As a RISD alum, I’m excited to present the handcrafted creations of Azurz for consideration at the upcoming craft fair. My husband, Jesse, and I work together to transform raw minerals into unique gemstones and carvings designed for jewelry.

In our Rhode Island home workshop, we use saws, poly arbors, and hands-on techniques to carefully shape each stone. We prioritize craftsmanship over mass production, focusing on one-of-a-kind pieces that highlight the natural beauty of the minerals. Many of our materials are sourced or mined by us, allowing us to work with stones from their raw form to their final, polished state.

Using large saws, we preform the rough minerals, (many of which we mine and all of which we source ourselves) cutting them down into workable pieces. Once slabbed, the stones are taken to a poly arbor. Here, each piece is shaped through a progression of grits and polish. The transformation is a delicate dance between craftsmanship and the inherent character of the minerals.

Our inspiration arises from a profound admiration for the inherent beauty within natural minerals, acknowledging each gemstone as an individual work of art. The meticulous cutting and craftsmanship we apply constitute an art form in their own right, anticipating a subsequent transformation when these carefully crafted pieces evolve into exquisite jewelry. Each gemstone is an authentic representation of its origin, capturing the essence of the earth’s creations. These gemstones are not just exquisite materials for artist jewelry; they are crafted to be cherished as heirlooms, integral pieces in the timeless narrative of fine jewelry.

At Azurz, we view our craft as an intersection of nature’s raw elements and refined expertise. This commitment to the artistry of lapidary work informs each piece.