Since I was a child I collected the seashells and stones that I now incorporate into my jewelry. I take objects that are not thought of as valuable and by treating them as precious reveal the natural beauty of their color, texture, and shape. Growing up in New England I could explore beaches, mountains and river valleys - always searching for the lovely surprise of a piece of sea glass, a beautiful river stone, or a unique fossil or shell.
Now I search the shores of Lake Champlain for stones, natural buttons or arrowheads, and beaches in Cape Cod and Maine for sea glass and shells. People have sent me found objects from around the world to make into jewelry that has personal meaning.
I was accepted to Rhode Island School of Design and studied Metalsmithing and Jewelry Design. I graduated with a BFA in 1997, and now live in Brandon, VT with my husband and two children. My studio is located in the renovated Granary that also houses local painters, sculptors, and potters.
Every piece of jewelry I create is unique. I am always inspired by a new found object, or the history of an old button or tintype photograph. Initially,
one may see the beauty of a stone or an elegant composition, but the true value of a piece of jewelry is the special meaning it keeps for the wearer.