Margaret A. Kastner
I am a vintage jewelry collector, and more recently a metalsmith, designing and fabricating my own jewelry designs. I am also on the road to get my certification as a Colored Stone Graduate from the Gemological Institute of America (GIA).
As a little girl, I would try on my mother’s costume jewelry — she had shoe boxes-full of it — from the 1950s, -60s and -70s. Rhinestones, pearls, and enamels. She told the best stories of college sorority parties, and the gowns and jewelry she wore. Those stories left a lasting impression. Over time, I began collecting many pieces of my own, through estate sales and auctions.
So after a 27 year I.T. career, I decided to follow my passion for jewelry full time.
Christine W. Sanders
Since my retirement from teaching high school art, I have found that the challenge of working with a variety of semi-precious stones and metals has fulfilled my innate urge to create beauty.
The focus of my one-of-a-kind jewelry is on the materials used – stones, metals, crystals, etc.- rather than on a complicated pattern or design that might distract from the beauty of the components. The resultant sophistication of the jewelry enhances and creates a focal point for the wearer’s attire instead of dominating it.
It is my hope that all of these pieces will be worn with the pleasure and pride of knowing that you alone have the one-of-a-kind jewelry that you are wearing.