[tweet_dis_img][/tweet_dis_img] Howlite is a beautiful white gemstone with black veins or inclusions. I call it the great pretender because some (not so reputable) dealers dye it and sell as turquoise, coral or lapis. It has also been mistakenly marketed as white turquoise. Howlite is a very porous stone. This is one reason these fakes can be created. Mostly the suppliers in … [Read more...]
Evolution of a Jewelry Collection
A collection is defined as a group of similar things that you have deliberately acquired, usually over a period of time. My jewelry designs for the most part are grouped into collections. When I first began designing, I played around with anything and everything. Then I began to notice patterns in what resonated with me. Sometimes this is as simple as absolutely loving … [Read more...]
Desperately Seeking Enthusiasm
Last month I had a rare experience. I was not interested in doing anything. This feeling dragged on for several days. [tweet_dis_img][/tweet_dis_img] Have you ever felt this way? Can you relate to my mild case of depression? Anyone who knows me understands how unusual that is. I am normally the person some will compare to Pollyanna. Happy & Enthusiastic- always with … [Read more...]
Jasper ; Fascinating Facts
Do you love jasper as much as I do? Jasper is a variety of quartz found on every continent on earth. It is known as the nurturing stone. Because this gorgeous stone contains takes on many impurities during it's formation, the gem is always opaque. It's good to note that the impurities are what create the spectacular colors and designs! [tweet_box design="box_02" … [Read more...]
What if?? The ever-changing life of a designer.
Did you ever wonder how a designer creates? Where DO those ideas come from? Here's a little insight from my perspective. First of all there is no typical day at the jewelry bench. I may be creating pieces for a wholesale order, working on a new collection, learning to use a new piece of equipment or putting finishing touches on a custom order. But the BEST day is one where … [Read more...]