Music as a calming influence I love to spend time at the jewelry bench. In fact it is my FAVORITE way to spend my time. Yes I do love the outdoors as well. Hiking when the weather permits is invigorating and fun. However, my time at the bench is precious. How do I keep my concentration? Music! I love music that is strictly instrumental. Often songs are distracting when I am … [Read more...]
20 Million Years in the Making. Petrified Palmwood Root
I discovered this gem last year. Immediately I was intrigued with the history and especially the beauty. Yes it's true that these gems were formed 20 million years ago in Indonesia. The tree trunks became replaced with quartz while still preserving the wooden features and structure. The inclusions and patterns are endless but typically are combinations of black and caramel … [Read more...]
What a difference some texture makes!
Lately I have been playing around with adding more texture to my designs. While texture is always a strong part of my collection I felt the need to step up my game a little. Why not look good coming AND going? Texturing the back of the earring design you see here opens up a whole new world for me. Normally the texture is on the front surrounding the gem, while the back … [Read more...]
Made in USA. My Jewelry and much MORE
First of all I LOVE being an American. I feel the patriotism in so many ways. Buying from MADE IN USA companies is one of the ways that I contribute to our country and those offering goods and services produced right here in the USA. USA MADE PRODUCTS has it's own web site. About a year ago I discovered this site. It was exciting to find many companies offering services … [Read more...]
The Zen of Jewelry filing
One of the final processes in my jewelry design is filing the metal so it is smooth to the touch. My husband has asked me many times if there is an easier way to achieve this finish.. one that does not involve so much of my time. He is the king of finding simpler solutions to save time! I tell him what I share with you now. I LOVE the process of filing these designs. Yes … [Read more...]
