Cooper Design Space - Los Angeles, CA

March 18-23, 2010 -  Visit Handmade Jewelry by John S. Brana at LA March Market in the Cooper Design Building #321 from Thursday, 3/18 – Tuesday, 3/23.  Altitude Promotions will be showcasing the latest Fall 2010 and Summer 2010 designer jewelry collections by John S. Brana.

View the collections in person in The Great Room Showroom, #321 – The Cooper Building Showroom, 860 South Los Angeles Street,  Los Angeles,  CA  90014.  Book your appointment by emailing

karriann@altitudepromotion.com or calling 415.738.6298.

©2010 Handcrafted Fine Jewelry Blog by John S. Brana. All Rights Reserved.

Handmade Texturized Anticlastic Copper Bracelet

“Brana loves to feature nontraditional metals, his most recent collection thrusting copper and aluminum in the spotlight. His designs are flirtatious and intricate, often with elegant geometric textural elements and clean curves. His new line, named after the South of Market district, “SoMa,” is inspired by the curved angles of the architecture and the “opulent gold rush period” of its heyday.

Not many other jewelry designers value the unique abilities of copper the way Brana does. In a contemporary jewelry industry founded on the classic value of semi-precious metals and gemstones, his choice of materials like copper, bronze and aluminum is giving a new sheen to the high end jewelry industry. “  Read the entire story on Copper.org

Handmade Brass Turquoise Patinated Bangle

©2010 Handcrafted Fine Jewelry Blog by John S. Brana. All Rights Reserved.

Hammered Fine Silver Tear Drop Earrings

Starting March 2010, www.johnsbrana.com will be running a monthly drawing for one featured piece of jewelry.  For March, win these light-catching Hammered Fine Silver Tear Drop Earrings by entering your email address on any pop-up hang-tag that appears on www.johnsbrana.com  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.

©2010 Handcrafted Fine Jewelry Blog by John S. Brana. All Rights Reserved.

Natural Amethyst Gemstone

Amethyst is considered one of the most beautiful varieties of quartz, if not the most beautiful. Known as the spirituality gemstone, amethyst expresses the connection between the divine and spiritual side, stimulating clairvoyance. It has a very strong protective role. Amethyst is found mainly in Brazil.

This gemstone is considered a symbol of success, because it stimulates and amplifies intellectual abilities, intuition, self confidence, concentration and spiritual capacities. At the same time, it reduces anger, impatience, nightmares, stress, nervousness, depression, improving communication between people.

Known as a gemstone of power, amethyst has a calming effect on the nervous system, fighting against insomnia. Anybody can place an amethyst crystal under the pillow to have pleasant dreams.

Amethyst fights against addictions (tobacco, alcohol, food), insomnia (it is a cure used for snoring), headaches, allergies, acne, migraines and back pain. Some people claim that this gemstone has beneficial effects on stomach, central nervous system, digestive and endocrine system, eyes and hair. It balances blood sugar and regenerates the entire body.

Crystals of amethyst purify and transform lower energies into higher energies, having a relaxing effect. They are recommended for meditation.

14K Gold Filled Wire Wrapped Pendant with Tear Drop Amethyst

Greeks believe that this gemstone brings love and happiness, while medieval soldiers wore amethyst amulets in battles. If your problems in love are deep, then you need this healing crystal, which will purify your inner energies, balancing your life. Amethyst is known for its power to support major changes in life, whether it’s about an intentional change or a painful experience like a breakup or a divorce. It will bring you inner peace and the power to forget and to forgive.

Also, amethyst is used by people who have passed through experiences that have made them feel victimized by a strong and impulsive personality. By wearing such a natural crystal, you will attract positive energies that will help you to receive and offer love. Meditate on your own desires and decide to accept love in your life, supported by the energetic power of crystals.

Amethyst is a perfect gemstone for those born in the  month of February.   Shop these handcrafted jewelry designs by jewelry designer John S. Brana featuring February’s birthstone Amethyst.

