This one-of-a-kind necklace is made with smelted sterling silver and a bezel set turquoise stone. Organic shapes in silver are oxidized to emphasize the lovely textures. This lovely necklace is approximately 1.5" long and hangs from a 17.5" silver chain.

Handmade by Amber Carlin of Dubuque, Iowa.

I am an artist and art teacher living in Dubuque, Iowa.  I grew up in Dubuque and I was introduced to metalsmithing during a high school art class.  I was so enamored with the medium that I went on to receive my B.F.A in jewelry/metal arts. I also recently completed an MA in Art Education from the University of Iowa. 

As an artist I am constantly finding inspiration through my environment and through my travels.  My work serves as a visual record of the places I visit and the things I see while exploring different geological and topographical locations. In my work I am always experimenting with different ways that I can fabricate metal, and by melting and striking the silver I am able to achieve organic, stone-like shapes.  I also use casting, etching, patination, and enameling to bring out the colors and textures of the materials.  My natural and organic aesthetic is often contrasted with geometric shapes or brighter colors to create a dichotomy between nature and humans imprint on nature. 

Find more of Amber's work here.