Materials and Tools
In my studio, materials are chosen with intention — for how they feel, how they move, and how they support the structure of each piece. I work with metals and tools that allow the jewelry to be both grounded and effortless.
Metals
Aluminum
Polished aluminum is the foundation of my work, and I chose it for a very personal reason. When I wore jewelry as part of a corporate wardrobe, I became frustrated by how quickly my favorite pieces tarnished. Once the finish dulled or the plating wore off, I couldn’t wear them anymore — and I didn’t want jewelry that required constant maintenance just to stay beautiful.
When I discovered polished aluminum, it solved that problem completely.
Aluminum is:
lightweight and comfortable, even in dense chainmaille weaves
non‑tarnish, staying bright without polishing
strong without heaviness, ideal for structural designs
color‑true, with modern finishes that remain clear and consistent
It lets me create pieces that feel grounded but effortless — jewelry meant to be worn every day, not protected in a box.
Sterling Silver
I also work in .925 sterling silver when a design calls for a different kind of presence. Sterling brings a brighter, denser weight and a sense of tradition that suits certain weaves and forms. I use it intentionally — for pieces where the metal itself is part of the story, where luminosity, substance, or the integrity of precious metal elevates the design.
Both metals serve different purposes in my studio. Aluminum supports ease, comfort, and everyday wear. Sterling silver offers depth, heritage, and a more substantial feel. I choose each one with intention, based on how I want the piece to move, feel, and live on the body.
Stones
Natural Stones
I choose stones with quiet character — pieces that carry depth, translucence, and a sense of landscape. I’m drawn to natural variation: the subtle shifts in tone, the inclusions that feel like tiny worlds, the textures that make each stone unmistakably itself. These details aren’t flaws; they’re the story of the material.
I source stones carefully and intentionally, selecting ones that feel grounded and true rather than overly polished or uniform. Each stone becomes part of the rhythm of the piece, adding its own presence without overwhelming the structure of the weave.
Material Clarity
Occasionally, I find a focal or accent that isn’t a natural stone, or whose origin I can’t verify, but it fits the piece with the right presence and integrity. When that happens, I use it intentionally — and I always identify the materials clearly in each piece’s description.
Tools and Process
Studio Tools
My tools are simple and precise — pliers, mandrels, cutters, and the small instruments that let me shape metal one ring at a time. Chainmaille is built through repetition: opening, closing, linking, checking tension, and letting the pattern grow. It’s a slow, deliberate process that rewards patience and attention.
Making the Weave
Each weave has its own rhythm — a sequence of movements that becomes almost meditative. I work with the natural structure of the pattern, letting it tell me how it wants to move and where it needs strength or softness. The process is architectural, but also intuitive: a balance of precision and feel.
Sourcing
Materials with Integrity
I source my metals and components from trusted suppliers who prioritize quality and consistency. Aluminum and sterling silver come from vendors whose materials I’ve worked with for years, and stones are chosen individually for their character and presence.
Transparency
Every piece in my studio includes a clear description of the materials used. Whether it’s a natural stone, a specialty accent, or a metal chosen for its specific qualities, I identify each component so you know exactly what you’re wearing.