Artist Biography

Kaelin Cordis learned traditional Metalsmithing techniques under the tutelage of internationally recognized Master-Smiths Bill Bastas of Austin, Texas and Rick Smith of Carbondale, Illinois. With the intention of exploring traditional metalsmithing techniques using modern methods, she started Kaelin Design, and has pursued the in-depth study of the medium of Metal interacting with the natural environment, resulting in sculped beauty.

Further personal study brought Kaelin's attention to bear on classic jewelry techniques. Bringing her experience with forged sculpture into the fine jewelry arena, she has pursued the challenge of sculptured adornment. With strong influences from Albert Paley, the Art Nouveau movement, and the curvilinear organic forms found in nature, Kaelin creates light, elegant forms of abiding luxury.

"I find myself continually fascinated by the idea that metal can be manipulated. Anything can be done with this versatile material. To take a manufactured product and forge, shape, or manipulate the material into something so apparently different, yet still just as strong and durable...I think that has to be one of the most fascinating processes in the arena of Art. That this result can be exquisitely beautiful as well, is one of my life's joys."

Kaelin lives and sculpts in Missouri.

Inspiration comes in many forms to many people, but for me, I am most inspired by the medium of metal. The way this tough material can be forged, folded and sculpted into art I find nothing short of amazing. My methods of expression are influenced primarily by natural forms and the balance of line and space. I am currently focused on creating unique art jewelry using mokume gane, reticulation and surface textures to emphasize form and movement.

Using only quality materials, I attempt each time to fashion an item of adornment which combines my interest of the medium of metals with my love for abiding luxury. Thus, each item I create is a unique article of beauty, designed to enhance the unique beauty of the wearer. Even seemingly identical pieces may well have a different connection method, or incorporate a subtle change in nuance in the process of creation.

Custom Orders

One of my primary goals is to ensure my client’s satisfaction. If there is an item you would like custom designed to your specifications, or would like me to alter one of your existing pieces, please don’t hesitate to ask. In addition, I am more than willing to lengthen, shorten or exchange any of the existing chains, or make other changes upon request. I am always excited to work with a client on a custom piece. Collaborating together, we can create something that will be a cherished heirloom for generations to come.

About Kaelin Design

Kaelin Design was created in 1999 as a result of my fascination with the ductile properties of steel. I learned sculpture and welding techniques which resulted in the attainment of an Associate of Technical Arts in Welding. My continued explorations caused me to branch out into the forging of Copper and Sterling Silver, at which point I discovered the elegance of hand-wrought jewelry. My quest leads me to ever more interesting horizons and how I can incorporate them into my repertoire of skills. My drive to create and explore results in my passion to share the beauty I've discovered with discerning individuals world-wide.
I hope I may share the beauty with you.

Orders, Packaging, Shipping, and Returns

Orders may currently be placed via Pay-Pal or phone. Sculpture items are only created once they are ordered, and have a delay of 4-6 weeks for construction. Most jewelry items are on-hand, but a 7 business day construction delay may occur as well on popular pieces, or gemstone substitutions may be required. I am no able to accept credit cards over the phone for an additional 2% fee, or I will accept checks from previous clients only.

All Jewelry items are packaged in matte black two-piece boxes, shown below, or matte silver two-piece boxes, with a black or white velvet batting insert and co-ordinating tissue paper. I also will include a co-ordinating bow and elgeant blank gift tag. Other packaging options available upon request.

Upon receipt of payment, I will start processing your order. Please note that in-stock orders received on Saturday will ship on the following Monday. Orders are shipped via USPS Priority and are insured for the full sales price of the item or items. Currently, these packaging and shipping options are are available for my Forged Jewelry, and is FREE for clients around the world. Shipping charges quoted are for packages up to 1 pound, and apply to multiple item orders as well. If you would prefer a different shipping option, would like a price quote for another option, for a sculpture item, or for faster international rates, please contact the studio.

If you are not completely happy with your purchase, I will be happy to give you a full refund of your purchase price plus return shipping. Please send any returns in the original condition and packaging via USPS Priority Mail with tracking and enough insurance to cover the sales price of the piece. Applicable original shipping charges will only be refunded if an error has been made by Kaelin Design.

Limited Edition Pieces

I create limited edition jewelry and sculpture pieces. Many items available for sale are short run items. This means I can offer more than one, but not hundreds. There are, however, some pieces of which I have created only one and for various reasons cannot create another. These will be priced accordingly.

I am always willing to make a similar item, provided you, the client, understand it will not be the *exact same* item.

Upon request I am also willing to create a one-of-a-kind art piece based upon your personal taste and requirements.

Contact the Studio

Should you wish to contact the studio for any reason, please do so using the following guidelines:

We are located in the United States in the Central Standard Time Zone. My business hours are 10 am to 4 pm Monday through Friday. During this time, I will attempt to answer the phone, return e-mail, return messages, and fill orders. My intention is to return messages within 48 hours of receiving them. Occasionally, the rest of my life will preclude this. Please have patience.

Orders placed via the phone, e-mail, or voice message will be filled within 72 hours of receipt of payment. Payments by mail may be placed using cashier's check, money order, or certified check. We are now accepting credit cards through the Pay Pal website on-line, and via Pro-Pay over the phone. Please note, there is a 2.5% additional charge for telephone orders.

Telephone:
816-277-3756
10 am – 4 pm ONLY