What does OOAK mean?

OOAK stands for one-of-a-kind. All of my work is one-of-a-kind with a small made-to-order collection. Most of the stones I source are unique and also one-of-a-kind. The stones themselves inspire my jewelry. Each piece is designed around the stones, making them all one-of-a-kind creations.

 

Do you have a team that makes your jewelry?

I’m a one-woman show. I work from my Montana studio, just a few doors down from my home. I don’t have a storefront, so I sell my pieces in my online store at art shows and festivals and a few galleries.

 

Where can I hear about new work?

I share new work and behind-the-scenes clips of work-in-progress on Facebook and Instagram. Follow me there! You can also join my VIP list via the homepage of my website to get notified of new collection drops, shows, and special events. 

 

What is Oxidized Silver?

Oxidized is the term jewelers use to describe tarnish or darkened silver. While it might sound like a bad thing, I use oxidation strategically to show off the details of my metalwork. Oxidized silver creates a beautiful contrast next to gold and makes the stones pop with color.

 

How do I care for my oxidized silver jewelry?

My jewelry does not need to be polished. You can clean as needed with a soft toothbrush and mild dish soap like Dawn. Never use an abrasive material or cloth on your pieces.

 

Do you do custom commissions?

I’m not taking any custom work at the moment although very occasionally I do take on a custom project. On the rare occasion I accept a commission I’m happy to source the stones for your piece, but will not use a client’s stones.

 

Where can I find your work?

The events page, on my website is up-to-date with my shows for the season. And of course my online store is a great place to shop my silver pieces that do not travel with me to shows.

 

Do your stones require special care?

When stones get dirty, with the exception of Welo opal, you can clean them with a soft toothbrush, mild dishsoap like Dawn and a soft cloth to dry. Do not use abrasive cleaners.

Steer clear of water when wearing and caring for your Welo opals. You can clean them by gently rubbing with a soft cloth. They best maintain their fire when they don’t get wet.

 

How do I find out my ring size? 

The most accurate way to find out what size ring you wear is by going to a jeweler to get sized. This is important to do prior to making a purchase because most of my rings cannot be resized.

Wide rings get sized differently than narrow rings, and in general, your ring size for a wide ring will be at least half a size bigger. 

 

Jewelry care best practices.

To keep your jewelry looking it's best, take it off when you swim, shower, sleep and rock climb. Chains, especially, will wear out over time and eventually the links become thin and may break. 

All of my pieces are carefully crafted with special attention to durability for many years to come. Treat your jewelry with care and it will last a lifetime!

 

Where do you get your stones? 

I purchase most of my stones each year at the Tucson Gem Show. The vendors come from all over the world for this huge annual show. 

Additionally, I have a few trusted stone sellers I buy from online, but 90% of my stones are hand-selected in person. In person is the best way to choose the color, check the cut and polish of the stone, and look for any inclusions that might compromise its structural integrity. I set stones like a caveman, so they need to be durable!

 

Do you cut your own stones?

I don’t cut my own stones. I purchase all of my stones and crystals at the Tucson Gem Show every year and they’re cut by lapidary experts with many years of experience.