how its made

Hand crafted, one of a kind, and very unique.

When my Grandfather Peter Macchiarini started making jewelry in the early 1940’s, he and other craftspeople of the time made things individually and by hand. This was normal at that time, and expected within any craft, from wood working to pastry making, and everything in between. During the course of his lifetime, and the 20th century, mass production began to take hold of America. My grandfather saw this as separation between the artist and his creation. He continued to choose one of a kind hand craft as a way of making, and thus was able to pass his techniques and values on to my Father Dan, and myself.

As an artist working in the 21st century I have encountered so many new and different ways of creating, including now digital crafting, and 3-d printing. I still continue to create in the style of my grandfather. Not because I am unfamiliar with the techniques of digital making, or mass producing jewelry, but because I too feel that my connection to the work is stronger if I touch each piece, and form it with my own hands. The intimacy that I have with the work translates to beauty, individuality, and connection with the wearer.

Individual pieces of my work are connected to one another thematically, the feeling of the piece, and the design are related. Some of these things look the same…but none of them are. Each piece is special, just like you.

Here, fire is a family value, and metal has a memory. Let’s make something beautiful.

Ethical Sourcing, and Studio Best Practices

As much as possible I try to practice ethical sourcing. Silver, gold, and stones come up from the earth and are taken from mines by workers. When I encounter a supplier, I make inquiry into how certain materials are sourced, being mindful of labor practices, and conditions for workers as well as how the earth is being treated.

No source is completely without it’s problems, so I practice using materials sparingly, reusing, and recycling. All of my scrap metal is melted down and reused in my casting processes. I teach students never to waste material by showing them how to be conservative even in copper and brass. I use some gold and stones from antique Jewelry that customers bring in. This is the responsible way to handle the earth’s goods.

Sometimes a customer really wants diamonds in their engagement ring. I do love the look of diamonds, and I will work with them if a customer desires. I have an ethical source for my mined diamonds. I honestly prefer to work with diamond alternatives, such as white sapphires, moissanite, cubic zirconia, white topaz, or any other precious stones my customer is interested in.

All of the Ivory used in any of my inlay work is 19th century ivory which was salvaged by my grandfather mid-twentieth century. I will not use modern Ivory in any of my work, ever.

My studio makes every effort to reduce and limit the use of toxic chemicals. I never use harsh acids or toxic materials. All used materials such as plaster, wax, and glues are dealt with according to environmentally responsible guidelines. This studio uses email receipts and recycles whenever possible! 😊