Saturday Sparkle: Metalheart Design

Who Sparkled This Saturday?

Metalheart Design

Cuts Like a Knife Earrings
by MetalheartDesign

Today on Saturday Sparkle I thought I show you a gorgeous sparkling stone that has been used to create a beautiful and unique pair of earrings. These Prasiolite earrings are a green glass-colored stone with a strong and elegant knife cut that looks fabulous with wire-wrapped sterling silver earwires. They were created by Traci at MetalheartDesign in the SeaTac area of Washington State.

Traci loves to play around with ideas that strike her fancy and the bulk of her jewelry designs are one-of-a-kind. I had a chance to interview her this week about her jewelry, and here is what she shared with us.

Traci, how did you get your start in jewelry design?
I love jewelry, and a little over a year ago decided to learn to make some myself. There is a bead shop near me that has classes so I took a few, and off I went! I was in dire need of a creative outlet, and this turned out to be perfect; my casual interest quickly turned all-consuming!

What inspired you to turn your hobby into a jewelry business?
It sort of sprung up on me--I started an etsy page thinking it would just be a nice way to have my jewelry up on a webpage somewhere, and if someone wanted to buy it they could...but once i got started, again, I got really into it! I guess I'm not very good at just being half-way with things...

What are your top three sources of inspiration when creating a new design?
I like jewelry that is straighforward but meaningful. I often start with just an element, i.e., a piece of vintage glass or stone or metal, and just I start building around it to create something. But in a more abstract sense I would say architecture, machinery, and humor really inspire my designs.

What are your favorite materials to work with?
I LOVE metalworking. There is still so much for me to learn and I have some trouble finding time, but that is the direction I want to go. I was really into gemstone for awhile, but lately have been going crazy for vintage glass. I love how unique and romantic it is.

Who or what has provided you with the most support for your jewelry business?
The most support of my jewelry business I think would have to be etsy.com. It is such a great resource, and an amazing community of artists and crafters who care about handmade and independent business.

Traci, thanks for visiting with us today and for letting me share your beautiful design with my readers! And readers, for a special treat for your eyes, be sure to check out her other designs at:

Metalheart Design
http://metalheartdesign.etsy.com

Happy Saturday!

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And before you go, be sure to check out yesterday's Friday Findings post at Posh Mama Online Magazine to see some Cool Copper Jewelry. And don't forget to enter our weekly giveaway!

Friday Findings: Cool Copper Jewelry

Copper is one of the few naturally occurring metals, which means its often found in minerals. In addition to its wonderfully rich, reddish color, the malleability of Copper makes it a favorite material of jewelry designers. I've found some really cool examples of copper jewelry over the last few weeks, am I'm excited to be showcasing these fabulous finds with you today on this week's edition of Friday Findings.


Copper Sand Ring from Adobe Sol Designs

For an earthy twist, we'll start today's showcase with a piece from one of my personal favorite rockstars of wire wrap…check out this amazing oxidized copper ring made with 16 gauge copper wire and topped off with a totally gorgeous 9mm lampwork barrel bead by Tiffany McCoy. Created by Adobe Sol Designs in Corrales, NM.

Dogwood Pendant from Silent Goddess

Every bit as fresh as the blooms on its namesake plant is this beautiful hand fabricated copper blossom pendant. It measures 1 1/8 inches width and hangs gracefully from an 18" silver-tone chain that closes with a double hook copper clasp. The pendants are made-to-order and entirely hand fabricated by Silent Goddess in Port Orchard, WA.


Textured Copper Earrings from Silver River Jewelry

Bright copper cut from bright copper sheet metal, these fabulous copper dangles have been sanded smooth and lightly hammered to provide a rich texture. Carefully hand formed ear wires are also made of copper wire. They are 2 3/4 inches long and are designed by Silver River Jewelry in Akron, OH.

A World Away Pendant from Mineralogy

Both exotic and abstract, this distinctive pendant has been fabricated from sterling silver and copper sheet metal. It's been hand cut, shaped, textured and soldered to form this beautiful pendant with a distinctly exotic flair. The pendant is 2" in length and 1 1/8" wide. Designed by Mineralogy in Piedmont Triad, NC.

Copper Blade Hoop Earrings from Disco Medusa

Bold made-to-order hammered Copper earrings with a dark and rich heat-treated patina create a deliciously mottled rusty finish with hints of dark red, copper, and pink. They glow when the light hits them just right! Sterling Silver earwires. Designed by Disco Medusa in Portland, OR.

