Inspired by Natural Design & Tradition
Zen Chimes and Gifts is a company started by my sister and myself to share with the world our unique specialties in the areas of Lapidary, Quilting and Silversmithing. All items are handcrafted by us here within the United States of America.
With a commitment to sustainability, all items are locally made from responsibly source fabrics, metals, stones, woods and 925 Sterling Silver.
OUR HISTORY
Finding one’s place…
The journey into lapidary and silversmithing started later in life for me. For over 38 years I have worked in the industrial manufacturing industry chasing those dreams of financial security and promotion that never came. Now for the first time in my life, I have found something that brings me joy and peace.
My fascination with shaping and polishing stone started in 2019, when my old boss started bringing in rocks to decorate his desk, those rocks were fascinating. It was then that I started to notice hints of color and pattern in rocks that were under my very feet everywhere I went. Thus began my adventure into lapidary.
My first stone was polished using simple wet/dry sandpaper. I could see the color and pattern emerge with each step through the sanding grits and it is awe inspiring. It is amazing that the 'Original Artist' designed our world in such a way that even the most mundane item can bring beauty and knowledge into our world when we take the moment to recognize it.
After a year or so, I had accumulated so many polished stones that I didn’t know what to do with them, so I started drilling them to make necklaces, but then I learned holes tended to distract from the entire beauty of the stone. So, I started wire wrapping. Wire wrapping was such a long process, and my 10 thumbs would leave kinks in the wires and my fingertips were always so sore. Then the idea of silversmithing came to mind. I thought to myself, why not what do I have to lose?
After months of trial and tribulations of teaching myself, buying the wrong items, burning up my share of semi-precious metal, I am finally learning how to sculp original beautiful pieces wherein I can share my joy and fascination of stone and geology with those around me.
For me one of the best things about making stone jewelry is the look on a person’s face when they find that particular piece of wearable art that they personally connect with. It is as if their whole soul lights up when they make that connection. When I see someone connect with something I made, I feel like I am finally doing something right and I am where I need to be....
GOING BACK TO OUR ROOTS…
My sister Jerrie developed her love of quilting as a way to become closer to and learn from our grandmothers. Quilting is in her blood. So much so that Jerrie has over 30 years of experience in quilting and often teaches new techniques to the ladies in the Forget Me Knot Quilters Guild in Delta Junction, Alaska. Jerrie’s experience and knowledge makes the hardest sewing techniques look easy.
Jerries' ability to explain the most complicated patterns to those of us that can barely hold a stitch in such a way that even someone as challenged as myself can easily understand and replicate. Jerrie is so helpful to the others in her guild it often leaves her scrambling to complete own projects. Jerries’ use of color is impeccable, her use of recycled materials and colorful fabric patterns turn simple quilts into magnificent pieces of usable art. The process of handmade quilts can take months to complete, on average working two to three months per quilt, so the prices reflect that work and dedication. Our promise to you is each of these masterful pieces of art will be durable and can withstand daily use of snuggling on the couch with family and friends or bringing warm nostalgic feelings of the old homestead into any bedroom.
If you are looking for that perfect addition for your bedroom, the perfect snuggle blanket, wall hanging or a beautiful table runner to add a splash of color to your dining room, check back with us, and check back often so you don’t miss out.
Newsletter
Be the first to know about our new collection
launches, special offers & other updates.