©2010 Handcrafted Fine Jewelry Blog by John S. Brana. All Rights Reserved.

Focus Trade Show

January 16-18, 2010 -  “The FOCUS” Apparel and Accessories Show, taking place from January 16- 18, 2010 in the California Market Center (CMC) Penthouse on the 13th Floor, A-Wing will feature hand-picked emerging and established lines.   “FOCUS is the tradeshow destination for buyers to find the best new, up & coming, artist driven lines. During the January 2010 show, FOCUS will feature many first time exhibitors including Project Runway Season 6 finalist, Althea Harper as well as the latest San Francisco Inspired Handmade Jewelry styles for Summer 2010 by John S. Brana. The January 2010 “FOCUS” Apparel and Accessories Show is also first in a year long partnership with Fashion Business Inc. (FBI) and will present the FBI “Designer Launch Pad Fashion Show” on the FOCUS show floor.

“The FOCUS” Apparel and Accessories Show will begin its 3rd year on the Penthouse of the CMC in January 2010. In that time it has carved out a niche’ featuring the top new, up and coming, artist driven designers and lines, not found anywhere else. January 2010 will feature rising star collections amongst many other great lines. Althea Harper was a contestant on famed TV program,Project Runway’s sixth season. Her line has a unique design aesthetic that combines tailoring, draping and shape to create garments that are both functional and beautiful. Althea Harper will be exhibited along with other lines from the Altitude Fashion Showroom including, Amber Pollard Handbags, Bees Company, India Rose Collection, John S. Brana Jewelry Collection, and Heike Jarick Blue Label Collection. View the latest San Francisco Inspired Handmade Jewelry styles for Summer 2010 by John S. Brana at the FOCUS Trade Show in the California Market Center Penthouse. Booth # 100.  You may book your appointment by calling the Altitude Fashion Showroom at 415.738.6298 or emailing Karri Ann Frerichs directly.

©2010 Handcrafted Fine Jewelry Blog by John S. Brana. All Rights Reserved.

Faceted Garnet Citrine Flower Necklace

There are actually two January birthstones; Garnet and Rose Quartz. However, most people only recognize Garnet on a wide scale. The word Garnet is derived from Latin which means grain or seed; “granatus”, and it was therefore called thanks to the striking deep red of the gem being so incredibly close to that found in the seeds of pomegranates. However, with a Mohs scale hardness of 6. 5 to 7. 5; biting down a Garnet can not be quite the same sensation as you get from the fruit’s seed!

But, many are stunned that Garnet can additionally be found in colours other than red; and some exquisite gems are available in greens, oranges, pinks and violets. These changes in color are caused by the mineral content contained in the gem; these are rarer still than the already obscure red Garnet.

There are a myriad of legends, myths and folklore that surround the Garnet; crossing scores of cultures and eras. In Biblical myth for instance, it is suggested that Noah hung a Garnet on his Ark, so as he may illuminate his journey during the storms.

Probably due to this, and alternate stories in lore, the gift of a Garnet is usually given to hurry home safely a loved one, who is undertaking a journey. Because of its deep red color, it’s also highly symbolic of love and desire; and is usually given to January born loved ones by their partner.

Records show that it’s been mined for at least 2500 years, though not invariably for its delicate nature; often being employed as a tool such due to its hardness. Whilst traces of this mining were found in Sri Lanka, the Garnet is found in several places across the world including; Africa, India and the United States of America.

The other of the January Birth Stones is the beautiful Rose Quartz that, because the name suggests, ranges from a fragile pale pink, to sorts which deepen up to the hue of a red rose. The colors of the gem are caused by trace amounts of titanium and iron, and in some specimens manganese.

Usually, the value of Rose Quartz is thought by many to make inadequate gems, and certainly can be cloudy. However there are exceptional items found and they’re typically carved into wonderful hearts; making for a fantastic gift for loved ones.

Despite not being widely fashionable, it is reputed to be one of the most powerful semi precious stones in the world. It is said to hold many healing powers, with the power to help bring calm, and balance emotions at times of stress, anxiety and even guilt.

