Handmade Silver Jewelry by Jo

Went to the MacFest in downtown Mesa yesterday and set up our booth of jewelry.  Along came two people from the show and awarded me the first MacFest Blue Ribbon ever given to a jeweler in a show for excellence in my work and my booth!  They also wanted me to know that one of the “secret jurors’ was a jeweler himself and very picky about picking a fellow jeweler!  With over 50 artists there, from woodturners, painters, other jewelers, glass artists, etc, it was quite an honor to be chosen.

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Dichroic Glass was originated by NASA for the space program.  Dichroic glass has a fine film of metal fused to the surface of the glass which gives it amazing sparkle and pizazz.  There are many, many patterns and colors.  Dichroic glass is absolutely one of the most intriging mediums from which to make jewelry.

Although it may look like something easy to make, it takes a lot of practice and knowledge to put the pieces together.  Most of the Dichroic jewelry you see has anywhere from 2-4 layers of glass, but may have even more. 

You must pick the layers carefully; color, textures, surface of the glass, types of glass must be compatible, and chosen to co-exist to form a beautiful finished product.  Carefully cut by hand and then layered together, they await to be fused (melted) together in a kiln.

The glass is carefully fused together in a kiln brought up to over 1600 degrees for hours, and then left overnight to cool.  If done correctly, pendants made of fused glass may be made into stunning pendants, earrings, rings, etc.  It can also be made into larger plates, trays or dishes by designing pieces of Dichroic glass into other types of glass.  Once again, adding sparkle to a eye-catching piece of art.

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Well, it’s official…it’s finally written in Lapidary Journal’s (the bible of jewelry makers) newsletter, a ”Goldsmith” makes jewelry-size pieces; a “Silversmith” forms big pieces used for function, such as teapots, gravy boats, etc.  So, I’m officially a Goldsmith!

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Come show your support for a diverse group of talented local artists and their quality handcrafted items, on Sunday Dec. 14th from 9am until 2pm.  Great gifts for yourself, friends or family!!! Stop by for unique handmade gifts. . Phoenix, AZ 85022 7th ST to Coral Gables (between Greenway and Thunderbird-Circle K at the light)West on Coral Gables 4 blocks to Hana Maui and turn North Proceed to the end of the second block.

15626 N. Hana Maui Dr

 Lots to choose from-BUY LOCAL!  BUY DIRECT!

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