Enameling is the ancient art of fusing colored glass powder onto precious metals under high heat. Cloisonné is a technique which uses thin wires of pure silver embedded into the enamel to create designs.

A sheet of pure silver is polished and covered with a thin layer of clear enamel. Delicate cloisonné wire is fused onto the surface to define the pattern or design. A number of thin layers of colored enamels are applied. Each layer is fused in a kiln heated to 1450°F. Additional layers of clear enamel are applied and the surface is smoothed with diamond polishing wheels. Finally, it is mounted into a bezel of tarnish resistant Argentium® sterling silver.

The colors will not fade over time -- they are as permanent as the brilliant colors in ancient stained glass windows.

Over the years, I'ved learned silversmithing skills and started to add silver to my ornamental turnings. I also learned the basic techniques of guilloche and wanted to add colored enamel (glass) over the surface. After taking several enameling classes, I found that I really enjoyed the artistic expression that is possible with the addition of colors. Wood didn't allow much in the way of color, so I invested more time to developing my enameling skills.

Much of my work is inspired by the beauty of Arizona -- the mountains, the deserts, the sky, the sunsets, and the wildlife. My goal is to express how I see the beauty of nature around me.