The
process begins in my sketch book. I then draw the designs on
a computer in solid black and white and arrange them economically
on a sheet, the black areas being silver. I send this with a
sheet of sterling silver to a company who photo etch the design
onto the metal so that the white areas of the design become recessed.
I then cut out the seperate pieces, file and finish the edges
and fill the recesses with opalescent white enamel which is fired
at 800 degrees. The excess enamel has to be ground back using
a diamond abrasive before each piece is then refired to glaze
the surface. Then I apply a transfer and the piece is fired once
again and more transfers may be applied to create a layered affect.
The reverse of the piece is then finished and findings, such
as brooch joint and catch, are soldered on. Finally the piece
is oxidised (blackened) and polished.
New catalogue is on it's way!
Please contact me for information.
If you would like to commission a special piece in the style
of my current collection then I am very open to your suggestions.
You might be interested to know that in addition to wearable
jewellery pieces I occasionally also make small scale, one-off
framed wall panels that make excellent gifts to mark an occasion.
Please (contact me) to discuss your ideas.