NOW & THEN: IN SKETCHES

NOW & THEN: IN SKETCHES

By Hella Ganor

NOW & THEN: IN SKETCHES

Over the years, production methods evolve in all working environments. For me, the biggest transformation in my craftsmanship has been the switch to manufacturing my jewelry designs using 3-D printers. However, a big part of the jewelry design is the sketch - the first time it comes to life before my eyes.

My design for a gold pair of dice / special edition

When I first started designing jewelry, I used a sketching technique I had learned in "Omanit", of painting the jewelry designs with watercolors. As my jewelry was all hand made, the designing process would be as follows: Having an idea, translating it into a painting, and then working hands-on with the materials. When working with materials, the design often altered spontaneously due to the physical restrictions of the substance.

Watercolor paintings for a collection of mine, back in the '90s

This necklace I made won an award in '97 / Far left: Sketch / Middle: Final product photo / Far-right: An article on my winning piece in the newspaper!

In 1997, I first started designing on a computer. This method allows the transformation of more complex design ideas into a reality - designs which could not be reached with hand made crafting. Having said that, no one method is perfect, and computer work comes along with technical restraints. Yet the greatest advantage achieved is the freedom from compromising due to materialistic dictations: Creating a jewel which is an immediate result of my wildest designs.

Twisted Torus Pendant / Made with 14K gold, Lapis Lazuli Stones and Gold Beads

Twisted Disk Pendant+Clasp / Made with 14K gold and pearls

Flat Mobius Ring / Made with 14K gold

If you are a designer - what are your preferences when sitting down to work?
For any questions about techniques, materials, etc. please post them in the comments section below and I'll be happy to answer.