This is a sampling of my work with Austrian crystal, or what is more traditionally referred to as rhinestone, yes they are one in the same! Both terms refer to a faceted stone made of glass with a high lead content (lead crystal) and a mirrored or “foiled” backing. The Austrian Crystal jewelry in this collection was made using the “hand laid” technique. Invented in the 1930’s, this process involves laying the individual set stones face down into a “mud pan” and carefully soldering them together by hand. Each piece is made one at a time, from start to finish, and has my signature on the back as an assurance of its uniqueness.
Queen Of Hearts
These items are still available in my shop
Flower Fantasy
Still available in my shop
Husbandry
I made this piece for a group show at the University of RI Feinstein Campus Gallery in 2016
I have two thoughts going on with this piece.
I find the idea of bodily adornment in relation to intent, goal, achievement or self image in general to be so curious. Whether it be to enhance one’s beauty, self-confidence, or status, the idea of wearable objects to achieve these goals are how the title of this piece came about.
I'm quite fascinated by the symbolism involved with the romanticized heart representing love and all that it encompasses verses the literal heart as a body organ. The romantic heart associated with living happily ever after, and the anatomical heart associated with just living.
As with many of my pieces there is some wordplay and visual puns going on here. I invite the viewer to ponder the idea of a crystal heart-shaped cage, containing an anatomical representation of a heart, flanked by sprays of jeweled flowers, and the significance of its wearability.
I find the idea of bodily adornment in relation to intent, goal, achievement or self image in general to be so curious. Whether it be to enhance one’s beauty, self-confidence, or status, the idea of wearable objects to achieve these goals are how the title of this piece came about.
I'm quite fascinated by the symbolism involved with the romanticized heart representing love and all that it encompasses verses the literal heart as a body organ. The romantic heart associated with living happily ever after, and the anatomical heart associated with just living.
As with many of my pieces there is some wordplay and visual puns going on here. I invite the viewer to ponder the idea of a crystal heart-shaped cage, containing an anatomical representation of a heart, flanked by sprays of jeweled flowers, and the significance of its wearability.
An Assortment Of Tiaras
Mermaid Queen
The necklace is still available and the tiara can be special ordered
Since my work is all one of a kind or limited edition, items shown are subject to prior sale. However, you may contact me to make a custom design just for you.