Virtually any jewelry supply catalog has a variety of wax carving tools to choose from. However the vast majority of them are exceedingly large. These are wonderful for roughing out a design quickly. Although, they make it virtually impossible to achieve fine detail or navigate the awkward angles sometimes required by a complex piece. Only […]
I think it is virtually impossible to read about the various projects listed on the Girls Not Brides website without feeling driven to help in some way. This wonderful charity works diligently to educate and assist young women in developing countries. In these impoverished societies the female children are normally affected to a far greater […]
Just one year ago I released a necklace in memory of my great grandmother Angeliki in order to both raise money for women’s charities and raise awareness of issues facing women worldwide. In doing so I was awakened to some disturbing facts about just how prevalent issues of abuse and human trafficking are internationally and […]
Few tools can claim such a fascinating history as the B.C. Ames lathe that I have used regularly in my business for many years now. The machine began it’s long life in the B.C. Ames factory in Waltham MA where my grandfather, Harry Kotowski, worked. This company primarily produced precision gauges that were know to be […]
There are numerous processes by which jewelry is made. The work in my collection is crafted either through fabrication or the lost wax casting process. This article will outline some basic techniques used to work with non ferrous metals. Non ferrous metals include brass, silver, gold, platinum and those that do not contain iron and […]
Over the years I have found that one of the most commonly misunderstood methods of jewelry making is the lost wax casting process. I am frequently asked exactly how casting works. One popular misconception is that the mold is made in wax. Naturally questions soon follow regarding the ability of this material to withstand heat […]
For me the process of creating new jewelry designs is a matter of bringing order to chaos and essentially having the ability to create from the endless possibilities provided by that chaos. I see little in the blank pristine page of a sketchbook and my sketches are often reserved for the backs of old […]
Wildlife photography involves quite a bit more than a thorough understanding of your camera and it’s various settings. Sheer luck is certainly one aspect that can’t be denied. Opportunities arise where the conditions just aren’t conducive to shooting a high quality picture or in some cases the camera is sadly out of reach. I think […]
Many in the New River Valley are familiar with the Artemis Journal, a book published annually showcasing some of the talented poets and artists of southwestern VA and beyond. This year the publication is celebrating its fortieth year! I’m thrilled to be a part of this amazing book with one of my fine arts […]
Occasionally I am asked about jewelry care and cleaning tips for sterling. A few customers sometimes ask if my silver will tarnish. So I will start off by explaining that all sterling silver does tarnish over time. The quality mark for the alloy is .925 because it is 925 per thousandth pure silver and is […]
Among the most widespread birds of prey in America is the Osprey. Whether they simply pass through areas during their migrational pattern or reside permanently, they can be spotted everywhere in America. Through my photography I have noticed that bubble wrap appears to be a staple in any dapper osprey’s nest. I have always assumed […]
I have always been captivated be the natural world. As a child I spent every moment I could in the woods capturing salamanders, toads, and any other various creatures I happened across. Today wildlife remains my favorite subject for photography. From interesting insects to great brown bears; my time spent outside or on vacation is […]