ABOUT DAVID ANDERSON FULL

“I love the process of hand making beautiful jewelry, of being a goldsmith. The physical act of creating, of using my hands to express deeper inspiration, connects me to the source of my art. The traditions and history of Taos and other cultures are expressed in my designs. Many of my fabrication techniques are based on Old World traditions, yet I also embrace modern technology. I make many of my own tools and alter existing tools to make them work better. I am fascinated by the vast array of techniques involved in making art jewelry.”

He is widely considered the foremost Taos repair expert, especially heirloom and vintage jewelry. He loves turning antique gems and settings into completely new works of art for his clients, and teaches jewelry making classes in his studio by appointment.

David is a native of Taos, New Mexico. His first experiences that led to a lifetime of goldsmithing were at a very early age while tinkering in his father’s workshop on the family ranch. In high school David’s first jewelry experience was with his Navajo friend who instructed him in the process of fixing a turquoise and silver watchband. This interest in intricacy led David to immerse himself in historic and spiritual jewelry styles. His time studying in New Mexico, New York, India, Italy, Egypt and Bali shows itself in dazzling and detailed metalwork.

David utilizes an assortment of fabrication techniques in his designs, which include hydraulic die forming, chasing and repoussé, engraving and lapidary techniques. He makes his own mokume gane mixed metal for his carved “Guri Bori” rings. David’s style continues to evolve, but the underlying theme in his work is mastery of technique.