Constance Wicklund Gildea Jewelry

Over the years, we've fallen in love with a

technique called keum boo - a technique

where thin pieces of 24K gold are fused

directly to the surface of silver

using heat and pressure.

Each piece of jewelry made by

Constance Wicklund Gildea 

is a work of art. We are especially

intrigued with her pieces that feature

the keum boo technique using shapes and
textures from actual leaves.
She has other collections of work
that feature techniques such as
 engraving and embossing,
and they are equally as lovely.
But it's the keum boo pieces
that consistently draw our attention.

Here are some of our favorites.

Each shows the intense effect that 24kt gold

can have when it's fused on silver.
And we especially love the oxidation on
these particular pieces; it enhances
that striking contrast
between the gold and silver.

Here is her oxidized Leaf Cuff.

 

This alternate version of her oxidized Leaf Cuff

is studded with diamonds.

 

We love her oxidized Leaf Earrings from this collection.

 

And this pair of earrings is studded with diamonds.

Here's an example of a bead from this series.

This artist has developed very controlled methods

of pattern and design development, and

her focus on mixed metal pieces

produces gorgeous work.

We admire it for the imaginative designs,

creative use of materials and techniques,

and superb skill of the artist.

We are inspired!