Anticlastic Earrings

November 14, 2011 By jbrana 7 Comments

Copper Anticlastic Earrings by San Francisco Jewelry Designer John S. Brana

Sensual Anticlastic Earrings

There is something very sensual about the anticlastic pattern, with its different curves coming together fluidly to create a soft, highly natural design. For this reason, jewelers around the world have chosen to create a myriad of masterpieces using this eye-pleasing, elegant form. Anticlastic earrings are one of the more popular products available, as their curved shape matches with a variety of colors, outfits and occasions. These versatile pieces can be made out of a number of materials as well, meaning that it is simple to shop for an item or two which matches with your collection.

Origins of Anticlastic Design

The beauty of these pieces of jewelry comes from the way in which two different types of curves are so elegantly molded together into the one stunning masterpiece. The term anticlastic actually originates from mathematics in which a curved surface is shaped to become like the saddle on a horse. Of course, the smooth, flowing form of this design ensures that anticlastic earrings will not only look natural but also very feminine as well. With no sharp points or angles, these pieces are an attractive, casual addition that will brighten up any outfit regardless of the occasion.

Designs of Anticlastic Earrings

Because of the smooth surfaces that an anticlastic design requires, jewelry of this form has to be created out of metal soft enough to withstand the molding process. Silver and gold are, of course, the more traditional choices when it comes to making these fine pieces of jewelry, though jewelers around the world are looking to other materials as well. Nowadays, it is not uncommon to find aluminum or copper anticlastic earrings for sale both online and in local jewelry stores. This means that there is currently a diverse range of items out there which are suitable for all types of tastes and personalities.

Fine Silver Anticlastic Shell Earrings by San Francisco Jewelry Designer John S Brana

How Anticlasitc Earrings Are Made

Actually creating these elegant designs requires a deft hand and some skill with a range of jeweler’s tools, such as hammers, pliers and sinusoidal stakes. This is because the design has to be flawless with smooth curves and an overall shape that reminds us of a glamorous lady or the soft surface of a rippling pond. The creativity of the artisan also plays a part in how the final product turns out, and the range of anticlastic earrings that are found in stores around the world are a true testament to the ingenuity and imagination displayed by our planet’s best craftsmen.

These types of earrings actually go well with both casual and formal attire, making them the perfect addition to your own jewelry collection or someone else’s. Those searching for a classy, yet versatile item to add to their wardrobe will find exactly what they need by shopping for anticlastic earrings. Suitable to be worn to the office, nightclub or café, these stylish pieces certainly combine elegance, style and versatility into the one simple form. Thanks to the creativity and skill of some of the world’s top jewelers, the general public can now enjoy the beauty and grace of these accessories at any time.

Affordable Designer Earrings

November 4, 2010 By jbrana Leave a Comment

Aluminum Brass Small Tear Drop Earrings with Peridot

Don’t Be a Plain Jane – Wear Designer Earrings!

With a huge range of affordable designer earrings available now, there is no excuse to be a plain Jane! The period when jewelry was a luxury only pursued by the rich, famous and powerful is now long over. These days, anyone can afford to sport a pair of statement earrings thanks to the creativity of John S. Brana and other professional craftsmen. Their diverse collections are full of affordable handcrafted designer earrings that are perfect for anyone, regardless of their taste, personality, or budget.

Aluminum and Copper Make Great Cost-Effective Designer Earrings

By far, the most cost-effective earrings are made out of either aluminum or copper. While these may not seem to be very glamorous metals, they can form some stunning designs in the hands of a master jeweler. To see this, simply have a look at any online catalog of the more popular handcrafted jewelry designers.

Of course, if you are looking for affordable earrings that are a little more colorful, yet still within your budget, you can find what you are searching for in the range of gemstone earrings currently available. With a selection covering semi-precious stones such as amber, garnet, emeralds and pearls, you will be spoilt for choice when out jewelry shopping.

