Press | Handmade Jewelry Blog by Jewelry Designer John S Brana

John S Brana – Handmade Fine Jewelry is featured by the San Francisco Chronicle

September 26, 2008 By John S. Brana 9 Comments

“A ring, a necklace or a bracelet can be more than a metal or stone object,” wrote Carolyne Zinko, Fashion Writer for the San Francisco Chronicle. “It can also be the keeper of a memory – just ask its owner, or its maker,” (as published in an article entitled “New techniques, timeless tales at jewelry exhibition,” September 25, 2008 in the San Francisco Chronicle.)

Aquamarine Gemstone Necklace with Italian Mesh Ribbon and Handmade Hammered Silver

This fashion journalist stopped by each of the 21 fine jewelry designers’ exhibitions to learn the stories behind the jewelry during her attendance to the Designers by the Bay event this August. As anyone who creates for a living knows, and as Ms. Zinko understood, jewelry, fashion, and all forms of art in general are personal and often emotional for its creator. Everything has its reason.

For John S. Brana, newcomer to the fine jewelry scene and first-time exhibitor at this event, his reason is to honor his creative upbringing and his inspiration is the city around him. John enjoyed the chance to show his hand-crafted creations to industry professionals, retailers and his peers as he reached into his case time and again to tell his stories and inspirations while curious attendees modeled his jewelry.

Future opportunities to view his work and to meet John S. Brana in person include:

Saturday, October 11. Heritage Boutique Trunk Show featuring John S. Brana. 4556 Dublin Blvd., Dublin, CA 94568. 925.560.6591.

Thursday, November 6. Art People Gallery Artist Exhibition and Trunk Show featuring John S. Brana and Klaus Lange. Crocker Galleria, 50 Post St. #41, San Francisco, CA 94104. 415.956.3650.

Model Apryl Orr wears selections from the Barbary Coast Collection

August 27, 2008 By John S. Brana 11 Comments

Dynamic shapes and countless layers of richly textured semi-precious gemstones define this show stopping collection which also features gold vermeil, 14K gold, and fine and sterling silver. For those who love a statement piece, the Barbary Coast collection is perfect for those who choose to build an ensemble around their jewelry.

Selections from the Barbary Coast Beaded Gemstone Collection
Barbary Coast Beaded Gemstone Collection - Faceted Garnets and Citrine Necklace Model Apryl Orr wears Faceted Garnets with Citrine Flowers and 24K Gold seed beaded necklace from the Barbary Coast Collection, with 14K Gold-filled Fold Formed earrings from the Sea Cliff Collection, and 7 carat Marquise Cut Citrine Cocktail ring from the Pacific Heights Collection. Photography by Klaus Lange.
Barbary Coast Collection - Onyx Earrings and Amber, Crystal Quartz Necklace Model Apryl Orr wears Onyx earrings and Clear Quartz, Amber, and Onyx necklace and matching bracelet from the Barbary Coast Collection, with a 10 carat Marquise Cut Citrine Cocktail ring from the Pacific Heights Collection. Photography by Klaus Lange.
Nob Hill Filigree Jewelry and Barbary Coast Beaded Gemstone Collection Model Apryl Orr wears Amber and Clear Quartz necklace from the Barbary Coast Collection, 18K Gold and Fine Silver Filigree earrings from the Nob Hill Collection, 18K Gold Corrugated Cuff and Sterling Silver Marquise Cut Citrine Cocktail ring from the SoMa Collection. Photography by Klaus Lange.
18K Hammered Gold Cuff with Brazilian Fire Agate Necklace Model Apryl Orr wears Brazilian Fire Agate necklace from the Barbary Coast Collection, 14K Gold-filled Hammered Cuff from the SoMa Collection, and 14K Gold Fleur-de-lis Carnelian earrings from the Nob Hill Collection. Photography and Red Wheat silk sarong by Klaus Lange.