Whilst Rose Quartz is found across the planet, from Asia to Europe and on to Northern America; it’s principally mined in Brazil these days. Brazil has also long been the producer of the finest examples, and, in the proper setting, will create a wonderful various when looking for January birthstones.

©2010 Handcrafted Fine Jewelry Blog by John S. Brana. All Rights Reserved.

Item New York - 444 Broome St - New York City

Item New York, a newly opened boutique on 444 Broome St. between Broadway and Mercer in New York’s upscale SoHo neighborhood is the latest store to carry jewelry styles by San Francisco jewelry designer, John S. Brana.  The cozy store features a minimalistic interior with gunmetal colored walls and dark wood accents and is beautifully stocked with a well-edited selection of one-of-a-kind statement pieces from jewelry to handbags.  The store’s concept is to offer its shoppers that special signature piece that becomes the standout “item” to accentuate their ensemble.  We weren’t surprised Item fell in love with John S. Brana’s Muir Woods earrings and Pacific Heights cocktail rings!

A hand-selected collection of John S. Brana’s copper, patinated, and aluminum earrings are now available to purchase at the SoHo boutique, including various pairs of his well-received “lily pad” earring styles.  Shoppers may choose from John S. Brana’s dramatic, wire-wrapped cocktail rings set with large carat gemstones including smoky quartz, citrine, amethyst, and blue topaz from his Pacific Heights Collection.  And, jewelry connoisseurs will surely spot the most elegant piece of the entire selection, the multi-strand layered gemstone necklace featuring amber, citrine, crystal quartz, gold freshwater pearls, and hammered sterling silver discs from the Barbary Coast Collection of statement jewelry.  This is absolutely the perfect piece for that special someone who will fall in love at first sight.

Item New York
444 Broome St.
New York City, NY 10013
646-221-3472

Fold Formed Corrugated Copper Leaf Earrings

Maroon Copper Patinated 2 inch Lilypad Earrings

Large Carat Citrine 14k Gold Filled Cocktail Ring

©2010 Handcrafted Fine Jewelry Blog by John S. Brana. All Rights Reserved.

Karri Ann Frerichs – Altitude Designers, features Copper Patinated jewelry by jewelry designer John S. Brana at Bloomingdale’s – Stanford.  The Muir Woods collection evokes the serenity and timelessness of this prehistoric redwood forest. Earrings, bracelets, necklaces, pendants and rings are both delicate and exotic. The nature-inspired, handcrafted textures allow the jewelry to be gorgeously warped like the bark of a tree or the rush of river water. Burnt umber, red bronze, smoky lavender, iridescent greens and turquoise hues complete the collection.

©2010 Handcrafted Fine Jewelry Blog by John S. Brana. All Rights Reserved.

Karri Ann Frerichs, Altitude Designers, talks about Labradorite and other Feldspar gemstones just featured by Colored Stone Magazine as the upcoming hottest trend in gemstones for 2010, and showcases several designs by San Francisco jewelry designer John S. Brana incorporating this trend. Other featured handcrafted designer rings include Russian Jade, Peach Moonstone, Citrine, Moonstone, Green Amethyst, and Green Gold Quartz gemstones.

©2010 Handcrafted Fine Jewelry Blog by John S. Brana. All Rights Reserved.

Karri Ann Frerichs introduces the SoMa Statement Cuff Collection by San Francisco jewelry designer John S. Brana during his trunk show at Bloomingdale’s – Stanford. These bold Sterling Silver and Copper cuffs come in a variety of anticlastic styles and textures including corrugated, texturized, chased, and hammered.

©2010 Handcrafted Fine Jewelry Blog by John S. Brana. All Rights Reserved.

Karri Ann Frerichs, Altitude Designers, introduces handmade copper jewelry by jewelry designer John S. Brana at Bloomingdale’s – Stanford. Selections include handmade corrugated and texturized copper cuffs, corrugated and chased copper earrings, chased and hammered copper necklaces, and bronze rings set with cabochons, beaded gemstones, or faceted large gemstones.

