Inspired by her weekend trips to Taxco, while studying at the Universidad Las Americas in Mexico City, Mexico, Shirlee went against her parents wishes and did a complete about face on the rest of her life. She dropped her study of psychology and turned to the love she had found in the artistry of jewelry design and creation.

Upon her return to her home state of Michigan, she began her career in the jewelry industry. She spent several years designing and purchasing for major jewelry chains and manufacturers, while continuing her studies in gemology and design. The majority of her gemological studies being with the GIA, and her Master Jeweler certification achieved through intense studies and "hands on" classes throughout the United States at the bench. Her love of nature is evident in her innovative ideas and unique use of materials, and has brought her numerous forms of awards and recognition. Shirlee's creations are achieved with a combined use of lost wax casting and fabrication. Her primary metals are 14kt and 18kt, white and yellow gold, with an occasional hint of fine silver now and then. Her artistic creations are "one of a kind" featuring fossils, minerals and gemstones.

But, Shirlee always says, "the best recognition is in the eyes of the beholder"... when she sees others get swept away by the flair and artistry Mother Nature used when she created the fabulous array of gem material and fossils. "My desire is to design a container around these gifts from the earth that will make it easier to enjoy them... wear them... and share them with others. It never ceases to amaze me as to how exquisitely delicate or profoundly bold Mother Nature can do her paintings. Everyday that I begin, I know that there are more, and new treasures for me to behold and be able to work with. I guess that's why I feel so lucky to not have any boundaries in what color... or texture, whether fossil, mineral or gemstone, that I put together in my wearable art."