Crescent City, California At first, I mused at the notion ol "disposable jewelry." It seemed such an accurate account of contemporary American culture, yet I wanted to make things that nobody would ever want to throw away. As technical problems were solved and aesthetics developed, it became apparent to me how precious the pieces were despite the materials. The presence of an object has more value to me than its monetary worth. In these bracelets I question our concept of preciousness and our values. Many of these pieces are delicate - requiring the wearer to behave consciously. Because they are organic and fragile, they are reminders of how fragile the natural world is and also how bound we are to it. ABOVE: California Bracelet, 1997, fruticose lichens, 2 x 4½"; TOP LEFT: Colored Coils (bracelets), 1997, anodized aluminum, 3x4½", Photographs by Jerry L. Anthony