BARBARA M. BERK

Foster City, CA - Barbara Berk, owner of Barbara Berk Designs in Foster City, CA, received the annual Award for Excellence in Design from the Women’s Jewelry Association at a dinner ceremony held in New York City on July 28, 2002 during the Jewelers of America trade show.

Established in 1984, the annual Awards for Excellence program acknowledges the outstanding accomplishments and milestones of exceptional women in all facets of the jewelry industry. Nominated and voted on by WJA members, the awards are considered the “Oscars” of the jewelry industry. The Women’s Jewelry Association, founded in 1983, is the preeminent association of professional women in the jewelry, watch and related businesses. Through the national organization, headquartered in New York City, and eight regional chapters, members benefit from educational and networking opportunities, scholarships, grants, design competitions and recognition programs. 

Barbara Berk creates jewelry using textile techniques with precious metals. Handwoven high karat gold or platinum “fabric” is shaped into ribbons and ruffles,spirals and loops – which become earrings, brooches, necklaces and pendants. Interchangeable stickpins and centerpieces, both ornamental and functional, expand the wearability and the value of the collection. This contemporary approach to classical forms and ancient techniques creates jewelry which is uniquely feminine and versatile.

Barbara Berk won First Place in the 2001 Saul Bell Design Award competition for jewelry design for her “Paisley” Pendant/Brooch. She is the author of “A Platinum Tapestry: Weaving all the Elements Together” published in Platinum Manufacturing Process Volume VIII by the Platinum Guild International USA. Her jewelry is featured in the 3rd edition of Textile Techniques in Metal by Arline M. Fisch (2001). Berk was a winner in the World Gold Council’s Gold Trends 2000, and a Finalist in the American Jewelry Design Council (1999 and 1998), Niche Awards (1998) and Women’s Jewelry Association’s DIVA (1997) design competitions. She made her trade show debut as a Rising Star at the 1998 JCK International Jewelry Show in Las Vegas.
   
Barbara Berk’s handwoven high karat gold and platinum jewelry is available at select craft shows, jewelry stores and galleries.