Julie uses traditional metalsmith techniques to create modern art-jewelry pieces.

Each piece is created with an emphasis on clean lines and quality craftsmanship using only the finest materials. Fine silver wire is shaped, fused with a torch, hammered, then tumbled with steel shot to work harden the silver and create a shine.

Sterling sheet metal is sawn, hammered, and forged to create texture and depth. A deep gunmetal sheen may be applied to some pieces to provide an interesting contrast to the bright silver. This is achieved by applying a patina, then brushing with a brass brush to imbed the charcoal sheen onto the surface of the silver. Semiprecious stones such as chrysoprase, lapis, turquoise, and labradorite add the earth-tones of mossy greens, turquoise, and glacial blues. In keeping with the artisan process, all ear wires are hand formed from sterling wire.

“I love the process of transforming metal into art. Beginning with the design process, to forging the metal, and setting the stones. Finally, when each piece finds its way to its new owner, this is deeply satisfying for me.”