I grew up in the foothills outside of Salt Lake City, Utah. As a child I would spend my summers hiking and climbing in the mountains, exploring the old silver mines and mining camps and collecting rocks and fossils. In the winter I skied. My world centered around the outdoors and nature.

After attending the University of Utah, where I majored in geology, I pursued a career in the oil and gas exploration field, working in offices in Salt Lake City, Buffalo, New York and West Virginia. In 2003 I returned to the west and built a studio in Bisbee, Arizona.

Traveling and exploring new places, especially those that are scenic and with interesting cultures, have deeply influenced my designs. Some of my most memorable destinations have been Nepal, Morrocco and southern Mexico, although the American southwest with its land and its culture have had the greatest inpact on me and my work.

I began making jewelry with my wife Debbie in 1991. We both felt that we were not meant for the corporate life style and needed a change. The notion of making a living from something we created was - and still is - an exciting and rewarding experience.

Through the designs I create as well as the many beautiful natural stones which I use in my work I create pieces that hopefully convey my passions in life.