Handmade Neuron Brooches: Science Jewelry Supporting ALS Awareness

After a long creative pause, I didn’t expect my return to making art to begin with a message in my Etsy inbox. A fellow neuroscientist reached out with a special request: three custom-made neuron brooches to wear at a gala dedicated to raising awareness and funding for ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis) research. It felt like the perfect chance to reconnect with my creativity while supporting a cause deeply meaningful to the scientific and medical community.

Why ALS Awareness Matters

ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. Over time, it leads to muscle weakness, paralysis, and eventually difficulty with speaking, swallowing, and breathing. While the mind often stays sharp, the body gradually loses its ability to move, making the disease particularly devastating for patients and their families.

Several years ago, my husband (a physician-scientist) shared how his group lab meetings were often attended by a brilliant researcher living with ALS. Though completely paralyzed and barely able to breathe on his own, he was able to not only understand the deep scientific discussions but, through the marvels of modern day technology, offer insightful recommendations for new directions to explore. His presence was a powerful reminder of the importance of continued research, not only for ALS but for all neurodegenerative diseases.

Designing the Neuron Brooches

Currently, there is no cure for ALS, and treatments are very limited, which is why ongoing research is so critical. Hence, I was very excited to take on the challenge of making this jewelry.

As I have typically done in the past, for several nights I was going to sleep thinking about possible ways to create the requested medium spiny neuron and two motor neuron brooches. And, as usual, I overcomplicated the problem. Here are some sketches I made in my notebook afterwards. I wanted to capture both the science and the artistry of these unique cells.

I was primarily looking for a way to create dendritic spines, and was planning to rely on my tatting experience from 25 years ago. In the end, this technique turned out to be unnecessary, but has certainly given my some cool ideas for future projects.

Thinking through structural details of future neurons.

The final brooches combined seed beads, felt, and my love for science-inspired design. Each piece became more than jewelry—they were tiny wearable tributes to the beauty of neurons and the resilience of the people and families facing ALS.

The final brooches combined seed beads, felt, and my love for science-inspired design.

Each brooch was finished with felt and a sturdy clasp in the back, and featured a deep blue crystal as the nucleus.

Art with Purpose

This project reminded me why I create: art can be more than decoration. It can carry meaning, spark conversation, and help shine a light on important causes. These neuron brooches were a way for me to merge my passion for art with my background in science, while also supporting a community that urgently needs awareness and advocacy.

If you’re curious to see more of my neuroscience-inspired jewelry to raise awareness of neuroscience research, I invite you to visit my Etsy shop and Gallery. While these brooches have already been sold, I would be more than happy to create a unique custom piece for you.

I also encourage you to share this story. Sometimes the smallest pieces of art can make the biggest impact.

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✨ Have you ever created something with a bigger purpose in mind? I’d love to hear your stories in the comments!