I stumbled upon US metalsmith, Aubrey Chrisman's wonderful etched silver jewelry in PhantasmJewelry.  It didn't take long to be charmed her whimsical collections. She calls them "magical jewelry for the curious at heart."

Her skill at etching and using the jewelry saw is so inspirational. In her hands, sterling silver becomes charming animals or characters from books and movies such as Alice in Wonderland and Watership Down.  

The Monstro whale pendant above was inspired by Monstro from Disney's Pinocchio.  Tim Burton's Nightmare before Christmas is represented by the jolly face of the mayor of Halloween town. Pokemon characters are also included.  The designs are eclectic and definitely have a magical quality of their own. 



How did she become a metalsmith? Aubrey explains how health issues derailed her life and put her on a different path. She explained : 
I'm 34 years old. I went to school for Archaeology and though maybe a career in museums sounded interesting. Long story short, a went on a few digs, and quickly found this wasn't the path for me (however, still finished with a degree in Anthropology).

 I still love to curate. I think that's why I tend to release collections, because it allows me to explore themes and organize accordingly 😉 While I was trying to figure out a new path, my health starting taking a dive. 

After years of debilitating symptoms, I finally found out a had a rare disorder, called Erythromelalgia. I had to quit my retail job because I was in excruciating pain every day. This was actually a blessing in disguise because I had the chance to really explore smithing on my own terms, with no distraction or pressure. I found a craft I loved, and thought with practice, I might be good at🤔 I

 hope my pieces convey whimsy, with a curiosity-seeking twist. I love outer space, bones, minerals, weird occurrences, fantasy, monsters, and literature. I often feel nostalgic about 90's cartoons. I try to add a dose of humor whenever I can! 🤣 Daydreaming is my absolute favorite past time😃 My favorite places are record stores, coffee shops, and antique stores.
Aubrey says she is much better these days with treatment and knowing her own limitations. This means she can continue making her whimsical jewelry for people to enjoy!








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Disclosure 
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Original Post by THE BEADING GEM