You might know Mike from the Alara Gallery, where he "worked the floor" from 2018 through early 2022, when he started his jeweler apprenticeship at Alara.
The last step in his apprenticeship was to present a jewelry collection of his own concept and design.
Join us in congratulating Mike Webb for this accomplishment, which was officially completed by unveiling his new "Mountain Heir" collection in a runway format. The event was a success, and now you can explore his stunning creations below!
Event Date: Friday, January 17 | 5pm - 7pm
Location: The Alara Atelier | 424 E Main St | Parking Behind Building
The runway event was a hit! Models showcased Mike's designs, and the collection is now available for you to explore. Below, see the journey of Mike's work—from conceptual drawings to the final pieces.
Mike's been with Alara since 2018...and little did he know that he would eventually become one of Alara's goldsmiths!
He'd already worked in elder care, butchery, and a multitude of other jobs...lucky for us he found something that captured his passion.
Initially, gemstones and gemology seemed to call Mike to the jewelry industry. His love of colored gems pre-dated his start at Alara.
Babs fondly remembers "all the questions!" Mike would always ask. Ever probing, ever learning.
As part of the Alara Jeweler Apprenticeship program, we shipped Mike off to Tennessee for comprehensive jeweler training. His friends from there are still with him—in Polaroids at his bench and via phone and text.
Mike came back from New Approach, raring to go! Here he is in early days, "doin' the bench jeweler thang."
Torch control is one of the most difficult and important things a goldsmith can learn. In the two years of Mike's apprenticeship, he's really learned how to harness fire to make beautiful things.
Knowing how to make a piece of jewelry from a solid piece of precious metal is at the core of metalsmithing. Mike's really enjoyed improving and perfecting his fabrication skills.
Starting with solid gold, Mike hand-fabricated this slide pendant and bezel-set a warm-colored diamond, producing a lovely push-and-pull between different geometric shapes.
This piece shows how beautifully veined natural turquoise can be enhanced through imitation of the veins themselves in handcrafted yellow gold.
Join us to celebrate the unveiling:
Atelier Alara (424 E. Main Street)
Jan 17 | 5p to 7p
