Blue Patinated Copper Tear Drop Handmade Earrings

November 12, 2011 By John S. Brana 4 Comments

Large Copper Tear Drop Handmade Earrings with Powder Blue Patina by San Francisco jewelry designer John S Brana

Simply blue-tiful! These streamlined blue patinated copper tear drop earrings offer the perfect pop of color for any ensemble.

Measures approximately 3 1/2 inches Long x 1 3/8 inches Wide
14K Gold-filled French Earwires, for pierced ears only
Copper
Protective coating applied to protect patina
Gift Boxed.

Price:$55.00

Large Maroon Patinated Lily Pad Earrings

November 8, 2011 By John S. Brana 3 Comments

Maroon Copper Patinated Leaf Handmade Earrings by San Francisco jewelry designer John S Brana

These gorgeous Maroon patinated Copper Lily Pad earrings truly make an artistic statement.

Measures approximately 3″ L x 2″ W
Patina is permanent and will not rub off and is sealed with a protective coating
14K Gold-filled French Earwires, for pierced ears only
Gift Boxed

Price:$90.00

Hammered Copper Tear Drop Earrings – Large

February 10, 2011 By John S. Brana 26 Comments

Hammered Copper Large Tear Drop Earrings

Take your look from day to night, without having to change your earrings. These haute copper hoops glisten with a lustrous hammered finish, giving them the shimmer and shine that your style demands. Just like rose gold, but for a fraction of the price!

Measures approximately 3 3/4″ L x 1 1/4″ W

Sterling Silver French Earwires, for pierced ears only

Copper

Protective coating applied to resist tarnish

Gift Boxed.

Price:$48.00

Handmade Eco-Chic Jewelry

December 6, 2010 By jbrana 3 Comments

Chased Copper Large Hoop Earrings - Eco-chic Jewelry

Chased Copper Large Hoop Earrings Made From Recycled Copper Wire

Reduce Your Carbon Footprint with Eco-chic Jewelry

The new growing trend with jewelry and most accessories at the moment is their eco-friendliness. It’s not as important to have the biggest and most expensive diamonds anymore, but rather, the most eco-friendly jewels that reduce your carbon footprint. These kinds of eco-chic jewelry can be found influencing a huge range of collections, from recycled jewelry to collections using more eco-friendly methods to designs that are inspired by nature.

Wearing “green” jewelry isn’t just about taking your Grandmother’s old brooches and re-wearing them, rather than buying new, although bringing new life to elegant vintage pieces is a hot trend as well. Eco-friendly jewelry can also mean recycling the basic materials used to make the jewelry such as melting down glass to form it into different new shapes, reforming metal or reusing other components from old jewelry.

Citrine Bronze Ring - Ring Shank made from Recycled Scrap Copper and Tin

Recycled Metals and Stones in Eco-chic Jewelry

Jewelers and designers that promote eco-chic jewelry actively promote recycling precious metals and stones. In particular, many companies now try to recycle or use recycled gold as a way to reduce the land that gets ruined through the gold mining process. Many places are also using lab created stones instead of risking supporting “blood diamonds.” The lab created stones look like the real thing, but they cost less to make, which means they’ll cost less for you to purchase.

Eco-chic Jewelry Doesn’t Have to Look “Recycled”

Eco-chic jewelry doesn’t have to have a rustic and recycled feel about it. Many designers are trying to make their recycled pieces look good as new, however the craze for eco-chic jewelry has also meant that more organic shapes and flawed stones are appreciated over “perfect” designs. This has opened up a whole new design arena for jewelers, with some exciting and unique results that will appeal to any “green” jewelry lover!

Textured Metal Jewelry

September 15, 2010 By jbrana Leave a Comment

Bubble Embossed Tear Drop Copper Earrings

Metal Jewelry Textures

A skilled jeweler will be able to create a wide variety of textures on any sheet of metal. These can be used to form pieces of jewelry, which are irregular, smooth or are covered with more detailed patterns such as ripples or bubbles.

