John Downie works his skills as a jeweller. His pieces are handcrafted in metaI – principally fine (999) and sterling (925) silver, with reticulation (800) silver used for distinctive effects. According to John, “I’m a big fan of surface roughness in jewellery. To get a range of textures in my own work, I use roller printing, hammering, and flame-produced reticulation. Flowing form in jewellery fascinates me as well. I frequently employ a technique known as fold-forming to do this. This technique, when combined with more hammer forming, can result in incredibly delicate shapes. Finally, I use patination, gemstone beads, pearls, or bezel-set stones to provide contrast and colour to several of my pieces.”
