The Alchemy Explained
FROM CLAY TO SOLID METAL
Metal clay is real metal particles in an organic binder. Through fire, the binder burns away and what remains is pure, solid metal. Here is how every Sunnygems piece is born.
Design & Sculpt
THE CLAY STAGE
I begin by sketching the design, then carefully hand-forming the metal clay. Every curve, every texture, every tiny detail is created entirely by hand. The clay is soft and forgiving — but it demands patience and a steady touch.
Texture & Detail
BRINGING IT TO LIFE
While the clay is still workable, I press in gemstones, add botanical textures, carve runes or fine surface details. Each piece has its own character — this is the stage where the magic really starts to show.
Dry & Refine
PATIENCE IS KEY
The piece air-dries or is gently heat-dried. Once fully dry it becomes brittle — like fine porcelain. I sand edges, refine details and repair any tiny cracks. Delicate work that determines the final quality of the piece.
The Kiln Fire
WHERE CLAY BECOMES METAL
This is the alchemy. The piece enters my kiln here in Wales, reaching over 900°C. The organic binder burns away completely — leaving only the metal particles behind. They fuse together — sinter — into a single, solid, dense piece of pure metal. It emerges transformed. Genuinely magical every time.
Activated Carbon
SHIELDED FROM OXYGEN
Copper and bronze must fire in an oxygen-free environment or they oxidise and crumble. The piece is buried in activated carbon granules inside a sealed firing container. The carbon absorbs every trace of oxygen — protecting the metal as it sinters and transforms.
Polish
BRINGING OUT THE SHINE
Fresh from the kiln, the piece is wire-brushed and polished to reveal its true metallic brilliance — often oxidised for a beautiful antique patina that brings out every fine detail.
Seal
PROTECTED FOR EVERYDAY WEAR
Two coats of hypoallergenic sealant — Renaissance Wax or Protectaclear — are carefully applied by hand to lock in the finish and protect your skin. This final layer makes every piece safe for everyday wear and preserves the beauty for years to come.
The Finished Piece
BORN FROM CLAY · SOLID METAL
What began as soft clay emerges as a piece of genuine solid metal — every mark, texture and detail preserved forever. Each piece is unique, handmade here in Wales, and ready to be worn and treasured.
EXPLORE THE COLLECTION →The Metals
COPPER · BRONZE · SILVER
COPPER
Warm, reddish, anti-bacterial. My most-used metal — beautiful when oxidised to a rich antique tone.
BRONZE
Golden-warm and slightly harder than copper. Takes an extraordinary patina — luxurious for rings and pendants.
SILVER
Bright, precious, timeless. Sterling silver pieces for those who prefer a cooler, classic metal.
Every piece that leaves my studio has been through this whole journey. That's what makes each one truly one of a kind.
EXPLORE THE COLLECTION