Mattie Gadd

A thoughtful, compassionate, and fantastic lapidary artist and wire wrapper, it’s always a delight to chat with Mattie Gadd. Her work is harmonious and beautiful, and she can keep you laughing for hours. Enjoy this installment of Just Off the Wheels with

Erin Dana Balzrette: Where did you find the material for this cabochon, and what drew you to it?

Mattie Gadd: This material (BC Ocean Wave) is found in British Columbia, Canada. I grew up on the Oregon Coast, and I love the ocean.

EDB: How long have you been a rockhound and lapidary artist, and what attracted you to cabbing?

MG: I’ve been rockhounding for around 12 years but only cabbing for about the last two. I’d watched my husband work on cabochons over the years and decided I wanted to learn.

EDB: What process do you use when creating cabs? Is there any particular technique used when creating this cab?

MG: I don’t really have a special process. I like to find the best pattern and shape to bring out the beauty of the material.

EDB: What is a new cabbing approach that is bringing you great excitement?

MG: It’s all exciting to me because I’m still learning. The pure beauty of a rock is exciting.

EDB: What advice would you share with new lapidary artists?

MG: Take your time with each piece; each one is worth your time.

EDB: What is your motivation to create, and what is your favorite part of the process?

MG: I think the finished cab is the best part for me. It’s so amazing that what appears to be a plain rock can contain so much beauty on the inside.