Chainmail Jewelry

February 16, 2011 By jbrana 24 Comments

Sterling Silver Chainmail Necklace with Serpentine

Chainmail Jewelry – From Casual to Formal Wear

For a range of elegant designs that are both sophisticated and relaxed, you cannot go past the chainmail jewelry that is currently being retailed by first class jewelers around the globe. Unlike most other styles, these accessories are created to be worn everywhere from a formal restaurant to a countryside vineyard. As one of the most versatile types of jewelry, they are very handy to have in any collection. And, when you consider the fact that most chainmail accessories have to be handmade, this adds a very personal feeling that is unique to each piece of jewelry available.

Chainmail Jewelry – A Diverse Design Style

Chainmail is a very diverse style that can lead to a number of creations only limited by the imagination of the craftsman. This has much to do with the free-flowing nature of the design, which is caused by the ease-of-movement of the numerous metal rings contained within. Because of this, chainmail earrings, bracelets and necklaces can be made that simply have to be seen to be believed. These items almost look soft to the touch, especially if they are adorned with colorful gemstones. Purchasing a complete chainmail collection is also possible and wearing these items together will produce a glamorous, yet easy-going look.

Traditional Chainmail Earrings with Pearls - 14K Gold Filled

Basic Chainmail Jewelry Designs

While time-consuming to make, these items are not that difficult to produce. By simply creating a silver or gold chain containing several loops of wire, the basic design is born. After this, it is simply a matter of the jeweler turning it into the item that he or she wants. Chainmail bracelets and necklaces usually contain one chain that is adorned with a variety of different gems. Chainmail earrings, on the other hand, can be created using bunched up chains wound around stones of all different colors and sizes. In the hands of a professional, any piece will look magnificent though.

Unique Chainmail Jewelry Sets

As mentioned before, this is a very versatile style of jewelry. Because these bracelets, necklaces and earrings are suitable to be worn anywhere from a wedding reception to a nightclub, they are one of the easiest accessories to dress up in. Simply choose an outfit that is as elegant as your chainmail jewelry and you will be all set to dazzle and shine. Just make sure that the colors of the gemstones match with your clothing though, so that the two complement each other, rather than clashing. With a little thought, these products will help to create the perfect outfit.

Fortunately, these stunning items can be found in all good jewelry stores. Try to shop from craftsmen who actually make their creations by hand, as this can add a unique element to your accessory and will ensure that no one else can copy your look. The right chainmail necklaces, bracelets and earrings will exude grace, confidence and individuality, making for the perfect accessory for anywhere from the office to the park. If you have yet to experience the glamor and style of these exquisite designs, have a look through your favorite jeweler’s catalogue for some chainmail jewelry masterpieces today.

Best Jewelry for Christmas

December 16, 2010 By jbrana 5 Comments

Amethyst Carnelian Prehnite Necklace

Jewelry – The Classic Christmas Present

Although it may seem like there is plenty of shopping time left until Christmas, the days have an annoying tendency to fly past. For this reason, it is important to start thinking about gifts for those you care about as soon as possible. Jewelry has always been a classic Christmas present, whether for your girlfriend, spouse, mother or sister, yet it is often one of the most difficult items to purchase. With a little thought and time however, you can find the perfect accessory for that special woman, and give her a holiday memory that she will cherish forever.

The warmth and timelessness of Christmas should be tied up within the jewelry that you buy. Show her that you care by purchasing an item that matches her personality and appearance in every way. For those confident, professional women, items such as gold fold formed earrings will show her that you know her inside-out. On the other hand, if your wife or mother is more bubbly and outgoing, maybe a gemstone necklace would more suit her style. This will all show her that you care enough to take the time out to purchase her the perfect gift.

Citrine Bronze Ring

This Christmas, Choose Jewelry That Will Make Her Look Stunning

Jewelry should be versatile enough to be worn on a number of occasions as well. In this way, she can remember the happy times that she had with you during the holidays whenever she wears your present. Accessories such as aluminum bracelets can be worn while at work, while eating out and even when dancing the night away in a club. This Christmas, choose carefully and pick an item that will make her look stunning in a wide variety of places. Let her gain the most benefit out of your chosen piece of jewelry and allow the spirit of Christmas to keep her company throughout the year ahead.

Any Christmas gift that you purchase for your special woman should be expertly crafted and made of high quality materials. Show her that she is worth any amount of money to you by giving her the best in gold or silver jewelry. This is the time for giving so you do not want to seem too sting. That is not to say that you have to blow your budget either, as there are plenty of quality items such as bronze rings and amber earrings that are well made and that will not cost you a fortune.

Lastly, when giving out your presents this Christmas, make sure that everything fits in with the occasion well. This is a magical time, and the gift and the act of giving itself have to suit the overall atmosphere and sentiment. With the right wrapping paper, a thoughtful card and warm, friendly surroundings, your gift will seem even more special. This will imbue the jewelry with an even better feeling, as she will be reminded of that happy moment whenever she looks at it. This Christmas, give her a beautiful piece of jewelry that makes her feel warm and happy inside whenever she wears it out and about.

