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Summer Jewelry Suggestions

7/1/2020

Warm summer days and nights call for light and bright jewelry; pieces that don't weigh you down and colors that reflect summer's beautiful flowers and birds. Jazz up neutral outfits with sunny yellows, radiant reds, cool blues and greens, and outrageous oranges. Offset brightly colored clothes with black, white and metallics.

Here are some summer jewelry ideas.

Bracelets A thin bangle or narrow cuff in silver, copper or bronze adds a metallic glow without a lot of weight. If you want a more striking look, stack several.

Earrings Add a pop of bright color - maybe one you've never tried before. If you wear your hair up or pulled back, try a sleek drop earring in a vibrant hue - hot pink, lime green, aqua. Look for classic shapes such as diamonds and squares in vivid colors. For a more traditional look, select slender earrings in hammered silver, copper or bronze.

Necklaces For a minimalist look, try a gemstone hanging from a simple chain. Add a little sparkle with a single crystal cube on an almost invisible necklace. Fine changes interspersed with gemstones or crystals provide a delicate, timeless look.

Pendants A single wire-wrapped gemstone on a chain or cord can make a statement without a lot of weight. Jade, rose quartz, or rock crystal quartz qill add a touch of coolness to your outfit.

Rings For a cool look, consider a simple hammered sterling silver ring. Look for bright colors and fun shapes like my Just for Fun Swirly Wire Rings which come in a variety of summery colors.

Use jewelry to lighten and brighten your summer wardrobe. You can experiment with bold colors and unusual designs without a large investment.

I've updated my collections to include jewelry in bright colors, classic neutrals and traditional metals just right for summer wear.

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Amazing Quartz

6/2/2020

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Quartz is a huge family of minerals with the same chemical composition and similar properties. It makes up 12% of the earth's crust.

There are two major branches of the quartz family:

Macro-crystalline - crystals visible to the naked eye. This branch includes amethyst, citrine, rose quartz, smoky quartz and rutilated quartz.
Micro- or crypto-crystalline - crystals too small to be seen without magnification. This branch is more commonly known as chalcedony (kal-SEH-doh-nee) and includes agate, jasper, carnelian, chrysoprase, onyx and petrified wood.

Amethyst Cross Pendant

Fired Jasper Necklace

In broad terms, chalcedony can be semi-transparent, translucent, solid, or patterned. The most common forms of chalcedony are agate and jasper.

Jasper tends to be opaque with irregular and less defined markings. It is composed of microscopic grains of crystalline quartz.
Agate is usually translucent and has clearly defined bands. It is composed of microscopic fibers of crystalline quartz.

However, in the gem and jewelry trade when someone refers to chalcedony, they are usually talking about a semi-transparent or translucent stone with a solid color (most often soft blue) with a waxy luster. This type of chalcedony can also be white, purple, pink, yellow or red but not orange-red which is referred to as carnelian.

I enjoy making jewelry with all types of quartz from clear rock crystal quartz to the astonishingly colored and patterned jaspers and agates. A few of my current favorites are:

Rock Crystal Quartz - the crystal-clear variety of macro-crystalline quartz. It is considered the ideal of macro-crystalline quartz.

Fired Agate - this agate, a micro-crystalline quartz, is heated to give it a crackled appearance.

Green Zebra Jasper - as its name implies this jasper, also a micro-crystalline quartz, is striped in green and white.

Rose Quartz - the soft pink variety of macro-crystalline quartz. It is one of the most desired varieties of macro-crystalline quartz.

Rock Crystal Quartz & Onyx Pendant

Visit Jewelry Facets to learn more about all the branches of the quartz family as well as a wide variety of other gems and gemstones.

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Marvelous Moms

5/9/2020

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On one special day each year, children let their mothers know how much they're loved and appreciated. But did you ever wonder how that custom started? Read on for a little Mother's Day history.

The tradition started as a spring celebration in Greece honoring Rhea, the mother of all gods. In the 1600's, early English Christians designated a day to honor Mary, the mother of Christ. That religious holiday expanded to honor all mothers and became knowns as "Mothering Sunday." Unfortunately, that tradition faded away about the time the Pilgrims came to America.

