Lampwork

In addition to silversmithing, I explore the material of glass through the technique of lampwork otherwise known as glass bead making.

It involves melting glass rods round a steel mandrel to create ornate glass beads. Once the bead has cooled it can then be removed from the mandrel leaving a hole running through the middle allowing it to be thread onto components to create my bespoke pieces of jewellery.

The rods come in all different colours and opacities allowing me to essentially paint with glass. By alternating between different colours and clarities I play with transparency and pattern to create my unique smokey beads. When worn, the beads are incredibly versatile- playing and transforming beautifully with the light.

The fast pace at which the glass melts strips me of my ability to overly control the material and instead work intuitively.The addition of my signature handmade beads in my pieces offers a lightness and delicacy whilst introducing an accent of colour.