The marriage of form and function which Jim Harper creates in his jewelry and metalwork reflects both his sculptural background as well as his training as a jeweler.

Like his sculpture, Harper's jewelry and other functional metalwork shows his strong sense of line. Compound curves, sharp edges, soft voluminous forms, and abrupt changes in direction create a contrapuntal harmony of form and line. Add to that his pride in creating pieces that are not just for show, but also for practical use.

His favorite material is silver, but he also works often in copper, brass, and bronze. He is now beginning to include more of his lampworked glass into his pieces. Many pieces also include stones and/or wood in the design.