©2010 Handcrafted Fine Jewelry Blog by John S. Brana. All Rights Reserved.

San Francisco jewelry designer John S. Brana will be  showcasing his handmade jewelry at Bloomingdale’s – Stanford on Black Friday, 27th, 2009 through Sunday November 29th, 2009 from noon to six p.m.  Situated in Bloomingdale’s accessory department right next to the Marc by Marc Jacobs handbag collection, shoppers can select from a showcase of his handmade copper nature-inspired Muir Woods jewelry designs all discounted 20% during Bloomingdale’s Black Friday weekend event.

Shoppers are encouraged to visit www.Bloomingdales.com and choose the Stanford location through the store locator for detailed information on each sale and promotion. To preview jewelry that will be available at each Bloomingdale’s Holiday Trunk Show, shoppers are encouraged to visit www.JohnSBrana.com and click on the collections tab to view jewelry styles from the Muir Woods, Pacific Heights, Monterey, and SoMa Collections.

Bloomingdale’s will host the following events and promotions which may also be applied to jewelry purchases during each John S. Brana Holiday Trunk Show:

• November 27-29, Black Friday Sales
• December 5-6, Bloomingdale’s Private Sale
• December 19-20, Bloomingdale’s Insider Sale
• December 26-27, Bloomingdale’s After Christmas Sale.

©2010 Handcrafted Fine Jewelry Blog by John S. Brana. All Rights Reserved.

Karri Ann Frerichs talks about John S. Brana’s Sea Cliff Collection at his Bloomingdale’s – Stanford trunk show. Just like creatures of the sea, no two creations are alike as each is individually handcrafted by jewelry designer John S. Brana. Make a statement with jellyfish-shaped earrings embellished with freshwater pearls, anemone or starfish-shaped rings set with tiny gemstones and coral reef inspired silver anticlastic cuffs.

©2010 Handcrafted Fine Jewelry Blog by John S. Brana. All Rights Reserved.

Karri Ann Frerichs introduces handmade bronze rings and sterling silver rings set with semi-precious gemstones by San Francisco jewelry designer John S. Brana at his November 13-14 trunk show at Bloomingdale’s – Stanford. The Muir Wood’s jewelry collection features nature inspired tree branch rings that hold large faceted Citrine, Labradorite, Moonstone, Green Amethyst, Rutilated Quartz, Amethyst, and Green Gold Quartz gemstones.

©2010 Handcrafted Fine Jewelry Blog by John S. Brana. All Rights Reserved.

The San Francisco Fashion Collective consists of seven fashion sales representatives, each with their own showroom, who manage over 35 apparel and accessory brands. This November, Altitude Promotions joined the SFFC and opened its own showroom featuring four fashion brands including the jewelry collections by bridge category jewelry designer, John S. Brana. San Francisco-inspired jewelry collections which are showcased include the Muir Woods Collection of nature-inspired jewelry, the Nob Hill Collection of fine silver filigree earrings, the SoMa Collection of statement cuffs, the Barbary Coast Collection of semi-precious gemstone necklaces and wire-wrapped earrings, and the Pacific Heights Collection of large carat gemstone earrings and cocktail rings.

The Altitude Promotions showroom is located in the San Francisco Fashion Collective at 680 8th Street, Suite 240, San Francisco, CA 94103. Retail buyers and fashion editors are welcome to visit the Altitude Promotions showroom to view John S. Brana’s collections and line sheets Monday through Friday from 9a.m. To 6p.m. To schedule an appointment with the showroom and to request line sheets, please email info@altitudepromotion.com or call Karri Ann Frerichs directly at 1.402.490.2579.

©2010 Handcrafted Fine Jewelry Blog by John S. Brana. All Rights Reserved.

14K Gold Filled Wire Wrapped Ring with Marquise Citrine

Known as the “success stone,” pale yellow Citrine, the gemstone for November, suffers from a case of mistaken identity that sometimes keeps gem lovers away from its beauty and benefits.

