My first hands on training began when I was about six years old. I had to shape a turquoise semi-precious stone on a lapidary machine called a genie. The stone was later set in a pendant for my mom. Around age 11, I began cutting out shapes of brass sheet to form earrings. Silver was expensive, I couldn't get my hands on any just yet. At age 13, I learned how to use an oxygen acetylene torch to solder joints. This was a pivotal moment that gave me the ability to explore my creativity. I began to make sterling silver earrings, rings, pendants, cuff lings, belt buckles, a tiara and one sculpture. read full review »