About the Artist.

• Certified PMC (Precious Metal Clay) Artisan

• Member of the International PMC Guild

• Member of the North Carolina Society of Goldsmiths

• BA in Philosophy and English, Randolph-Macon College

Growing up, home was first in Ohio and then Virginia. After working as an analyst and then in marketing, I began studying various types of fine art.  I have been lucky enough to study art history both here in the US and abroad.  When I began learning pottery, I learned hand building techniques with clay, and then found out about Precious Metal Clay (PMC) shortly thereafter. I took my first course working with metal clay in 2001, from Jeanette Landenwitch, one of the foremost metal clay artists in the country, and currently the Director of the International PMC Guild. I am always continuing my studies in metal clay, gemstones, and jewelry making. I work predominantly in pure silver, but also use gold, copper, and bronze for some designs. Most recently, I earned my Precious Metal Clay Certification through Rio Grande. I was thrilled to be able to take the course from world renown metalsmith, Tim McCreight. I am a wife, mother of three, member of the International PMC Guild, and the sole Silverkiln artist. I have been creating keepsake fingerprint jewelry ever since I began working with metal clay. My non-fingerprint jewelry is inspired by whimsy, by nature, and by the written and spoken word. My studio is in my home in Cary, NC. Contact me directly for any questions, comments, or purchases.

What is Fine Silver and What is Metal Clay?
Fine silver is considered pure silver. Sterling silver is 92.5% pure. Fine silver is 99.9% pure, the .1% being an allowance for naturally occurring trace minerals. Silverkiln uses metal clay, which is pure silver particles blended with organic binders and water. When metal clay is fired in a kiln, similar to a pottery kiln, the organic binders burn away and the pure silver remains! Sterling is stronger than fine (pure) silver, however it is more prone to tarnish. Fine silver is naturally tarnish resistant and hypoallergenic! Silverkiln pieces are fine silver, with sterling ear wires and chains for strength and durability. Recently, both copper and bronze clay have been invented! I also occasionally build pieces using these metals, and will have exact details of components with each individual description of the piece.

Silverkiln Green Facts.
My jewelry is handmade, with the exception of chains and some findings (things like clasps). Metal clay utilizes recycled metals and reduces mining. All finished silver pieces are also recyclable, in that they can by refined and made into new silver items. I use recycled papers and materials associated with my business when possible. I always choose environmentally friendly and safe substances (and old recipes) for applying patinas or pickles to my metals. (Salts and vinegars for example instead of commercial chemicals). I purchase carbon offsets when I fly (for classes or metal clay convention). I also make a monthly donation to NC GreenPower, to add green energy to my local electric grid. This helps offset what little electricity I do use, such as running my kiln. An interesting fact . . . it takes far more electricity to run my dishwasher than it does my kiln!

Satisfaction/Return Policy.
If for any reason, you are not satisfied with your purchase from me, please allow me the opportunity to correct what ever the problem might be. If an agreement cannot be reached the item can be returned and exchanged for another, or refunded.