A mineral, a crystal, what lies beneath them makes these intricate formations so appealing? I explore how crystals and minerals are formed, concentrating on their molecular structures. I translate the mathematical formulas into wearable pieces of jewellery.
Growing up and living in West Penwith, Cornwall, I am surrounded by the countryside with a rich and diverse range of crystals and minerals that inspires me everyday.
My work
Every piece of jewellery I make starts from researching the molecular structure of a particular mineral or crystal. From their planes of symmetry to numbers of atoms. Once I have all this information, I start drawing, letting my creativity flow, thinking about shapes, symmetry, lines and angles, creating some initial design ideas. With this in place, I develop the designs further, focusing solely of the structure of that mineral or crystal. The main body of work, my creative process all goes in the sketchbook. Like me, it has to be organized and structured, just like a structure of a mineral.
Digital technology has become integral to creating my jewellery and I am so happy it is as its now at the forefront of my practice. Once I have finalised my designs in my sketchbook, I recreate the drawings using Rhino (CAD). The designs may be adapted slightly, but will always stay in line with the original design idea.
The materials I use to make my jewellery are in keeping with the use of digital technology within my practice. I create new, innovative, designs that bring together science and technology. Each piece is 3D Printed in PA12 white nylon, before being hand dyed. Colour is important as it brings the jewellery to life. The final touch for each piece is to add findings in precious metals, combining my love of new technology and traditional materials.
It is important to note that, even though my jewellery has changed over the years, I am more excited than ever about the work I make and want other to enjoy it too.
I aim to create discussions around my jewellery, encouraging others to be open to new concepts of design. At the beginning, when I started to realise that I didn’t want to be a metal based jeweller anymore, it was scary but I couldn’t wait to show people my work and since then I have not looked back. You need to be excited about what you do, and now each day when I am working on all aspects of my jewellery, from designing to the admin, it still always makes me smile.