Hiatus!

I really just got stated on this blog but I'm going on Hiatus for a while (not sure how long!)  I'm an elementary art teacher in my real-world life, and I was just offered an addition to my teaching schedule in the form of another school to teach at, with a whole new curriculum to plan, lessons to write, etc etc.  So now I'm teaching art at two elementary schools (each of which is a charter school with a different focus and curriculum) teaching jewelry making classes and working on my own jewelry line, and oh yeah, cleaning up after a two-year-old.  Apparently I need to give some things up, so my choices are jewelry blog and cleaning.  Problem solved.  I hope to start again when I get settled into the school year a bit! 

Large Frida Collar Necklace by Sollis

Large Friday Collar Necklace $218

 

Today's handmade jewelry pick is this knotted and beaded collar necklace from Sollis.  The combination of materials and the way they are arranged makes this piece really interesting and unique.  It's reminiscent of ancient jewelry but done in a fresh, modern way. 

Tanager and Pomegranate Earrings by Dawn Estin

Tanager and Pomegranate Earrings $95

 

Today's handmade jewelry pick is a pair of sterling silver/mixed media earrings from Dawn Estin.  I love the playful style of these earrings, from the sweet little bird image to the fanciful shapes of the leaves and dangles.  I like the detail of the little tabs on the setting too. 

Fran Bracelet by Sue Savage

Fran Bracelet $160

Today's handmade jewelry pick is a polymer clay and sterling silver bracelet from Sue Savage.  I love that the polymer clay pieces set into the sterling silver bezels look like some kind of amazing, rare jasper.  The colors in the piece shown are gorgeous and the free-form composition of each polymer clay piece is fascinating to look at.

Oval Spring Maple Ring by Ananda Khalsa

Oval Spring Maple Ring $255

Today's piece is this lovely hand-painted silver and 22k gold ring from Ananda Khalsa.  I like the elongated oval shape of this ring, and the simplicity of the miniature painting, reminiscent of Japanese brush paintings.  The gold setting complements the green of the painting nicely. 

Stone Blossom Ring by Revonav

Stone Blossom Ring $270

We have some fine jewelry today for our handmade jewelry pick.  This silver, gold, and diamond ring from Revonav is the perfect balance of clean modern design and sweet romanticism.  I love the soft treatment of the metal against the hard sparkle of the diamond.  This would be a great unique engagement ring. 

Sterling Silver Wire Wrapped Necklace by Joanna Watracz

Sterling Silver Wire Wrapped Necklace $500

Today's pick is a gorgeous beaded wire wrapped necklace from Joanna Watracz.  I love the mix of colors and shapes in the beads- those irregular pearls are great.  What really draws my attention here though is the richness of the wirework.  I love the densitiy of the spiraling wires inside their neatly wrapped nests. 

Whispered Leaves by Pirates Dream

Whispered Leaves $95

Today's handmade jewelry pick is this hand-pierced pendant from Pirates Dream.  Made from the bowl of an antique spoon, the entire design is cut out by hand using a small hand saw.  Quite a feat, especially on a curved surface.  This piece is very nicely crafted and the delicacy of the leaves and roots is just beautiful. 

Woven Wire Cross by Zoraida

Woven Wire Cross $30

I've been looking at a lot of wire jewelry today.  I'm always impressed with the variety of forms and designs people can develop from a linear material.  For instance, this cross by Zoraida is both substantial and delicate, and very well crafted.  This is a very unique take on such a tradition jewelry type. 

Lovely Bird Tile Pendant by Alyssa Ettinger Designs

Lovely Bird Tile Pendant $36

Today we have another piece of ceramic jewelry- this one is from Alyssa Ettinger Designs.  I love the delicate modeling of this piece and the way the pure white porcelain shows through the delicate lavender glaze. ( It's also available in other colors) This piece is cast from an antique glass tile, which gives it that historical charm I love, yet simple enough for everyday wear. 