Serpentine Sterling Silver Chainmail Earrings

Sterling Silver Designer Earrings Make a Great Buy

For those who have a bit more money to spend, but consider gold or platinum jewelry far too expensive, sterling silver handmade earrings can be a great buy. This dazzling metal can be shaped into a multitude of styles, ranging from hoop to chain maille designs, to form a classic look that will suit almost any sort of attire.

With this many choices out there, each as affordable as the next, it is a surprise to see that many women still are not donning a pair of dazzling handmade designer earrings when they are out and about. To find affordable handmade earrings that truly complement both your individual style and the clothing that you are wearing, have a look at the jewelry collections created that feature designer earrings by artisans such as John S. Brana today.

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.

MJSA – Manufacturing Jewellers and Suppliers of America Features Men’s Jewelry by John S. Brana

July 24, 2010 By jbrana 9 Comments

MJSA - A Man's World - Designing and Manufacturing Jewelry for Today's Man

Designing and Manufacturing Jewelry for Todays Man

Designing and Manufacturing Men’s Jewelry for Today’s Man

“Simplistic designs that showcase a texture instead of a stone have a wide appeal with men, says Karri Ann Frerichs for San Francisco—based designer John Brana. If a stone is used, it’s usually solo and set flush with the surface. In addition, she reports that men look for pieces with significant weight that offer durability, shying away from lightweight pieces that they don’t perceive will withstand the daily wear and tear of an active lifestyle. “For these design preferences, John has developed sterling silver collections that focus on textures and minimalistic designs,” Frerichs explains.

Brana often opts for fabrication over casting to make his hammered and chased pieces. “I can make a simple band in about 20 minutes versus the time involved in making the master, creating rubber molds, injecting the wax, spruing, investing, casting, despruing, and finishing,” says Brana. “Casting would make sense if the designs were heavily patterned, or if I was doing production runs of 50+ rings at a time and could move them out of inventory within 60 days. With fabrication, you can do small runs and not carry any inventory. It also allows you the flexibility to size on the fly, and the ability to customize band width, thickness, and stone choice with ease.”

MJSA Features Mens Jewelry by Designer John S Brana

For design inspiration, Brana looks to natural and organic themes to create his signature textures of Redwood, Reptile, Wave, Tonga, and Sierra. The designer has developed a loyal customer base by turning clients into collectors, making it easy (especially with many pieces retailing under $300) to amass a complete collection based on the texture the client likes best. The brand’s bestseller is Redwood.

Mens Jewelry Sierra Collection by Designer John S Brana

“Typically, our male customers start with a thumb ring, look next to the matching bracelet or cufflinks, and round out their collection with a pendant on a rawhide or link chain,” says Frerichs, noting the company’s key demographic is men ages 20 to 35 who live in cosmopolitan areas, appreciate fashion, purchase designer labels, and look for quality over price point.”

Click here to download the full story in PDF.

Men’s Designer Jewelry

June 9, 2010 By John S. Brana 3 Comments

Tonga Mens Sterling Silver Curb Link Bracelet

Stylish Men’s Designer Jewelry

What does one look for when shopping for men’s jewelry? Style is most important, of course. Then, one looks for durability, a sense of chic, and a certain presence. In general, men are less inclined to follow the ups and downs of fashion trends and more likely to wear distinctive jewelry that represents their own unique personality and sense of style.

Redwood Oxidized Sterling Silver Men's Ring

The hip, cool, and classically American style of John S. Brana’s Handcrafted Men’s Jewelry fits the bill perfectly. Designed in oxidized sterling silver, John S. Brana’s one-of-a-kind men’s bracelets are ruggedly handsome and absolutely unique. These bold and chunky designer bracelets are available in four styles, any one of which is bound to appeal to any man with a taste for fine jewelry.

