The Process

Creating each jewelry piece is a six stop process.

1. First I select the plant from my garden based on size, pattern and how well it will leave an impression. 
2. I make the impression, create the shape of the jewelry around the impression and let it dry.
3. Next, I smooth the edges to eliminate any sharp points or potential snag areas.
4. The piece goes in for its first firing, with the plant still in place (seems like a fitting end—I never use the same plant sample again) to get to the bisque phase.
5. After the first firing, the glazes are applied by hand to enhance the detail of each botanical impression.
6. The piece enters its second firing at 2385 degrees which is a 24-hour process. Discovering the bounty of the kiln is like opening gifts from a friend!

Thus each jewelry pottery piece, as well as my other projects, is completely unique. I do not use stamps. Even if a plant has a bit of insect damage, that becomes a part of the design—it’s about Nature, after all! Like plants grown from seeds, you can never be certain exactly how the glaze and detail will come out, which is part of the joy of creating pottery!

To create the necklaces I use glazed pottery beads or stones, formed on copper wiring and leather cords The earrings are created to complement the necklaces and rarely have plant impressions.

I hope you enjoy these pieces, created by Nature with a little help from me!