Then in 1870, Julia Ward Howe issued a peace proclamation urging women, especially mothers, to rise against war. It became known as the first Mother's Day proclamation. Her Mother's Peace Day was widely celebrated but she was unable to get it declared a national holiday.

Almost 1 with my mom and her mom

When Anna Jarvis's mother died in 1905, Anna missed her greatly and realized children often neglected to appreciate their mothers while they were still alive. She started a national campaign to recognize mothers - living and dead. Anna's dream came true on May 9, 1914 when President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed the second Sunday in May was to be observed as Mother's Day to honor all mothers.

While Mother's Day is celebrated in most parts of the world, it is not celebrated on the same day. For example, Mothering Sunday is celebrated on the fourth Sunday in Lent in the UK and Mother's Day on May 10 in Mexico.

40-something with my mom

There are as many ways to pay tribute to a mom as there are children. And this year as we shelter in place, many of us will be using Facetime, Skype and Zoom to say "I love you" to our moms and other special women in our lives. Now more than every, remember mom's admonition to "wash your hands."

Wishing you and yours a safe, healthy and Happy Mother's Day.

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Gems Are Not Just for Jewelry

4/21/2020

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When I think of gems, I immediately think "jewelry." But gems are used in many other ways. In fact, the majority of gems that are mined are used in applications other than jewelry. Here are just a few.

Corundum is aluminum oxide. It is called ruby when red and sapphire when other colors. Regardless of color, corundum is used as an abrasive for grinding glass and polishing metal. It is made into sandpapers and grinding wheels.

Fluorite is calcium fluoride. It is used as flux in the manufacture of steel and as a catalyst in the manufacture of high-octane fuels. Fluorite plays a large part in the creation of glazed tiles and opalescent glass. It is a source of fluorine which is used for the fluoridation of water and in Teflon coatings.

Hematite is an iron oxide and the most important iron ore as it is 70% iron. Powdered hematite is called red ocher and is used as a pigment. Purified, ground hematite is called rouge and is used to polish plate glass and jewelry.

Fluorite

Kyanite

Kyanite is the major raw material for the aluminum silicate mullite which is used in spark plugs and heat-resistant porcelains. The molds that are used for casting high-temperature metals are often made of kyanite.

Lazurite is the main component of lapis lazuli and gives it its deep blue color. Powered lapis was used for hundreds of years to make the pigment ultramarine. And, it was probably one of the first eye shadows.

Malachite is green copper carbonate hydroxide. It was ground and used as eye paint in ancient time possibly to ward off the evil eye. It was also used as the green pigment in wall paintings dating back to the 15th century BC.

Petalite, lithium aluminum silicate, is an important source of lithium. Its high chemical activity makes possible the tiny batteries used in pacemakers and other small devices.

Petalite

Jewelry Facets provides more information about these and other gemstones.

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Spring Is Almost Here

3/13/2020

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Trees and shrubs are starting to bloom. Tulips and daffodils are popping up. Soft green blades of grass are visible. All signs spring is almost here.

Spring brings a sense of lightness and renewal. As I'm creating new designs, I'm choosing gemstones in soft pinks and greens and blues. I'm moving away from weighty styles and toward light, airy designs.

In addition to being beautiful, gemstones have distinct metaphysical properties which I enjoy learning about and sharing with you. So, here is a bit about some of the gemstones I plan to use.

Rose Quartz - Its soft pink tones are perfect for spring. In addition, rose quartz is often called the "love stone" as it is believed to generate strong love energies and to help find new love.

Ruby Zoisite - It has a soft green background with small bursts of ruby that look like flowers. This unusual stone is thought to bring positive and happy feelings.

Ruby Zoisite Necklace

Prehnite Necklace

Blue and Green Kyanite - These translucent stones come in quiet blues and greens with a subtle shimmer. Kyanite is believed to bring loyalty, honesty and tranquility as well as to diminish anger and confusion.

Prehnite - It is a delicate, translucent apple green, a color unique to this stone. Prehnite is known as the stone of unconditional love. It is also believed to help sufferers of claustrophobia.