Flor Cloisonne Enamel Necklace by Agora Art

Flor Cloisonne Enamel Necklace $85

I've been working on enameling tonight and it inspired me to feature some of my favorite enamel jewelry.  This handmade silver and enamel cloissone necklace from Agora Art is just gorgeous.  I'm a big fan of the coral red and aqua blue color scheme, and I love that the artist here is using a very traditional techinque to produce a fresh and modern design. 

Fabric Cuff by Waterrose

Fabric Cuff $92

Here's something a little different again for today's jewelry pick: a hand embroidered linen cuff from Waterrose.  This cuff is evocative of the delicate handwork on historical clothing.  I love the muted color pallette and the textures of the linen and fine hand embroidery- a lovely and interesting accessory. 

Sterling Silver Labradorite Owl Pendant by Annabel Alleyne

Sterling Silver Labradorite Owl Pendant $130

Today's pick is this great filigree owl pendant from Annabel Alleyne.  I have to say this just might be the most unique and truly handmade owl pendant on etsy!  I love the idea of using the labradorite stones for the eyes- very evocative of the flash of light from an animal's eyes in the dark.  I also have a real appreciation for the kind of intricate handwork that goes into making filigree jewelry. 

Rose Cut Rainbow Moonstone Ring by Jill Anish

Rainbow Moonstone Ring $148

Today's jewelry pick if from one of my most window-shopped etsy shops. This gorgeous moonstone, sterling silver and 18k gold ring by Jill Anish is just to die for.  The blue flash of the moonstone with the gold setting is lovely, and I like the mixture of metals in the ring.  The stone itself is just beautiful, interesting and natural, not too perfect.  The tasteful setting really sets off the stone nicely and lets it take center stage. 

Goddess Necklace by Mama Earth Creations

Goddess Necklace $100

Today's pick is this really unique and finely crafted macrame necklace from Mama Earth Creations.  What looks like woven seed beads is actually hundreds of tiny knots worked in a multi-colored pattern.  I'm really impressed with the workmanship here and of course I love the turquoise, brown and cream color scheme. 

Etched Tile Bahaus Necklace by Uncommonly Beautiful

Etched Tile Bahaus Necklace £40

I spaced on my handmade jewelry post yesterday, so we'll do two today to make up for it!  First I have a cool, asymmetrical bahaus-inspired recycled wood necklace from Uncommonly Beautiful.  I'm always impressed with jewelers who do assymetry well- so much more difficult than a symmetrical design.  I also love the color scheme here.  It does a good job of balancing the bright colors with the neutrals. 

Chunky Bangle by Oscar and Matilda

Chunky Bangle $39.95

Here's something a little different for today's handmade jewelry pick: this sweet bangle bracelet from Oscar and Matilda is made with printed fabric sealed in resin .  I love the soft translucence of the fabric in the clear resin, and the cute floral pattern is sweet and old-fashioned. 

Quilted Star Porcelain Earrings by Round Rabbit

Quilted Star Earrings $38

Today's handmade jewelry pick is this stylish pair of porcelain and silver earrings from Round Rabbit.  I love these unique handmade porcelain beads, and the innovative one-piece earwires. These are clean and modern but with a hint of old fashioned charm in the quilt-like design. 

Sakura no3 Charmbangle by Ceeb Wassermann

Sakura No3 Charmbangle $64

Today's handmade jewelry pick is this sweet japanese-inspired sterling silver bangle by Ceeb Wassermann.  I love the clean simplicity of the sakura design.  I think the charm bangle looks really cute stacked up with the plain silver bangles ($15 each when purchased with the charm bangle) 

Balancing Act Earrings by Silent Goddess

Balancing Act Purple Chalcedony and Sterling Silver Earrings $35

I love a good pair of dangly earrings, don't you?  These chalcedony and sterling earrings from Silent Goddess look like they would be fun to wear.  I really like the purple and black color combination, and those round earwires are a nice touch.  

