Forms Inspired

Carol-lynn Swol

Based in Hyattsville, Maryland, I craft jewelry that bridges tradition and experimentation for those with a modern sense of style. My designs are inspired by abstract ideas and the layered stories of landscapes and our archaeological past. I am fascinated by material culture and the enduring influence of objects shaped by human hands across history. Elements like land and water, erosion, and topographic lines spark my creativity, finding their way into pieces that evoke both place and memory.

My work deeply engages with the materiality of metals and other elements—recognizing each material’s unique qualities as essential collaborators in the creative process. This connection to materiality, combined with a process freedom that embraces both classic techniques and contemporary tools like laser cutting and CAD design, enables me to design with openness and creativity. I create jewelry that thoughtfully balances memory with a subtle connection to both natural and human-made environments.

I hold a B.A. in Anthropology from the University of Connecticut and an M.F.A. in Metalsmithing and Jewelry Design from Indiana University Bloomington.