Local artist will showcase jewelry at Needham Winter Arts Festival - Wicked Local Needham
Local artist Sam Behar has been making jewelry for about eight years. A celebration of the natural world, Behar uses rocks he finds and shapes and polishes them to use in pendants. Many of his pieces include semiprecious stones in the center.
Behar’s interest in jewelry making stemmed from his childhood when he learned the craft of lapidary, which is the cutting, polishing or engraving of gems or stones. As an adult Behar began studying silversmith techniques and took classes where he learned techniques for turning stones into jewelry.
In addition to pendants Behar makes earrings, pins, rings and bracelets out of silver.
Behar will be one of many local artists participating in Needham’s second annual Winter Arts Festival on Dec. 10.
What drew you to jewelry making?
I’ve always been a rock hound and a collector. To this very day, I am always looking for interesting rocks when we go on vacation, and often need to send home a box of rocks! I love nature and I see my jewelry as an extension of my awe for the natural world.
What is your process?
I start with the rock and once I have the slabs, I look to see how I can show off, or reveal, the natural beauty of the stone. Then it’s a matter of coming up with an interesting setting. My daughter Hannah is very artistic and has a great eye for color and balance. She has really pushed me to be more creative with my settings and has really inspired me to do some of my best work.
Do you have any favorite pieces?
My favorite pieces end up in my wife’s collection or ‘borrowed’ by my daughter!
What should people know about your jewelry and you as an artist?
I love to see something in a stone or rock and turn it into something special. I then try to marry it to a particular setting, something that will complement or even enhance the natural beauty of the stone. This is a creative outlet for me. Although sometimes I wish I could retire and do this full time, for now it is only a hobby, which is a good because it allows me to have fun. I am also always thrilled when I see someone wearing something I made.
What can people expect to see in your jewelry?
I enjoy trying out new techniques so my jewelry is always evolving and changing. It keeps the creating and the making interesting — all my pieces really are a one-of-a-kind piece.