Rock Crystal Quartz - This is the clear variety of quartz. It is considered the ideal quartz. Rock crystal quartz is thought to enhance concentration and unlock memories.

Blue Lace Agate - This variety of agate has bands of soft blue in a wavy or lacy pattern. It is believed to be cooling and calming and bring peace of mind. Blue lace agate is also thought to neutralize anger, infection, inflammation and fever.

Rock Crystal Quartz & Onyx Pendant

Combined with sterling, bronze or copper wire, these gemstones will appear in jewelry that is sure to add a touch of spring to your wardrobe.

Happy Spring!

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Yummy February Holidays

2/5/2020

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There are all kinds of February holidays that may not be as famous as Valentine's Day or President's Day, but I think they're definitely more fun. This year, I'm focusing on food-related holidays with jewelry to match - enjoy!

National Dark Chocolate Day - February 1
Not only is dark chocolate yummy but it's also good for you - indulge! Jewelry made with chocolate jasper would be perfect for this holiday or any time you crave chocolate.

National Pizza Day - February 9
Lots of flavors to choose from not to mention styles of crust. One of my favorites is pepperoni with a thin crust. Jewelry in red or white will go with any pizza you choose.

National Almond Day - February 16
In addition to being healthy, almonds are a very versatile nut - eat them raw, turn them into flour or milk, roast them with honey. Jewelry made with golden metals - brass, bronze or gold - is as versatile as almonds. It can be any shape and appeals to all appetites.

National Muffin Day - February 20
There's a muffin for every taste - English, blueberry, and bran to name just a few. Celebrate this day by trying a new flavor. And while you're trying something new, try a different style of jewelry and shake up your wardrobe.

National Dog Biscuit Day - February 23
Spoil your dog (or a friend's or neighbor's) with tasty biscuits. Right now, my two dogs are enjoying chicken and apple sausage treats. Spoil yourself with a new piece of jewelry, maybe something pet-themed.

Chase the winter doldrums away by observing these yummy holidays. Have a fun February!

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2020 Color of the Year - Classic Blue

1/6/2020

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Pantone's Color of the Year is Classic Blue. It is suggestive of the sky at dusk. Pantone calls Classic Blue a timeless and enduring blue hue that brings a sense of peace and tranquility to the human spirit.

According to Leatrice Eiseman, Executive Director of the Pantone Color Institute, "We are living in a time that requires trust and faith. It is this kind of constancy and confidence that is expressed by Classic Blue, a solid and dependable blue hue we can always rely on."

This year look for jewelry featuring these Classic Blue gemstones.

Sapphire is the ideal Classic Blue gemstone in both color and meaning. It symbolizes wisdom, virtue, good fortune, faithfulness and sincerity. It is believed to increase/enhance intuition, mental clarity and spiritual power.

Lapis Earrings

Lapis Lazuli is a rich saturated blue often with inclusions of calcite or pyrite. It is considered to be the stone of truth and friendship.

Kyanite is a shimmery, translucent blue stone. Its powerful blue hues are thought to inspire calmness, composure, serenity, loyalty and respect.

Sodalite is a rich blue stone that is sometimes confused with lapis. It is thought to dispel fears and promote a clear, insightful mind.

In addition to gemstones, crystal, glass and cubic zirconia beads will abound in this timeless color. Regardless of your budget, you'll be able to find just the right piece of jewelry in the 2020 Color of the Year - Classic Blue.

The Pantone Color Institute, often referred to as simply Pantone, is the global color authority and provider of professional color standards for the design industries. These standards allow the exact same color to be used across a variety of products as diverse as home furnishings, paint, cosmetics, clothing, and linens.

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Oh, the Holidays Are Here!

12/10/2019

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A wonderful, special crazy time of year! Over-the-top decorations, twinkling lights, good food enjoyed with family and friends, shared laughter, and silent moments of wonder in the still of the night all make the holidays a extraordinary time of year.

