We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Sabina Jung a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Sabina, appreciate you joining us today. Can you talk to us about how you learned to do what you do?

I cultivated my craft through independent learning and the use of online resources, seeking out tutorials and jewelry magazines to educate and refine my skills. Initially, I focused on mastering various jewelry making techniques to develop my talents, and eventually discovered my personal style in creating distinctive sterling silver gemstone jewelry pieces.

Then I discovered a little known medium called precious metal clay, and I was immediately captivated by the endless creative possibilities it offered. Its unique ability to be molded and shaped like clay, yet fired into solid metal, had me obsessing over the limitless design potential.

I invested in the necessary tools and equipment, and enrolled in online classes and instructional videos, studying the art of working with this casting method. When my first silver pendant emerged from the kiln, I knew in that moment that I had discovered my true calling.

As my business expanded, I began producing components in larger quantities for other jewelry makers. To meet the rising demand, I invested in upgrading my equipment to larger capacities and extended my workspace by building an outdoor studio, enabling me to increase production and meet the needs of my customers. This required learning and developing new techniques tailored for large-scale output.

Through 15 years of making jewelry, and 9 years of specializing in metal clay, I have gained invaluable insights and skills. I’ve found that hands-on experience and trial-and-error experimentation are the most effective teachers, allowing me to refine my techniques and adapt to new challenges. Notably, each metal clay brand boasts distinct properties, ensuring that every new clay I work with presents a fresh learning opportunity, complete with its own set of quirks and nuances to master.

Today, I tap into the collective expertise of metal clay artists and professionals through Facebook groups dedicated to the craft. These online communities have become my go-to resource for learning and growth, offering a wealth of information and inspiration. I often think back to my early days of exploring metal clay, and I realize how invaluable these connections would have been when I was starting out. Having a supportive network of fellow artists and professionals to ask questions, share knowledge, and learn from would have made navigating the craft as a beginner much easier and less intimidating.

Sabina, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

As the owner and designer at Sapientia Jewelry & Beads, I specialize in hand casting solid copper and bronze components for the jewelry-making trade. I also create jewelry using my own components as well, focusing on original mixed metal designs that showcase quality craftsmanship. My preference is to work with solid metals like sterling silver, copper and bronze, combining them with gemstones to craft artisanal collectors pieces.

I work with a very unique medium called “precious metal clay” to cast my copper and bronze pieces. This innovative material is composed of pure metal powder mixed with an organic binder, making it moldable like clay. After shaping and refining, the piece is dried and fired in a kiln at high heat, causing the binder to burn away and the metal particles to fuse together, resulting in a solid metal piece. This form of casting makes for endless design possibilities.

One of the things I love most about working with precious metal clay is the level of detail and texture I can achieve. The clay can be sculpted and formed with intricate precision, allowing me to create complex designs and patterns. It also has its own unique texture and finish, which sets it apart from traditional casting methods.

I enjoy the ability to craft unique jewelry components that are scarce in the market, such as curved bracelet connectors and matched earring pairs. Driven by a desire to share these rare finds with fellow jewelry makers, I have become passionate about making them accessible to others.

I am always thrilled to see my components become the building blocks for other artists’ masterpieces. There’s a sense of pride and fulfillment in knowing that my creations are helping to bring their visions to life. With each new design and every piece that leaves my studio, I feel like I’m making a meaningful contribution to the world of jewelry making.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

I thrive on the freedom to continuously bring innovative ideas to life. Designing new components, exploring fresh techniques, and collaborating with clients to realize their visions – these are the best aspects of my creative journey. When I’m not working, I indulge in daydreams about the infinite possibilities of design. The ever-changing landscape of projects and ideas is what fuels my enthusiasm and inspiration.

Every project I take on is an opportunity to learn and grow. Each design challenge presents new ways to enhance my skills, whether through mastering a new tool, refining a technique, or finding a more efficient solution. I am constantly inspired by the feedback I receive from my clients and peers, using it to evolve and adapt. This drive for improvement is what makes my work exciting and rewarding.

The best part of my job is seeing how my components come to life in my customers’ finished pieces. There’s nothing quite like knowing that something I created with my own hands is now a part of someone’s treasured possession. It’s a wonderful feeling to know that my work is making a difference in someone’s life, no matter how small it may seem. This connection with my customers is what motivates me to keep exploring my artistic potential.

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

Despite the vastness of the jewelry making industry, I quickly discovered that there are numerous products that are surprisingly scarce. Particularly, there is limited availability of high-quality copper and bronze components, a gap that many jewelry makers are eager to see filled. I’ve discovered a niche market with ongoing demand, and aim to make these premium materials more accessible to artists. This insight inspired me to focus on designing metal components that are uncommon and difficult to find, addressing the gaps in the market.

By combining my technical skills with my artistic vision, I aim to create pieces that not only showcase my own style, but also inspire others to explore their individual creativity. I understand jewelry makers are constantly seeking unique art beads that elevate their creations into truly special pieces.

As my journey continues, I aim to establish my business as a renowned presence in the handmade jewelry industry. My goal is to become a respected and recognized name among jewelry makers, known for my distinctive handcrafted components and commitment to quality.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://sapientiabeads.etsy.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sapientia.beads
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sapientiabeads
• Other: Jewelry website:
  https://sapientiajewelry.etsy.com/