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 Russell
Criswell--Owner/Master Craftsman: Russell
founded Vulcan’s Forge Jewelers in 1986, after completing
a 7-year apprenticeship in metalsmithing. Experience in fabrication,
machine work and retail customer service gave a solid background
for running a custom jewelry store.
Over 21 years of custom
work, he has created some truly unique pieces, pushing the boundaries
of what can be called jewelry. “I enjoy the challenge of creating
something that has never existed. It’s very rewarding to make
something unique from a customer’s idea. We are now seeing
a second generation. The children of couples I made wedding sets
for are coming in for wedding jewelry of their own. Several have
told me they would not consider getting their special jewelry anywhere
else.”
Russell’s talents
extend to creating armor and weapons, and restoring his 100-year-old
home and 45-year old cars. Scuba diving and travel round out some
of his outside interests.
 Cammie
Leary--Assistant Manager:
Having been a long-time friend and customer of Russ's, Cammie came
to work at Vulcan's Forge in 2002, when she decided her life needed
a change. She soon realized that her long history buying jewelry
made her a natural at selling it.
With the help of her long background of customer
service, she quickly fell in love with the jewelry business and
with helping customers through the design process.
 Byron
Phillips--Senior Bench Jeweler: Byron began
working for Vulcan's Forge in January 2006. After graduating with
a BFA in metalsmithing and Jewelry from K-State in 1997, Byron went
to work for noted silver-artist Robyn Nichols. When he heard about
Vulcan's Forge, he realized what an opportunity it was for him to
grow in his interests. For the past few years Byron has made thousands
of custom pieces, much to the pleasure of our customers.
 "Gabi"
Pool--Sales Associate/Web Designer: Since
Gabi was young, she has always been a fan of the jewelry found at
Vulcan's Forge, so, when she heard, in 2007, that a position was
open at our Westport location, she leapt at the chance to be a part
of such a creative endeavour.
Her extensive education in mythology and
religions has come in handy when customers request pieces with special
meanings. Her favorite part of the job is finding just the right
symbol and story to use in a customer's custom piece.
William Mitchell--Bench Jeweler: Will came to work for Vulcan's
Forge in the fall of 2007. He studied metalsmithing at Gem City
College and graduated in 2003. After taking a year off to find his
place in the world, Will found Vulcan's Forge where, he says, he
"fits in perfectly."
 Misty
Gates--Faire Representative:
Misty grew up knowing the jewelry business, and is pleased to say
she has been a customer of Vulcan's Forge for over 20 years. She
started working for Vulcan's Forge full-time in 2004. Since then,
Misty has moved on to other professions, but still represents our
store at Renaissance Festivals all over the midwest, and occassionally
cameos at our Westport location.
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