incorporated as well.
Our five cats and the beauty of Lost Cove, which our studio overlooks, assist us in this work.  We have chosen to work in precious metals since they are a metaphor of the indwelling soul that cannot be corroded and becomes ever more brilliant through work.  Jewelry making is seva, or service; we see our work as an aid to people expressing their identity or affection for others through gifts.
Here's a picture of one earring.  More to come!