Forging meaning in metal
- Lisette handcrafts jewellery rich with meaning and the human touch
- A course in metalsmithing in Ecuador took her on a powerful creative journey
- She works mainly with recycled silver and gold, often from unworn or broken jewellery
In 2015, grieving the loss of her life partner of a decade, Lisette Bez went to her mother’s homeland of Ecuador. There, her cousin suggested a metalsmithing course, an experience she calls pivotal and life-changing. “I could see, touch and hold my healing through the pieces I created,” she says. “It was a moment that revealed to me the power of jewellery making.” Back in the USA, Lisette sold most of her possessions so she could return to Quito for further training. Working entirely by hand, she fabricates her own solder and wire as she creates pieces that repurpose heirlooms, old jewellery and keepsakes. Lisette’s precious metal pieces carry sentimental value, linking past to present, with items such as flowers from a bouquet or a child’s lock of hair incorporated within them. She also shares her knowledge and helps preserve traditional craftsmanship through workshops and mentoring.
Interview
- Which piece best tells your story as a jewellery maker?
- I recently developed a piece that mirrors how grief, healing and community has shaped me. A nebula-like oxidised silver centrepiece set with sapphires, diamonds and gold specks hangs from a woven silver collar lined with colourful sapphires. Each element is distinct, yet together they form something stronger and more beautiful.
- What did you learn from metalsmithing in Ecuador?
- I had limited access to ready-made materials, so I learned to melt silver grain, alloy metals, roll sheets and pull wire, as well as make my own solder. Creating from scratch made me more proficient and versatile. I can repurpose metals, tailor solder to behave exactly as I want, and work with far less reliance on store-bought products.
- How has your multicultural identity shaped your work?
- My mother is Ecuadorian and my father is French. My pieces often reflect both influences, blending Art Nouveau elements with Andean cosmology. Items often display an organic, nature-inspired style shaped by Ecuador’s biodiversity, featuring vines, leaves, serpents and patterns echoing Andean textiles.
- How do you source your materials?
- I often work with recycled silver and gold from clients’ unworn or broken jewellery. I also offer ethically-sourced stones. Many are delighted to learn they can repurpose what they already have into a new piece.
Lisette Bez is an expert artisan: she began her career in 2015 and she started teaching in 2022
Where
Lisette Bez
