WindHorse Arts is a fused glass jewelry studio on Vinalhaven Island, Maine, where I design and create limited runs of custom-crafted color entirely by hand.
Enhance your necklace with a stunning silver chain, elevate your jewelry, adding elegance and sophistication that makes it truly stand out.
Rosehips
The island is settling into its quieter colors, and I’m still reaching for red. Rosehips is back after a couple of years away, bringing a little of late summer and early fall along for the winter.
Enhance your necklace with a stunning silver chain, elevate your jewelry, adding elegance and sophistication that makes it truly stand out.
The Story of the Color
I’ve been admiring the rosehips on my walks since September, when they were at their best here on Vinalhaven. There are still a few hanging on, although the last leaves are coming down and the view is becoming a little more subdued every day. While I love the grays and browns of November - I also think they make an excellent argument for wearing red.
It’s been a couple of years since I made Rosehips, and I’d forgotten how much I enjoy working with this color. There’s a lovely depth to it, with a brighter red that comes through when the glass catches the light. I keep picking up finished pieces to have another look. You’d think, having made them, I’d be able to leave them alone.
This feels like the right red for the weeks ahead. It has some of the richness of early autumn, and I’m already imagining it across a holiday table. In the meantime, there are plenty of ordinary November days that could use a little color. I’m happy to oblige.
About the Jewelry
I make each Rosehips piece by hand in my Vinalhaven studio, layering glass and firing it in the kiln to create the individual dichroic glass stones. The soft matte finish gives the red a velvety appearance, while movement and changing light bring out its brighter side.
Wear it with denim and a favorite sweater for lunch with a friend, or let that rich red dress up a simple outfit for a holiday gathering. It looks lovely against charcoal, cream, and navy, and I’m particularly fond of it with winter greens.
Choose earrings for a little color near your face, a necklace to show above an open collar, or a linked bracelet peeking out from a rolled cuff. Wear one piece or put a few together, depending on your mood. There’s no need to save the good red for company.
Part of the 2026 Color Series
A year in color, inspired by island life, changing seasons, and the world around me.
Island Time
Holding Summer
Lasting Light
On the Edge of Summer
Champagne
Orange Crush
Gathering Light Calendar
A little discovery each day. Color and light to enjoy for years.
Gathering Light is my interpretation of an Advent calendar—a celebration centered on the winter solstice, with glass treasures and personal surprises to open each day and bring a little light to the darkest time of year.
Gathering Light is a calendar of small discoveries: thirty glass stones to unwrap one at a time, handmade glass to enjoy long afterward, and five surprises with a little of my own life tucked inside.
At the center are thirty glass stones, each chosen from my studio collection. As you open them, gather them in the glass dish included with your calendar. Watch the colors collect, turn a stone in your hand, and listen to the gentle clink of glass against glass. When the unwrapping is finished, the dish and stones become something to keep close—a little collection of color on your desk, bedside table, or wherever you pause during the day.
You’ll also find a circle necklace and a little glass suncatcher to hang in your window. Everything is presented in a handmade wooden berry basket, ready to give to someone you love or keep for yourself.
The five surprises draw on things I love: family, words, growing things, the night sky, and the small discoveries that come home with me from morning walks.
About the Maker
Hi. I’m Alison the artist and maker behind WindHorse Arts, creating fused dichroic glass jewelry on Vinalhaven Island in Penobscot’s Bay, Maine. For over twenty-five years my work has explored the relationship between color, light, and place.
My work begins as flat sheets of dichroic glass that I cut, layer, and fire in a kiln at nearly 1500 degrees. Through multiple firings, the glass transforms into luminous stones that shift and shimmer in the light. I set these elements into clean, wearable forms that allow the color to take center stage.
Living and working on a small island has deeply shaped my palette. My colors are drawn from the landscape around me—Atlantic blues, lichen greens, foggy silvers, spruce shadows, and the clear light of the Maine coast. I release these colors in small, limited runs, each with its own name and story tied to the rhythms of island life.
Over the years the work has found collectors across the country, many of whom return for new colors as they are released.
