As a lampwork art glass bead artisan, Barbara Steffen works with glass rods, a torch, and a kiln to create original, unique, handmade beads.  The beads are then integrated into her designs to make jewelry delights such as bracelets, necklaces, pendants, and earrings.  In addition, she creates fine silver accent pieces from Silver Art Clay. 

Barbara is a member of International Society of Glass Beadmakers (ISGB), NorCal Chapter of ISGB, Member #1590 of Self-Representing Artists Jewelry Designers (SRAJD), Bead Society of Northern California, Placerville Arts Association, El Dorado Hills Arts Association, and El Dorado County Gem Society.

Born and raised in California, Barbara was consumed for years with school, marriage, life in the business world while raising a beautiful daughter, then enjoying her small grandchildren.  Always intrigued with art in one form or another, Barbara kept searching for "her" medium.   She tried drawing, painting, gardening, stained glass, photography.  All were close, but they weren't quite the ultimate calling.  It wasn't until she lit the torch and melted glass for the first time that she knew it was where she belonged. 

Barbara lives in Northern California where in her lovely yard are 50 rose bushes and 50 lavender plants along with a summer vegetable garden.  While working on her torch, she sits in her glass studio looking out onto that lushness, and draws the spirit of nature into her jewelry. 

Fire Spirit Beads jewelry is currently available in 4 galleries, online, and at select Art Shows.