That's all we have time for this week! As a side note, I'll be on vacation for a few weeks...so, Friday Findings won't be back until Friday, June 13. But before you go, be sure to congratulate last week's Posh Mama giveaway winner… Pink Lemonade Liz. She will be receiving the Sapphire Swarovski Crystal Necklace and Earring set shown in last week's post from Linda Davis Designs in Los Gatos, CA. Be on the lookout Liz, I'll be emailing you for your shipping address.

Enter our Weekly Giveaway: One lucky winner will receive this pair of beautiful royal blue earrings from this week's featured artist, Silver River Jewelry. To enter the contest:

1. Go to my original blog post on the Posh Mama Online Magazine.

2. Leave a comment or compliment about your favorite item(s) in the Comments section of my original blog post.

The winner will be selected using random.org and announced on Monday, May 26.

Written by Susan of Capitola Girl Jewelry, where Every Girl Has a Story (and so should her jewelry!). Featured Weekly on Posh Mama Online Magazine.

Santa Cruz Mountains Wildfire

Santa Cruz Mountains Wildfire

I was sleeping soundly this morning when my mother called from Southern California to tell me she had heard on the news that there was a fire burning out of control in the Santa Cruz Mountains. The picture below is taken from my home in Capitola. You can clearly see (but not smell) the smoke billowing in the air. The picture was taken about 7:45 a.m. Pacific Time.


The fire was first called into the CHP at 5:11 a.m. and the news is reporting that firefighters were notified at 5:17 a.m. At about 7:55, its being reported that evacuations are going on and that the fire is burning at around Mt. Madonna have destroyed at least 500 acres and that wind speeds between 12-40 mph the fire is traveling in the direction of Corralitos.

The news is reporting that Summit Road is closed from Highway 17, so if you travel on that road to work, don't take it. Fortunately, Highway 17 is still open. Area schools have been closed.

ROMANCE Earrings

ROMANCE Earrings
These black, gold, and red earrings capture the intrigue and mystery of romance. The pair features black Swarovski pearls, Siam Swarovski Crystals, gold Japanese seed beads, 14K gold plated beads, and 14K gold ear hooks.

Jakarta Necklace

JAKARTA Necklace
An 18" necklace created from light-colored jasper rounds and coordinated with brown Chinese crystal, silver seed beads, round African bone beads, and beige cat' eye beads. The necklace closes with a silver toggle clasp.

Saturday Sparkle

I'm taking the weekend off!

Be sure to check back again, as Saturday Sparkle will return next week.

Friday Findings: Shimmering Chandeliers

Today on Friday Findings, I'm bringing you an elegant array of chandelier earrings that will add a daring dash of feminine sophistication to just about any outfit. Often ornate, chandelier earrings aren't just for movie stars and Oscar parties. You'll see them everywhere from beaches and parks, to bars, the grocery store and family restaurants. Originally inspired by the ornate and vintage look of ballroom lighting, chandeliers have a strikingly feminine look and are for women who aren't afraid to make a substantial and illuminating statement. So the next time you're out an about, take look around…you'll see the chandelier trend is still going strong and lighting up the ears of women everywhere. Here are some of my favorites for special occasions and everyday wear...

Red Sea Fossil Earrings

Unique and gorgeous deep red sea fossil beads are paired with dark Siam Swarowski crystals. They are linked together on sterling silver and dangle gracefully from elegant sterling silver French ear hooks. They measure approximately 3" long and were created by KRDesigns in Arizona.

Yumi Earrings

Delicious orange-red agate mixed with chocolate colored freshwater pearls and rose quartz drops have been wrapped onto a hand-forged length of 14K gold filled wire with an "S" motif. The earrings are approximately 2 1/4" in length. Created by Mizumizu Designs in Los Angeles, CA.

Pink Jade Amethyst Vermeil Chandelier Earrings

Bright, fun and bold pinks and purples on 14k gold vermeil. The earrings feature pink jade rondelles and purple heart-shaped briolettes. The earwires are created from vermeil and gold filled wire and they measure approximately 2 inches long. Designed by Pendred Keller in Winston Salem, NC.

Carribean Spiral Earrings

A classy chainmail weave in sterling silver is coupled with a single drop of Caribbean Blue Opal Swarovski crystal. A truly elegant spiral is approximately 2 1/2" length. Designed by Shazzabeth in Queensland, Australia.


Multi Colored Swarovski Crystal Earrings

An extraordinarily eye-catching textured diamond sterling silver chandelier secures three strands of Swarovski crystals in Light Amethyst, Rose, Amethyst and Olivine. The same colors are suspended from the chandelier piece and measure 3" in length. Created by Linda Davis Designs in Los Gatos, CA.

