A little more about me...

On somewhat of a whim, I began a degree in Jewelry and Metalwork at the University of Georgia, thinking that it would make a fun skill to learn alongside a "real" degree. By the end of the first class, I knew I was addicted and jewelry making couldn't be just a hobby. So, here I am, making jewelry that I describe as "eclectic but elegant."

During school, I also became a self-taught scrimshander, a.k.a., a person who makes scrimshaw. This happened because my dad showed up with a bag of wooly mammoth tusk and how could I not investigate that? Check out What is fossil ivory? to learn more about that material.

I use a wide variety of gemstones, metals, and materials, and I try to be eco-friendly where I can. I reuse my scrap metals, buy other makers' scraps of fossil ivory, and many other things to reduce my footprint.

Read reviews on my custom design page or on individual items in the shop!

FAQs

What is scrimshaw?
Scrimshaw is an old art form practiced by many coastal or sea-faring people. Basically, you inscribe tiny, precise lines and dots into some kind of polished material like bone or ivory and then rub something dark into the lines to bring out the image. For example, bored sailors might doodle a pretty mermaid to keep them company at sea using a knife, some soot from a lamp, and a spare whale tooth. Or a they might do a ship, because what else is there to look at out there? I prefer more land-inspired designs.

Check out the Wikipedia article on scrimshaw if you want to learn more. 

Where do you get your inspiration?
My work is inspired by the innate beauty of the materials I work with as well as my love of wandering around outside looking at plants, wrought iron gates, and nice architecture. My phone is filled with pictures of cool weeds or close-ups on bits of buildings. I love anything with vibrant color, interesting texture, or a nice rhythm of shapes or lines. It’s the mix of geometric and organic shapes that lure me in. 

Can you customize it?
Yep! I can make you something completely unique and one-of-a-kind. Check out my custom design page for details.

I can also make adjustments to items for sale in my shop. Contact me below prior to purchasing.

Is your stuff safe for people with metal allergies?
Yes, I work with sterling silver and gold, which are considered hypoallergenic and safe for people with nickel allergies. However, some people have more extreme allergies. If you’re one of those lucky people, contact me to chat about your needs so that I can recommend the best options for you.

Where can I find you? 
I work out of my home in Marietta, GA so you’ll find me here on the web (you did it!) or at metro-Atlanta area art festivals in the spring and fall. Check my Instagram or Facebook for updates on where I will be next.

2023 Fall show lineup: Oconee Fall Festival, more TBD!

Contact Me

Follow me on Instagram (@bonedancejewelry) or Facebook to keep up with my latest experiments and adventures, and contact me if you have any questions or requests.

​(Watch out for gratuitous updates about my dog!)