When I was young, we began crafting holiday decorations right after Thanksgiving. The "Christmas Ideas" issue of Better Homes & Gardens magazine was our guide. I still buy it, although I don't think there are as many crafts in it now as there were then. And I still make decorations and ornaments. One year, I made small wreaths out of bells which I tie to the back of the stools at my kitchen island. The jingle as I move a stool makes me smile.

Thanksgiving also marked the day on which I could begin playing Christmas carols on my piano. Now, Christmas carols are about the only thing I play on the piano and I do so purely for my own enjoyment. That was also the day we pulled out the Christmas record albums - Bing Crosby, The Andrews Sisters, and Frank Sinatra to name just a few..

Holiday baking started a couple of weeks before Christmas. My mom made the cookies; my dad decorated them with a little help from me and my brother. My dad also did all the dishes. I go a little crazy with my holiday backing. Last year I made 9 kinds of cookies and fruitcake liberally soaked with 151-proof rum. All of which I share with family and friends.

When we were little in the weeks leading up to Christmas, my mom and dad blocked of the living room where magical things were happening - oh the excitement of waiting to see what was there. All was revealed on Christmas Eve night - a glistening tree, a fabulous train in a winder wonderland setting, and packages that Santa brought. With 2 rambunctious dogs and 3 inquisitive cats, I've given up having a tree. But garlands, wreaths and lights still make my living room magical.

Wishing you a magical holiday season!

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Handmade for the Holidays

11/6/2019

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It's holiday shopping season! And if you're looking for unique gifts, look no further than arts and crafts shows, galleries and the websites of individual artists.

The Prescott quad-cities area, where I live, is home to an amazing number of artists and craftspeople. And if you're looking, you're sure to find them where you live.

These artists create an astonishing array of items including jewelry, original paintings, woodwork, ceramics, glass, clothing and home décor. Each lovingly made by hand with many one-of-a-kind. Prices can range from "oh so affordable" to "sky's the limit." You'll be surprised at how affordable handmade art can be.

A benefit of buying from an artist, either in person, at a gallery or on their website, is learning something about them and how they create their items. You can include a note with your gift gelling the gift's story - who made it, how it was made, why you chose it, or where you found it. This makes even a small gift important. A handmade gift with a thoughtful note is a wonderful way to create a special memory.

Here's a tip so you don't misplace a gift or forget who it's for. Attach a note to each gift listing who it's for and any information you want to share about it. then, place the gift in a special holiday box - I use a plastic bin. When it's time to start wrapping, you'll know where all the gifts are. Before I started doing this, some gifts were so well hidden I didn't find them till long after the holidays!

I really love making jewelry. I get even more pleasure helping someone pick just the right piece to give a friend or family member. The icing on the cake for me is hearing from the customer how much their gift was appreciated. If you can, let the artist know how much the gift was enjoyed. You'll make their day.

This year look locally for unique and interesting items for those on your list and yourself. You'll contribute to a happy holiday for the artists and keep the money in your community.

Make handcrafted gifts part of your holiday tradition!

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Awesome Autumn

10/21/2019

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I love fall! It's my favorite time of the year. I love its rich, warm colors - rust, ocher, orange, red, yellow and brown. I love the flickering flames of a fire in my wood stove. And I even like the little nip in the air that says winter will be here soon.

What says autumn more than richly colored leaves? So, this year my fall collection features hand-forged copper and bronze wire leaves.

Some are filled with snippets of my sister-in-law's greeting cards which contain the deep colors and complex patterns evident in the paintings from which the cards are created. After adhering the colorful snippets to a copper or bronze leaf shape, I coat both sides with resin which brings out the colors and adds dimension.

Others are filled with resin. First, I fill the wire leaf shape with clear resin. Then I add dots of red, yellow and orange tinted resin. Finally, I swirl the tinted resin through the clear which results in a marbled effect.

And sometime, I just leave them plain allowing the rich copper and bronze hammered metal to shine. I often mix plain and filled leaves in one piece.

My fall collection also includes the deep, warm tones of autumnal gemstones such as tiger eye, chocolate jasper and smoky quartz. I enjoy matching gemstones and wire to create the perfect fall necklace or earrings.

Update your wardrobe with a little fall color.