Before you go, be sure to congratulate last week's Posh Mama giveaway winner... Kristin Andrews. She will be receiving a pair of wood and Swarovski crystal earrings from Capitola Girl Jewelry.

Enter our Weekly Giveaway: One lucky winner will receive this gorgeous blue Swarovski Crystal necklace and earring set from Linda Davis Designs. To enter the contest:

1. Go to my original Posh Mama blog post.

2. Leave a comment about your favorite pair of earrings from today's post in the Comments section of the original blog post. The winner will be selected using random.org and announced in next week's Friday Findings post.

Written by Susan of Capitola Girl Jewelry, where Every Girl Has a Story (and so should her jewelry!). Featured Weekly on Posh Mama Online Magazine.

Wedding Jewelry: Pearls

With June coming up, I thought I'd show you some of the pieces from my wedding and bridal jewelry collection. One of my favorite materials to work with are Swarovksi pearls, they have a beautiful luster and are heavier than typical glass pearls because of the crystal core.

MARRIAGE CIRCLE Earrings
White glass pearls, sterling silver rounds, and silver tone spacer beads balance between large silver plated 1" round hoops. The earring hooks are sterling silver.
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MIRABELLE Earrings

White 4mm Swarovski pearls, Swarovski crystals with AB finish, and 14K gold plated beads make a sweet and elegant statement dangling from 22K gold plated earring hooks. The chain and headpins used in this design are goldtone.
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SIMPLE PEARL Earrings
Simple glass pearls and sterling silver beads on silver metal components and findings.
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ALISON Earrings

ALISON Earrings

So, I'm a big fan of Elvis Costello and one of my favorites song's is the ballad "Alison" off the "My Aim is True" album. I was beading the other day and decided that these earrings reminded me of that song. I love the darkness of the lyrics, which are filled with the protagonists sad jealousy. I've always interpreted the song as the girl he loved chose to be with someone else, who in his eye's doesn't treat her right. For some reason the color combination sort of evokes those complicated feelings, I guess its the darkness the Montana blue Swarovski crystals when combined with mellow brown and bright red.

"Oh it's so funny to be seeing you after so long, girl.
And with the way you look I understand
that you were not impressed.
But I heard you let that little friend of mine
take off your party dress.
I'm not going to get too sentimental
like those other sticky valentines,
'cause I don't know if you are loving some body.
I only know it isn't mine.

Alison, I know this world is killing you.
Oh, Alison, my aim is true.

Well I see you've got a husband now.
Did he leave your pretty fingers lying
in the wedding cake?
You used to hold him right in your hand.
Bet he took all he could take.
Sometimes I wish that I could stop you from talking
when I hear the silly things that you say.
I think somebody better put out the big light,
'cause I can't stand to see you this way.

Alison, I know this world is killing you.
Oh, Alison, my aim is true.
My aim is true."

New Items in Shop

SIENNA Earrings
These earrings we created with gold Swarovski pearls, red African bone spacers, deep red miracle beads, mixed red Czech seed beads, and 14K gold plated beads. They dangle from 22K gold plated earring hooks.

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CAFE AU LAIT Earrings
These earrings were created with gold Swarovski pearls, 14K gold plated beads, brown Czech glass, and brown Chinese crystals. The earring dangles from 22K gold plated earring hooks.

Saturday Sparkle: Lori Anderson Designs

Who Sparkled this Saturday?

Lori Anderson Designs


Today on Saturday Sparkle, I'd like to show you this beautiful Madison necklace from Lori Anderson Designs. Her Madison Necklace on the left features a 3.5" mixed Swarovski crystal and pear drop pendant on a 16" sterling silver rope chain. Isn't it gorgeous? When I saw this necklace for the first time, it reminded me of the moonlight.

In learning about Lori for today's article, I was really inspired. She went from a high-tech background in IT Sales to a full-time jewelry design business. And, her designs, ideas, and tutorials have also been featured in Beadstyle Magazine, Bead Magazine and the Craft Report. So in addition to making wonderful jewelry, she really has the go-get-em spirit! I had an opportunity to interview Lori for today's article, and here is what she shared with us.

Lori, how did you get your start in jewelry design?
I got started by accident -- I was on bed rest while pregnant and a friend brought me some beads to keep me busy. I played with them a bit and gave some things to my mom, who took them to her office, and they sold. All of a sudden (and I still can't quite nail down when this happened!) I had a full-fledged full-time business.

What inspired you to turn you hobby into a business?
It allowed me to be a stay-at-home mom and still feel like I was contributing to the household. My husband and I always knew I'd stay home to bring up our son, and I can't say I miss the corporate world a single bit, but I did know I was going to feel strange not bringing in ANY money. I had been selling my handmade greeting cards to stores, but the jewelry just kind of took on a life of its own!

