Claire Falkenstein

Born in 1908 in Coos Bay, Oregon (United States), died in 1997 in Venice Beach, California (United States).

Recognized as a sculptor and painter, Falkenstein also developed a considerable talent for jewelry design in the 1940s in California and then in a Left Bank studio in Paris where she worked for about ten years. She trained in bending, welding, and metal casting—techniques she would continue to use in her sculpture and jewelry. In California, she befriended other artists such as Richard Diebenkorn and Clyfford Still, while in Paris she rubbed shoulders with Arp, Giacometti, and Sam Francis.
Her jewelry (rings, brooches, bracelets, and extraordinary necklaces)—always unique pieces—was never considered maquettes of her sculptural oeuvre. Quite the contrary, his miniature works were always intended to be small, wearable works of art.
This silver-plated necklace was made during his stay in Paris circa 1955.