In nature the color of Citrine, a quartz crystal, ranges from pale yellow to brown. When cut into a gemstone, Citrine is virtually impossible to tell visually from the more valuable Yellow Topaz. This has led unscrupulous dealers to substitute Citrine for Yellow Topaz, much to the chagrin of bilked customers when they discover the truth, usually at resale.

Most commercial-grade Citrine is actually amethyst or smoky quartz that has been heated to active the ferric impurities that give its yellow color. Citrines produced in this way tend to have more of a reddish or orange cast than natural Citrines, which are usually pale yellow. Brazil produces most of the world’s gem-grade citrine. Citrine is one of three traditional birthstones for the month of November.

14K Gold Filled Wire Wrapped Pendant with Checkboard Cut Citrine

Over the centuries, Citrine acquired a reputation as a “success stone” that promotes prosperity and abundance. It’s sometimes nicknamed “merchant’s stone” because superstitious merchants of times past put Citrine in their cashboxes to bring in money. However, Citrine supposedly also brings about success in unexpected ways. In addition to manifesting abundance, Citrine also promotes generosity, leading those who benefit from its powers to share their wealth with others.

Citrine also is thought to enhance mental clarity, confidence and will power. For these reasons, practitioners of New Age healing arts often recommend Citrine crystals for people who suffer from low self-esteem or even depression. Citrine is though to deflect and dissipate all kinds of negative energies, generating stability in thought and emotion. It’s also believed to reduce self-doubt and self-destructive tendencies, instead fostering happiness and good cheer in those who wear it.

Citrine Bronze Ring

Healers also prescribe Citrines to benefit the digestive system, the endocrine system and the immune system. It’s believed to play a role in eliminating toxins from the body and in overcoming various addictions.

Whether chosen merely for its beauty or for its alleged psychic and physical benefits, sunny Citrine bring a gleam of good cheer to its wearers.

©2010 Handcrafted Fine Jewelry Blog by John S. Brana. All Rights Reserved.

Amethyst Vermiel Neckalce

Few things are more alluring than a lack of complexity. A simple strand with a small jewel speaks volumes. When it comes to jewelry, a strand of silver or gold adorned with a diminutive gem is enough for most events. But, there are times when you don’t feel the need to be elegant, or want to show off something that conveys your mood, your style, and your personality. Whether you are going out for a night on the town, out on a date, or even at work, something that is more exceptional and more “you” is suitable. Beaded gemstone jewelry is some of the most exclusive type of jewelry available, and virtually infinite in styles and character.

Beaded gemstone jewelry is usually a amalgamation of semi-precious gemstones and silver or gold. Just because the gemstones are semi-precious does not suggest that they aren’t important by the owner. This organization of stones is not based on how stylish or costly the gems are, but more exactly how rare they are on the face of the earth.The rarer gemstones – diamonds, rubies, emeralds, sapphires – are considered to be precious stones because of their rarity.

African Opal Citrine Necklace

Semi-precious stones include those which are usually found in lower-priced jewelry, such as serpentine, peridot, and amazonite. Although these stones are often less expensive, that does not suggest that they’re in any way inferior in quality to traditional precious stones. As a matter of fact, many quality jewelers will combine precious and semi-precious stones in one piece.

The stones found in beaded gemstone jewelry can be found in a variety different forms. Even though a good number of pieces will be small in size, they may or may not be polished or consistent in size. With semi-precious stones, the rarity of their color, clarity, or other qualities may add to their value – and jewelry designers often do not want to buff out those qualities.

Gems used in beaded jewelry may or may not be polished and refined. Modern styles in amethyst jewelry, for instance, favor less uniform stones. In numerous cases, the more extraordinary the stones are, the more expensive the piece of jewelry. Alternatively, pieces that include absolutely uniform beads of semi-precious stones can be quite costly and cherished by the wearer.