What are your favorite materials to work with? I love handmade glass. It's unique, has character, and no matter what you use it with, it's going to be a one of a kind piece. Plus, using it supports other independent artisans.

When creating a design, what are your top three sources of inspiration?
Color -- I have a color book that holds clippings from magazines of clothing, carpets, flowers, anything that has caught my eye and has a neat pattern.

The beads themselves -- almost always, when I see a strand of beads, I know exactly what I want to make with them.

Having the house to myself -- I adore my five year old but I can't always get my designing spirit going to Sponge Bob! So I only design when he's at preschool or asleep. I don't sleep a lot, consequently.

Who has provided the most support for you with your jewelry business?
My husband. He believed in me before I even did. I remember the day when I first knew he truly believed I could make it work. I had sent out an application for an indoor show and somehow had gotten accepted, and now was faced with building a 10x10 booth. Rick and his oldest sons had gone to buy PVC pipe to build a frame that the three of them had designed.

They built it in the garage, and all three of them looked at it, and even after all the work and time they put into it, they decided that it looked amateur, and that night Rick went online and researched and ordered me a professional set up. And to this day, he goes to every single show, and puts up my tent or booth, and takes it down. He's amazing.

Do you have any advice for a newbie who wants to start a jewelry business?
My advice is to not be afraid. When I got started, I didn't take any lessons, didn't have a clue, didn't know a single person who made jewelry. I just flew by the seat of my pants.

When you start networking and meeting people, don't get discouraged if someone's business is doing better than yours, or if someone is full of negativity about how many people make jewelry these days. Tune that out! Explore, create, tear things apart and give them a new feel -- give yourself permission to branch out and just DO what makes you happy! If you're happy with your art, your chances of success are huge.

Thanks for sharing your story with us today Lori, you are truly an inspiration! And readers, be sure to check out Lori's amazing designs at: www.lorianderson.net

Friday Findings: "Spruce" Up Your Spring Wardrobe with Wood Jewelry

Were you "pining" to get someplace exotic this spring? Well, "fir" crying out loud, if you didn't get there--don't sweat it! A show of emotion will only "sap" you of your strength, and rather than "barking" up the wrong tree about a place you didn't get to see, you can do something to "spruce" up your Spring wardrobe instead. "Wooden" you know it? Today, on Friday Findings, I'm showcasing a selection of whimsical jewelry from independent jewelry artists who create wonderful wood jewelry accessories--a great way to catch a bit of the exotic, as well as a look that will "grow" on you...

Segmented Wood Ring from James Roadman Woodturning
This beautiful handcrafted wooden ring was created from 80 pieces of wood adhered to a band of sterling silver. It's 8mm in width, and made of Maple, Mahogany, Polar, Redheart, Rosewood, and Dyed Black Castillo. Each ring is made to order, so be sure to indicate your size. Designed and handcrafted in San Antonio, TX by James Roadman Woodturning.

The Copenhagen Earrings from Dana LeBlanc Designs
For a uniquely modern look, try these round wood earrings set in a sturdy silver frame. They hang from sterling silver earwires and are approximately 1.75" in length. The earrings are also available in a gorgeous Mother of Pearl setting. Designed and handcrafted in Winston-Salem, NC by Dana LeBlanc Designs.

Teary - Maple Wood Pendant from Studio9
For a fantastic one-of-a-kind accessory, check out this lovely maple wood pendant. It features a delicate image that has been carefully transferred and then sealed onto the maple. The pendant measures approximately 2 inches in diameter and is anchored on a 10x6 mm sterling silver bail. Designed and handcrafted in Grants Pass, OR by Studio9.

Four Circle Mahogany Earrings from Orno
Cut from a plank of Brazilian Mahogany, these stunning earrings have been carefully hand sanded and varnished. They measures approximately 5.5 cm in length, and have a thickness of approximately 3mm. Available with either gold plated or silver findings. Designed and handcrafted in Montreal, by Orno.

Words on Your Wrist Bangle from Paloma's Nest
Make a strong statement by combining the beauty of natural wood with the simplicity of words. These standard sized wooden bracelets fit most wrists and are approximately 3" in diameter. Since a variety of phrases are available and text is stamped proportionately, the thickness of the band varies from a thin 3/4" width to a thicker 1" width. Designed and handcrafted in Austin, TX by Paloma's Nest.

