Custom Design
Welcome
I am Suzanne Matheson, a professional jewelry designer.
I specialize in ZBrush, a 3d design software that allows for a sculptural approach to creating virtual forms.
Feature - Bespoke Wedding Bands
In 2024, I was commissioned to design a pair of wedding bands with a Celtic theme. We arrived at a solid design embossed with an unbroken celtic knot. Inside, the couple desired their initials be inscribed. This was included as part of the design. This project went through various stages, from concept through design, prototyping, revisions, and more prototyping. In early 2025 the design was sent to a Canadian casting house for the final stage – 14 karat gold cast, finish & high polish. In July 2025, this couple made their symbolic exchange of devotion. Congratulations!
Celtic Love Knot Wedding Bands – Feminine & Masculine – Top, Side, Inside Views
For bespoke wedding band inquiries or a free consultation, contact info@riverravensilvercraft.com.
ZBrush Professional - Organically Transforming Hard-surface Classics
As a ZBrush professional, I take an architectural and sculptural approach to 3d design. I first create a foundational hard-surface block-out, then with the use of Z-brushes, organically build on this.
Image: starting with low-poly block-out, followed by moulding the sculptural form
Video: final sculptural design of “Trumpet Flower” pendant
This approach begins constrained, as is the case with hard-surface modeling, then gives way to fluidity. It is very much akin to painting and to moulding an object in clay. With a background in botanical and natural sciences illustration, this approach is quite natural for me. (more on ZBrush process here)
Jewelry has structure and specificity. A ring is designed to circle a finger. This basic shape, the circle, along with depth, width and size measurements define the architectural elements of a ring. Building on this foundation are many features of design highly achievable in software like CAD or Maya. ZBrush allows an artist to take these features further, into a naturalistic sphere, encompassing the realm of Art Nouveau.
Image: natural science illustration of Mottled Duskywing butterfly & Monarch butterfly sipping nectar from New Jersey tea, with enlargement of a New Jersey tea blossom. Illustrated by Suzanne M Matheson, 2020.
Collaborative Workflow
I take a fully collaborative approach, from the initial consultation, where my client communicates their design concept through to the final, 3d-print-ready *.stl file. Below features the final designs of my collaboration with Frazzlekat Tattoos.
River Raven / Frazzlekat Collabs
A River Raven collaboration with tattoo artist, Anna Matheson, of Frazzlekat Tattoos.
Together we designed necklace pendants in synchronicity with full-piece chest tattoos.
Trumpet Flower pendant
with Hummingbird tattoo
Dragonfly in Cattails pendant
with Cattails tattoo
Wild Rose pendant
with Wild Rose tattoo
These pendants designs are cast in sterling silver by my trusted casting house.
I finish them with black patina in the recessed areas, followed by a final polish.
For inquiries, contact River Raven Silvercraft. Find Anna @frazzlekattattoos on IG.
How we will work together:
First, your concept is translated into a mock-up drawing. After review and feedback, this drawing is finalized as the basis for the 3-dimensional design. Once the design is well on its way, a render of it is shared with you, the client, for further review. Following this, the design is taken to completion. Prototyping in the form of resin 3d prints may also be part of this collaborative process, particularly when exact sizing is required. Once client satisfaction is achieved and payment has been made in full, the print-ready file is handed over; alternatively, I am hired on as a creative facilitator for the casting and finishing processes.
From Concept Art to Beautiful Jewelry - Fully Canadian
As your designer, I have developed your vision from concept art to virtual form. The next step, prototyping, tests design mesh integrity and signals any need for size alterations. For efficiency, I work with a local 3d print service.
3d resin prototypes test integrity of mesh and ring sizes
final design render, Celtic Love Knot wedding bands
Celtic Love Knot wedding bands in 14k gold
At this point the *.stl file is ready to be handed over to you. Alternatively, I have established a strong working relationship with a professional Canadian casting house committed to design integrity. Working with them, I have developed a mind for the unique demands of creating fine details in precious metal. Together, we will ensure a beautiful, finished piece, of the highest quality, that truly is a “Product of Canada”.