Handcrafted Fine Jewelry by John S Brana Accessorizes Photoshoot by San Francisco Photographer Jar Concengco

August 19, 2008 By John S. Brana 8 Comments

Selections from the Barbary Coast Beaded Gemstone Collection

Selections from the Monterey Collection

Selections from the Sea Cliff Collection

Photographer: Jar Concengco
Models: Lena B. (dark blonde), Isle D. (brunette)
Stylist: Karri Ann Frerichs, Styling Asst: Punam Patel
Makeup: Cosmetics Couture
Jewelry: John S. Brana
Silk Accessories: Klaus Lange
Location: Pacifica, California

Niche – The Magazine for Progressive Retailers – Summer 2008 – features Corrugated Sterling Silver Cuff Bracelet by John S Brana

August 6, 2008 By John S. Brana 1 Comment

Niche- Artists Showcase – A special section highlights some of the best artists you will find in NICHE. Purchase works for the busy season ahead. Page 96. San Francisco-inspired wearable art jewelry by John S. Brana includes anticlastic, hammered, filigree, and beaded gemstone collections in silver, copper, 14kt – 18kt gold and bronze.

Jewellery World Review – San Francisco-based designer, John S. Brana, introduces the Nob Hill Collection

August 5, 2008 By John S. Brana 1 Comment

Introducing The Nob Hill Filigree Jewelry Collection by San Francisco-based designer, John S. Brana

John S. Brana – Distinctive Jewelry has added an eighth collection of one-of-a-kind filigree earrings to his diverse line of San Francisco-inspired wearable art jewelry. This collection features his most open, airy and delicate wirework designs yet available. The Nob Hill Collection inspires the re-appreciation for the nostalgic architecture of those Victorian-era neighborhoods built around the turn of twentieth century.

“That was a time when we didn’t have to remind ourselves to stop and smell the roses,” Brana described in his San Francisco studio located in the West Portal neighborhood overlooking the Pacific Ocean. “We appreciated craftsmanship and weren’t distracted by technology.”

With this in mind, Brana sought to capture the elaborate scrolls and turbulent twists of the grill work on entrance gates that dot the neighborly streets of San Francisco’s famous Nob Hill. After twisting three tiny pure silver or 14 karat gold wires, he sculpts the inner tendrils into a paired perfection. No two sets are exactly the same. Each design is then encased by a sturdy barrier of flat or half-round sterling silver or 14 karat gold. Dangling a pair from you ears is a delicate daily reminder that if you can’t stop to smell the roses, you can at least take them with you.

"That demonstrated to me that what makes me happy is to help people celebrate special moments in their life through my wearable art jewelry rather than pursuing a cold corporate agenda like I was doing at Schwab," John said.

The Nob Hill Collection is the latest addition to Brana’s line of limited-edition jewelry and wearable art collections each as different as their San Francisco neighborhood namesakes. Just as each city block of this unique American city tells a unique story and every turn tempts a new adventure, Brana’s handcrafted jewelry is also sure to leave a lasting impression.

Fall’s Must-Have Looks: “Heavy Metal” from John S. Brana – Distinctive Fine Jewelry

August 4, 2008 By John S. Brana Leave a Comment

As we all know, this fall 2008 season is all about classic clean lines, and structured volume. While the menswear suiting and frilly party dresses dominate the runway, one trend is helping these lines shine; heavily jeweled accessories.

Whether it’s the intensely large costume jewels of Lanvin, or the classically dark, regal jewel sets at Alexander McQueen, everyone is doing it. But the greatest example of fall’s ultra encrusted , jewel sets were at Balenciaga. Heavy looking necklaces with matching bracelets on both arms, perfectly accented the sleek lines of the Spanish chic collection.

With all the above designers in the Editor’s Top 10 Collections for fall at Vogue.com, we are certain that they will be the must-haves for fall. So how do you get the season’s biggest accessory trend before it hits the magazine? Established jewelry designer, John S. Brana, is one step ahead with his Sonoma collection. These seductive pieces loaded with garnet, amethyst, and amber gemstones are ready to go from the fall catwalks, into your jewelry box. Inspired by the beauty and sophistication of the rolling hills of Sonoma, California, John S. Brana crafts his rich, grape-like collection to pay tribute to the wine country. The elegant construction of these pieces, create a similar regal look that we see on the runways. So whether it’s the clustered earrings paired with the chunky necklace like at McQueen, or the gem dripping necklace with matching bracelets at Balenciaga, John S. Brana’s breath-taking jewelry will make your friends remember you had the look first.

-Ashley Chavez, Altitude Promotions

Sonoma Collection

John S. Brana Handmade Jewelry Accessorizes Fashion Model 2008

June 13, 2008 By John S. Brana 5 Comments

Amber Citrine Crystal Quartz Necklace

Fashion Model 2008 – May 24, 2008 – San Francisco, CA – Veronica wears Crystal Quartz – Amber – Citrine Necklace from the Barbary Coast Collection.

