Gem Carving | Carvings by Sherris Cottier Shank

Sherris Cottier Shank

I began my career in the jewelry industry as a goldsmith, a trade I practiced for 12 years. But when I discovered gem carving, I found my true voice, and the medium I was destined to explore. I long ago traded away my goldsmithing tools and now focus my full attention on gem carving.

As a gem-carver I am concerned with a wide range of aesthetic qualities. The external form must be pleasing and easy to set. The carved surfaces must have crisp lines but liquid shape. The design must coax the richest possible color from the rough. The surface of the gem must be perfectly polished and the finished gem carving must be bright and lively.

All of my gem carvings are one-of-a-kind, natural gems. I deliver each gem carving with a full colored stone grading report from the North American Lapidary Laboratory. I want you to have full confidence in every piece I create.

My style of gem carving is driven by line, motion and depth. It is often described as curvilinear, or organic. Gemstones truly are a miracle of nature and I work to honor their beauty with a fluid, sensual design.

Below you will see photos of loose gem carvings designed for jewelry as well as freestanding sculpture. I have also included photos of a small selection of jewelry that other artists have created around my gems.

Gem carving is my passion. Welcome to my world.
Sherris

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Sherris has won more than 10 AGTA awards as well as an award of Idar Oberstein (the gemstone center of Europe) in her career.

Company:	Gemscapes
First name:	Sherris Cottier
Last name:	Shank
Email:	sherris@gemscapes.com
Website:	http://www.gemscapes.com
City:	Southfield
State:	Michigan
Zip code:	48037
Country:	USA
Phone number:
Professions:	Goldsmith, Gem Carver