From the deeps...

 "Kraken's Lair"

(Necklace)  Price: $60.00 SOLD 

 I had a lot of fun with this necklace. Combinations of contemporary findings from different collections with the large octopus at the center of the focal include mermaid tails, tiny gold starfish and and gold filigree medallions to lend a 'pirate treasure' theme to it. I really like the chain threaded through the tentacles, awash with fresh water pearls. I really liked the silver/gold combination as it lent a level of 'lux' to the overall effect. And let me tell you, those fresh water pearls were a complete pain to thread on the metal posts. I was still learning about different thicknesses of wire available at that time, and I spent a lot of time auguring the holes bigger with a metal awl. My fingertips were a bit hurty for a day or so afterward. The dark pearls are a lush teal, and the white ones lend a nice contrast. I wish it was a better photo because this one doesn't do the reality any justice. Meanwhile, I sort of have a photo of the matching Mermaid Tail earrings below.

 

"Mermaid Tails"

(Earrings)  Price: $ 20.00  SOLD

 

One thing about my bling prices is that it all depends on value, vintage, and rarity. I use glass beads, some of them vintage and imported, like Murano or Venetian hand worked glass. Others are semi-precious stones like Malachite, Freshwater Pearls, Fluorite, Amethyst, Garnet, Jasper, Jade, Onyx, Shell, etc. Contemporary findings will cost less than vintage or real stones, et al. 

 

Anyway, thanks for stopping by,

Cheers,

Marianne 

Natural stone combinations...

 "Silver Jade Acorn"

(Necklace)   Price:  $50.00  SOLD 

Of the few real Jade pieces that I got in the treasure trove from Lisa last year, I decided to use this stunning acorn and the last of my vintage chain of circles to create this piece in homage to Jeannie's necklace from two posts ago. Still leaning towards the very elegant 'elvish' forest feels from the Lord of the Rings movies and books, I started building the focal (the hanging center drop part that anchors a necklace) using similar ideas from before, although I steered away from repeating it exactly. I also liked the combination of the Fluorite beads, nine of them, to compliment the gorgeous jade acorn. Very soothing and healing to wear, and pretty to look at. Like most of my necklaces, it sits right at the collarbone of the wearer and is adjustable for comfort. Although I have since played with various gold metals, copper, and antiqued bronze, silver is my preferred metal of choice for a lot of creativity because I wear it almost exclusively. However, I have plans to play with gunmetal, blacks, and variations on copper, bronze, brass, and more silver and rose gold. Stick around and see the array of my creations to date. As I process the photos for the blog, I'll post them as I go. Including these first two, there are at least 40 designs of earrings and necklaces that I have created to post...give or take a few pairs of earrings that I created as giveaways to friends at Christmas.

Anyway, thanks for stopping by.
Cheers,

Marianne