Lake Minnetonka Jewelry Makers and Artisans

Four local artisans turn precious metals and materials into one-of-a-kind creations.

By: Liz McKeone Peterson | From the issue: February 2012

Photo: Marshall Franklin Long

One of Beth Novak's most recent wearable works of art, white choker, $338.

Beth Novak loves metal—particularly copper and sterling silver. From necklaces and earrings to rings, Novak manipulates and ultimately marries these two elements in unique and creative ways.

She first developed a love of metal while working toward an art degree at the University of Wisconsin–Stout, but life and family intervened, and Novak didn’t return to art until her children were older. “But I came back to metals,” she says. Then, a class she attended about eight years ago on enamels changed the way she worked with copper. Now, her work features enamel-coated copper with silver backing.

Novak starts any design with a sheet of copper. She etches and manipulates the copper to create a design that will ultimately become the focal point of the piece. Then, she uses a torch or kiln to heat the copper to 1500 degrees; this melts the enamel onto the copper, changing the appearance of the copper. “The color of the piece,” says Novak, “comes from the thickness of the copper.”

Next, Novak turns her attention to the sterling silver. Using a chemical process called patina, Novak modifies the appearance of the silver. “The patina creates what I call a ‘gun metal’ color,” says Novak. “This color varies from piece of piece. I don’t have total control over the process, and it makes the surface of the silver so much more interesting.” The silver holds the enameled copper in place, and Novak uses a tiny saw blade to cut prongs that add additional support.

Her contemporary art jewelry is a hit with women who are craving something unique for a night out on the town. Novak’s work is often found at indoor shows and at a handful of local galleries. Most recently, her work was on display at the Minnetonka Center for the Arts. Novak’s designs and prices vary; a pair of Novak’s earrings starts at about $80, and a large pendant can cost upwards of $900.

Blue circle pendant, $795, by Beth Novak