About

I attained my BFA in metals from Rochester Institute of Technology's School For American Craftsman. Not content to make Craft jewelry, I desired to learn about fine jewelry and traditonal gold smithing. I moved to New York City where I apprenticed for six years with German master goldsmiths and worked with fine gemstones, platinum and 18k gold. I executed designs from Raymond C. Yard and repaired fine jewelry from several noteable antique jewelry dealers which provided me with indepth knowlege of design elements and mechanics of fine jewelry. Later I worked at Carvin French where I made models and exquisite one of a kind jewelry for Bulgari, Cartier and Fred Leighton.

During my bench trade days in NYC after college I had nearly abandoned my dream of designing and creating my own work exclusively. I left NYC to raise a family in Pennsylvania while I continued to manufacture jewelry for a  jewelry designer.  In 2005 I decided to re visit my dream of creating and making my own work exclusively. 

My design process usually begins with a sketch or may be inspired by a wonderful stone or color scheme. I either carve the orignial model in wax or fabricate it in metal. Each piece is cast then assembled, filed, sanded and polished by hand. I use real gemstones and reclaimed 18k gold or sterling silver purchased from ethical suppliers.

Experience has taught me that quality materials and craftsmanship matter. Many of my designs incorporate my own settings and other elements like clasps or toggles. Tahtitan and South Sea Pearls are on my favorites lists because of their absolute uniqueness and natural color- no two are ever completely the same. 

I'm a fan of the past great jewelry designers Renee Lalique, Suzanne Belperron, Georg Jensen, Fulco Verdura and Seaman Schepps.  My other interests include gardening, botanical painting and the decorative arts.


-Mimi Favre