info@elisebergeron.com

Élise Bergeron graduated in visual arts. She obtained a master degree in art history and worked as a curator and as a cultural officer for the government in Montreal, Quebec. Artist, she started working with metal, and that interest switched her to jewellery and gemmology for witch she obtained  a diploma from the Gemmological Association and Gem Laboratory of Great Britain, (FGA).

STATEMENT

Since a few years, my work is based on the qualities and the proprieties of high karat gold (20 to 24 k) and fine silver. The malleability and ductility of those precious metals give me the opportunity to create quite light but relatively bold pieces of jewellery. I roll very, very thin ribbons of metal, corrugate, hammer, fold, forge and die in my self-fabricated steel dies. Than, I heat and fuse the form with a preparation of flux that is similar to the one used for granulation. Therefore, I don't use very much solder. This process needs many manipulations but I can make quite many pieces that are all very unique.

Each piece is experimental in a way, because I try to work on the "tree dimensions" (bulk appearance) of the form and the result can be different from one to another.

My designs are simple, not intricate, rather geometric or organic forms that look like small works of sculpture. Also inspired by ancient ethnic jewellery, I want to see in the jewellery the intense labour put on the texture of the metal as opposed to manufacture jewellery. That’s why I mostly don’t cast anymore since hand manipulation gives more detailed and rich textures and reflection.

Élise Bergeron is a graduate of the GEMMOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION AND GEM TESTING LABORATORY OF GREAT BRITAIN (GEM-A). Most pieces of her jewellery are embellished  with gems of all kinds. She believes that gems should be more appreciated by the consumer as many of them are reasonably priced and come in an unlimited variety of colour.

Of course, special requests are welcome. As a gemmologist, Élise Bergeron can find for you fine gems. All jewellery created with fine or precious gemstones comes with a certificate.

In association with Expertises Alain Lacoursière, Élise Bergeron offers services in old and modern jewel authentication and appraisal. Your purpose may be insurance, estate or curiosity, she can appraise all your jewel belongings.