Crafting a Nature-Inspired Bolo: A Peek into Growth and Creativity
This month, I completed a handmade jewelry piece that has been on my mind for quite a while. To set the scene, back in April 2023, I purchased a stunning Montana agate from a fellow woman-owned small business. This ethically sourced stone was nothing short of extraordinary. In its natural patterns, I saw a breathtaking sunset with a mountain view—perfectly reflecting the nature-inspired scenes that I was hoping to create in metal.
At that time, I had only recently embarked on my metalsmithing journey, having been honing my skills for just four months. I wanted to reserve this Montana agate for a future project when I felt more confident in my metalsmithing. Every time I opened my stone drawer, this stone inspired me—should it become a statement necklace, a whimsical hairpin, or something entirely different?
The turning point came when my husband surprised me with a newly completed studio space in our basement. With my new happy space ready to create in, I was eager to work with this Montana agate as one of the first pieces crafted in my first real studio. Last Friday night, I set to work on turning this stone into a feminine bolo necklace, adorned with my signature dainty line stamping. Crafting a bolo was new to me, but the setting itself was going to be simpler and true to many pieces I have made before.
As I began sketching out the design on silver, I realized the initial vision didn’t quite fit. It became clear that I needed to design a piece that embodied the sunset and mountain scene that I saw in the stone. This challenge pushed me to integrate more intricate details than originally planned, leading to a final design that featured not only a larger, more detailed silhouette but also my distinctive line stamping.
This project represented significant growth for me as a metalsmith. The design process was a journey of overcoming challenges, such as creating a cut-out back to allow light to shine through the stone while ensuring the integrity of the necklace’s structure. I took my time, revisiting and refining the piece over several days rather than rushing to complete it in one night.
I am incredible proud of this mountain sunset scene bolo. It’s a testament to my growth and willingness to push beyond my comfort zone. Each piece I create is special, but this one feels particularly significant as it reflects my development as an artist. I’m excited to see how my art evolves over the next year and a half or more.
Thank you for following my journey in sustainable, nature-inspired jewelry design. I can’t wait to share more of my whimsical creations with you!