Barbary Coast Garnet Earrings and Gemstone Necklace

Fashion Model 2008 – May 24, 2008 – San Francisco, CA – Quincy wears Garnet Wire Wrapped earrings
and Pink Coral, Garnets, and Citrine necklace from the Barbary Coast Collection.

Barbary Coast Amber Gemstone Necklace

Fashion Model 2008 – May 24, 2008 – San Francisco, CA – Quincy wears Amber and Onyx necklace from the Barbary Coast Collection.

Chalk Turquoise Necklace from the Barbary Coast Collection

Fashion Model 2008 – May 24, 2008 – San Francisco, CA – Merissa wears a Green Chalk Turquoise necklace from the Barbary Coast Collection and Fine Silver Anticlastic earrings from the SoMa Collection.

Barbary Coast Freshwater Pearl Wire Spiral Earrings

Fashion Model 2008 – May 24, 2008 – San Francisco, CA – Liz wears a Spiral 14K Gold Filled earrings set with White Freshwater Pearls from the Barbary Coast Beaded Gemstone Collection.

Onyx and Crystal Quartz Necklace - Barbary Coast Collection

Fashion Model 2008 – May 24, 2008 – San Francisco, CA – Ashley wears Fleur-de-lis Earrings set with faceted Onyx and a Gold Quartz, Citrine, and Onyx necklace from the Barbary Coast Beaded Gemstone Collection.

Amethyst Italian Mesh Metal Ribbon Necklace from the Monterey Collection

Fashion Model 2008 – May 24, 2008 – San Francisco, CA – Sivan wears Purple Italian Mesh Metal Ribbon earrings and Amethyst Italian Mesh Metal Ribbon necklace from the Monterey Beaded Gemstone Collection.

Monterey Collection - Orange Italian Mesh Metal Ribbon Necklace

Fashion Model 2008 – May 24, 2008 – San Francisco, CA – Fernanda wears Orange Italian Mesh Metal Ribbon earrings and necklace set with Carnelian from the Monterey Beaded Gemstone Collection.

Pacific Heights Citrine Gemstone Earrings

Fashion Model 2008 – May 24, 2008 – San Francisco, CA – Quincy wears Teardrop Citrine Gemstone earrings from the Pacific Heights Collection.

Pacific Heights Wire Wrapped Gemstone Jewelry Collection

Fashion Model 2008 – May 24, 2008 – San Francisco, CA – Fernanda wears a matching set of wire sculpted Citrine earrings, pendant, and ring from the Pacific Heights Collection.

Fold Formed Silver Earrings and Keishi Cornflake Pearl Necklace from the Sea Cliff Collection

Fashion Model 2008 – May 24, 2008 – San Francisco, CA – Sivan wears Fold Formed Fan Coral Fine Silver
earrings and Keishi Pearl necklace from the Sea Cliff Collection.

Sea Cliff Collection Pearl Necklace

Fashion Model 2008 – May 24, 2008 – San Francisco, CA – Jenna wears a Mother of Pearl and Fine Silver necklace from the Sea Cliff Collection.

Nob Hill Filigree Jewelry Collection

Fashion Model 2008 – May 24, 2008 – San Francisco, CA – Photographer Sarah Ross wears
Large Tear Drop Filigree earrings from the Nob Hill Collection and Hammered Fine Silver necklace from the
SoMa Collection.

Chalk Turquoise Necklace from the Barbary Coast Collection

Fashion Model 2008 – May 24, 2008 – San Francisco, CA – Merissa wears Fine Silver Anticlastic earrings from the SoMa Collection and a Green Chalk Turquoise necklace from the Barbary Coast Collection.

SoMa Hammered Silver Jewelry Collection

Fashion Model 2008 – May 24, 2008 – San Francisco, CA – Liz wears Brazilian Fire Agate
Hammered Fine Silver necklace and Hammered Fine Silver earrings from the
SoMa Collection.

Hammered Copper Jewelry - Fold Formed Copper Leaf Earrings - Fold Fomed Copper Cuff - Hammered Copper Neckwire with Brazilian Fire Agate Pendant

Fashion Model 2008 – May 24, 2008 – San Francisco, CA – Liz wears Brazilian Fire Agate Copper Necklace, Copper Leaf Earrings, and Copper Fold Formed Bracelet from the Handmade Copper Jewelry Collection by John S. Brana.

