B NELSON DESIGNS
Silver and gold designer jewelry
Handcrafted in the USA
Barbara Nelson
B Nelson Designs
I have always loved jewelry and I have always been a tinkerer. I feel fortunate to work with malleable metals such as silver and gold. My inspirations are found in subtle moments and places and I take great pleasure in translating them into sophisticated designs.
My background is in apparel design, I began working in metal after taking a basic class in 1991. While the concepts of fit, drape, and proportion guide what I design, the creation of a piece of sculpture to wear is my driving force. I am primarily self-taught and sometimes do things in unconventional ways producing a unique look. Mixing metals allows me "draw" with the metal. Color, texture, and proportion become contemporary, classic designs. Special attention is given to creating pieces that are comfortable and easy to wear.
Each piece is handcrafted from sterling silver, 14k gold, copper, bronze and various stones. Sheets of silver are cut into various shapes. The contrasting metal is formed, fitted and cleaned. The textures are applied using a small stamp and hammer. Forming is achieved with hammers, mandrels and sometimes a hydraulic press. Multiple solderings are required to assemble the parts into a finished sculpture. The pieces are cleaned, oxidized and given a satin finish. Each piece is signed and limited editions are numbered.
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