Etched Paisley Cuff by Karla Wheeler Design

Etched Paisley Cuff $60

Some days I hunt and hunt for a piece of jewelry to feature.  Other days something jumps right out at me.  This cuff from Karla Wheeler Design was one of those pieces that jumped right out at me.  The etching on this piece is just excuisite.  I love the overall paisley pattern and the finish on this cuff is perfect- smooth but not too shiny- it really sets off the pattern nicely. 

Chalcedony and Pearl Ring by Hedgerow Rose

Ring $175

Today's jewelry pick is this one of a kind mixed metal, chalcedony and pearl ring from Hedgerow Rose.  I really like the combination of materials in this ring- the subtle colors of the stones and metals are just lovely together.  The copper coral shape is very nicely done and a great completment to the more polished aesthetic of the stones. 

Renaissance Flag Earrings with Onyx by Down to the Wire Designs

Renaissance Flag Earrings $38

Today's handmade jewelry pick is from one of my longtime etsy favorites, Chuck Domitrovich of Down to the Wire Designs.  I think the name of these earrings sums them up pretty well.  I like jewelry with a historical feel and these earrings have it combined with a clean modern design sensibility. 

Small Hoop Earrings by Efrat Deutsch

Small Hoop Earrings $100

Today's item is a unique pair of hoop earrings from Efrat Deutsch.  I like the organic openwork pattern of these hoops- it reminds me of a wasp's nest or a coral of some kind.  The lacy design of these earrings makes them look very lightweight and comforable to wear as well.  

Copper Poppy Ring by Barron Design Studio

Copper Poppy Ring $36

Today's handmade jewelry pick is this sweet little copper poppy ring from Barron Design Studio.  I love the mixture of sterling silver and bright, shiny copper, and I love the hand-hammered finish.  The way it catches the light is lovely. 

Watermelon Necklace with Lava Berries by Carol Windsor

Watermelon Necklace with Lava Berries $600

We have a really unique piece for today's jewelry pick.  This neclace by Carol Windsor features handmade silver and paper pendants and a lovely handmade silver chain.  The contrast of the colorful paper with the dark lava beads is really nice and I am impressed by the innovative technique laminating paper to silver. 

Cardio by Missy Industry

Cardio $93

Today's handmade jewelry pick is this silver anatomical heart pendant from Missy Industry on Supermarket.  The detail in this piece is great and I like the industrial feel of the rivets.  This would be a perfect gift for a slightly unconventional sweetheart.

Gold Bow Necklace by Olive Yew Jewels

Gold Bow Necklace $34

Sometimes when it comes to jewelry less is more.  If you like your jewelry sweet and simple check out Olive Yew Jewels.  They have lots of dainty, pretty, feminine jewelry like this cute little handmade bow necklace.  I love how delicate and crisp the little wire bow is.

Coneflower Earrings by Lulu Smith Studio

Coneflower Earrings $125

Today's handmad jewelry pick is this pair of resin and sterling silver earrings from Lulu Smith Studio.  I love the minimalist simplicity of the design and the way it evokes the image of the flower with just a few shapes.  The muted autumnal colors are great as well, and I love the unusual ear wire shape 

Etched Luna Moth Necklace by Lisa Hopkins Design

Etched Luna Moth Necklace $92

Today's handmade jewelry pick is this lovely etched sterling silver pendant by Lisa Hopkins Design.  I really appreciate the delicacy and clarity of the etching on this piece.  It is an elegantly simple necklace with just enough interest in the design to make it special. 

Stainless Steel Spike Earrings from Handforge Jewelry and Metalwork

Stainless Steel Spike Earrings $65



Today's handmade jewelry pick is this really unique pair of earrings from Lyle Poulin of Handforge Jewelry and Metalwork.  These earrings feature hand-forged stainless steel spikes and bronze rings.   I love the hammer texture on the spikes and the tough, industrial aesthetic.

