Jess Karpillo | Chrysophora chrysochlora

Materials: Sterling silver, copper, glass enamel, steel pin
Dimensions: 1"x1.7"

Artist Statement:  

This brooch is modeled after Chrysophora chrysochlora. It is a type of scarab found in parts of South America, commonly known as the shining leaf chafer beetle. Its granulate texture makes it stand apart from other beetles and other brooches. 

Artist Bio:

Jess Karpilo is an emerging jewelry and metals artist. She is the owner of Crybaby Industries, which sells handcrafted jewelry and oddities. Jess has a particular interest in beetles and the way their form and colors can be re-created in metal and glass enamel.

Jess earned her Certificate of Jewelry Design from North Seattle College. She lives with her partner in Seattle, in a cozy apartment that is filled with weird things.

This brooch is part of the exhibition On Point: Brooches that Speak for Themselves. This exhibition centers on the brooch as a compact but potent site of expression. Each piece holds presence—visually, conceptually, or materially.

Show dates: October 1 – November 15, 2026

All the brooches are available for purchase. View the entire collection HERE. All purchased brooches will be held by the gallery until the exhibition is complete.