Business Details
24 Years
experience
Handcrafted Wire-wrap Jewelry by Ann Turpin Thayer
I have dedicated my career to mastering the art of fine wire-wrap jewelry, combining precious metals, rare gemstones, and ancient techniques to create timeless pieces for modern audiences. My journey began with formal education at the Gemological Institute of America, where I earned both an Accredited Jewelry Professional degree and a Graduate Pearl Degree, complemented by mentorship under master artisans. Through years of practice, I have developed a unique approach that balances the natural beauty of stones with intricate metalwork, avoiding solder or glue to preserve each gem's integrity. My work has been showcased in over 100 juried exhibitions, including the Celebration of Fine Art in Scottsdale, Arizona, and is featured in more than 1,000 private collections worldwide. I specialize in custom designs that highlight exotic and Arizona-sourced stones, often incorporating historical and cultural narratives into each piece.My technical innovations, such as filigree wire work and Kumihimo braiding, ensure that every creation is both durable and artistically distinct. With a focus on direct sales and gallery representation, I maintain a deep connection to collectors who value craftsmanship and authenticity. My six-week instructional course shares these specialized techniques with aspiring artisans, ensuring the preservation of this art form. Every piece I create reflects a commitment to harmony, simplicity, and the celebration of natural materials. This philosophy, rooted in decades of experience and continuous innovation, positions my work as a bridge between tradition and contemporary design.
Services
Wire-wrap Jewelry
Custom Design
Gemstone Preservation
Kumihimo Braiding
Argentium Sterling Work
14K Gold-Filled Jewelry
Artisan Instruction
Exhibition Sales
Private Collection Pieces
Cultural Narrative Jewelry
Details
- Year established: 2002
Highlights and features
- We offer 20+ years of expertise in wire-wrap jewelry techniques
- Our pieces use solder-free, glue-free preservation methods for gemstones
- We incorporate rare Arizona-sourced and exotic global gemstones
- Our work has been featured in 100+ juried art exhibitions
- We provide direct artist-to-collector sales with custom options
Associations and certifications
- Gemological Institute of America
What people say
Rare gemstones
Intricate metalwork
Custom designs
Cultural significance
Museum-quality pieces
Services
Wire-wrap Jewelry
Handcrafted jewelry using ancient wire-wrap techniques with precious metals and rare gemstones. Each piece preserves natural stone integrity through solder-free, glue-free methods. Combines traditional craftsmanship with modern aesthetics for unique wearable art.
Custom Design
Tailored jewelry creation incorporating client preferences and unique gemstones. Utilizes specialized techniques to transform personal visions into one-of-a-kind pieces. Focuses on maintaining material authenticity while achieving desired aesthetic balance.
Kumihimo Braiding
Traditional Japanese braiding technique applied to contemporary jewelry design. Creates intricate patterns using precious metal wires for distinctive bracelets and decorative elements. Requires advanced skill developed through years of practice.
Gemstone Preservation
Specialized methods for securing gemstones without altering their natural state. Uses hand-formed metal chassis to protect delicate specimens while showcasing their inherent beauty. Ensures long-term durability without compromising authenticity.
Artisan Instruction
Six-week comprehensive course teaching wire-wrap techniques to aspiring artisans. Covers both technical skills and artistic principles. Provides hands-on experience with materials and methods developed through professional practice.
People
Ann Turpin Thayer
Owner & Master Artisan
Accredited Jewelry Professional with 20+ years experience. Developed innovative wire-wrap techniques showcased in 100+ exhibitions. Teaches specialized six-week jewelry courses. Featured in publications and private collections worldwide.
Questions
What makes your wire-wrap jewelry unique?
Our pieces use solder-free, glue-free techniques that preserve gemstone integrity while allowing intricate metalwork. Each creation combines rare materials with historical methods for one-of-a-kind results.
Do you offer custom jewelry options?
Yes, we specialize in custom designs that incorporate client preferences while maintaining our signature style. The process involves collaborative consultation and personalized craftsmanship.
What materials do you work with?
We use Argentium Sterling Silver, 14K gold-filled wire, and rare gemstones from global sources. Special emphasis on Arizona-sourced materials and exotic specimens with historical significance.
How long do custom orders take?
Custom pieces typically require 2-3 weeks production time. This allows for meticulous handcrafting while ensuring perfect fit adjustments based on client measurements.
Are your techniques taught to others?
Yes, we offer a six-week intensive course covering our specialized wire-wrap methods. The program includes 24 hours of hands-on instruction with materials and technique demonstrations.
What exhibitions have you participated in?
Featured at Celebration of Fine Art (Scottsdale, AZ) for 11 years, Santa Monica Jazz Festival Art Show, and multiple juried exhibitions across the southwestern United States since 2002.
