My name is Luis Fernando Quintero and I have worked in the jewelry industry for over 30 years. I worked as a castor, repairer, polisher and metalsmith until I decided to design and handcraft my own jewelry lines. At heart, I have always been an artist and I have explored my artistic passions at every stage of my 30+ year journey through the world of jewelry production.
I consider my designs to be wearable art. They feature unique gemstone combinations and bring together old-world techniques and high-quality craftsmanship, with modern colors, angles and shapes. The quality of my product is very important to me and for this reason, my designs are all handcrafted by myself.
What Kind Of Materials Are You Using?
I work primarily in recycled gold (14K & 18K), silver and increasingly these days in bronze. I do a lot of filigree work which requires a lot of painstakingly detailed welding, for which 14K and 18K gold are well suited. I am also always in search of beautiful gemstones to reuse and inspire my designs. Although these days, I am taking inspiration from the types and shapes of metal which I have at my disposal. This is how my eco-metal and junk-chic lines got their start.
What Got You Started Jewelry Crafting?
When I started out in the jewelry industry, I was not a maker. I fulfilled various duties – polishing, casting, repairing etc. Through coming into contact with a lot of jewelry, I got to the idea that I could make jewelry that was more precise, more durable and more interesting through exercise of my artistic and handy-man skills. I am a very handy person. If something is broken, like a radio, for example, I always find a way to restore it to prime condition, making it sturdier and stronger than before. I also really love drawing and art. Jewelry making brings these two interests together and developing in this craft has proven to be an incredibly fulfilling journey.
How and/or Where Do You Sell Your Jewelry?
I create my jewelry out of a workshop in the Diamond District in NYC. I sell my designs out of this location. Anyone can make an appointment to stop by and check out some of my designs in person by calling me, Luis Fernando, at 212.575.0683 or by sending an e-mail to info@fernandojewelry.com. My jewelry is available for sale online at my Etsy shop: luisfernando.etsy.com.
What Is Your Source of Inspiration?
I go for many walks throughout New York City and it is from the life, texture and nature of the City and its green spaces that I draw my inspiration.
Why Handmade Jewelry?
Because handmade jewelry is a better product. When I create, I am all about the fine detail. If I didn’t handcraft my jewelry, I would have less control over the quality of those details.
I also enjoy working with customers to design something specifically for them. Hand making jewelry keeps me creative and flexible and this in turn allows me to meet the unique demands of my customers.
Find me on:
www.luisfernando.etsy.com
Featured Jewelry Artist: The Jewelry Observer Interviews Luis Fernando Quintero Copyright © 2011 The Jewelry Observer All Rights Reserved.
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Impressive work you make. And so much experience in the field. I enjoy your work a lot, so many details. The interview is great to read, you have so many interesting things to tell. Like your background about restoring and making jewelry. Thanks for sharing your story!