What's more, the "age of technology" has eliminated the "hands on" satisfaction I used to have with commercial art. Since 1989, my drafting table has been a storage unit, the rapidiographs have dried up, and so have the colored markers!

Since the computer became my main artistic tool, a nagging desire developed within me to use my hands again. To create and make "things" that would be loved and appreciated by people instead of a business or organization's bottom line, I yearned for personal connections, and an outlet to express but I didn't know what to do, or what medium I needed to work with.

I was inspired to make jewelry by Iris and Rick Austin (Noble Austin Studios, Orlando, FL.) They are incredible human beings, jewelry designers, metalsmiths and lapidary artists who both have an undeniable passion for the minerals and gems they create their jewelry around. After purchasing several pieces of their work at the Boardwalk Art Show, my life was forever changed. I was moved by their passion, their ability to make other people happy by wearing their work, and I felt metalsmithing was something I had to explore.

A few weeks later, I met Emory Liggett (Tops In Opals, Elizabeth City, NC) at a local Gem and Mineral Show. I was fascinated when I heard him tell he a customer that he could cut an opal to match the stone in her ring while she waited. I asked if I could watch him. He cut an opal while I looked over his shoulder. Then he gave me a piece to cut, and I was hooked on lapidary art.

My interests and hobbies have always been on the artistic side. I have journied through various other creative paths, such as fashion merchandising, fashion design, sewing, enameled jewelry, paper jewelry, fused glass jewelry, Indian beadwork, wearing unusual jewelry (Jewelry seems to be a thread running through here! – I LOVE JEWELRY –) stained glass, picking up any kind of interesting rock, shell or "found object" I see, gardening (I love to dig), I've even dug fishponds, and now, I dig for rocks and gemstones!

With 2 assistant "rock" hounds (my dogs Demi & Jet) I now work with silver, gold, unique minerals, fossils, shell and gemstones to create jewelry as "Art On You."

I also thank my husband, Kim for his support, encouragement, smiles (and muscles when I need them at the art shows!) He's an awefully good companion when it comes to rockhounding, too!

The earth has provided us with so many beautiful minerals, gemstones and precious metals. Each stone has it's own unique quality and personality which inspires the design. I cut and polish the stones to enhance their natural beauty. Then, they are complimented by hand-fabricated precious metals.

Each piece of "Art " is created with love, pride, and superb craftsmanship. The piece you select becomes an expression of your unique personality and style. It's my hope that you will love, cherish, and enjoy wearing your piece as much as I enjoyed making it!