Mens Designer Jewelry – Choosing Jewelry for Your Man

October 5, 2010 By jbrana Leave a Comment

Rawhide Mens Sterling Silver Curb Link Bracelet

Mens Jewelry – Things to Consider

If you are searching for the ultimate gift for your special man, purchasing some mens jewelry may be a good idea. Gone are the days when items such as bracelets and rings were only thought of as presents for women. These days, men are often seen sporting stylish cufflinks, bracelets, and necklaces. However, before you decide on one particular piece, there are a few things to consider about which type will please him best.

Personality and Sense of Style is Key When Selecting Mens Jewelry

One key idea is that men will often wear jewelry which suits their own individual personality and style. If your man is sporty and rugged, he may enjoy something from the Rawhide Collection created by John S. Brana. These pieces have the texture of raw leather and hark back to the days of the Wild West. Alternatively, your man may be more refined. In this case, simply purchase him something a little more distinctive and chic like a mens ring set with a large colored gemstone.

Wave Sterling Silver Ring with Blue Topaz

Mens Jewelry Fashion Trends

Another thing to remember is that men typically do not follow the latest trends in fashion. This means that you will not get a good idea of what he likes by examining fashion magazines and websites. Fortunately, if you are at the stage where you wish to purchase him jewelry, you should already know a bit about his inner character. This will reveal all that you need to know about what items he will enjoy.

Of course, the simplest way to purchase your special guy the perfect piece of mens jewelry is to go shopping with him! Peruse over catalogs found at online jewelers such as John S. Brana or pay a visit to your local jewelry store. While you will not be able to surprise him, at least you will be making the purchase as a couple, and he will be truly happy with the piece that you buy.

Is Bigger Better? When Bold Jewelry is Best

October 5, 2010 By jbrana 2 Comments

Aluminum Lily Pad Earrings and Pendant by John S. Brana

Jazz Up a Simple Outfit with Bold Jewelry

Big, bold jewelry isn’t for everyone, and it certainly isn’t for everyday wear but sometimes a bit of bling can be just what the fashion doctor ordered to jazz up a simple outfit and take it to a whole new level. The Little Black Dress is a perfect example. Simple, monochrome clothes are a blank canvas that you can easily splash vibrant colors and large designs onto without clashing or appearing too brash.

Likewise, a formal pants and shirt combo can be brought to life with a larger than life necklace, stunning focal pendant or layers of bangles.

Don’t Overload Two Areas Close Together with Bold Jewelry

Professional make up artists have a rule that the focus should be either on the eyes or the mouth for the greatest effect. Likewise, when accessorizing with bold jewelry you shouldn’t overload two areas that are close together. Chandelier earrings paired with a multi-strand necklace can look fussy, while wearing giant cocktail rings with bulky, beaded bracelets runs the risk of you looking like a toddler who raided their mom’s jewelry box.

The key to wearing bold jewelry with style is to pick a few key pieces and showcase them, rather than making them compete against each other
for attention.

Keep Genres Similar with Bold Jewelry

When choosing large pieces of jewelry make sure that you choose designs that will work well with your overall look. Avoid pairing large gemstones with pearls, or mixing jewelry genres such as boho beaded strands with cast designs with faceted gems and polished metals.

Don’t be scared to experiment – dressing up with bold jewelry can be fun!

Handmade Jewelry by John S Brana Accessorizes Photoshoot by San Francisco Photographer Rachel Schwarz

July 23, 2010 By jbrana 3 Comments

Chased NuGold Bracelets and Cuffs by John S Brana

Hammered Copper Cuff and Bubble Embossed Disc Earrings

Turquoise Patinated Bangle and Open Tear Drop Earrings

Photographer: Rachel Schwarz
Models: Naeemah of Je Models/ Yasmin of City Models/ Helena Bianca- Rogue
Spot Light Designers: Leila Hafzi reped by HSMPR, Bao Tranchi, Bryan Hearns, John. S Brana represented by Altitude Promotions, & Shabnam Quassemi
Wardrobe Stylist: Devon Nuszer
Hair & Make-up: Akemi Yagi
Assistants: Nino Palana & Ania Hogan

Brazilian Fire Agate Gemstone Necklace by John S Brana

Turquoise Patinated Brass Bangle - Turquoise Leaf Earrings

Turquoise Patinated Brass Bangle

Beaded Gemstone Jewelry: Make a Statement

March 23, 2009 By John S. Brana 4 Comments

18K Hammered Gold Cuff with 22K Gold Fleur Di Lis Earrings with Carnelian

When it comes to elegance, nothing really beats a statement piece of jewelry. Multi-strand gemstone necklaces add not only color, but dimension to any ensemble and express your mood, your style, and your personality. Virtually endless in styles and character, beaded gemstone jewelry offers some of the most unique designs and styles of jewelry available. Beaded gemstone jewelry is traditionally made using semi-precious, rather than precious, stones.

Everyone knows a precious stone when they see one. The diamond, a “girl’s best friend”, a ruby, a sapphire, and an emerald. These stones are loosely recognized as a step above semi-precious stones. Semi-precious stones include those which are commonly found in more economically priced jewelry, such as turquoise, amethyst, and garnet. Although these stones are often less expensive, that doesn’t mean that they are in any way inferior in quality to traditional precious stones. In fact, many quality jewelers will combine precious and semi-precious stones in one piece.

