Mokume Gane. Translated these Japanese words mean 'Wood eye metal." In the 17th century, DSenebel Shoami, a master metalsmith, used this rare metal lamination process for the adornment of samurai swords. This technique seemingly lost through the ages, was rediscovered in the 1970s. Today, James Binnion is one of the few artists in the world who employs this same technique; bonding platinum, gold and silver alloys into beautiful patterns to form extraordinary engagement rings, wedding bands, commitment rings and jewelry. James Binnion, Metalsmith James Binnion has been a jewelry designer and metalsmith over 20 years. He started teaching himself the ancient craft of Mokume Gane in the early 1982. He established James Binnion Metal Arts in 1991 to refine the art of Mokume Gane. His line includes earrings, pendants and cufflinks in addition to his wedding, engagement and commitment rings.
Mr. Binnion has taught numerous classes in Mokume gane and other metalsmithing techniques at art academies nationwide. He has appeared as a speaker at a number of national jewelry symposiums. Various trade magazines and books have featured his work and expertise.
In 1998 The National Ornamental Metal Museum in Memphis presented 'Knock on Wood: An American Mokume Invitational", Mr. Binnion was one of twenty Mokume Gane artists who were invited to showcase their work. A teapot, one of Mr. Binnion's pieces in that show, appears in Teapots Transformed—Exploration of an Object, by Leslie Ferrin.Click here to view the first round of examples Click here to see the second round of examples |  |   |
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