Known and adored for his kinetic modern sculptures, paintings and avant-garde mobiles, Alexander Calder was also an eco jewelry maker long before anyone knew what that meant.

During his lifetime, the American artist produced some 1,800 pieces of brass, silver, and gold body ornaments, using wire he twisted into wearable art. Like the stunning flower necklace below, these were often embellished with found objects such as beach glass, wood cuttings, ceramic shards and pieces of mirror.

About 90 of his inventive designs are on exhibit at the “Metropolitan Musuem of Art” in New York beginning December 9th and running through March 1, 2009. Calder Jewelry is the first museum presentation dedicated solely to the artist’s extensive jewelry designs.

According to his bio, the young Calder began collecting copper wire in the streets back in 1906 to adorn his sister’s dolls. That lead to the creation of gorgeous, modern baubles in the 30s and 40s which, like his other installations, were inspired by trees and branches and other shapes and objects found in nature.

Word has it he made many of the necklaces, earrings, bracelets and brooches to give as gifts to his friends and family. Weren’t they the lucky ones! I get banana chocolate chip muffins from my sister but no cool, handmade art.

Among the savvy collectors of Calder’s pieces were artist Georgia O’Keefe and Peggy Guggenheim, two women with discerning eyes, to say the least. Learn more about the sculptor and see more of his fascinating jewelry at the Calder Organization.