Info

Reactive Metals Studio was established in Lawrence, Kansas in 1981 by Bill Seeley. It was the fruition of two years research into the reactive metals. University of Kansas facilities in Art, Electrical Engineering and Aerospace Engineering were employed during the investigation. The final product of that inquiry was the publication of his MFA thesis, "Studio Preparation and Coloring of Titanium." The introduction of titanium to the jewelry world had occurred a few years earlier in the United Kingdom. There, the rainbow colored jewelry was a short rage. Even here in the U.S. it splurged for a short time in the fashion markets and then all but disappeared from the production jewelry trade. Bill and RMS took this medium in another direction. His work and teaching had brought him to the realization that this was an entirely new medium. Here was a new material for the creative mind to manipulate. His studies had shown that niobium and titanium could be formed, engraved, spun and even repousséd. All this with the added enrichment of color. Anodizing could provide rich and subtle color to the ancient techniques of metalsmithing. The company has grown in many ways over the years. In 1984 Stephanie Williams joined the company as it moved to Sedona, Arizona. She brought a rich background in art and engineering to the developing firm. She became half owner when RMS incorporated. Although she lives in California, she remains Vice President, comptroller and small parts manager. When RMS outgrew the Sedona facilities a move was made to the mountain side mining community of Jerome some 20 miles away. Then finally the old Clarkdale Grade School was purchased and became our permanent home. This ten room territorial style school building houses RMS and a contingent of artists and small businesses. Meanwhile the catalog grew from 1 to 36 pages. As the demands grew the product line grew. Findings and miniature nuts and bolts were added to give greater depth. Shining Wave Metals brought to us another whole pallet of exciting materials. Never before had these exotic laminates and alloys been readily available. In the last few years the body piercers have made new demands for equipment, metals and findings. The reactive metals are hypoallergenic and perfect for this application. We have added special gauges, straight rods, balls and even nostril screws. Special taps and dies needed for threading bars and balls are now some of our most popular tools. Our influence can be seen in medical devices. This field has enthusiastically adopted titanium instruments and implants. Color anodizing serves to identify these special purpose implements. Where will RMS go from here? We don't really know. The key to our future is to remain flexible, a little clairvoyant and responsive to an ever changing world market. Today when you call us, you'll be greeted on the phone by Michele or Deborah to take your order or answer your questions. If you need additional technical assistance, Bill and Stephanie will be glad to help you.