The gemstones found in beaded jewelry can be found in many different forms. Although most pieces will be small in size, they may or may not be polished or uniform in size. With semi-precious stones, the rarity of their color, clarity, or other qualities may add to their value – and jewelers often do not want to polish out those characteristics. This type of jewelry can be a unique addition to any wardrobe, both for a man and a woman. Many women choose necklaces and bracelets made from beaded turquoise or rose quartz, and beaded earrings made from amethyst or garnets are also popular. For men, darker and more masculine stones such as lapis, amethyst, or pyrite are often found. This type of jewelry is not limited to formal functions – beaded gemstone jewelry can be appropriate for just about any occasion.

Click Here To Find Beaded Gemstone Jewelry

“Luxurious Gypsy”…Oscar de la Renta launches couture jewelry collection that is definitely not “shy.”

July 10, 2008 By John S. Brana 3 Comments

Oscar de la Renta has partnered with long-time family friend Loulou de la Falaise, most recognized for her collaborations with designer Yves Saint Laurent, to release a jewelry collection this fall exclusive to Oscar de la Renta boutiques. According to an article in W Magazine’s June 2008 issue, the collection showcases a “chunky, crafty bohemian look” consisting of necklaces, pendants, earrings and bracelets which shares both designers’ “love of exotic, far-flung inspirations,” Venessa Lau (http://www.wmagazine.com/jewelry/2008/06/de_la_renta).

Look for dramatic, “showstoppers” incorporating stones of different colors, sizes and textures, such as smoky quartz, citrine and pearl not to mention precious stones from an Indian jeweler including rubies, diamonds and sapphires. Despite price tags ranging from just under $5000 to upwards of $40,000, “the offerings never skew too precious” and maintain the de la Falaise signature look.

To embody “luxurious gypsy” without breaking the bank, consider jewelry designers channeling similar themes with statement pieces just as bold but significantly more affordable, such as John S. Brana – Distinctive Jewelry, www.johnsbrana.com. Discover this multi-strand beaded necklace featuring eight distinct stones including lemon amber, one of the oldest, rarest, and most valuable ambers in the world, quartz, amethyst and pearl, $1,030. Just as opulent but in a cool monotone is Brana’s fine silver hammered hexagonal link necklace featuring a contrast of off-shaped and spherical faceted aquamarine stones, $800. And nothing captures bohemian style better than a pair of oversized earrings, such as these massive four-inch teardrops in multi-gauge onyx beads wrapped with 14K gold-filled wire, $245.

Be assured this jewelry trend is growing and worth your investment. Chunky jewelry and bold cuffs defined the Fall 2008 runways of major fashion houses, including Louis Vuitton, Lanvin, John Galliano and Yves St. Laurent. Oscar de la Renta’s own Resort 2009 Collection was highlighted on stage with giant floral broaches, disc earrings and multi-hued beaded necklaces. So look to enhance your jewelry collection this season with exotic explorations in color, texture and style, in any budget of “luxurious gypsy.”

Kerri Ann Frerichs

Beaded Gemstone Collections 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

Introducing the Distinctive Nob Hill Collection by John S. Brana

February 29, 2008 By John S. Brana 2 Comments

When was the last time you strolled along California Street and climbed the steps of Mason? Or, if you don’t live in our fair city of San Francisco, when have you last enjoyed the nostalgic architecture of those neighborhoods built around the turn of twentieth century? Do you notice that bricks are no longer laid in those patterns, or that columns today aren’t poured in such grand stature but with such intricate detail?

That was a time when we didn’t have to remind ourselves to stop and smell the roses. We appreciated craftsmanship and weren’t distracted by technology. With this in mind, John S. 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. This is the collection of that not yet lost, but very intimate detail.

After twisting three tiny pure silver or 14 karat gold wires then running them through a rolling machine, John 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. Necklaces and bracelets are coming soon. Enjoy life’s beautiful amenities!

Karri Ann Frerichs

Altitude Promotions

Anticlastic Raising – New Bracelets for the Sea Cliff Collection

May 29, 2007 By John S. Brana Leave a Comment

Copper Unagi 2 Bracelet

Copper Unagi Bracelet

I have recently been experimenting with anticlastic raising using sinusoidal stakes to add an extra dimension to forging. The stake resembles a tapering wavy line, or what I like to refer to as the "Devils Tongue." Metal can be forged into a concave curve along its face while the opposing curves can be formed at the same time. It’s great for forming a bangle, ring, or necklace. A sinusoidal stake can be made from wood, steel, or plastic, as can the wedge-shaped hammers. Anticlastic raising is a labor intensive process, but the final product is definitely worth the effort. Each of the pictured bracelets took on average around 5 hours to form.

Chainmail Jewelry

Sterling Silver Chainmail Necklace with Serpentine

Chainmail Jewelry – From Casual to Formal Wear

Chainmail Jewelry – A Diverse Design Style