We have travelled to Mount Ida, AR to dig quartz crystals and Herkimer, NY to mine Herkimer diamonds. We’ve made several trips to many parts of North Carolina to hunt for everything from sapphires to emeralds. After one of our trips, I was thinking, “Can I drill holes in these little stones to make beads and string them? - - hmmmm….” Well that started the beading years…..

Then my sister signed me up to take a class with her at Callanwolde Fine Arts Center, and told me we had to bring a can of Mapp gas to class with us. When I saw the beautiful palette of colored glass rods that I could melt in a flame and create my very own glass beads, well, need I say more? Now, I create wonderful works of art that are treasured by many collectors and teach in my studio.

Take a look around and see if you find that something special you have been looking for……..Enjoy ! Diane