Nature Inspired Men’s Designer Jewelry

The Tonga Collection features a sturdy sterling silver curb link bracelet highlighted with intricate carving inspired by ancient Pacific Island tribes. The majestic Sierra Nevada mountain range is the inspiration for the distinctive Sierra Collection’s abstract design. The man who enjoys the grace and tranquility of the Pacific Ocean will surely be thrilled to receive a bracelet from the Wave Collection. The wavy design brings to mind the lull of a gently rolling sea. Then there’s the Rawhide Collection, which celebrates the days of the Old West by giving the oxidized sterling silver the look and texture of worn leather.

Each of these hallmarked, oxidized sterling silver men’s bracelets features an attractive and sturdy curb link design and substantial lobster claw clasp. Whichever you choose, you can’t go wrong by making your selection from handcrafted jewelry designer John S. Brana’s line of bold and beautifully crafted men’s jewelry.

Filigree Jewelry in Fashion

June 5, 2010 By John S. Brana 23 Comments

Fine Silver Tear Drop Filigree Earrings

Fashionable Filigree Jewelry

Filigree is an ornamental metalwork design used in many craft and design areas. In jewelry making its delicate and lacy texture was originally crafted by hammering or rolling gold, silver, copper, or platinum into thin wire and then twisting, bending and soldering the wires to form patterns that closely resembled snowflakes or fine lace. In fact, the word filigree comes from the Latin “filum” meaning “thread” or “spinning” and “gran” which means “grain” or “bead”. Originally, small beads of metal were soldered into the junctions where the wires met in order to add strength to the delicate wirework.

Filigree Jewelry Throughout History

This intricate and delicate design technique dates as far back as the 1600s in Asian, French, Greek and Roman cultures and became very popular in Art Deco filigree jewelry pieces of the 1920s and 1930s in the United States. Flowers, hearts, leaves and paisley patterns were formed into filigree from fine metals and crafted into rings, brooches, earrings and wedding bands. Early examples of this dramatic and elegant fine crafting are on display at the British Museum and at the Louvre.

14K Gold Fine Silver Filigree Large Tear Drop Earrings

The light and airy feel and subtle beauty of this design endures to present day. While antique filigree jewelry is highly prized, this delicately beautiful metalwork is still quite popular in modern day jewelry design. Enjoy the minute hand craftsmanship of tiny fine silver wires twisted then sculpted into delicate tendrils of open scroll earrings of the Nob Hill Filigree collection featuring sterling and fine silver crafted into sweeping, intricately designed swirls. Our Filigree Tear Drop Scroll Earrings are available in either 14k or 18k gold and fine silver, and are inspired by the classic iron gates that decorate Victorian-era homes and apartments atop San Francisco’s historic Nob Hill neighborhood.

Whether you’re dressing up for a night on the town or dressing down in a hip boho chic look, filigree jewelry adds a classy, feminine touch to your style.

Win a Free Pair of Handmade Fine Silver Earrings – May 2010 Jewelry Freebie

May 1, 2010 By jbrana 28 Comments

Hammered Fine Silver Earrings

For May, win these beautiful Hammered Fine Silver Earrings with a slightly hammered finish by entering your email address on any pop-up hang-tag that appears on www.johnsbrana.com or on the entry form below. Your entry carries over month to month, so there’s no need to re-enter every month.

Each month will feature a different piece of jewelry, so enter now!

Click here to see the contest rules.

Congrats to our April 2010 Jewelry Freebie Winner – Kathy Jones of Ft Lauderdale, FL !!

Handcrafted Jewelry Designer John S. Brana Showcases Stackable Rings for Designers by the Bay Event Hosted by Shreve & Co.

October 16, 2009 By jbrana 6 Comments

John S. Brana is introducing stackable rings and matching bangles and cuffs to his collection of fine jewelry designs in 14K, 18K Gold, and Sterling Silver exclusively for the 13^th Annual Designers by the Bay and Fine Jewelry Showcase, Tuesday, October 20, 2009 at 7:00 p.m. The most exciting creations include stunning cuffs in Sterling Silver, 14K, and 18K gold, sculpted and texturized by hand in his San Francisco studio. More than 200 guests well known in the Northern California jewelry industry are expected to attend this premier event to be held at Shreve & Co., 200 Post Street, San Francisco.

