Hi Suzanne, I can unequivocally state that Orchid is the reason I am
succeeding in my new career as a jewelry designer. A year ago, I had
it in my head to make some Masonic jewelry, since I am a member of a
lodge here, and couldn’t find nice pendant for myself. At the time,
I was struggling to get my furniture design firm off the ground. So
I did some research, and bought “The Design and Creation of Jewelry”
by Robert Von Neumann, and “Making Silver Chains” by Glen Waszek,
just got 'em at Barnes and Noble! Both great books, and they seemed
like a good start. I have a degree in Art, so wasn’t afraid to start
from nothing and get my hands dirty. But, I needed to know more about
actually getting castings, and came across the orchid list before I
had even finished my first chain.
So I signed up and started asking questions. Lots of them! And
really appreciated the help. I eventually found Dan Grandi, who
helped me with the casting, and design of my new pieces. (He was
patient when I made nearly uncastable or un-finishable stuff) Guys
like Dave Sebaste and others took time to answer my chain making
questions, and give me those “oh so valuable” sources to buy
wholesale.
The local members of the fraternity were so impressed, that my
jewelry started selling. Then I had requests for another piece, and
it sold well too! But each time I made something new, I had to turn
to the list for advice. I had bugs to work out, supplier to find,
packaging to make, gems to set, etc…
Well, the furniture design never did get off the ground, because I
am so enamored (enameled?) with the jewelry design process and ease
of control. Heck, it’s so much easier to ship and lift too! I am
actually making my living from my jewelry, selling over the internet,
and through a selection of distributors, and have started on a new
line, of non-Masonic spiritual jewelry. All thanks to Orchid. I am a
convert, an evangelist, a zealot for the Orchid Cause!
Thanks Guys and Gals! May the Great Orchid shine upon you all!
Drew
Designer,
The Master’s Jewel
www.mastersjewel.com