James Binnion Ring

Jim Binnion, Modern Mokume Master. Jim Binnion and mokume are now closely associated in the jewelry world.  However, his roots in craft go back to his childhood and visits to his grandmother’s home.  His grandmother was a baker, weaver, furniture maker and doll maker.  She inspired Jim to use his creative talents in many ways.  Though he did many craft projects at his grandmother’s he found his passion for jewelry in high school. Reading, experimenting and taking classes, he expanded his knowledge and skills. Jim has always been drawn to the beauty and workmanship of Japanese craft. Once he saw mokume in the early 1980s he wanted to master the technique.  Since there were no mokume classes he began to teach himself how to make mokume gane.  Once he had success with his mokume gane technique he was asked to teach a mokume workshop in 1984. Jim laminates the mokume and carves all the patterns.  The rigorous requirements to successfully laminate mokume gane reflect the engineer side of his brain.  Carved patterns and designs reflect his artistic side.  From his own studies and in consulting with metallurgists he has a thorough working knowledge of metals, especially as needed to laminate mokume billets.