Eila Kaarina Mackenzie
Artist Statement The earth and the oceans supply me with incredible materials to challenge my creativity. The myriad colors and the tactile sensations of stones and pearls inspire me to create unique pieces that are timeless.Biography On a visit to China in 1996 after my eldest son & family moved to Beijing, I was awed by the varieties of gems and pearls available in the markets. The antique markets were full of old jades and unusual objects. I decided to start Kaarina M. Designs in 1997. I attended the Studio Jewelry School and the Gemological Institute of America where I studied diamonds, colored stones and pearl grading. My annual trips to China refill my jewelry studio.