Beaded gemstone jewelry is a superb addition to any attire. It is often the jewelry of preference for daywear, but when worn with the right outfit, it can show off any outfit. The styles and designs are so diverse, that this variety of jewelry is fitting for practically any occasion.

©2010 Handcrafted Fine Jewelry Blog by John S. Brana. All Rights Reserved.

I love browsing online just as much as you. When it comes time for holiday shopping or just treating yourself, sometimes you can’t remember where you found that oh-so-perfect item weeks before. Don’t let your online bookmarks get out of control – simply tell me your wish list (and I’ll offer special VIP pricing to make your wishes come true)!

New this Holiday 2009 Gift Giving Season, I want to grant your wishes! This is your chance to tell me just what you want and I’ll ensure you get it this season. So let me grant your Holiday wishes by starting your wish list today!

Just click on this link http://www.johnsbrana.com/customer/account/login/ and Create an Account. Then browse through my collections of handcrafted jewelry for men and women and click “Add to your Wish List” when you find just the right item. You can even “Sign Up for a price alert” and be immediately notified when prices drop on selected jewelry. When it comes time to purchase, simply return to your list and you’ll find special pricing on all your desired jewelry!

Happy shopping!

©2010 Handcrafted Fine Jewelry Blog by John S. Brana. All Rights Reserved.

John S. Brana’s October showcase was situated in Bloomingdale’s accessory department right next to the Marc by Marc Jacobs handbag collection. Shoppers were immediately drawn to Brana’s handcrafted jewelry showcased by displays of cast iron sculptural tree branches that beautifully reflect his nature-inspired jewelry designs. “This is different,” shoppers would comment and immediately start browsing among Brana’s collections of patinated copper and brass leaf-shaped earrings, texturized sterling silver cuffs, and large carat gemstone rings. “Customers were really drawn to my latest earring designs which remind me of colored geranium leaves or lily pads,” describes Brana when asked about his best sellers. “They are also pleasantly surprised to learn that I handcraft each jewelry piece and am still able to price many of my designs under $100.”

Bloomingdale’s will host the following events and promotions which may also be applied to jewelry purchases during each John S. Brana Holiday Trunk Show:

• November 13-14, 20% off Secret Santa Promotion
• November 27-29, Black Friday Sales
• December 5-6, Bloomingdale’s Private Sale
• December 19-20, Bloomingdale’s Insider Sale
• December 26-27, Bloomingdale’s After Christmas Sale.

Shoppers are encouraged to visit www.Bloomingdales.com and choose the Stanford location through the store locator for detailed information on each sale and promotion. To preview jewelry that will be available at each Bloomingdale’s Holiday Trunk Show, shoppers are encouraged to visit www.JohnSBrana.com and click on the collections tab to view jewelry styles from the Muir Woods, Pacific Heights, Monterey, and SoMa Collections.

©2010 Handcrafted Fine Jewelry Blog by John S. Brana. All Rights Reserved.

“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.

©2010 Handcrafted Fine Jewelry Blog by John S. Brana. All Rights Reserved.

InDesign Sept-Oct 2009 Haute Hippie Features Designer John S Brana

“Chunky yet whimsical natural designs bring to mind elfin spirits in the woods while simultaneously channeling the raw gem trend.  Unique gemstones and obscure minerals that have a lot going on inside will resonate with our gal.”

Sterling silver and bronze rings from the Muir Woods collection with 23-carat Lepidochrosite cabochon, by John S.Brana, www.johnsbrana.com.

About the Author – Cindy Edelstein is the owner of Jeweler’s Resource Bureau, a niche marketing firm that offers the industry unique solutions for helping designers and retailers connect and profit together.  Her newest brainstorm is www.JewelryDesignerFinder.com, the ultimate sourcing tool for retailers seeking designer collections and connections.

©2010 Handcrafted Fine Jewelry Blog by John S. Brana. All Rights Reserved.