John S. Brana accessorizes upcoming Spring 09 Collection by theSutra

June 9, 2008 By John S. Brana 4 Comments

Anamika wears Copper Bracelets from Sea Cliff Collection

Anamika wears Brazilian Fire Agate Pendant from the SoMa Collection and Two Anticlastic Copper Bracelets from the Sea Cliff Collection

Anamika wears Sterling Silver Anticlastic Cuff and Jellyfish Earrings

Anamika wears Corrugated Sterling Silver Cuff and Jellyfish earrings from the Sea Cliff Collection along with a Smoky Quartz Cocktail Ring from the Pacific Heights Collection.

Anamika wears Crystal Quartz and Onyx Beaded Gemstone Necklace from John S. Brana

Anamika wears Crystal Quartz, Citrine, and Onyx Beaded Gemstone Necklace from the Barbary Coast Collection and a Large Faceted Citrine Cocktail Ring from the Pacific Heights Collection

Anamika wears Hammered Fine Silver Earrings from John S Brana - SoMa Collection

Anamika wears Hammered Silver Earrings from the SoMa Collection

Anamika wears Jellyfish Earrings from John S. Brana - Sea Cliff Collection

Anamika wears Jellyfish Earrings from the Sea Cliff Collection

Anamika wears Sterling Silver Serpentine Chainmail Earrings from John S. Brana - Sonoma Collection

Anamika wears Sterling Silver Grape Earrings set with Serpentine from the Sonoma Collection and a Large Green Gold Quartz Hammered Sterling Silver Ring from the SoMa Collection

Credits

Cowel Neck Halter by theSutra
Sheer Sequence Tunic by theSutra
Ruffle Blouse by theSutra
Drawstring Crop Blouse by theSutra
Layered Maxi Dress by theSutra

Photography: Brett Ferguson
Model: Anamika
Wardrobe Styling: Altitude Promotions
Makeup Artistry: Cosmetics Couture
Hair Styling: Assaf Hasson
Jewelry: John S Brana – Handcrafted Fine Jewelry

Instore – The Magazine for the American Jewelry Store Owner – June 2008 – Features Redwood Men’s Dog-tag Necklace by John S. Brana

June 5, 2008 By John S. Brana Leave a Comment

Instore Features Redwood Collection by John S Brana

John S Brana - Instore - Redwood Men's Jewelry Collection

Just in time for Father’s Day – Instore – In Front – Men’s Under $500 (page 64) features John S. Brana – Men’s dog-tag pendant in oxidized silver. The cotton necklace (16 to 20 inches) features a hammered silver clasp $135.00. Other gifts include selections from Heather Moore, Edward Mirell, Danielle Miller, Robin Rotenier, and Cherie Dori.

John S. Brana – Distinctive Jewelry – Now Available at Art People in the Crocker Galleria, San Francisco

May 21, 2008 By John S. Brana 4 Comments

Art People - Fine Art Gallery - Crocker Galleria, San Francisco CA

John S. Brana – Distinctive Jewelry is now available for purchase at Art People, 50 Post Street Suite 41, on the second floor of the Crocker Galleria. Handcrafted designs from each of Brana’s seven women’s jewelry collections, all inspired by eclectic San Francisco themes, are showcased. Art People is the forth bay area gallery or retailer to carry Brana’s 14K-18K gold, silver, copper and gemstone jewelry collections.

Art People hosts monthly art and wine tasting parties open to the public where guests may enjoy creations from resident artists, including John S. Brana – Distinctive Jewelry. The next party will be held Wednesday, May 28, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Brana will also be featured as the artist of the month later this year. Opening reception information will be announced soon.

Among the nearly 40 one-of-a-kind jewelry pieces available in the gallery, selections from the Barbary Coast, Sonoma, Seacliff and SoMa collections are exhibited in Art People’s storefront window. Additional collections available include Monterey Italian mesh jewelry, Pacific Heights gemstone jewelry and Nob Hill filigree jewelry. Necklaces, cuffs, earrings, rings and bracelets are available for purchase.

To view each of John S. Brana’s – Distinctive Jewelry collections, visit www.johnsbrana.com.

For upcoming events and media requests, please contact Karri Ann Frerichs, Altitude Promotions, at karriann@altitudepromotion.com or 402.490.2579

Barbary Coast, Sea Cliff, and SoMa Colleciton in front window of Art People Gallery in the Crocker Galleria, San Francisco, CA