I am an artisan jeweller. Below you will find a brief outline of my formal goldsmithing education, however, I’m not sure it actually qualifies me for that title. They say you should give yourself the label that you want to live up to, but the label “jeweller” seems to come with an apprenticeship to a jeweller that I just don’t have. Most of my knowledge comes from classes and books and even online videos, anywhere I can find the skill to bring my visualized pieces to life. I see each piece as a mental puzzle I want to complete. First gathering the appropriate pieces and learning the right techniques so that I can make my design. I also want to make sure I make durable pieces. So I use quality products – pure metal alloys and natural or man-made stones in settings that will stand the test of time. I make quality pieces that are little works of art.
My story is reflected in my work. I grew up in the northern state of Minnesota, and as a young person I had many interests. I liked to go for walks in the woods, explore riverbanks and the occasional lake, go canoeing, snowshoe, and occasionally go camping. Then I got married and everything changed. I moved to sunny, hot, and humid Queensland. I still like walking in the woods or bushwalking, as they call it. I still like exploring the rivers and now the great big ocean. But, I’m having trouble with the idea of camping. Don’t get me wrong, I love bugs… always have, I just don’t trust some of the ones here not to want to bite or sting me. I’ve also have a keen interest in rocks and minerals. My rock collection is huge! And not all of it is for making jewellery. All of this to say… This is who I am and this is what I really like doing.
Education
2023
Tomoyas and Company
Tachikawa, Japan
While most of my knowledge of Mitsuro Hikime came from online sources, I did attend a 1 day class at the Tomoyas and Company School in Japan. We learned an overview of how the wax is made and the correct way in which to pull the wax to give the best results.
September 2019
The Goldsmith’s School
Bardon, Qld
Intro to wax carving course
We did a brief, one day course in wax carving where we got to try out different tools and techniques. Most of my education on wax carving was based on videos and books as well as trial and error.
January 2018 – Present
The Goldsmith’s School
Bardon, Qld
Beginner’s Course
A brief introduction into jewellery making where we learned how to cut metal, make a ring and sweat solder a piece we designed.
Construction Course
In this course we learned how to make a chain from wire, set a cabochon and set faceted stones. Our projects were all chosen and designed by us and taught as per our interests. I also learned a bit of forging, prong setting, tube setting, and repousse work.
Vocational Course
A course of study learning different aspects of jewellery fabrication. Including – Plain Band Ring, made to fit; cutting designs out; hinges; hollow balls; wire work; bearing seats; a spoon; and a coronet setting. We also learned technical drawing skills as well as creative drawing skills.
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