At the heart of my work is a deep respect for the craft of glass and the power of color. My goal is to create jewelry that is vibrant, enduring, and meant to be worn often—pieces that catch the light and become part of a person’s daily life.
Islandscape Bracelets
These Islandscape Bracelets are a joyful collaboration between painter Elaine Crossman and me, blending her expressive islandscape paintings with my fused dichroic glass. Each piece becomes its own tiny “painting,” alive with color, light, and the spirit of Vinalhaven. Every piece is unique — layered with hues inspired by sea, sky, spruce and stone — and pairs effortlessly with any outfit. Handcrafted on the island, these bracelets bring a touch of Maine’s landscape and light wherever you go.
Summer Dawn is the quiet moment before the island fully wakes.
Lavender haze meets pale seafoam. A blush of rose catches the light. Butter-soft yellow glows underneath like the first line of sun sliding over Penobscot Bay. Each fused dichroic glass stone shifts gently as you move, revealing shimmer, translucence, and layered depth.
There is nothing loud here. Just luminous color, softly unfolding.
Handcrafted on Vinalhaven Island, Maine, this limited edition bracelet brings together pastel pink, lilac, sea glass green, and warm golden undertones in a balanced rhythm of light. The dichroic surface adds a subtle iridescent sheen, echoing early morning sky reflected on tide-wet granite.
It feels hopeful. Fresh. Like a deep breath before the day begins.
Part of my Islandscape collaboration with painter Elaine Crossman.
Radiant and full of warmth, the Marigold bracelet glows with the colors of late-summer light—sun-washed gold, petal orange, soft rose, and a touch of shimmering white. Each fused dichroic glass link captures the essence of a flower-filled garden at its peak—bright, bold, and alive with color. Handcrafted in my island studio, this piece is both cheerful and refined, an easy way to bring a touch of sunlight to your day.
Part of my Islandscape collaboration with painter Elaine Crossman.
This bracelet holds the shifting palette of the Maine shoreline in early light. Soft sea-glass blue, charcoal stone, and silvery white sit beside a flash of mossy green with a golden-dichroic shimmer that catches like sunlight on tidewater.
Each fused dichroic glass stone is individually kiln-worked, creating a rhythm of matte and luminous surfaces. The cooler blues and smoky grays feel like wet granite and ocean fog, while the bright green square adds a spark of reflected sun through spruce.
Connected with sterling silver links and finished with a secure clasp, this piece feels grounded, elemental, and quietly radiant.
A wearable stretch of coastline.
Part of my Islandscape collaboration with painter Elaine Crossman.
Jewelry Hand Crafted with Color and Connection
Ready to add a splash of color to your day? Explore my vibrant collection of handmade jewelry, from sparkly earrings to stunning necklaces and bold bracelets – each piece as unique as you are. Crafted with creativity, color, and a dash of love, my jewelry is designed to make you smile. Let your accessories do the talking – shop now and find your new favorite piece!
Give the Gift of Color and Craft - Give the Gift of Handcrafted Joy
“WindHorse Arts is one of my favorite places to buy jewelry. The colors are unique and there is something for everyone. I had been looking for a sable brown earrings and this year WindHorse Arts had just the shade I was looking for. While I have never been to the physical store, shopping online is easy and products are sent out with blazing speed. Great for late gift giving! ”
— Heidi S.
“My wife and 3 daughters each have several items of Alison’s handcrafted artistry. As the inventory and designs are always changing there are always new items to add to their collection of jewelry.
— Guy W.
“My daughter loved the birthday gift I ordered from Alison. The earrings were as bright and beautiful as the picture on her website. I highly recommend for affordable, handcrafted gifts from Maine!”
— Lorri B.
“This summer, I was introduced to Alison’s beautiful work. Worn by 2 friends of mine, her necklaces and earrings are inspired by the world around her, designed with an intimate knowledge of her materials, and fabricated seamlessly, no mechanics visible, revealing the spirit pf the piece. Her pieces are aptly named — the names further the magic of each of her creations. The earrings we chose, in the colors of nectar and pewter and ember, are proudly worn by my daughter and me. Worn with pride and gratitude!”
