Artfully Elegant — Handmade Jewelry & Handcrafted Gifts

Chris Ploof

Award winning master jeweler Chris Ploof hails from a small town in Massachusetts. He grew up visiting the local living museum and watching the craftspeople manipulate glass, tin and iron. The experience inspired him to the use of heat and tools to ingeniously create utility and elegance. After traveling the world trying careers that spoke to his historical influences and technical skills, Chris Ploof found himself back on his boyhood path. He attempted to make a forge improvised by a 55 gallon drum, fire bricks and a hair dryer. Eventually his knowledge seeking lead him to jewelry making classes. And at last, he was home. Chris has studied with many well-known artists, and apprenticed under a master goldsmith. He has an insatiable curiosity and drive that lead him down long roads even after the challenges at hand have been met.

The Santa Fe Symposium has twice chosen Chris to receive the Industry Leader Award. His work has been on the cover of Showcase 500 Rings and in countless other publications. The Chris Ploof name has become synonymous with handmade meteorite rings. His unique wedding rings are made with actual meteorite material that he has collected from various sources over the years. Of course it goes without saying that his mokume gane and naked damascus engagement rings and wedding bands are one of a kind works of art.

Chris on Chris

“I am inspired by historical styles and methods, but I also love exploring new techniques and materials, pushing the envelope of current and accepted techniques. Challenges always seem to lead down long roads even after they have been met, and spawn many future ideas and designs for me. I approach my work with an open mind, ready to learn new things about my medium. My sense of humor is my greatest asset when things don’t go as planned. The best discoveries can come from the biggest mistakes. Impossible is only a temporary condition.” – Chris Ploof

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