Hammered Metal Jewelry

Metal jewelry that has simply been hammered will have a rough, uneven texture due to how the hammer strikes the metal. Pieces such as John S. Brana’s hammered copper bracelets are hand crafted and are very on trend and stylish.

Metal Jewelry Polishing Techniques

To remove the flaws from a piece of metal jewelry, whether from hammering or otherwise, a jeweler generally has to polish it. This is achieved by using a work wheel and a fine abrasive. Polishing is great for creating flawless pieces of jewelry. For something a little more interesting, brushed metal jewelry can be made by rubbing fine sandpaper over the surface. This creates many minute lines and removes some of the metal’s lustre giving it a much more distinctive look.

Embossed Metal Jewelry

Bubble jewelry is formed by embossing the metal’s surface with a pattern of various-sized, connected circles. Examples of this style include John S. Brana’s handmade aluminum bubble earrings, which have a very natural appearance.

Aluminum Cuff with Bark Texture

Chased Metal Jewelry

Finally, lines can also be added to metal. These come in a variety of patterns such as the radial design found on John S. Brana’s chased copper scarf ring, or the more natural style of his corrugated copper disc earrings. The diversity of these items is limited only by the jewelers imagination.

The fact that metal is so malleable, means that master craftsmen across the globe can create bracelets, necklaces and earrings which will suit almost anyone’s tastes and which can be worn in a large number of situations. Metal jewelry is so versatile and is a true gift from both these expert jewelers and Mother Nature herself.

Modern Colors in Handmade Designer Jewelry

September 12, 2010 By jbrana Leave a Comment

Green Amethyst Bronze Ring

The Changing Colors of Designer Jewelry

The years come and go and trends fade in and out. The world of designer jewelry shifts and changes its look accordingly depending on the global or regional ways of thinking. This winter, expect to see a range of modern colors in jewelry reflecting the world around us and the attitudes of the general public.

Environmentalism in Designer Jewelry

With the Earth just recovering from a global financial crisis and a series of natural disasters, we have all emerged with a new consciousness. Prudence and environmentalism are now governing the way we think and the colors found in modern-day designer jewelry such as the John S. Brana collection reflect this. Filled with earthy colors such as greens, reds, browns and light blues, these items of jewelry bring us all back to nature. Silver is also a predominant color as we forego gold for a more affordable mineral which still looks fantastic.

An Abundance of Colors in Designer Jewelry

When having a look at the best-selling designer jewelry in current collections, it is easy to see an abundance of the above colors. John S. Brana has several items like this on his website. His red patinated copper lily pad earrings remind one of a brisk autumn day with their rich, earthy tones. Compare this to his green amethyst bronze rings which add a dash of green to the browns to form the ultimate natural combination. Both of these items are not too extravagant either and fit with the global consciousness after the financial crisis.

Men's Designer Jewelry - Redwood Sterling Silver Ring

Men's Redwood Sterling Silver Ring

Oxidized Silver Most Popular in Men’s Designer Jewelry

The colors found in men’s designer jewelry have not been affected as much by worldwide events. Men around the world are searching for jewelry which looks functional and bold. Blacks, browns and grays are predominant in these items for the modern man. Colors such as this make these items less like the jewelry we are used to, and more into the masculine pieces that men desire.

Metalsmithing 101 – The Jewelers Toolbox

August 9, 2010 By jbrana Leave a Comment

14K Gold Filled Chased Bangle Bracelet

Techniques of Master Jewelers

Working and shaping metal into exquisite pieces of jewelry takes time, patience and the knowledge of various metalworking techniques such as chasing, repoussé, hammering and piercing. Expert craftsmen, like John S. Brana, use a variety of techniques on each piece of jewelry to create the various masterpieces within their collection.

Chasing and repoussé are both very similar techniques used to form patterns on the surface of a metal. A jeweler chases metal by forming imprints on it without altering the reverse side. These markings are clearly seen on the chased gold and copper bracelets by John S. Brana. With repoussé, a raised design is formed on the front by working the back of a metal sheet.

