About Outback Keepsakes

Finding Meaning in Nature, Stories, Myth, and Symbols

My jewelry is inspired by the natural world, stories that enchant us, myths that capture our imagination, symbolic imagery, and the small things that bring us joy.

I create handcrafted pins and wearable art that draw from plants, animals, folklore, sacred imagery, and the textures and colors of nature.

Much of my work begins with a feeling of connection: to memory, to landscape, to beauty, to loved ones, and to the restorative experience of being outdoors in Nature. I am especially drawn to imagery that evokes joy, wonder, protection, healing, and reflection.

I also create gemstone jewelry and bracelets inspired by traditional associations between stones, energy, grounding, and emotional balance. I’m interested in the way meaningful objects can serve as small personal touchstones or talismans in everyday life.

Each piece is assembled by hand in my studio using carefully designed images, metals, beads and gemstones, and other materials - some new, some repurposed. My hope is that each piece invites a moment of connection and remains meaningful over time.

Our Story

Welcome to Outback Keepsakes, a small studio in Oregon's Outback where stories are gathered, symbols are honored, and beautiful things are crafted.

The studio grew from a lifelong fascination with the things we choose to carry with us. I have always gathered sticks, stones, feathers, shells, bits of jewelry, and memorabilia that hold a certain magic for me.

And somewhere along the line, images, beads, gemstones, chains and charms began turning into jewelry. Wearable art depicting the animals we love, creatures that inspire us, stories that capture our imagination, our hopes, our dreams, our passions, as well as things that make us laugh.

I hope that, as you wander through my cabinet of curiosities, you find something that speaks to you!

Equal Opportunity Statement

Outback Keepsakes is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants are considered without regard to species, mythology, folklore, feather color, or level of woodland enchantment.

Employee Handbook Excerpt

Dress Code

Come as you are
Pockets are good for catching stray findings
Woodland attire acceptable after 5:00 p.m

Approved Studio Vocabulary

"I wonder..."
"Let's print a test."
"That'll make a beautiful cabochon."1
"One more tiny adjustment..."
"Where did I put my pliers?"

Article VII — The Fox Clause

If an employee becomes hopelessly stuck on a creative problem, they shall immediately:

Set the work aside.
Go outside and breathe deeply.
Consult the Director of Woodland Operations.
Return with fresh eyes and rejuvenated spirit.

Failure to comply may result in unnecessary tinkering.

Meet The Team

Outback Keepsakes is a small studio with a big imagination. These are the beings who keep things running, offer inspiration, and make sure there is always something interesting on the workbench.

Christine Newton

Founder, Artist, and Chief Keeper of Stories, Legends, and Curiosities

Sylvanus Magpie

Executive Coach, Process Analyst & Cheerleader

Frederick Fox

Director of Woodland Operations

Occasional Visitors

Cousin Crow

Collector of shiny things and occasional gifter of treasures

Brother Coyote