We met Boom Chappell (figure 1), jewelry designer and founder of Metal Studio Jewelry, at the Pueblo show, where she shared her unconventional approach to jewelry making. Based in the picturesque town of Chiang Mai in northern Thailand, Chappell transforms her passion for nature and gemstones into exquisite one-of-a-kind creations (figure 2, left).
Her process is entirely organic. Unlike traditional designers who begin with sketches, Chappell prefers to work directly with the materials: “Sketching feels restrictive to me. Instead, I start shaping the piece as I go, allowing creativity to flow naturally.” By letting each gemstone guide her, she crafts pieces that are not only visually stunning but deeply meaningful.
Chappell thrives on collaboration, working closely with clients to bring their visions to life. “Sometimes, a customer will request something deeply personal—like incorporating their children’s birthstones into a necklace. I take their story and translate it into a piece of art they can cherish forever.” Her talent for directly transforming raw stones into wearable works of art sets her apart, ensuring that each piece resonates with its owner.
Selecting a favorite design is nearly impossible for her—she sees each gemstone as an unread book, its story unfolding as she works. “Even though I’ve set countless stones, no two are ever the same,” Chappell reflects. “Each gemstone has its own texture, energy, meaning, and presence, making every creation a unique journey.”
One of her most challenging creations features a drusy quartz gemstone. Originally envisioned as a solo centerpiece, Chappell expanded the design, weaving in complementary stones such as labradorite, freshwater pearls, and striking orange and blue kyanite (figure 2, right). “This drusy quartz gem’s natural formation is incredibly intricate,” she explains. “A single mistake could break a fragile tip, so patience and precision are key.”
Over time, Chappell has noticed a shift in how people value handcrafted jewelry. At trade shows, visitors often pause to admire her work, sensing the intention woven into each design. These moments of recognition fuel her passion and reaffirm her dedication to her craft. In a world of mass production, her work serves as a powerful reminder of the artistry that only human hands and an inspired mind can achieve.
We met Boom Chappell (figure 1), jewelry designer and founder of Metal Studio Jewelry, at the Pueblo show, where she shared her unconventional approach to jewelry making. Based in the picturesque town of Chiang Mai in northern Thailand, Chappell transforms her passion for nature and gemstones into exquisite one-of-a-kind creations (figure 2, left).
Her process is entirely organic. Unlike traditional designers who begin with sketches, Chappell prefers to work directly with the materials: “Sketching feels restrictive to me. Instead, I start shaping the piece as I go, allowing creativity to flow naturally.” By letting each gemstone guide her, she crafts pieces that are not only visually stunning but deeply meaningful.
Chappell thrives on collaboration, working closely with clients to bring their visions to life. “Sometimes, a customer will request something deeply personal—like incorporating their children’s birthstones into a necklace. I take their story and translate it into a piece of art they can cherish forever.” Her talent for directly transforming raw stones into wearable works of art sets her apart, ensuring that each piece resonates with its owner.
Selecting a favorite design is nearly impossible for her—she sees each gemstone as an unread book, its story unfolding as she works. “Even though I’ve set countless stones, no two are ever the same,” Chappell reflects. “Each gemstone has its own texture, energy, meaning, and presence, making every creation a unique journey.”
One of her most challenging creations features a drusy quartz gemstone. Originally envisioned as a solo centerpiece, Chappell expanded the design, weaving in complementary stones such as labradorite, freshwater pearls, and striking orange and blue kyanite (figure 2, right). “This drusy quartz gem’s natural formation is incredibly intricate,” she explains. “A single mistake could break a fragile tip, so patience and precision are key.”
Over time, Chappell has noticed a shift in how people value handcrafted jewelry. At trade shows, visitors often pause to admire her work, sensing the intention woven into each design. These moments of recognition fuel her passion and reaffirm her dedication to her craft. In a world of mass production, her work serves as a powerful reminder of the artistry that only human hands and an inspired mind can achieve.