Basic Jewelers Tools

Hammering is the most basic technique but is also one of the most versatile. By striking hot or cold metal with a hammer, the craftsman is able to bend and twist it as desired. Jewelers typically use an iron bench block for a solid base and a highly polished planishing hammer so as not to leave unwanted marks on the metal’s surface after it has been shaped.

Chased Copper Triangle Earrings with Garnets

Piercing with a Jewelers Saw

Piercing is exactly what it sounds like. The jeweler will remove pieces out of a metal surface and create intricate shapes by using a very fine saw blade. A drill will have to be used first if the hole is to be made in the center of the metal sheet. For an example of this, have a look at the chased copper earrings with garnets by John S. Brana. These feature an oval hole which would have been created by piercing.

Using a combination of these techniques, jewelers all over the globe are now creating stunning earrings, necklaces and bracelets in a multitude of designs, so that we can enjoy wearing a range of accessories while out and about.

Unique Handmade Copper Jewelry

June 12, 2010 By jbrana 108 Comments

Copper Leaf Earrings with Blue Patina

The Beauty of Handmade Copper Jewelry

Copper jewelry has been worn for hundreds of years, partly for health reasons as some believe that it enhances good circulation and eases the symptoms of arthritis. While those claims have not been scientifically verified, copper has been shown to possess antimicrobial properties (helping to keep away germs and illness). Still, it is more likely that the continued popularity of copper jewelry has more to do with its unique luster and color than it does with its germ-fighting ability!

Copper jewelry is often sought after by those who like an earthy, ethnic look but more and more it can also be found making an appearance among the collections of high end jewelry designers. It offers an affordable alternative to pricier rose gold due to its lovely pinkish hue when copper is at its most natural state. The warmth of copper also makes a pleasing contrast alongside silver’s cool tones.

Fold Formed Corrugated Disc Copper Earrings

Fold Formed Corrugated Copper Large Disc Earrings

Versatility of Copper Jewelry

Many artisans also enjoy working with this metal due to its durability and versatility. Over time, oxidation can cause unpolished copper to darken to a warm brown color which often enhances the look of jewelry pieces. Additionally, exposure to the elements causes untreated copper to form a bluish-green patina that is often coveted by those who appreciate a distinctive look. Talented jewelry designers use this natural discoloration of copper to create unique and innovative patterns and designs.

Uncoated bright copper jewelry can tarnish over time but can be easily restored to its original state. You can purchase commercial cleaning cloths or dip your jewelry in a bath of warm water, a few drops of lemon juice and some salt. Dry with a soft cloth and the original warmth and beauty of your pieces will quickly return. Note: silver polish should not be used on copper jewelry as it is abrasive and can mar the finish.

Handmade copper jewelry by John Brana uses a special process to produce a unique mottled patina in varying shades of blue, green, brown and black in other pieces among his extensive collection of copper jewelry. These pieces are also coated with a protective lacquer that prevents tarnish and stops the jewelry from staining the skin.

“Muir Woods” Nature-Inspired Jewelry Collection is On Target for 2010 Jewelry Trends

September 8, 2009 By jbrana 3 Comments

Current trends in the jewelry industry point to all things green. From nature motifs, to raw gemstones, to all shades of the hue, 2010 trends are reflecting the global consciousness. John S. Brana seems to be slightly ahead of the curve as he premiers his Muir Woods Collection of nature-inspired jewelry to the public at a feature trunk show hosted by Bloomingdale’s – Stanford this October 3 – 4, from 12:00p.m. to 5:00p.m. The Muir Woods collection showcases the designer’s handcrafted jewelry talents in the forms of sculpted tree branches, leaves, flowers, and gemstones in faceted and raw-earth shapes.

