Figuring out Jewelry Design Solutions


Seedpods are a secret love of mine.  I collect them and many different kinds line my window sill.  I love to make them out of metal clay

This bronze seedpod started out with bronze clay wrapped around a wax shape that was covered in saran wrap.   After the clay dried, I pulled out the wax through a hole I made for the bale.  The center seeds are thin steel circles that were placed over the bronze layer.  I painted veins on the sides and back with bronze slip (thinned bronze clay), sanded and let the piece dry. 




The bronze clay was fired in activated charcoal in a 2 stage process and I always hold my breath when I remove a fired piece from the kiln several hours later.  Did the clay sinter (did it fuse into metal?)  or will I need to fire it again?  This time the clay did sinter except for one steel circle which got lost in the charcoal.


After polishing my seedpod, I reviewed my choices.  I could leave the hole open or I could make another circle to fill the hole and fire the whole thing again.  I could figure out another way to fill the hole.  I waited and I thought and I experimented.  Then I ordered a silver stone setting, took another deep breath and soldered it to the open space hoping it would give the appearance of a special seed.  It worked!  I was so surprised and pleased, I did a happy dance!  Into the setting went the orange faceted CZ and I love the result. 





What do you think?  
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Location: Prescott, AZ, USA

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