Ryan Gardner

"I really like to explore the materials when I am working on my jewelry. Shapes, colors, and textures are things I pay close attention to when I'm designing. My work is big, bold, and colorful."

Ryan's work comes from a playful experimentation with stone and metal, combining the two materials in a fun and cohesive way. Exploring new materials, shapes, colors, and processes are some of his favorite things to do and include in his work. It is very important for him to let the materials speak for themselves.

Ryan likes to begin his process with a rough rock. He then cuts, polishes, and sometimes carves his stones by hand. He then hand fabricates his one of a kind pieces from silver and gold really showcasing the stones.

Ryan received a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Bowling Green State University in Ohio. His focus in school was in jewelry and metalsmithing. Upon graduation he moved to Colorado to apprentice with Michael Boyd. It was there where he learned the art of stone cutting. He also now helps with the Colorado Center for Metal Arts as he continues to expand his knowledge and experience.