Mark first became interested in designing his own jewelry after completing his geology degree. He would go to Herkimer to mine diamonds and wanted to set them in jewelry, but could not find settings he liked. He spoke to a woman who hosted jewelry parties and she gave him a catalog from Rio Grande Gems, which is a supplier for jewelers. He ordered some supplies and started making necklaces and earrings using beads.

Mark then took a silver smithing course and followed that with a casting course at Boces. He continued making jewelry as a hobby. He taught himself to do glass etching after enrolling in a course that was cancelled due to lack of interest.

Mark’s interest in stained glass was fostered by a friend who introduced him to the owners of Camillus Stained Glass. He purchased glass supplies and equipment and then took a course to learn the craft.

For the last few years Mark has been teaching himself how to make glass beads using Murano glass and remnants of stained glass and using them in his jewelry designs.

Mark is a member of the Society for Creative Anachronism, Inc. and draws much of his design inspiration from the Celtic symbolism and the various cultural design elements of the Middle Ages.

Today, Aries Designs encompasses jewelry, glass etching and stained glass. Mark continues to create pieces that reflect the inherent beauty of the stones and the glass. Contact Mark today to discuss custom designs!

 

 

Aries Designs, Mark R. Schwartz * ariesdsn@aol.com * 315-622-8904 * Located in Liverpool, NY