I’ve loved the work of Vega Maddux for a long time. Self taught, she sold her wares at the monthly Sunday Rose Bowl market in California. She used intricate combinations of semi precious stones and enamel in a silver (unlikely to be sterling) metal. They’ve stood the test of time. I had two pieces; the earrings have been sold. You can see them here. At the time I wrote that, she was variously referred to as Maddox or Maddux. Now the latter is considered correct. She also had a career as a comedian; you can read more about it on the link for the ring.

Her work isn’t that easy to find, but well worth searching out.

Ah, the ring. It features amethysts and her typical enamel, with whimsical butterflies. Its price at USD$798 by a wonderful seller, Morning Glory Jewelry.