Playing around with patinas is lots of fun. I never know what to expect next! My favorite patina is the one created using ammonia and vinegar. Yes, I said ammonia and vinegar.This combination creates a gorgeous blue color. The kicker is... each time the color comes out slightly different. Isn't that the fun of creating at any rate? The unknown is nerve racking and … [Read more...]
Red Creek Jasper Love
The perfect gemstone colors for fall, don't you agree? I discovered this gem a few years ago while shopping at the Tucson Gem show. Instant love! The color range includes hunter green, bright orange, burgundy red, caramel , and soft yellow. This provides me with endless design options. Red creek jasper is also known as Cherry Creek Jasper. The gem hails from Mainland … [Read more...]
A Play Day at the Jewelry Bench
Most of the time when I am at the jewelry bench it is with a plan in mind. Either I am creating components for my wholesale line or pondering over what to design with new gems I have purchased. However, once in awhile I have a day that is just plain fun. There is no plan in mind. I just pull out some random metals and gems and play! This week I had one of these days. Want to … [Read more...]
Easy tips for wearing your cuff bracelet
Cuff bracelets are my life.. OK maybe not my life's goal or purpose... however I do adore designing and wearing cuff bracelets. Over the years I have designed using copper, brass and sterling. There are virtually hundreds of ways to create.. and they are all energizing and fun for me. Do YOU love cuffs too? Have you struggled with placing them on your wrist without fear of … [Read more...]
What is a Geode?
Geodes are one of nature's finest gifts to us. Officially a geode is defined as a rounded stone with a hollow center that is lined with crystals. The word geode comes from the Greek 'geodis' meaning earthy or earth-like. So how do these crystals form? First keep in mind that this process may take thousands of years.. or longer. Basically water or mud gets inside a hollow rock … [Read more...]