Kaleidoscope

Kaleidoscope was made while living on a friend’s farm in Northern California. During its creation, I focused completely on living the life that I most desired, allotting time for friends, cycling and music, as well as jewelry. Often I have felt consumed by the repetitive nature of jewelry production; this piece represents a departure from the mundane and the invitation of a life of color, good health and good fun! The engraving on the rear of the piece was made in the studio of Paul Bartnik. It was my first engraving and I used a “hand push” technique—that is, every cut was drawn and cut by hand with a tiny, polished chisel call a “graver”. Overall, this piece was an inspiring learning experience and the intention of a “departure from the mundane” was certainly achieved! It was named kaleidoscope after the kaleidoscope-like effect of looking through the gem via the eye hole on the backplate, and rotating the piece.