I started in jewelry when I was in college...I originally went for animation...I
loved to draw and paint...my degree required that I take a crafts course...so I decided
on a beginning jewelry fabrication class...I fell in love with it...and continued with
it...I have a BFA in metalsmithing...my family wondered what in the world I would do with
the degree...I ended up getting a job as a master goldsmiths apprentice..I worked as a
bench jeweler for 3 years...I enjoyed it...but I really wanted to be creative...so I
started making jewelry again in my home...I found a website where everything was handmade
and one could list their wares for sale...and this is what I do now...I created a
business called HarmonyMetals...it is my first name combined with something I love and
work with...metal...it just seemed perfect...something that is mine...having a business
is my way to be creative whenever I want...I can't imagine my life without making
jewelry...it is God's blessing to me...I feel that so many people have been blessed with
gifts and it is such a joy to be able to use it...I always hope that my work can inspire
others...
A lot of my inspiration comes from the fashion of the 1920's through the 1950's...I love
vintage jewelry...and the women just had such an elegance about them...I am also inspired
by nature..there are so many uniquely beautiful things all around us...
And I enjoy adding to it...my work is available only online and at craft shows right
now...I am not searching for fame and fortune...but I would
eventually like to be able to make a decent living making and selling jewelry...I also
look forward to making customers happy...I get so excited when someone loves my work as
much as I do...I hope that perhaps a piece of mine could someday be passed down and
enjoyed forever...I love to hear from customers about how a piece they bought has become
something so meaningful and important...I've sold quite a few of my rings that were
purchased as engagement rings...it makes me happy to know my work will be
cherished...this is what helps me continue making jewelry...that brings me more joy than
money...although I do need it to keep the business going...so I can continue to create
unique work to help customers show off their individuality...