Melissa Huff Jewelry

Enamel is a remarkably versatile medium,

and there are so many different ways

that one can approach it.

In champlevé the metal is etched and the

enamel is inlaid into each recessed portion.

When fired, the effect is bold and direct,

 and that's what we love about the

art jewelry created by Melissa Huff.

There are many variables to take into

account when working with enamels,

such as stress factors between the

hardness of the glass and

the softness of the metal. Combine these

 variables with other stress factors in the 

layering of each color of enamels which

can often crack or otherwise refuse

to bond and one begins to understand

just how intricate and elaborate

the process can be.

We find Melissa’s explorations of color

range from subtle to intense and each piece

is strikingly beautiful.

We love the nuanced gradations of colors.

The combinations create specific palettes

of color that we find very satisfying.

It’s apparent that the time, focus and energy

devoted to each piece must be immense.

Her mandala series of brooches are

especially interesting. Based on

cross-sections of roots and stems

each features a multitudinous

riot of recessed cells

that unite as a cohesive whole.

This one is called Orchid Mandala.

 

 

Here's a piece called Core Mandala

and here's one called Flow Mandala

 

We enjoy how this artist can stretch

 the boundaries of jewelry

into pure art.

Each piece is geometric yet flowing,

meticulous yet relaxed.

We admire it all.

Enjoy!