I thought you would like to see where my kids went to school and graduated from.
Tom and I raised our 2 children in our cattle ranches located in the very remote high desert area of Southeastern Oregon. When they reached high school age we had to enroll them in Crane Union High School, a boarding school about 40 minutes from the ranch.
In 2002 the size of its attendance boundary was 7,700 square miles (20,000 km2), an area that was about the same size as that of Massachusetts. Students from the surrounding ranches still attend Crane Union High School from as far away as 150 miles (240 km).
Crane Union is one of the oldest public boarding schools in the country.
The number of students that attend the school has fluctuated over the years, from 63 students in 1950, to 97 students in 2002, 98 in 2020. In 2002 100% of the students received a high school diploma and most students went on to Universities and Colleges. My two children did extremely well at the school.
Just a small view into the life of ranching families and how different it is from more populated parts of the US!
Introducing My Newest Jewelry Item - Fine Jewelry Key Fobs!
I decided it was time that I create something of beauty and easy to use to corral the keys all of us have to carry. And no more hunting in purses and deep pockets for them!
I envisioned a decorative, statement piece to elevate the standard run of the mill key chain.
Something that could be used by both women and men.
So I'm proud to offer you my take on the iconic Key Fob!
The main decorative part can be worn hung over the outside of a jean pocket - or hand bag, with the keys kept safely inside the pocket.
Because it looks like a piece of jewelry - or a decorative accessory, no one but you will know it holds a key - or set of keys!
I'm able to also make these featuring your Ranch Brand - see the photo on the left below.
If this trend is something you’d like to add into your wardrobe, check out the photos above of the first of my new line of High Desert Creations Key Fobs.
Click on the Turquoise Key Fob on the right which is available to purchase.
Contact me if you’d like me to create one for you - or to give as a fantastic gift.
Kathi89445@yahoo.com or call me: 775-304-7656
My Instagram
Just a reminder for you to check out my daily (almost) Instagram posts!
I write about my latest news, my newest jewelry creations and things I find inspirational or interesting.
To read my posts, scan the QR code below with your phone's camera and you'll be taken directly to my Instagram page. When you get there follow me and see my recent posts on your feed. I'd love for you to leave me a comment.
My Latest Contemporary Pendants
I've been very busy creating new original pendants that are now ready for purchase. I've focussed lately on a variety of stones, Azurite and Malachite, Owyhee Jasper, Laguna Agate are just a few. Click on the photo of each piece for full details and to buy via my website securely.
https://www.cowgirlmagazine.com
Thank You Cowgirl Magazine
Cowgirl Magazine, thank you for the extra boost to High Desert Creations in the Sept/Oct issue. It’s so appreciated 🩵
Click to read the entire issue - https://issuu.com/cowgirlmagazine/docs/cowgirl_september-october_2025
Bolo Ties Are in The Spotlight!
If TV shows and movies and Country Music Stars are anything to go by, Bolo Ties are one of the hottest clothing accessories in 2025!
The series Yellowstone and Country Music Stars like Laney Wilson have helped bring back their popularity.
I think that they make a stand out finishing touch to an outfit!
If this trend is something you’d like to add into your wardrobe, check out the photos below of the commissioned Bolos that I recently created for a few very happy clients.
Contact me if you’d like me to create one for you - or to give as a fantastic gift.
Kathi89445@yahoo.com or call me: 775-304-7656
My Interview With the City Sun Times
Last month, The City Sun Times newspaper published my interview with them and an audio version too.
I was honored to be able to chat with them about my ranching life, my philosophy and my jewelry.
I welcomed the chance to let more people learn who I am and a bit about me. I thank the City Sun Times immensely for the opportunity to do so!
Click on the logo below to read and/or listen to the interview.
High Desert Creations offers authentic western jewelry inspired by life on the ranch
Accessorize Your Hat!
Recently my biggest selling jewelry pieces have been Custom Ranch Brand Concho Hat Pins
Custom Ranch Brand Concho Hat Pin 1/2” diameter in Sterling Silver and Copper
When you think about it, a hat pin isn't only a way to adorn a frequently overlooked piece of clothing to add jewelry to, but it can also tell the world who you are.
