Jewelry, Gems, & Minerals/Expert Profile

Expertise

Have a question about jewelry repair or working with precious metal jewelry and gemstones? For many years up to December 31, 2010, I was a working professional bench jeweler, involved everyday with setting stones in mountings, designing and making jewelry, repairing and limited custom manufacture. If you work with jewelry as a hobby or as a profession, I might be able to help. I deal with the retail business, not mass production. Ask privately if you wish. See the box for that: It keeps your question between us. Please DO NOT ask MAKER'S MARKS, but metal quality marks are fine to ask. Please DO NOT ask diamond prices. See a gemologist for that.

Experience in the area

I have extensive experience in design, service and making of jewelry. I deal mostly with precious metals and gemstones but work with many materials as needed and usable to create an artistic design. My experience also includes freelance photography and photographer of jewelry and similar items for a former employer and individuals. Design of custom items requires reading the desires of the client and being clear on what can be done within that framework...then fulfilling the transition of idea to reality. Effective communications is essential in a working designer/producer and customer relationship.

Education/Credentials

Education is English/Physics! Started in human resources, to advertising, to jewelry...wow, what a road. I have had formal training in jewelry work and many shared experiences with top grade jewelers. We just never know were we will go or be. Follow your best, your dreams, with some discretion! Don't let the work tear up your body along the way as it has mine.

What do you like about this subject?

A door of freedom is opened by opportunity to work with precious metals and gemstones. Taking work into fine art is the goal. I also do much photography and find that very satisfying. The memory of a moment can be kept. I do educational and fine art photography.

What do you still hope to achieve/learn in this field?

I hope to help others to enjoy, care for and create from their own sense of beauty, appreciating along the way what blessings each may have. If you are interested in this type of work, please talk with me about it.

Something interesting about this subject that others may not know:

Gold Prices are very high. You will see higher prices at the sales counter and for repair work.

Something controversial or provocative about this subject

If researching, please let me know. I may assist. If you are writing a school paper, please go elsewhere since that is your work to do. I truly want to know if the answer was valuable to you and appreciate feedback. Thomas.