Artist Highlight

"B Nelson Designs jewelry is hand fabricated in the USA using carefully selected materials. Each piece starts out as a flat sheet of metal. A pattern is traced onto the metal then the shape is cut out using a jeweler's saw or shears. The edges are ground and filed to smooth them. Contrasting metals are formed and fitted to the foundation piece. Next the contrasting design pieces are soldered on to the foundation using silver solder and an acetylene torch. Through multiple heatings, all of the pieces are soldered together. Components are formed with hammers, mandrels, punches, dapping blocks and sometimes a hydraulic press. After all soldering and forming are complete the pieces are oxidized (darkened to bring out detail) then buffed. The brushed finish gives each piece a soft sophisticated look and the design elements stand out".