Naturally inspired jewelry, handcrafted in sterling silver.
The Process
PIERCED CONSTRUCTION
Once the initial idea has taken shape in my mind, I begin to sketch possible variations on graph paper or directly into my computer. If the design started as a pencil sketch, I then photograph the design and edit it in Paint Shop Pro to get a grey and white template of the proper size. The paper template is cut out and glued in place on the sheet silver, and I use a jewelers' saw to cut the outside shape before filing the edges so they are smooth. The grey areas get cut out, so I drill pilot holes in each grey area through which to thread the saw blade and cut out the inside design. After a quick soak in water, the paper rinses off and the piece is hammered into shape. Most pieces are buffed to a mirror finish, but some are further textured using various hand tools to get the desired effect. Some pieces incorporate an overlay method, where a second layer of silver is soldered to the back of the pierced piece and the reveal areas of the back piece are oxidized to create a black contrast area. I use a soft toothbrush with dish detergent and toothpicks to clean the buffing compound from each piece. I then drill any final holes, attach the appropriate findings and initial and date each piece. Voila!
CASTING
Carrabassett Valley Jewelry is now offering some of the most popular designs in a sturdy cast construction. The model is still made by hand using pierced construction, most often with an overlay (a solid sheet of silver is soldered behind the pierced design) and oxidized design. It is then sent to be cast using a 100% recycled silver which offers an increased degree of tarnish resistance.
