SW New Mexico News

The New Mexico State University (NMSU) will host its 42nd annual jewelry sale, showcasing unique handmade pieces crafted by metalsmithing students from the Department of Art. The event is scheduled for October 28, from 7:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., at the NMSU Bookstore coffee shop, located at 1400 E. University Ave. Customers will benefit from two hours of free parking.

"The jewelry sale gives the students experience as professionals in the jewelry industry," said Motoko Furuhashi, an associate art professor at NMSU. "The students learn jewelry advertising, marketing, accounting, customer care and jewelry production."

Students participating in the sale include Imperio Hernandez, a junior in the studio art program who expressed enthusiasm about selling her creations: "Selling my work feels surreal... I am excited to improve the product and make the packaging fun and decorative as well."

Elizabeth Swenson's oceanic collection features jellyfish earrings made using lost wax castings. Swenson shared her preference for materials: "Bronze, brass, copper, silver, gems, and stones if I like the way they look."

Graduate student Julieanna Lerma contributes with sterling silver pieces that reflect her personal style. She described her work as "an extension of myself that is an expression of handmade chain work and alternative aesthetics."

Not limited to art majors, Emalie Lamb Hames from the School of Hotel, Restaurant and Tourism Management also participates in the sale. She developed a floral design scheme for this year's collection featuring various price ranges: "I try to focus on having items in a wide range of prices...from $20 to about $100."

Proceeds from the event will support student activities in metalsmithing and help acquire new equipment for their studio. Donations are welcome through https://nmsufoundation.org/givenow/jewelry for those unable to attend.

For more details on upcoming events or information about this sale, visit their Facebook page or Instagram @nmsumetals.