Even though hat pins are small - they are mighty!
I can create & incorporate your Ranch's brand, so that everyone will know who you are - and - it also advertises your Ranch.*
I personally create each and every commissioned pin by hand, the actual Ranch Brand is not computer generated. I work to your specifications, using sterling silver, copper and turquoise - and other stones if you desire.
And what's great is that both women and men can wear them!
Pictured are just a few of the Ranch Brand Concho Hat Pins I've recently created for satisfied clients! Click on the photos above and below for more information (including pricing).
I also create Custom Concho Hat Pins without a Ranch Brand. Just because you don't own or live on a ranch doesn't mean your hat can't sport a hat pin too! Let's chat and see what we can design together!
The pin in the photo below is titled "Raisin' Cain"
I'm now accepting commissions for both types of hat pins. Contact me to have me create a special pin - ranch brand or purely decorative - just for you:
kathi89445@yahoo.com or call 775-304-6756
* Please be aware I recreate Ranch Brands only, I cannot incorporate logos.
I'm looking forward to hearing from you.
Now Taking Commissions For a very Special Mother's Day Gift
Happy April!
Mother's Day is 6 weeks away, which gives me time to make unique jewelry creations for those special Moms. I'm opening my commission schedule now.
I can create many types of custom jewelry to fit your Mother''s style - from necklaces to earring to rings to bracelets, hat pins, even pieces incorporating Ranch Brands! All to your specifications.
For inspiration, click the link below to visit the Purchased page of my website for many of my past designs that have gone to happy clients.
https://www.highdesertcreations.com/purchased-pieces
To get your imagination fired up, see the photos below of a few of the pieces I've created.
If you already have an idea of a piece you'd like to collaborate on with me, please click on the link below to visit the Custom Piece section on my website to learn more about the process.
https://www.highdesertcreations.com/commissions.
My commission schedule fills fast, so contact me now! kathi89445@yahoo.com or call 775-304-6756
I'm so looking forward to hearing from you.
While I send out a newsletter to your in box once or twice a month, I post to Instagram on an almost daily basis.
I write about my latest news, my newest jewelry creations and things I find inspirational or interesting.
If you're interested in reading my posts, scan the QR code below with your phone's camera and you'll be taken directly to my Instagram page. You can then follow me and see my recent posts on your feed. If you like what you see leave me a comment.!
The Seasons are Changing
Put a little Zing in your Spring Wardrobe with a Beautiful New Piece of Jewelry
With spring on the horizon it's natural to feel a sense of lightness and a desire to swap your heavy winter clothes for lighter pieces that match the colorful blossoms and brighter days ahead.
Why not extend that feeling of lightness to your wardrobe by adding a new one-of-a-kind piece of jewelry to achieve that feeling everyday?
I guarantee any of my jewelry pieces will make your existing outfits feel fresh and re-invigorated and elevate new clothes to feel even more stylish!
I have many different styles of jewelry on my website that are currently available for purchase.
Below are just a few! (Click on each image for information, price and to buy.)
From Top Left Clockwise: "Outside the Box", "Rustic Where Abouts", “ The Dance” "Swinging Two Step
From Top Left Clockwise: "Home on the Range" ring, "Love Struck" earrings", "What Goes Around Comes Around " copper necklace, "Harvest Moon" bracelet
If you can't find anything that's available right now, that feels like your style, please get in touch with me and I can work with you to create the perfect piece just for you.
Check out the purchased jewelry page on my website to fire up your imagination!
https://www.highdesertcreations.com/purchased-pieces
Then contact me to get started. kathi89445@yahoo.com or call 775-304-6756
I can't wait to hear from you!
Pssst! - just a little head's up, Mother's Day is not that far away, so if you see a piece that is perfect for your Mom, don't wait, take the pressure off yourself and get it for her now.
Happy New Year
To All Of My Clients, Supporters and Friends,
I hope your 2025 is filled with much happiness, the best health, good fortune and new adventures - and of course beautiful jewelry!
