I first met Don through his cousin Whittaker Freegard, I can't remember how many years ago it was, seems like its more than fifteen and less than twenty. Anyway, I've only had the opportunity to spend in person time with Don nearly every year at the Tucson Gem and Mineral Show. We usually try to have a nice dinner and a long visit to catch up on what's been going on. In all these years I have been amazed how excited Don has been in whatever new avenue in Lapidary/Gold smithing he was cruising at the time.

A few years ago Don was visiting with me at my booth at the Tucson show. Someone walked up to the booth and after looking for awhile asked what I thought about the Eastwind Flex Wheel. Don did not hesitate at all to offer his opinion, he started telling the person that he felt that the Flex Wheels were superior to similar wheels in both cutting action and longevity. I think he must have spent ten minutes sharing his feelings on the product through his use of it. The customer ordered a few wheels and after they left I told Don I should have him for a salesman, his comment was something along this line " Its easy to sell something you feel positive about"

Notice how Don carved the Chrysoprase so that it extends over the Opal cab, very nice concept.





High karat gold, Chrysoprase, Super Gem Opal offset with three diamonds.

Necklace within its set.

Everything above is handmade and a very good example of Don's diversity in design and execution It is very nice to see something out of the ordinary that is so pleasing to the eye. Don's use of texture depth and smoothness is well represented in this set.