RISD taught me the skill set to fabricate jewelry but the most important skill I learned is how to think. It is how I approach my design process. I am inspired by the color and pattern of each stone, each shell, each piece of turquoise; thinking about how each element works in balance – color, transparency, texture, scale, resulting in a mix of color and unexpected materials that look effortless, sophisticated and elegant. I have been working with my suppliers for over 20 years. My stones are all hand cut in organic shapes. The colors range in value and inclusions are allowed. This process doesn’t just reveal the beauty of the stones but we use as much of the stone as possible. I have worked with the family who supplies my natural shell for close to 30 years. I know they are not endangered. I have been working with a master goldsmith in Bali for over 20 years. I am proud that my jewelry is part of a global creative community.