Rick acquired his first gold nugget in the early 60's, and by age eleven was creating his own stones for jewelry on a lapidary machine he was given for his birthday. Throughout the years, he attended many schools, yet something always seemed to call him back to that childhood hobby and to working with his hands. After a successful seventeen-year insurance career, he decided to pursue the dream full time.

In 1993, Rick and his Dad, Allan, opened the shop now known as Skystone and Silver. Rick studied many techniques and found that fabrication was the one thing he enjoyed more than most. His start in fabrication came from Pueblo artist, John Demas, and has transformed into also making his own tools with his friend, Tad Bugajski.

Graduating from the Conner Jewelers Institute in Huntsville, Alabama also gave him some additional techniques and training that was necessary to create some of the work for which he is so well known. He received his GIA Diamond Certificate in July, 1999 and is continuing his studies in the GIA Graduate Gemologist program.

Leading the industry in decorative personalized money clip designs stemmed from his interest in signs, symbols and small charms, which he has been fabricating since he began making jewelry many years ago. The Southwest has been a wonderful treasure trove of signs and symbols all originating from the Native American and Mexican influence of the area. Although most of his work is not presently southwestern in nature, many of his past pieces have been and he still enjoys this motif when requested. Rick's other interests in art, computers, and photography have led him to where he is today.

Rick's store and shop is now located in the historic Mesa Junction Shopping area. His work can be seen at 117 E. Abriendo Ave, Pueblo,Colorado 81004. If you would like more information, please fill out our Information Request Form or Email Rick