Jewelers featured at Houston Museum

By Ann Nichols

annsnichols@aol.com

The Houston Museum of Decorative Arts has added two lines of jewelry in its gift shop.

"Anna Safley Houston's amazing collection of antiques includes jewelry, so we feel these handcrafted objects are most appropriate for the museum shop's inventory," said Amy Frierson, director of the Houston. "We are very excited to be able to offer our customers the delightful pieces by Denise McMillan, a new designer, and also the lovely items by Eleanor Goodson, a seasoned designer."

Ms. McMillan's interest in jewelry goes back to the 1970s when she purchased a macramé necklace with wooden beads.

"I untied the knots to see how it was constructed and began making my own jewelry," she said.

Her current work was inspired by the colored and patterned glassware that she saw while she was employed at the Houston Museum. Most of her pieces feature glass, but she also incorporates ceramics, natural stones, freshwater pearls, shell, wood and metal.

Ms. Goodson is also self-taught, but admits to having "pestered people" with questions when she first started. Now, she takes classes as often as possible at the Florida Goldsmiths Society.

Her interest in jewelry began in the fourth grade when she started polishing stones and making cabochons. Although she uses many metals and stones, she will be displaying an assortment of freshwater pearl jewelry at the Houston.

"My necklaces take patience and perseverance," said Ms. Goodson.

Both designers will be at the Houston for a special showing on Tuesday from 2 to 4 p.m.

The museum, 201 High St., is open 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday through Friday and by appointment. Admission to the gift shop is free. For information, call 267-7176.