I have made my own jewelry since 1953 using my Mother's old costume jewelry. I refurbish costume jewelry and well as assemble premade sterling silver findings and create costume jewelry. I had an opportunity in 1994 to become an Silver Smith Apprentice from Richard Byrne and have never looked back. I am still learning, and hope to be able to pass on my knowledge to younger people. I have taken lapidary and jewelry creation instructions at Modesto Jr. College from The Motherlode Mineral Society, in Modesto, CA. My Sister,Julia and I also have www.thecornergiftshop.com I also have a shop for my lapidary equipment and I am in the process of getting the equipment set up. I also like to rockhound, gardening, crocheting, genealogy and traveling.; http://www.stores.ebay.com/Vevadales-Gift-Shop-And-Jewelry