Neck Collar Series

The stationary character of a neck collar provides design possibilities beyond the flexible assembly of components which make up a traditional linked necklace. The glass elements I have attached to the supportive main frame are similar to the designs of my other neckpieces, although the freedom of this format allows me to combine shapes with few practical limitations. Usually I focus on the center of the chest, and symmetrical details of the colored glass and gold relate to the form of the body. My strong interest in geometry has guided me in many of the designs, however I try to balance this approach with some organic softness of form. Extruded metal rods and sheet brass are the materials I have used for the basic structure, shaped and formed to the curves of the body. I find this type of jewelry to be the most comfortable and it is easy to care for. Most of the neck collars are 24k gold plated to give the brass a luxurious long lasting finish. The surface texture of the metal is similar to the acid polished glass, and the plating gives me the color balance which I seek. I have used a minimal amount of adhesive in combination with screwed and riveted attachments, similar to the details in my other neckpieces. The neck collars are probably my most sculptural necklaces, because the functional restrictions are minimal and the format invites an inventive approach.