ABOUT THE ARTIST

"I am a professional chef by trade and have been working in the restaurant business for over 12 years. I have been making jewelry for most of my life and it has always been a part time outlet for my creativity as a well as a source of income. Jewelry designing affords me a calm and peaceful environment which is quite the antithesis of the professional kitchen. I enjoy very much the extreme differences, it helps maintain my inspiration in both avenues.

"I grew up in a family of jewelers. When I was in high school I began working for my mother Lucia Antonelli who is a famous designer. I would string some of her more simple pieces under her instruction. Not only did I earn good money but I understood my mother's vision which was helpful with her one-of-a-kind designs that were difficult for other people to interpret. I gradually developed my own style and it has been a passion and a part time means of income ever since.

"I use eclectic materials such as fresh water pearls, semi-precious stones, antique findings and things from far away lands. All of my work is also one of a kind and I do a lot of custom pieces in a variety of styles."