Hi, I’m Richard Lewis,
A California-based jeweler with over 50 years of experience creating one-of-a-kind pieces that honor both traditional craftsmanship and the raw beauty of natural materials.
My journey began in the early 1970s, but my formal training came in the 1980s, when I had the privilege of studying under the renowned goldsmith Alan Revere. Alan is an internationally recognized teacher and artist, with work displayed in the Royal Hall of Goldsmiths in London. I trained with him intensively for three years, developing a strong foundation in classic goldsmithing techniques, skills that continue to shape my work today.
At the heart of my practice is fabrication. I start from scratch: taking raw precious metals, refining them to their purest form, alloying, and creating my own sheet, wire, or tubing. From there, I hand-fabricate each piece – whether it’s a ring, pendant, or earring – this gives me complete control over quality, form, and finish.
While the tools and technologies in this field have evolved – CAD, casting, molding, and more – I still prefer to blend old-school techniques with select modern innovations. Many of my pieces are 100% hand-fabricated, with no casting involved. These one-of-a-kind pieces take time, but that’s where the soul of the work lives.
I work primarily in gold and silver, often incorporating rare and ethically sourced organic materials like raw opal and abalone pearl. My opals are purchased directly from miners – no middlemen – and my collection of abalone pearls was gathered over a 30-year span through relationships with sport divers, back when abalone fisheries were still active in California. Today, that source is gone, making each pearl even more rare and significant.
My metal supplier provides only ethical and sustainably sourced gold and silver, all refined and processed in the United States. I take pride in knowing that every material I use is responsibly sourced, ensuring jewelry that is both beautiful and mindful.
Jewelry is a lifelong learning process. Along the way, I’ve shared knowledge with other masters and continue to learn every day. The most skilled craftspeople I’ve met are the ones humble enough to admit that mastery is an illusion – we’re always students of the craft.
Every piece I create is a collaboration between instinct, experience, and the voice of the material itself. No two pieces are ever truly alike – even when they share a design, the gems and details make them unique. Modifications often evolve organically as I work, enhancing the originality and spirit of the final creation.
If you’re drawn to craftsmanship with depth, character, and a human touch, I hope you find something here that resonates. I also welcome custom orders and commissions. If you’d like to see more views of a piece, or discuss a special project, please feel free to get in touch using the contact form below.
Regards
Richard Lewis