Thank you for your patronage and interest in my work, I am so grateful for you. It’s my pleasure to make your world beautiful.
VALENTINE'S DAY IS
JUST OVER A MONTH AWAY!
Can you believe Valentines is only a little more than 5 weeks away? How can that be?
Do you have a special woman or man that you are looking to give a perfect, very personal gift? Well you can check that off your to do list sooner than later!
I create custom Pendants, Bracelets, Hat Pins, Bolos and more. I can also incorporate your Ranch Brand in the design of any piece of jewelry. Available in sterling silver and copper, and if desired your choice of many different stones and designs.
Contact me to create a one of a kind, very personal piece of jewelry for them.
My commission list is going to fill very quickly, so contact me now:
kathi89445@yahoo.com or call 775-304-6756
Deadline for the commissions is January 20
- or -
Visit my website to see beautiful jewelry pieces that I've created that are available to purchase right now.
NOTE: Please purchase available jewelry by February 5 to allow ample time for delivery.
Still Time to Mail Before Christmas!
Click on the photos below to purchase. HAPPY HOLIDAYS!
Hidden in the Hills 2024 is on over the next two weekend!
High Desert Creations Studio #14
PHONE NUMBER: 775-304-6756
Joining me at my Scottsdale studio this year are 4 very talented, professional guest artists.
Click on the links by their name to see their fantastic art.
Barbara Rudolph: barbararudolphfineart.com
Rob Stenberg: instagram:stenbergrob
Jan Griggs: jangriggsfineart.com
And new to the Studio this year - we are happy to welcome Rick Griggs and his beautiful live edge furniture. We're excited to have Rick and his wife Jan together at our studio. Visit his website to check out his one of a kind, handmade creations. https://www.naturalwoodedge.com
I will be in my private working studio overflowing with original pendants, bracelets and earrings, available to purchase. I’ll be happy to share my jewelry-making process and techniques with you. Chat with me to learn how to commission me to create that perfect piece of jewelry matched to your personal taste & style. https://www.highdesertcreations.com
Click here for the online directory and more information
High Desert Creations Studio #14
PHONE NUMBER: 775-304-6756
Questions? contact me via email Kathi89445@yahoo.com or call 775-304-6756
We're all looking forward to you visiting us!
Save The Date for Hidden in the Hills
The 28th Annual Hidden in the Hills Artist Studio Tour 2024 is not too far away!
November 22, 23 & 24 and 29, 30 and December 1
https://sonoranartsleague.org/hidden-in-the-hills/
High Desert Creations Studio #14
Joining me at my Scottsdale studio this year are 4 talented/professional guest artists.
Click on the links by their name to see their fantastic art.
Barbara Rudolph: barbararudolphfineart.com
Rob Stenberg: instagram:stenbergrob
Jan Griggs: jangriggsfineart.com
Rick Griggs: https://www.naturalwoodedge.com/
I will be in my private working studio overflowing with original pendants, bracelets and earrings. I’ll be happy to share my jewelry-making process and techniques with you.
Click here for more Information
Studio Map and On-Line Directory coming soon!
We all look forward to your visit!
High Desert Creations Studio #14
31616 N. 70th Street in North Scottsdale
Questions? contact me via email Kathi89445@yahoo.com or call 775-304-6756
Contact Me Now to Commission a Christmas Gift
I create custom Pendants, Bracelets, Hat Pins, Bolos and more. I can also incorporate your Ranch Brand in the design of any piece of jewelry. Available in sterling silver and copper, and if desired your choice of many different stones and designs.
I also design beautiful commissioned jewelry to be worn by women and men, girls and boys.
With Christmas just around the corner, my list is growing very quickly, so contact me now:
kathi89445@yahoo.com or call 775-304-6756
Let’s work together to have your design created in time for a one of a kind and very personal Christmas Gift.!
My Deadline is October 31st
Below: My Ranch Brand creation process
Happy Client comments about their commissioned jewelry
With a very sad heart ......
