I create one-of-a-kind jewelry using sustianably collected organic materials. I am from rural San Lorenzo, Nicaragua, where exploring the surrounding forest and mountains I learned about different varieties of nuts, seeds, and woods, discovering the beauty of nature’s detail. My work honors nature through its design and process – all of my renewable materials are organic and metals are recycled. As a trained archaeologist, I gained a deeper appreciation for the ancestral and cultural uses of seeds and nuts for jewelry and adornment.

My artistic process begins by collecting seeds and fallen wood from the forest floor. I dry, clean and cure, carve, sand, and inlay to create one-of-a-kind necklaces, earrings, and rings. I incorporate sterling silver inlay into many of my pieces, using ancient symbols and Mayan numerology.  My work reflects my cultural heritage and nature, while experimenting with new elements of design and innovative use of natural materials.www No two pieces are exactly alike.

I moved from Nicaragua to Louisville, Kentucky in 2005 with my wife Amy where we collaborate to sell my work as Naturaleza Organic Jewelry on-line and at local retailers and art fairs. We are excited to be expecting a baby in November.

 I am a member of the Kentucky Craft Marketing Program, Kentucky Guild of Artists and Craftsmen and the Louisville Artisans Guild. I work as an archaeologist, play Latin American folk music with my band Appalatin, and I'm social justice activist.

Naturaleza Organic Jewelry has received honors and awards for:

Best New Exhibitor, Kentucky Crafted: The Market, 2009

Grand Prize, Cherokee Triangle Art Fair, 2005

Award of Distinction, Belknap Art Fair, 2005

Merit Award, Belknap Art Fair, 2006