Why and when did you start metal working?
I have always been doing crafts of various kinds. Everything from crochet and knitting to mosaics and ceramics. When I tried silversmithing, I felt that I had found home.
It started about 20 years ago with me taking a weekend course for beginners. We were taught the basics of silver-smithing; saw, file, solder, and immediately felt that I was in my element. Bought a few books on silver-smithing and realized that I had only scratched the surface and had a lot left to learn.
I set up a corner of the house into a primitive workshop. I didn't have the "right" tools but used what I had at home - torches, regular pliers, a saw that was actually for wood, used the pasta machine as a roller (which worked surprisingly well, as long as the silver was properly annealed) and the target stick in croquet as a ring mandrel. Over time, I acquired better tools and more knowledge.

What excites you and how do you incorporate that into your work?
I offer personalized handmade silver jewelry for a quality-conscious customer. Jewelry that stands out without being difficult to wear, feels up to date without following fads and can withstand daily wear.

I am not afraid to take up space and believe that jewelry should also be allowed to do so. I think jewelry should say something about the wearer.

I have a vivid imagination and can't help but make jewelry that is a little quirky. For example, I have made jewelry with coffee cups, luminescent jewelry, jewelry with tanned zander skin, cats hanging from chains, mechanical jewelry, etc.

What advice would you give to an artist in hiding?
- Go where your curiosity takes you. You don't always have to have a set goal and follow your plans, Life happens as it happens, and it usually turns out well. If someone had asked me 10 years ago where I would be today, I would not have answered that I would be a silversmith.
- It's never too late! I was 54 when I decided to invest in life as a jeweler and feel that I have many professional years ahead of me.
- How hard can it be? I knew nothing about starting a business, doing bookkeeping, building a website, etc. I can't say that I know everything now either, but I know enough to function. It's not rocket science, and help can be found.

What is your fav piece and why?
The jewel in the crown is the Patera collection; necklaces, rings, bracelets and earrings. For me, those pieces of jewellery are always fun to make because I don't know in advance how they will turn out.

The Patera jewellery consists of small bowls in different sizes that I put together as I see fit, in a way that feels good. Finally, I oxidise the inside of the bowls. No pieces are exactly alike - just as it should be.

You can ask Anna any question, and support her by following her on social media, and/or by buying her products.

Click here to visit her website, here to visit her studio, here to check out the artist co-operative, and here to follow her on Instagram.