About
About
Delpfine Welch
I love to take a rock, transform it into a gem, add metal, and wind up with a beautiful piece of handcrafted artisan jewelry.
I learned to cut cabochons at the Houston Gem and Mineral Society (HGMS). I was encouraged by the club members who taught me, and by winning Best in Show with my very first stone at the 1991 HGMS show.
Now, I design most of my one-of-a-kind handcrafted artisan jewelry around my cabochons.
I have a Ph.D. in geology and I married a rockhound. My husband collects rocks in South Texas and makes a trip or two to West Texas every year. I like to cut the fossilized wood, agates, and rhyolites that he collects and use them in my jewelry.
I cut and use other stones as well because I love the bold blues, greens, purples, and reds of lapis lazuli, malachite, sugilite, and a variety of jaspers. These stones and those from my husband coupled with the simple lines that I love making for a Delpfine Welch design.
In addition to the lapidary work, I do all the metal fabrication. This includes making metal beads and links, clasps, and ear wires. I like the way it feels to make it all myself. I like to learn, so I enjoy trying new techniques that take me in different directions.
Delpfine Welch
Delpfine Welch Designs
Austin, TX