A second-generation metalsmith, Olivia Sugarman is the embodiment of the phrase “it runs in our blood.” In only three short years, Olivia has gone from learning metal smithing, apprenticing under her mother (a bench jeweler for over 45 years), to attending the Gemological Institute of America for their graduate jeweler program & receiving the Rio Grande Scholarship. Not one to slow down, Olivia has since gone on to start her own line Onyx Armory.
Her drive and passion are evident in each piece she creates. Whether handling a ring, bangle or earring, the levels of detail and depth are staggering. The creation process is an intimate one, requiring countless hours on each piece working to make it just right. It’s through these hours of work that we see her style flourish, such as her signature carving & antiquing process that allows her to mimic the black line work, she is fond of. But it’s also where the fun comes in too, as Olivia loves the process behind the creation. Knowing how to heat the piece of metal, choosing the correct solder, correct flame size or just simply playing with fire are the sources of joy in these creations.
Never one to slow down, Olivia is constantly challenging herself to improve through new tools and processes. As she continues to grow, it’s obvious that her creations will follow suit and Onyx Armory will carve its name into the metalsmith history books.
