Local man uses natural talent to craft jewelry
Long Creek – Andrew Chase Burchfield is a diamond in the rough.
An avid rock collector, he began making jewelry pieces last year.
A friend suggested the hobby as an opportunity to display his rocks in a creative way. He began with a rock tumbler and wire experimenting with stones he had found on creek banks, mining venues, and stone shops taking classes here and there.
With determination and an eye for beauty, he learned the art of making natural-stone jewelry.
Diagnosed with autism at the age of two, Burchfield has always worked hard and focused on his creativity and talent to engage with others. A graduate of Tuscola High School, he gained support for his jewelry business from WNC First from Asheville.
WNC First is a training program for special-needs individuals who wish to become entrepreneurs. The program focuses on the business aspects of small businesses such as inventory, finding venues for the product, creating an online presence and budgeting requirements.
Coupled with help from Robbinsville’s Kayla Shope – who holds the title of “job coach” through Home Care Management – Burchfield has the dream team in place and gets to do what he enjoys most: create jewelry.
He said the most gratifying part of jewelry making for him is the design process. He also enjoys seeing others enjoy his pieces.
Burchfield’s jewelry is available at festivals in the spring and summer months. He also has a table twice a month in the Village Shopping Center, in front of Mountain Memories.
Burchfield looks forward to warmer months where he will have his work for purchase at festivals and Saturdays at the Graham County Farmers Market.
Burchfield said his ultimate goal is to “use the talents God gave me to share my jewelry with others and show the possibilities and need for acceptance for people with autism.”
He stays busy year-round; in addition to selling his jewelry, he works seasonally at Fontana Village Resort.
His business has a presence on Facebook; if you are interested in a Mother’s Day or Easter gift, he would love to show you his work.
For more details, call 828-734-1180.