The art world lost a master jeweler. Thomas Gentille (1936–2026) was celebrated for his conceptual works in unexpected materials. Gentille spent more than six decades proving that jewelry could be something else entirely: sculpture you wear. He did not work in gold or diamonds, but with aluminum, eggshell, pumice, acrylic, wood, and stone. Focused on process, he intentionally avoided precious materials. This brooch was made from a solid block of cast aluminum and is currently on view at NMOA. Thomas Gentille, Brooch. Late 20th century. Aluminum. Purchase 2010 Sophronia Anderson Bequest Fund #ThomasGentille #ArtJewelry #FromPearlstoPlatinumtoPlastic #TheBallantineHouse #NewarkMuseumofArt