BARBARA M. BERK

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“Sea Dragon: Chrysoprase”, a necklace by Barbara Berk Designs, will be shown in the exhibition The Gem Artists of North America, to be held at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, Los Angeles, CA from May 4 – July 30, 2000.

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The necklace, comprised of a handwoven clasp of 22kt and 18kt gold suspended from four strands of 3mm Chrysoprase beads, features a one-of-a-kind 23.89ct Chrysoprase drop carved by Sherris Cottier Shank. Ms. Shank, an award-winning lapidary artist, is a founding member of the Gem Artists of North America. “Sea Dragon: Chrysoprase” will be shown with two of Ms. Shank’s gemstone sculptures.

Barbara Berk Designs creates limited production and one-of-a-kind 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 clasps and stickpins, both ornamental and functional, complement the classical forms. This contemporary approach to ancient techniques creates a collection which is uniquely feminine and versatile.

Barbara Berk was a Rising Star at the 1998 JCK International Jewelry Show in Las Vegas and a Finalist in the American Jewelry Design Council (1999), Niche Awards (1998) and Women’s Jewelry Association’s DIVA (1997) design competitions. Her jewelry can be seen at the JCK Show in Las Vegas (Design Center #35041), the JA Show in New York (International Jewelry Design Guild’s Design Collection 2000) and at various craft shows around the country.