Natalie T. is a collection of fine artisan jewelry designed and handwrought by Denise Graves.
Her work blends beautiful metalsmithing techniques with precious gemstones executed in various metals, like argentium, silver, rose gold and 18k gold.
A lifelong love of the ocean is distinct in the lines and colors of the Natalie T. collection. The organic shapes of Denise’s designs are reminiscent of the currents and moods of the sea, and her finishes are often unique, lustrous and shimmering.
Many of the gemstones that Denise uses most often in her work—Sapphires, Blue Zircon, Aquamarine, Tanzanite, Iolite, Apatite, Raw Diamonds and Chalcedony— reflect the blues, turquoise and greens of the ocean. Chalcedony, known as a healing stone, dominates these designs. Its translucent effect is said to restore calm and balance, and encourage progress and growth.
But, who is “Natalie T.?”
A young Natalie Turner Sampson, for whom the company is named
Denise’s childhood creative passions and artistic impulses were fostered and encouraged by her grandparents, a painter, woodcarver and craftsman named Howard Sampson and a craftswoman named Natalie (Turner) Sampson.
Known as “Grandma Sampson” to Denise and her siblings and cousins, as well as the great-grandchildren whom Natalie saw grow up into teenagers during her lifetime, it is the young “Natalie T”urner for whom Denise was inspired to name her jewelry collection and company.