In my upstate New York studio, I use mineral and semiprecious stones, recycled glass, pearls, crystals, gilding, and wire to create my jewelry. The rough and polished stones I select suggest designs based on their characteristics. I often use contrasting textures with harmonizing colors. I usually work with several designs at a time. Walking around and working from piece to piece enables me to continually gain a fresh impression of each design as I approach it. Once the basic necklace is in place and strung, I work on one piece at a time. I embellish the wrapping wire with related elements and then place the wire in designs suggested by the contours of the stones. My focus is on transforming mineral stones into refined, elegant jewelry without obscuring their natural beauty. I take my color palette from fashion and nature.