This weekend I was lucky enough to be involved in a jewelry class with four other artists.  We discussed creative techniques in metal and worked on our certifications in these methods.  

When I reflect I understand that I've really had an amazing journey this past year.  I never really realized that I see the world a bit differently than everyone else.   

In learning these techniques in metal I've been able to reclaim a part of me that I had forgotten about.  I had forgotten what it felt like to enjoy making wearable art. It feels amazing when you can give a little piece of yourself to others and see them smile.  This year I have had a lot of ups and downs in so many areas but I am blessed to realize I was inspired by nothing less than faith, trust and silver jewelry dust.  

I'm often asked by family and friends the meaning of my unique artists mark.  So what is the origin of FayM™ ?  It's very simple.  I have a middle name of Faye and because the e is silent in the pronuciation I dropped it and added the M for McClellan.  This created a pseudonym to be pronounced: Fame or Fay M.  There are additional meanings to my middle name as well which make it ideal for me as a trademark.  It is more than a shorthand version of my name because it has became a fanciful mark with secondary meaning.  Each pendant carries a little wish of fame and fortune for those that wear a FayM™  piece.

If you have an original piece of jewelry or a painting created through my efforts it will bear this mark unless otherwise noted in the exchange.  

This monogram pendant which was photographed before the jump ring was added, is made from 99.9% fine silver.  This is also known as silver bullion.  This piece went to a precious cousin of mine.   I really hope she is enjoying it! 

A ring is a ring is a ring.  This is my first attempt to create a custom ring.  I fell in love with the process and I created this sweet little treat for myself in the quest to learn more about working with silver. This ring fit perfectly on my hand the first try!  In time I may consider adding a ring collection to the FayM™  lineup but for now, to start, we will only have pendants.  The fall collection only contains pendants for 2012.  Things change with time and training though so we will see what time brings!

These pieces were an early attempt at enameling.  When I created the set I realized I was more of a purist when it comes to working in silver.  I believe that the classic lines are beautiful when light hits them bare.   Adding a pop of color with a pearl seems to give it more beauty to me.   As I continue to learn more I will inevidably work with color again but next time I may try a different technique.  Enameling was interesting yet not the right path for my designs.  I love color in painting and I think I will eventually get a feel for it with metal.  We will see!

This unique hand designed pendant was created to be feminine yet casual. This piece can be worn with anything... a sundress or a simple tank.  A freshwater pearl gently dangles beneath a rose relief set in 99.9 % fine silver, all entirely resting on a sterling silver 18 inch chain.

This design was recently donated to the Delta Kappa Gamma Society, Kentucky chapter, as an auction item.  All proceeds from the sale of this item will go to the charity of their choice.