"Feathers"
by Keith Evans
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Feathers are created in 14K gold, sterling
silver, and copper from 22 gauge sheets of metal. Initially, a rectangular
blank of the metal is cut to allow the insertion of the quill, which
is a tapered wire. The quill is then soldered into place, after which
each feather is individually designed and drawn by hand, so no two
are exactly alike. Next, the shapes of the feathers are cut out, creating
the body, which is singly engraved. After shaping and sculpting, the
pieces receive their "patina", or metal colorization, which
contributes to their unique appearance. In the final steps of fabrication,
the feathers receive a coat of lacquer to prevent discoloring or tarnish*
and then the finials and findings complete these beautiful handcrafted
works of the Jeweler’s Art.
*Gold feathers and findings excluded. |
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