Large Sterling Silver and Black Leather Abalone Cuff by Michele Grady

Large Sterling Silver and Black Leather Abalone Cuff $170



Today's jewelry pick is this unique leather, sterling, and abalone cuff from Michele Grady Designs.  I think the construction of this piece is really clever- especially the way the silver band holds the shape of the leather.  I like how the tiny brass bolts pick up the golden tones in the abalone cabochon, and I love the contrast of the iridescent abalone with the dark leather. 

Handmade Jewelry of the Day: Neon Green Necklace by bstudio

Neon Green Necklace $25

Today's pick is this lovely dyed silk necklace from bstudio on Cargoh.  I love that the simplicity of this piece puts the emphasis on the subtle texture of the silk and the brilliance of the color.  That fresh green color is just lovely against the white silk.  This is a really interesting piece, but understated and easy to wear.  

Handmade Jewelry of the Day: Fold Formed Feather Ring from ExCognito Jewelry

Fold Formed Feather Ring $47.41

Today's handmade jewelry of the day is this copper fold-formed feather ring from ExCognito Jewelry on Artfire.  I love the way the artist used the fold-forming technique to create a very naturalistic feather, and the texture and patina are lovely.  This is one of those pieces where you can really see the hand of the artist- one of my favorite things about handmade jewelry.  

Handmade Jewelry of the Day: Fine Silver Floral Sheild Necklace by PK Studios

Fine Silver Floral Sheild Necklace w/ Turquoise $149

Today's piece is this gorgeous handmade fine silver pendant with turquoise beads.  I just love the combination of oxidized silver and turquiose, and I like the subtle variation of the color in the beads. I also like the historical aesthetic of the pendant- it has a very "romantic" feel to it.  

Handmade Jewelry of the Day: Elodie Earrings by Alisha Lousie Designs

Elodie Earrings $70

In an earlier post I mentioned my love of copper jewelry.  It will probably come as no surprise that I also have a love of enamel jewelry.  These lovely gray enameled earrings by Alisha Louise Designs have a sophisticated Edwardian elegance, and the enameling is very nicely done.  I like the idea of gray as a color for jewelry because it's a little unusual but goes with pretty much everything.  

Handmade Jewelry of the Day: Caramel Swirl 2 by Izabella Bako

Caramel Swirl 2

For today's handmade jewelry pick we have a gorgeous wire wrapped collar by artist Izabella Bako.  The design and craftsmanship of this piece are really loveley.  The spiraling shapes remind me of nautilus shells and the wrapping of the fine wire adds great interest and texture, and I'm sure you have all figured out by now that I love copper jewelry. Wouldn't this look great with a nice flowy summer dress? This artist's work is not available for sale yet but you can see more of her jewelry on her flickr page.  

Handmade Jewelry of the Day: Ethnic Hoop Earrings from suntribedesigns

Sterling Silver and Copper Ethnic Hoop Earrings $42

For today's handmade jewelry pick we have a gorgeous pair of mixed metal hoop earrings from Dante and Sabrina Acevedo of etsy shop suntribedesigns.  The textures on these earrings are really wonderful and I love the way the ear wire is joined to the earring along the top of the copper.  The spring mechanism is a really nice touch.  These have a great modern "tribal" feel to them- a nice twist on the hoop earring.  

Handmade Jewelry of the Day: Flora Collar from Lichen and Lychee

Flora Collar $2250

I've got a very special statement piece from Shirley Grund of Lichen and Lychee for today's pick.  This amazing necklace features 14 sterling links, each with a hand-pierced floral designs.  The craftsmanship of this piece is really impeccable and the minimalist floral designs are great with the clean modern aesthetic of the necklace.  I also like the way the links are articulated with the large connecting rings.  It looks like it would be very flexible for such a bold necklace. 

