Tension Bracelet

Samuel Frank Patania, Tension Bracelet, 1999, fabricated 18k white gold and opposed bar-cut green tourmaline, Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of the Patania Family, 2000.100.3
Copied Samuel Frank Patania, Tension Bracelet, 1999, fabricated 18k white gold and opposed bar-cut green tourmaline, 2 1⁄4 x 2 1⁄4 x 1⁄2 in. (5.8 x 5.8 x 1.3 cm), Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of the Patania Family, 2000.100.3

Artwork Details

Title
Tension Bracelet
Artist
Date
1999
Location
Not on view
Dimensions
2 1⁄4 x 2 1⁄4 x 1⁄2 in. (5.8 x 5.8 x 1.3 cm)
Credit Line
Gift of the Patania Family
Mediums
Mediums Description
fabricated 18k white gold and opposed bar-cut green tourmaline
Classifications
Object Number
2000.100.3
Linked Open Data
https://edan.si.edu/saam/id/object/2000.100.3

Artwork Description

Tension Bracelet shows Samuel Frank Patania's fascination with precious and semiprecious stones. He selected the tourmaline for its striking color and the unique cut done by local gem cutter Jeff Graham. Patania likes white gold for its ability to hold a large stone in the smallest possible mount, which allows light to filter through the entire gem. Describing Tension Bracelet as "a real melding of [his] grandfather's and dad's designs," Patania unites the modernist tendencies of his father's architectural style in the smooth, polished band, with the "romantic leanings" of his grandfather's work.