“As a second year exhibitor, I will be showcasing upcoming Spring 2010 trends that emphasize sculptural textures, color, and versatility” said Brana who is best known by his clients for meticulous attention to handcrafted details in the bridge jewelry category. Each texture reflects light in its own unique way allowing admirers to easily distinguish between the individual bands and bangles. Numerous “looks” can be achieved simply by arranging textures and color. Stackable rings and bangles come in seven textures handmade in Sterling Silver, Copper, 14K Gold, and 18K Yellow, Green, and Rose Gold, with soon to be released designs set with white diamonds, colored diamonds, and semi-precious gemstones.

The continual growth of Designers by the Bay, presented by the Women’s Jewelry Association, Northern California Chapter, has lent it the reputation for being the region’s premier fine jewelry event. Only 15 select jewelry designers will showcase their collections and guests may enjoy complementary wine and hors d’oeuvres. To RSVP for the event, please visit www.designersbythebay.com. To view current collections by John S. Brana, please visit www.johnsbrana.com. For more information and media requests regarding John S. Brana – Distinctive Jewelry, please contact Karri Ann Frerichs at 402.490.2579 or karriann@altitudepromotion.com.

Handcrafted Silver Jewelry – Meant to Last a Lifetime

March 28, 2009 By John S. Brana 3 Comments

Handcrafted Fine Silver Necklace with Chrysoprase Many people shy away from silver jewelry for many reasons. For some, it’s because silver loses its luster over time. For others, they think of silver as simply inferior to gold. Neither of these statements are true if the silver utilized is fine silver. Handcrafted silver jewelry made using fine silver, rather than sterling silver – will last a lifetime without much attention.

At first glance, sterling silver and fine silver might appear almost identical. In reality, though, handcrafted fine silver jewelry is different in one critical way…it doesn’t tarnish over time. This is due to its lack of copper, as opposed to Sterling Silver, which is an alloy of 7.5% Copper and 92.5% Silver. Through the hammering process, Fine Silver becomes just as strong as Sterling, so that Fine Silver can last you a lifetime, and be passed on to future generations with pride and effortless care.

Jewelry that is handcrafted using fine silver is some of the most superior on the market. Not only has the metal itself gone through the hands of a caring craftsman, but the piece of jewelry has been designed and put together by someone who is a true artisan. There is no manufacturing process in this type of jewelry. The designs are original, the production is one at a time, and the work is done with pride and love.

When buying a piece of handcrafted silver jewelry, always insist on fine silver to ensure your piece will last and remain in its beautiful, original state for more than just a few years.

Click Here To Find Handcrafted Silver Jewelry

Handmade Sterling Silver Jewelry: A Gift for Anyone

March 14, 2009 By John S. Brana 3 Comments

Hammered Sterling Silver Disc Earrings by John S. Brana Some of the most beautiful, yet affordable, pieces of jewelry you can find are made of Sterling Silver. Handmade Sterling Silver jewelry can be worn with nearly any style of clothing, to any occasion, and can be worn year-round. No one would turn down a gift of Sterling Silver jewelry. Sterling Silver refers to silver that is .925 pure. Unless pure silver is hammered, it is usually too soft for most jewelry applications. The derivation of the term, “Sterling Silver” is not agreed upon by experts. Some historians say that it refers to the British “pound Sterling”, while others say that Sterling Silver originally was developed in Sterlingshire, Scotland. Sterlingshire had a large silver mine, and because of this, most historians believe this derivation to be true. In addition, there are several other theories as to why silver that is .925 pure is called Sterling.

However, handmade sterling silver jewelry is more than just the silver itself. Silver is a difficult metal to work with and a jeweler who works with Sterling Silver must be a master craftsman. Silver jewelry is often intricate and exquisite, reflecting the personality of the wearer.

