Cyle Thomas JM ’13

How did you discover your field?

Around 15 years ago I stumbled upon a book called 1000 Rings, and it made me look at jewelry as sculpture. A few years later I would stumble upon North Bennet Street School on a day trip to Boston. The rest is history.

What was the best part of your NBSS training?

The best part was being around like-minded, young, soon-to-be artisans, and the one-on-one attention we had with our instructors. [Former Department Head and Instructor] Rosemary Trainor JM ’91 was the type of instructor I needed to motivate me to focus and hone my hand skills.

What are you up to now?

I am living in Montreal, building my career, setting engagement rings, and expanding my more creative line of “fantasy” style jewelry.

Can you describe your work in just three words?

Elegant, Fantasy, Modern

Where do you get inspiration?

From the work of those who came before me, romantic ideas of deep space, lines, and the great challenge of using negative space as a brushstroke.

Besides jewelry making, what keeps you busy?

Rock hounding, traveling with my wife and dog, cooking, and being creative.

Complete the sentence: If I wasn’t doing my current job, I’d be a…

Commercial lobsterman. That’s what I was before I pursued a career in jewelry.

What motivates you?

The challenge that follows “I bet I can figure out how to do that.”

Favorite tool or machine?

Which ever tool I just purchased, or my microscope.

What’s your favorite place in the world?

La Malbaie, Quebec or Iceland. Its hard to choose.

What career or life advice can you share?

The classic, don’t be afraid to fail. Just be sure to pay attention to the mistakes, journal them, learn from them. Be kind to yourself.

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Discover more of Cyle’s work on his website, or follow him on social media @cylethomas_goldsmith.