Thomas Gentille (1936–2026)

Since the 1950s, he has been at the forefront of experimentation with both traditional and unconventional materials, challenging accepted notions of value and meaning in jewelry. Working with materials such as wood, stone, pigments, egg tempera, pumice, and laminate, he created objects of remarkable precision, balance, and quiet intensity—transforming jewelry into compact yet profound aesthetic and conceptual statements.

Gentille also played an important role as a teacher and mentor. He founded the jewelry program at the 92nd Street Y in New York, which continues to this day. His widely read book Step-by-Step Jewelry introduced many artists to the field and inspired a new generation of makers.

His work was widely exhibited internationally. Most notably, he was the only American artist to receive a solo exhibition at Die Neue Sammlung – The Design Museum, Munich. He also exhibited at the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation in Lisbon and the Victoria and Albert Museum in London. His work is documented in several publications, including the major catalogue produced for the Munich exhibition.


What I respect and admire most is unique thinking. That, for the most part, is what is missing. Each person must find their own unique voice. I am an enemy of plagiarism. Now, there are many nice words in use to camouflage this word.

/ Thomas Gentille, at the interview with Klimt02, Criticism has never held any relevance to my work, August 2018.