• Home
  • Available Pieces
  • Purchased
  • Ranch Brands
  • Custom Pieces
  • Bead Artistry
  • About Kathi
  • FAQ
  • Blog & Events
  • Newsletter Sign up
  • Contact
  • Sign In My Account
Menu

High Desert Creations

BY KATHI TURNER
  • Home
  • Available Pieces
  • Purchased
  • Ranch Brands
  • Custom Pieces
  • Bead Artistry
  • About Kathi
  • FAQ
  • Blog & Events
  • Newsletter Sign up
  • Contact
  • Sign In My Account

Events Blog

Turner_Kathi PROCESS - In Studio #1.jpeg
87297483_2811146075597871_400794833255399424_o CROPPED.jpg

PROCESS: HOW IT’S MADE

August 5, 2021

When an idea becomes real it sometimes turns out better than I saw it in my mind. It starts and it ends up coming from the heart. It’s so exciting!

IMG_2316 - SQUARE.jpg
tools work in progress.jpg

(right) I create a design on paper and then select metals. I work with sterling silver and copper, with a touch of brass now and then. The metal is cut, formed, texturized and sometimes bent.

(left) On a charcoal brick, the metals are soldered together with a torch using silver solder and flux – a product that helps the silver solder adhere to metal. Next it is ‘pickled’ in a mild acid liquid that takes off fire scale between soldering stages.

tumbler.jpeg
A Time For Healing And Comfort.jpg

(right) The piece is put in a tumbling unit to finish off any rough edges. Depending on the preferred look, it is sometimes put in an antiquating solution. Finally, the work of wearable art is polished to the desired finish and the stones are set.

(left) “Time For Healing and Comfort” A slice of Owyhee Jasper in desert colors is the centerpiece of this two-piece pendant with a Carnelian stone drop and accent all set in sterling silver. Carnelian is a healing stone and Owyhee Jasper is thought to bring comfort. The pendant measures 2¾" x 3¼" and hangs from an 18" Rolo style chain.

Unbridled in progress.jpeg
Turner_Kathi - Unbridled - SQUARE.jpeg

From the “Unbridled” collection, this significant statement pendant in sterling silver showcases an outstanding turquoise stone from the famous #8 Mine in Elko, NV cut by Jason Brousseau, New Mexico Stone Supply, Belen, NM. Sterling silver accents feature a jumping designer cast horse. Pendant measures 3½" x 2¼" and hangs from a wheat weave chain.

Turner_Kathi PROCESS Workbench #1.jpg
Turner_Kathi PROCESS  - Tools.jpg

Here are the tools of the trade – at the ready on the work bench – at the ready to turn metal and stone into works of wearable art. Here is where I create my vision and I’m always excited to work with you to create your vision, too. Let’s collaborate!

← APPLY NOW: Cowgirl 30 Under 30 RecognitionI LOVE COWGIRL MAGAZINE! →

At High Desert Creations, I create handmade wearable art pendants, bracelets and earrings that represent my connection to earth, sky and spirit in original Western, Southwestern and Contemporary designs – rustic & simplistic/refined & modernistic.

I also work with patrons to create distinctive styles of custom jewelry on commission.

Your design vision is key to your satisfaction and I welcome collaboration!

Via message, text, email, chat – or with a drawing or description or selection of stone, metals, symbols – I will work with you to create an original work of wearable art just for you. If you already have a piece that you would like me to rework – I’m happy to help with that.  

Copyright © 2025

High Desert Creations - All Rights Reserved.

Contact me

Are you on Instagram or Facebook? Follow me there!