A Pocketful of Rocks

Since I was a kid, I’ve always loved filling my pockets with rocks, shells and bits. These pieces of nature remind me of where I’ve been … the beach, desert and mountains. They remind me of significant events … smooth beach stones from Catalina Island where my family attended camp for 17 years … tiny shells from our first family trip to Hawaii … green serpentine pebbles from high Sierra mountain streams where I hiked with my dog … “salt and pepper” granite chunks from the eroding mountains which surround Lake Tahoe, my home turf.

At home, I have a basket full of these bits and pieces.

While I may not remember exactly where each piece was collected, together they present a tactile, organic reminder of the threads of my life. Locations I’ve visited with loved ones and places I’ve loved.

Using a diamond drill bit, I’m able to create wearable art from these mementos. As the drill burrows through rock or sea glass, debris floats away making the cooling water murky. Life does this too … murky debris is sometimes necessary to produce something more beautiful.

I love rocks. And I love making jewelry from them that reminds me of the paths I’ve taken over a lifetime.