Recycled Magnetic Wooden Bangle Bracelet from Polarity
For a fun and industrial look, get this whimsical magnetic locket that is attached to a lightly varnished wooden bangle and fits most wrists. This versatile locket was created from a recycled steel auto part and comes with two interchangeable magnetic lids. Designed and handcrafted in Farmindale, NJ by Polarity .

That's all I have for you today, but before you "leave" for the day, be sure to congratulate last week's giveaway winners. Posh Mama Beth Anderson will receive the Black Onyx Bracelet from Star Hitched Wagon and Posh Mama Beth will receive the Turquoise Drop Earrings from Azure Island Designs. Congratulations PMs!

Enter our weekly giveaway: This week, one lucky winner will receive a pair of Swarovski Crystal and Wood earrings from Capitola Girl Jewelry.

To enter the contest:

1. "Log" into the Posh Mama website

2. Leave a comment in the Comments section of the original blog post.

The winner will be selected using random.org and announced on Friday, May 16, 2008.

Written by Susan of Capitola Girl Jewelry, where Every Girl Has a Story (and so should her jewelry!). Featured Weekly on Posh Mama Online Magazine.

Where in the World: Jupiter and Mars

Where in the World?
Jupiter & Mars

Ordinarily, I write about places I've traveled and how the things I saw inspired me to create a piece of jewelry. Since I haven't traveled in awhile, I find that I must temporarily have to think of other places to write about. But don't worry, many travels are scheduled, so it won't be long...

I have been working with gemstones over the past several weeks, and it never ceases to amaze me how every stone seems to have its own unique identity. There is such a wide variety of colors. The pair of banded agate earrings on the left looked so much like Jupiter, and the jasper coin on the necklace on the right reminded me of Mars. I guess this week, I should be calling this column Out of this World Wednesday...

Have a great day!

Spring Clearance: Save Up to 50%

I'm having a Spring Clearance Sale at my Etsy Shop!

I need to make room for some new items, so stop by my Etsy to save up to 50% off Spring Clearance Items. To see my clearance items, click this link.


Happy Shopping!

Saturday Sparkle will be back next week

I'm taking a mini break this weekend.

Saturday Sparkle will be back next week!

Friday Findings: Bold Bangles

This Week's Friday Finds: Bold Bangles

What could be more fun than the jingle-jangle of a big bangle? One of the hottest looks for jewelry this season is wearing fewer, and yet bigger, bolder and more impressive pieces. So, whether you go for large gemstones, modern plastic, or solid silver... be on the lookout for big pieces that are one part adorable adornment and another part major statement.

1. THE BIG BANG
For someone who is serious about the bling factor, try this bold cuff made of solid sterling silver. The center has a large hand cut swirl that is surrounded by smaller wire spirals and planets. It weighs approximately 3 ¼ ounces and is sized for a small to medium wrist. Designed by The Silver Lake Studio in Texas.

2. CRAZY FOR YOU
If you're crazy for crystals, try this stunning bracelet made with Swarovski crystals, silver Bali beads & sterling silver tubes. The toggle clasp is oxidized silver and nicely fits at 7.5 wrist. Designed by Azure Island Designs in Ontario, Canada.

3. CONFIDENCE BANGLET
For the girl with roots and wings, make a statement wearing this Confidence Banglet. It features a large Onyx coin flanked by Balinese sterling silver and faceted onyx rondelles and sterling silver tubes. It close with a sterling silver toggle clasp. Designed by Star Hitched Wagon, who is offering 25% off all orders from Posh Mama's through December 31, 2008. When making your purchase, use discount code poshmama.

4. SISTER OF MERCY
For the fan of great texture and big pattern, wear this bold bangle with black vintage lucite beads. It’s accented with tiny pieces of silver glitter, and hand-wrapped with thin black wire. It fits any wrist and is designed by Bauble Bauble in Los Angeles.

That's all we have time for today, but before you go, be sure to congratulation last week's giveaway winner, Julie. Julie will be receiving an Aqua Fried Marble Necklace and Earring set from last week's featured artist Sally Sotelo of Silver Gate Jewelry.

Enter our weekly giveaway: Two lucky Posh Mama’s can each win a beautiful piece of jewelry. Our first winner will receive this gorgeous black Onyx bracelet from Star Hitched Wagon.

Our second winner will receive these gorgeous turquoise drop earrings from Azure Island Designs.

To enter the contest:

1. Go to my original post on Posh Mama.
2. Leave a comment in the Comments section of the original post.

Winners will be selected using random.org and announced on Friday, May 9.


Written by Susan of the Capitola Girl blog and Capitola Girl Jewelry, where Every Girl Has a Story (and so should her jewelry!). Now featured weekly on Posh Mama Online Magazine.

Round and Round

Round and Round Earrings