Central to the Muir Woods Collection are the interesting handcrafted ring designs featuring beautifully faceted gemstones set in sculpted bronze or sterling silver tree branches. Each branch features bark-like textures and clutch the gemstone as if it were its own secret treasure. The tree branch motif extends into bronze and sterling silver pendants which showcase the raw-earth gemstones that are becoming a very hot trend in the jewelry industry. These stones have not been polished or faceted and present their natural beauty in their original jagged shapes and often opaque clarity. John S. Brana further showcases his metalsmithing talents to create nature-inspired jewelry motifs in his corrugated leaf and origami floral-shaped earrings in 14K gold-filled, sterling silver and copper. Brana enhances the whimsical designs and forest shapes by incorporating brilliant colors through various patination techniques. Emerald greens, brilliant turquoise, fiery reds and oranges, and rustic blacks and browns enhance the leafy shapes of the Muir Woods Collection. Each piece of patinated jewelry appears hand painted with one-of-a-kind color variances as a result of the metallic chemical reaction process used to derive the beautiful hues.

Fold Formed Copper Leaf Earrings with Traditional Green Patina

“I’m very proud of the Muir Woods Collection because it’s completely unique and I’m one of the few jewelry designers experimenting with different patina finishes,” describes Brana. “It was perfect timing for Bloomingdale’s to contact me about a Fall trunk show.” Muir Woods is John S. Brana’s eighth collection of handcrafted jewelry inspired by the neighborhoods and natural areas in and around his home of San Francisco. For more information regarding the Bloomingdale’s – Stanford trunk show, please visit bloomingdales.com and click on the store locator. For more information regarding John S. Brana’s collections, media inquiries and events, please contact Karri Ann Frerichs, Altitude Promotions by email at info@altitudepromotion.com or call 1.402.490.2579.

John S. Brana to be Featured Jewelry Designer at Bloomingdale’s – Palo Alto Trunk Show

August 6, 2009 By jbrana 8 Comments

Collections by John S. Brana, handcrafted fine jewelry designer from San Francisco, will be showcased during a weekend trunk show hosted by Bloomingdale’s in the Stanford Shopping Center, Palo Alto. The jewelry event will take place Saturday, October 3 through Sunday, October 4, 2009, from 12:00 p.m. To 5:00 p.m. at the fine jewelry counter. Shoppers will also enjoy Bloomingdale’s Friends and Family Discount of 20% off all jewelry by John S. Brana during this exclusive weekend event.

Fold Formed Green Patinated Leaf Earrings Lepidochrosite Bronze Ring

Brana looks forward to premiering Muir Woods, his latest collection of nature-inspired jewelry, including one-of-a-kind cocktail rings and pendants featuring large carat semi-precious gemstones set in sterling silver and bronze. “It was perfect timing for Bloomingdale’s to contact me about a Fall event. I’m very proud of the Muir Woods Collection because it’s completely unique and I’m one of the few jewelry designers experimenting with different patina finishes,” describes Brana referring to his copper earring designs in various hues of turquoise, green, red, black and orange. Additional jewelry collections available during the event include filigree earrings, dramatic pendants, statement cuffs, cocktail rings, and necklaces layered with semi-precious gemstones.

Maroon & Green Patinated Copper Tear Drop Earrings

All fine jewelry designs may be purchased using Bloomingdale’s 20% off Friends and Family discount, and John S. Brana will be present to greet guests and answer all jewelry questions. Event details will be available by visiting www.bloomingdales.com, clicking on the Stores & Events page and choosing the Stanford location.

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Reduce Your Carbon Footprint with Eco-chic Jewelry

Recycled Metals and Stones in Eco-chic Jewelry

Eco-chic Jewelry Doesn’t Have to Look “Recycled”

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Metal Jewelry Textures

Hammered Metal Jewelry

Metal Jewelry Polishing Techniques

Embossed Metal Jewelry

Chased Metal Jewelry

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The Changing Colors of Designer Jewelry

Environmentalism in Designer Jewelry

An Abundance of Colors in Designer Jewelry

Oxidized Silver Most Popular in Men’s Designer Jewelry

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Techniques of Master Jewelers

Basic Jewelers Tools

Piercing with a Jewelers Saw

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The Beauty of Handmade Copper Jewelry

Versatility of Copper Jewelry

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