Three Generations of Craftsmanship

Enjoy the intriguing tale of three talented relatives and how their passion for jewelry, and individual skills, created a masterful one-of-a-kind pendant.

Several decades ago, a gem lover traveled the entire world collecting precious gemstones and minerals. From the mines near Swakopmund, Namibia, he purchased a large variety of high quality Chrysacolla.

He passed some of his acquisitions on to his son, Martin Key. Martin had become an award winning gem cutter and jewelry designer in Maine.

In recent years, his grandson, Chuck (and Martin’s son), began working as a wax carver and goldsmith at Brown Goldsmiths. Chuck, also, carries the familial passion for gemstones and started experimenting with wax techniques at age 10.

Having previously worked with the Brown’s team, and with Chuck involved, Martin presented some of his rare Chrysacolla for purchase. Our owner and store manager couldn’t resist some of the specimens and got to quick work getting some magnificent, one-of-a-kind, pieces into production.

The choice of a teardrop shape Chrysacolla, which Martin had cut, began the team on their mission to create a piece of jewelry that would allow the gemstone to shine. Upon deciding on a pendant, Chuck hand carved a wax mold to let the gem speak for itself while Serena, our CAD (Computer-Aided Design) designer got to work on a specific Brown’s Signature style bail to attach it to a chain. This bail was inspired by earring posts previously designed by the team.

Once all of the pieces were in place, the setting and bail were cast in 14k gold. Chuck hoped to honor the integrity of the gem without incident and used his expertise to do just that. The vision came to life perfectly.

Its’ blue-green color, rarity, and metaphysical properties make Chrysacolla a popular gemstone for many. This piece has been no exception. Having garnered a great deal of attention already, we have a few more “Key Team” designs on the way!

From the explorer, to the gem cutter, to the goldsmith, we have been honored to work with this remarkably interesting family, and we look forward to the many future jewelry possibilities in store for all of us.