My husband Tom Turner 1936-2024
I have a heavy heart and am in a world full of pain with the sudden passing of my husband Tom on July 1 of this year. We were married for 60 yrs.
I can’t imagine a life without him. He was laid to rest in Drewsey, OR where we ranched for almost 40 yrs.
With a humble heart I say Thank You everyone. For all the flowers, cards, texts, emails and phone messages. For a man who wanted no attention, his heart would have been touched.
My Love, Kathi.
Reminder: My Original Facebook Pages Were Hacked!
I’d like to mention once again that my previous FaceBook Pages were hacked in April. I immediately shut them down.
If you receive any messages through Facebook - or any emails from me asking for money, or offering you a fantastic opportunity of any kind, PLEASE DO NOT REPLY, RESPOND OR CLICK ON IT! The message is not from me.
I would never ever do anything like that. I’m hoping that none of my followers have been contacted by the hacker.
If you do receive any message or email that feels a little “off” and have any questions, could you please contact me and let me know?
These are the web address of my new pages. Please follow me so you can keep up to date on a regular basis with news about me and new pieces.
Business: https://www.facebook.com/people/High-Desert-Creations/61557661776084/
Here are what the header of my new pages look like, so you can be sure it is really me!! Click on the image and it will take you to my new Facebook pages
Happy June to You!
If it’s June, you’ll find me happily settled back in my Winemucca, Nevada studio. Just in time to escape the worst of the Arizona heat!
I really love my second home and I’m elated to be back in beautiful Winnemucca, which has a very interesting history that inspires many of my jewelry designs.
I’d like to share just a little of that history, so that you can get a sense of the influence it has on me.
CALIFORNIOS - click on photo for more info
The Cowboy Culture in Winnemucca, Northern Nevada and Eastern Oregon was influenced by the Spanish Californios.
They are Hispanic Californians, especially those descended from Spanish explorers and Mexican Settlers of the 17th - 19th centuries. Their culture, heritage and ranching styles can still be seen today.
BASQUE CULTURE - click on photo for more info
Basque Culture is also very prominent in Nevada, especially in Winnemucca and Elko, and still has a significant influence on the region today.
Winnemucca shares the rich culture of the Basque People, immigrants from Spain and France who first arrived in Nevada in the mid-1800’s during the Gold Rush, and again in the 20th century as sheep herders.
Their culture has blended with other influences to create a unique identity for Nevada and can be seen in the state’s cuisine and family-style dining.
Another claim to fame for Winnemucca: One of the largest Lithium producing mines is opening up just outside Winnemucca.
And one final reason for my affinity with Winnemucca! It produces high qualities of Gold and Silver are produced here. Nevada is high in various types of minerals.
I'm not really sure if the Stirling Silver I use in my jewelry comes from Winnemucca, but I'd like to think it does!
WINNEMUCCA TODAY- click on photo for more info!
Mother's Day is Sunday May 12th
What better way to show your Mother how much she means to you than with a beautiful piece of jewelry from you?
I have many gorgeous creations available, from necklaces to earring to rings to bracelets, even hat pins! All in many styles I think your Mom would be sure to love. Click this link to browse all available pieces, ready for purchase. Available pieces
Below are just a select few. Click photos below to see the details of each piece and to buy.
From left: "Outside The Box", "Love Struck", "Home On The Range", "Wild West" Hat Pin
I’m particularly interested in creating jewelry featuring hearts. Don’t you think they are perfect for Mother’s Day giving?
This is “ The Happy Heart” that I recently created and is available. Click on it’s image for information and to purchase.
My collection of turquoise hearts - all waiting to be made into the spectacular piece of your Mom’s dreams! The hard part is - which to choose? If you see one that you like contact me to make it yours Kathi89445@yahoo.com or call 775-304-6756
Why not give her a gift certificate so she can work one on one with me to create a special piece, tailored especially for her style? Click on the gift certificate below to purchase.
To all the Mom’s out there, I wish for you to feel loved, supported and treasured on this Mother’s Day, and everyday too! ~ Kathi