— Susan M.
“I have bought several pairs of earrings from Alison. They are exquisite and are made with a lot of love and care. I have been wearing one pair for approximately 10 years and people still stop me to ask about them, they have not lost their luster. If you’re on the fence, buy her jewelry. You will NOT be disappointed.
_ Danielle M.
Crafting Color, One Piece at a Time
Hi, I’m Alison, the glass-fusing, color-loving creative behind WindHorse Arts! I’m all about making jewelry that feels as fun and vibrant as life itself. Every piece I create contains a pinch of serendipity and a lot of glassy goodness. I love working with glass because it’s dynamic, unpredictable, and full of surprises. Whether I’m popping colors together or experimenting with textures, I’m always aiming to create pieces that bring joy and that little “wow” moment when you wear them. Whether it’s a set of earrings that make you smile or a pendant that catches the light just right, each piece is crafted to bring a little joy and a lot of style into your day (and a little magic, because why not?).
Ready to add a splash of color to your life? Click below to see what’s new and explore the world of WindHorse Arts!
Tips for Choosing the Perfect Piece of WindHorse Arts Jewelry
At WindHorse Arts, I believe jewelry should be as fun and unique as you are! Whether you’re treating yourself or hunting for the perfect gift, here’s your guide to picking out something that’ll make your heart skip a beat (and maybe your friends a little jealous):
Go with Your Color Crush! Can’t decide? Start with your favorite color! Whether you’re obsessed with ocean blue, feeling the greens of a forest walk, or craving a pop of fiery red, let your favorite hue lead the way. You’re drawn to it for a reason, after all!
Occasions Are Great, But So Are Tuesdays
Sure, you might be eyeing something special for a birthday, but don’t forget about just because moments! A piece of jewelry from WindHorse Arts makes every day feel like a celebration. You deserve to sparkle, no matter the occasion.
Be Bold, Be Subtle, Be You!
Are you a “big statement” kind of person or more of a “quiet elegance” type? No worries – we’ve got something for every mood! Whether you’re rocking a chunky necklace or a delicate pair of earrings, there’s a piece that’s totally you.
Mix, Match, and Make It Yours!
Who says you have to pick just one? Stack a few bracelets, layer some necklaces, or go wild with earrings! My pieces play nice together, so feel free to create your own signature style that’s totally unique.
Handmade = Extra Love
Every piece of WindHorse jewelry is lovingly handcrafted, which means no two pieces are exactly alike. You’re not just buying jewelry – you’re getting a little piece of magic, made just for you. Isn’t that fun?
Pick a Piece to Match Your Vibe
Feeling calm and collected? Go for something soft and serene. Feeling bold and ready to take on the world? Find something that’s as vibrant as your energy! Choose jewelry that matches your mood and vibe, and let your accessories tell your story.
Give the Gift of Joy (Or Just Treat Yourself!)
Jewelry is always a great idea for a gift, but let’s be real – it’s also a fantastic way to treat yourself. Share the love (or keep it for yourself)! Either way, WindHorse jewelry is the gift that keeps on giving.
So, what are you waiting for? Let your instincts guide you, and pick out a piece that makes you smile.
After all, life’s too short for boring jewelry!
Do you have a shop focused on the joy of handcraft ~ Are you interested in carrying WindHorse in your shop :
Brighten Your Shop with Handcrafted Glass Jewelry!
Add a splash of color and creativity to your shop with WindHorse Arts' stunning collection of handcrafted glass jewelry. Each piece is a unique work of art, carefully crafted with vibrant hues and organic designs that your customers will love. From delicate earrings to bold necklaces and shimmering bracelets, our jewelry brings an effortlessly stylish touch to any collection. With a focus on quality, color, and craftsmanship, WindHorse Arts offers your shop the chance to showcase one-of-a-kind designs that speak to those who appreciate the beauty of handmade art. Ready to offer something truly special to your customers? Reach out today to learn more about carrying WindHorse Arts in your store!