2025

sterling silver, black spinel, black diamond

A couple of summers ago, I had four of my adult premolars extracted so I could make room for my other teeth to begin Invisalign (braces). The whole experience felt grotesque and strangely vain, softened only by some anesthesia and followed by a long healing process. It was odd that the natural state of my body was somehow dysfunctional, leading to crooked teeth, self-consciousness, and physical pain.

When the teeth were removed, I was adamant about getting them back, knowing that I wanted to make jewelry with them. I cast multiples in silver and bronze for pendants and rings that became unexpectedly popular. Friends, family, and even strangers now wear my tooth around their necks. These pieces have become part of what I am known for, and they have helped fund the creation of my larger and more ambitious art jewelry.

For this show, I wanted to push my “teeth jewelry” into a more conceptual and technically rigorous realm. I cast all four premolars and fabricated chain links to connect them. Every tooth is set with black spinel stones, and at the center of the necklace glints a black diamond. These stones mimic cavities, referencing the delicate balance of dental health, the pressure to maintain perfect pearly whites, and the privilege embedded in both.

The title is deliberately mocking and satirical. It confronts the people, systems, and experiences that have tried to push me down throughout my life. By reclaiming my teeth and transforming them into something precious, I am choosing to honor my body in all its imperfections and bite.