Thomas Gentille, a pioneering American studio jeweler and artist celebrated for transforming wearable art into profound sculptural statements, passed away in Manhattan in March 2026 at the age of 89. Born in Mansfield, Ohio, in 1936, Gentille dedicated over six decades to challenging conventional notions of jewelry, elevating it through his innovative use of materials and minimalist aesthetic.

Gentille's artistic journey began at the Cleveland Institute of Art, where he initially focused on painting and sculpture. It was during his senior year, around 1958, that he discovered a passion for jewelry making, a field he would profoundly influence. He was mentored by figures like Clay Walker and Frederick A. Miller, and his early explorations included using materials like ebony, which was unconventional for jewelry at the time.

Throughout his illustrious career, Gentille became renowned for his meticulous craftsmanship and his exploration of form and texture. He was a master of materials, often incorporating unconventional substances such as wood, eggshell inlay, pure pigments, aluminum, resin, and pumice into his pieces. His work consistently demonstrated that all materials, regardless of their inherent monetary value, could be precious when imbued with artistic vision.

Beyond his own creations, Gentille made significant contributions to the field through education and mentorship. He authored the influential instructional manual “Step-by-Step Jewelry,” published in 1968, which served as a valuable resource for aspiring jewelers. He also played a pivotal role in establishing and directing the esteemed jewelry program at New York's 92nd Street Y, where he mentored countless artists.

His groundbreaking work garnered international recognition and was showcased in numerous solo and group exhibitions. Notably, he was the first American artist jeweler to receive a solo exhibition at Die Neue Sammlung – The Design Museum in Munich in 2016, an honor that underscored his unique standing in contemporary art jewelry.

Gentille's pieces are held in the permanent collections of prestigious institutions worldwide, including nine pieces at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, more than any other contemporary jeweler. Other notable collections include the Cooper-Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum, the Victoria and Albert Museum in London, and the Pinakothek der Moderne in Munich.

Among his many accolades, Thomas Gentille was designated a “Modern Classic” in 2006 and was a recipient of both the Herbert Hofmann and Bavarian State Prizes. His legacy is one of innovation, challenging artistic boundaries, and inspiring new generations of designers to explore the poetic and sculptural possibilities of jewelry.