Handmade Jewelry of the Day: Beth Millner Silver Strawberry Earrings

Silver Strawberry Earrings $275

Today's handmade jewelry pick is a pair of earrings I have had my eye on for a long time.  These adorable strawberry earrings by jewelry artist Beth Millner remind me of the strawberries we used to grow in the backyard when I was a kid.  The strawberry, leaf, and flower shapes are cut out, stamped and engraved by hand.  I think the emphasis on the strawberry leaf and flower over the berry makes these earrings more sweet than cutesy, and the finish and patina gives them a great handcrafted feel. 

Handmade Jewelry of the Day: Temi Natural Wonders Bracelet

Natural Wonders Bracelet $260

Today's handmade jewelry pick is this fabulous bracelet by jewelry artist Temi Kucinski.  This is a real statement piece!  I love the combination of the different stones (including agate, kunzite, tourmaline, and a stalactite slice) with silver flower links.  This bracelet has sort of a "rough" quality that I like, enhanced by the serrated settings and the textured clasp.  It really works with the natural beauty of the stones and keeps the piece earthy and wearable. 

Handmade Jewelry of the Day: Janiceartjewelry Floating Dandelion Earrings

Floating Dandelion Earrings $75

Today's handmade jewelry of the day is this sweet pair of silver earrings embellished with a lovely dandelion seed motif.  I love the slightly rough texture of the silver combined with the delicate lines of the dandelion seeds.  These would make a wonderful everyday pair of earrings with just enough special detail to make them really unique. 

Handmade Jewelry of the Day: Fluxplay Choker Pendant

Choker, Pendant, Blue Gold Tile. Silver, Recycled Tin. $120

I'm squeakin in just under the wire with today's Handmade Jewelry of the Day (in my time zone at least!)  Maybe I should have chosen an American Jewelry artist on July 4th but instead I was struck by this unique piece from British jeweler Maria Whetman of Etsy shop Fluxplay.  This choker necklace features a striking piece of reclaimed tin set in a handmade sterling silver setting on a handmade forged sterling choker.  I love the texture of the choker and the pattern of the reclaimed tin.  This is such a clever way to re-use a beautiful material that might otherwise go to waste.  

Handmade Jewelry of the Day: Block Party Press Cream Dogwood Flower Earrings

Cream Dogwood Flower Earrings $35

Here's something a little different for today's handmade jewelry of the day.  These sweet dogwood flower blossom earrings are handmade in polymer clay using hand-carved stamps, painted and distressed.  I love these earrings because you can really see the hand of the artist in the suble painting and distressing, not to mention they're just really cute.

Handmade Jewelry of the Day: Rubygirl Pinned Kikyo Earrings

Pinned Kikyo Earrings  $44.00

Today's handmade jewelry of the day is this unique pair of earrings from rubygirl.  They feature laser-cut acrylic flower shapes riveted into a silver connector and earwire.  I love the crisp shape of the acrylic and the translucent red color juxtaposed with the almost industrial look of the matte oxidized sterling silver.  These earrings are elegant in their simplicity but also strikingly unique. 

Handmade Jewelry of the Day: Experimetal Victorian Earrings

E1214 Victorian by Experimetal $146

Today's handmade item of the day is this pair of stunning victorian-inspired earrings from Victoria Takahasha at Experimetal.  I love the ornate shapes in these earrings and the combination of oxidized copper and deep red garnet is gorgeous. 

Handmade Jewelry of the Day: Kerdan Finger Buckle Ring

I'm starting a little project where I post a different exciting piece of handmade jewelry every day.  We'll see how long I can keep up with it ;) 

Finger Buckle - Riveted Sterling Silver, Brass, and Copper Ring  $115

Today's piece comes from Shearin Abdel Monem of the etsy shop Kerdan.  What I love about this piece is the fact that it is made using fundamental metalsmithing techniques elevated to a high level of craftsmanship and design.  As a metalsmith I find work like this inspirational because it shows that you don't need a lot of equiptment to make beautiful, well-crafted jewelry.