When purchasing handmade sterling silver jewelry, especially if it’s a gift, make sure that the silver used is, in fact, solid Sterling Silver. Many low priced, massed produced jewelry (especially those made overseas) are actually plated silver jewelry, even though they are marked .925. Plated Silver (sometimes referred to as Overlay or Technibond) is electroplated silver over a base pot metal (usually tin, aluminum, or zinc), and thus, is not solid Sterling Silver. Not only will plated silver jewelry quickly tarnish, the plate commonly wears off and also might cause allergic reactions. On the other hand, Sterling Silver may tarnish over time, but will wear well, day in and day out with little care. Many low-end jewelers or craftsman will sell anything with a silver color and tell you that it is sterling silver. Remember, “You get what you pay for”, so if a piece of jewelry appears to be under-priced, beware. Establishing a trusted relationship with your local jeweler or jewelry designer is well worth your effort. A good piece of handmade sterling silver jewelry will reflect the work in its price, and any quality piece is worth paying for.

Click Here To Find Handmade Sterling Silver Jewelry

Anticlastic Earrings

Sensual Anticlastic Earrings

Origins of Anticlastic Design

Designs of Anticlastic Earrings

How Anticlasitc Earrings Are Made

Recommended Reading

Affordable Designer Earrings

Aluminum Brass Small Tear Drop Earrings with Peridot

Don’t Be a Plain Jane – Wear Designer Earrings!

Aluminum and Copper Make Great Cost-Effective Designer Earrings

Serpentine Sterling Silver Chainmail Earrings

Sterling Silver Designer Earrings Make a Great Buy

Recommended Reading

Modern Colors in Handmade Designer Jewelry

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

Recommended Reading

MJSA – Manufacturing Jewellers and Suppliers of America Features Men’s Jewelry by John S. Brana

Designing and Manufacturing Men’s Jewelry for Today’s Man

Recommended Reading

Men’s Designer Jewelry

Stylish Men’s Designer Jewelry

Nature Inspired Men’s Designer Jewelry

Recommended Reading

Filigree Jewelry in Fashion

Fashionable Filigree Jewelry

Filigree Jewelry Throughout History

Recommended Reading

Win a Free Pair of Handmade Fine Silver Earrings – May 2010 Jewelry Freebie

Recommended Reading

Handcrafted Jewelry Designer John S. Brana Showcases Stackable Rings for Designers by the Bay Event Hosted by Shreve & Co.

Recommended Reading

Handcrafted Silver Jewelry – Meant to Last a Lifetime

Recommended Reading

Handmade Sterling Silver Jewelry: A Gift for Anyone

Recommended Reading

Become My Fan on Facebook and Receive Up to 35% Off Featured Jewelry!

New Products – Handcrafted Designer Jewelry by John S. Brana

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Handcrafted Jewelry

Sensual Anticlastic Earrings

Origins of Anticlastic Design

Designs of Anticlastic Earrings

How Anticlasitc Earrings Are Made

Recommended Reading

Aluminum Brass Small Tear Drop Earrings with Peridot Don’t Be a Plain Jane – Wear Designer Earrings!

Aluminum and Copper Make Great Cost-Effective Designer Earrings

Serpentine Sterling Silver Chainmail Earrings Sterling Silver Designer Earrings Make a Great Buy

Recommended Reading

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

Recommended Reading

Designing and Manufacturing Men’s Jewelry for Today’s Man

Recommended Reading

Stylish Men’s Designer Jewelry

Nature Inspired Men’s Designer Jewelry

Recommended Reading

Fashionable Filigree Jewelry

Filigree Jewelry Throughout History

Recommended Reading

Recommended Reading

Recommended Reading

Recommended Reading

Recommended Reading

Become My Fan on Facebook and Receive Up to 35% Off Featured Jewelry!

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Handcrafted Jewelry

Aluminum Brass Small Tear Drop Earrings with Peridot

Don’t Be a Plain Jane – Wear Designer Earrings!

Serpentine Sterling Silver Chainmail Earrings

Sterling Silver Designer Earrings Make a Great Buy