Finding Beauty in the Unexpected: Creating Jewelry with Found Objects

One of the most exciting parts of being a jeweler is discovering beauty in the unexpected. Found objects hold a unique charm—they’re fragments of stories, relics of nature, and pieces of history just waiting for a new chapter. Incorporating these treasures into my jewelry brings a layer of depth and curiosity to each piece, creating wearable art that tells a story.

Take baby doll glass eyes, for example. These tiny, intricate pieces once gave life to toys cherished by children in another era. When transformed into jewelry, they evoke nostalgia and intrigue, offering a whimsical yet slightly mysterious touch.

Shark teeth are another favorite. These natural artifacts, often millions of years old, carry the raw energy of the ocean. Incorporating them into my designs feels like capturing a piece of the wild—rugged, powerful, and timeless.

Then there are walnut slices, whose organic textures and earthy tones ground a piece in the natural world. Their delicate rings tell the story of growth, resilience, and time, adding a serene and grounding quality to the jewelry they adorn.

Each found object brings its own character to the piece, transforming it into something truly one-of-a-kind. The process of designing with these materials is like a puzzle—finding the perfect balance between the object's original essence and its new role as a piece of adornment. I often pair these elements with sterling silver, which provides a sleek and durable frame to showcase their unique beauty.

For me, using found objects is also about sustainability and creativity. By giving these materials a second life, I’m able to reduce waste and craft jewelry with meaning and soul. Every piece becomes a conversation starter—a fusion of history, nature, and artistry that invites the wearer to see the world differently.

Next time you come across a curious object—a broken toy, a fossil, or even a piece of driftwood—consider its potential. There’s beauty and possibility in the unexpected, just waiting to be uncovered.

Have a unique object with a story? Let’s turn it into something extraordinary together! ✨