Thimble: Oncholysis

32.5mmx19.2mmx18.9mm

2025

Sterling Silver: Chasing and Repousse

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Oncholysis: A medical term that refers to the separation of the nail plate from the underlying nail bed

After an injury to my hand, my fingernail began to separate from my left index finger. The process has been slow and, as of this writing, my fingernail was still 75% attached. As I watched this process begin to unfold, I was compelled to create this piece as an ode to my fingernail. 

As I approach my forties, I have begun to feel my body become less collaborative. It has become far more reactive to its age and my own will and resolve have less sway over my physical health and my corporal prowess. After learning that my fingernail could not naturally re-attach to the nail plate, I intervened the only way in which I could, the only place where I had control; I hand-forged a protective thimble for my fingertip and nail using a technique called chasing and repousse.