Amethyst Carnelian Prehnite Necklace

Whether you care or not, you make an impression every time you bump into someone different or see an old acquaintance. Research shows that in the first 30 seconds, an attitude is formed based upon your appearance. Your jewelry and what it brings to light about your character is part of that consciousness. If you want to project a certain vision, either individually or professionally, using your jewelry is a very useful way to do it. Here are some helpful pointers to get you started:

Stand Out from the Crowd

Treat yourself to a truely amazing one-of-a-kind piece of custom made jewelry. For instance, a custom piece of hand made jewelry designed by an artiste will really make you stand out. With a unique piece of art jewelry, you will be astonished at how often you get compliments and stand out from the rest of the crowd. Select the right design to reflect your personality. Different designs enhance certain personalities. Dazzlingly colored designs usually evoke a enjoyable, overenthusiastic, warm personality; Modern designed jewelry usually evokes an artsy personality; Ethnic jewelry usually evokes a bohemian or free spirit personality.

Pull Together Colors

Blue Obsidian Sterling Silver Wire Wrapped Earrings

The easiest way to be sure to color synchronize your outfits is to buy matching jewelry sets whenever possible or financially feasible. This ensures you will always have something to match your outfit. A synchronized outfit communicates a well prepared, meticulous, and professional person with great taste and a flair for fashion. Having a blend of nicely harmonized colors does not mean that your jewelry has to be the same color as your outfit, but it does have to be part of a harmonized set of colors that blend nicely together.

Never thought jewelry was that essential? Statement jewelry is a part of you that guides your hidden style, your beliefs, actions, yearnings, place in life, line of work and status. It makes you feel good about yourself when you marvel at it in the mirror. Whenever you look at your one-of-a-kind jewelry, it gives you warmth inside when you recall where you acquired it or why you have it. Handcrafted designer jewelry makes a affirmative statement about you every time you wear it, and whenever you recieve or buy something new, it is a remembrance of that event in your life.

©2010 Handcrafted Fine Jewelry Blog by John S. Brana. All Rights Reserved.

African Opal Necklace

Happy birthday October! Your birthstone could not represent you better, as its hues are as varied as the changing leaves and compliment all the dimensions of you. So put forth that color you bring to the lives around you with this multi-faceted African Opal bracelet and necklace.

Here, John S. Brana has hand selected African Opals in hues of deep olive greens and dusty browns. Accented by lava rocks, fresh water pearls, 14K gold plated vermeil beads and clear quartz gemstones, this lusciously green autumn bracelet will draw admirers to your already magnetic charm!

African Opal Citrine Bracelet

John S. Brana showcases his signature tri-color style in this African Opal necklace. From the day glow amber and citrine semi-precious gemstones to the turquoise hues of Amazonite, fresh water pearls and Citrine that are ready for night, the African Opal ties it all together creating a statement necklace perfect for your special occasions.

©2010 Handcrafted Fine Jewelry Blog by John S. Brana. All Rights Reserved.

Handmade jewelry collections by John S. Brana will be showcased during Fleet Week Fashion Event, at Live Worms Gallery, 1345 Grant Ave. and 1418 Grant Ave. (next to Ooma), Saturday, October 10th – 10am to 7pm and October 11th – 11am to 5pm.

Shop directly from the San Francisco Bay Area’s innovative designers offering collections for women, men, children and the home.    View and shop artwork and photography from Bay Area artists and fashion photographers.  John S. Brana will be featuring his newest patinated handmade copper jewelry collection “Muir Woods” along with an upcoming line of stackable rings, bangles, and statement cuffs.

For more information about this event, check out the Style Elevation website.

©2010 Handcrafted Fine Jewelry Blog by John S. Brana. All Rights Reserved.

Enjoy Bloomingdale’s Friends and Family Discount of 20% off all jewelry during this exclusive weekend event. Just click on the link, print out, and bring in to receive 20% off all jewelry during my trunk show…also good for any online purchase at www.bloomingdales.com now through October 4th, 2009.

Click here to receive your coupon.

See the Bloomingdale’s Website for more information about this event.

©2010 Handcrafted Fine Jewelry Blog by John S. Brana. All Rights Reserved.