Handmade Bronze Jewelry

February 1, 2012 By jbrana 1 Comment

Sunstone Tree Branch Ring - Bronze Jewelry by San Francisco jewelry designer John S Brana

Sunstone Tree Branch Bronze Ring by San Francisco jewelry designer John S Brana

Handmade Bronze Jewelry – The Next Best Jewelry Trend

Any fashion conscious woman will be constantly on the lookout for the next best thing when it comes to enhancing her appearance, showing off her individuality and drawing attention from all those around her. While there are many different choices out there, none works quite as well as handmade bronze jewelry. Currently being retailed in many of the top jewelry stores around the globe, these stylish items are a must-have addition to anyone’s collection of fine fashion accessories as they can be worn out and about to almost any type of occasion.

Why Bronze Jewelry?

While not as popular as metals such as gold, platinum and silver, bronze certainly has a few advantages when it comes to being used in designer jewelry. First of all, it is a tough material, durable enough to be worn often to a outdoor events, such as garden parties or days out at the beach. This metal also retains its luster for years on end, allowing you to wear it for longer without having to replace or repair any parts. Lastly, handmade bronze jewelry is also very affordable. Made from a combination of copper and tin, bronze can be used to make a range of beautiful accessories that will not cost a fortune to buy.

Why Handmade Bronze Jewelry?

The true connoisseur of fine jewelry will know that there is something very special to be found in items that have been made by hand. Each piece is unique, displaying an individuality which can then reflect positively upon the wearer. In this way, handmade bronze jewelry is an affordable means of enhancing your outfit in a manner that is purely yours without costing a fortune in the process. If you take pride in your appearance, these exquisite items come highly recommended.

Locating the Best Bronze Jewelry Retailers

Green Amethyst Tree Branch Handmade Bronze Ring by San Francisco jewelry designer John S Brana

Green Amethyst Tree Branch Handmade Bronze Ring by San Francisco bronze jewelry designer John S Brana

Of course, you will need to source out the best craftsmen in order to procure some handmade bronze jewelry which is well-made and which will last for a lifetime. Choosing the smaller stores is a good idea as these experts have to rely on their skills and creativity to sell their products and earn a decent living. The best will carefully create each of their items by hand, pouring love and care into each piece as though they themselves were going to wear these fine accessories out and about around town. These professionals will retail a range of quality jewelry that will look fantastic with just about any outfit.

Bronze Jewelry – A Look to Be Proud Of

After you have purchased any designer accessories that take your fancy, you can then put them on and enhance your appearance, regardless of whether you are going to work, eat or party. Handmade bronze jewelry is very versatile and can be worn to both formal and casual occasions. With these rings, bracelets and pendants, you can then confidently live your life, knowing full well that you look radiant and stunning at all times. For the woman who wants the best in life, these stylish bronze jewelry accessories can certainly provide her with an amazing look.

Current Trends in Statement Jewelry

October 12, 2011 By jbrana 3 Comments

Chalk Turquoise Onyx Necklace

It’s Time to Jump on Board with Statement Jewelry

Big, bold and attention grabbing, it is obvious that with statement jewelry, more really is better. This season, put away those simpler accessories and be ready to complement your outfit with some of the latest trends. With today’s fashion designers incorporating statement earrings and bracelets into their latest outfits, it is time to jump on board and go out and purchase some of these fabulous items for yourself. This fall and winter, choose bigger, choose louder, and build up a stunning collection of statement jewelry perfect for any occasion. The sheer variety is enough to please any fashion enthusiast.

14K Gold Fold Formed Earrings with Faceted Peridot

Statement earrings are making a big comeback this season. This means that you can now wear those stunning copper disc earrings or shimmering silver chandelier earrings to the office, nightclub or restaurant and remain completely in trend with the latest fashion. Of course, there is more variety than this, and it is not hard to find statement earrings to suit all kinds of tastes and outfits. From simple aluminum designs to golden accessories encrusted with jewels, finding a pair of earrings that looks great and instantly grabs people’s attention is all too easy.

Bracelets and Cuffs are Hot Items in Statement Jewelry This Fall and Winter

If earrings are not to your liking, statement bracelets are also a hot item this fall and winter. Huge cuff designs, perfect for being flaunted anywhere from the conference room to the bar, have been seen all over the catwalk recently. For something more elegant, but equally as bold, bangle bracelets have also been spotted on several occasions on some of today’s top models. There is enough diversity here to suit anyone. Whether you prefer to wear a large number of stylish aluminum bracelets, or a diamond-covered cuff bracelet is totally up to you. Whatever you choose, you will still be very much in fashion!

Regardless of which type of statement jewelry that you choose, there is now only one rule: wear a single piece that will complement and not draw attention away from your outfit. The trend at this time is that current outfits are seen with only a one item of fashion jewelry, rather than being covered in it. Whether this is from the more modest lifestyles that we are experiencing now due to the financial crisis is anyone’s guess, but what we are seeing on the catwalks is fairly concrete. Choose carefully when dressing and pick one accessory that will make a statement in a subtle, yet bold way.

Just remember to be smart with your fashion accessories, and wear the right pieces for the situation. For example, sporting a set of loud copper bangle bracelets is not recommended for the office environment. Similarly, a pair of jeweled statement earrings will not suit a barbeque or any other outdoor event. Remember that the trend is to wear one piece with your outfit, so choose well. The right decision will create a look that demands attention without being too overpowering. This just shows that it is possible to be both modest and fashionable at the same time with statement jewelry!

Handmade Gemstone Pendant Necklaces

April 7, 2011 By jbrana 12 Comments

14K Gold Filled Wire Wrapped Pendant with Amethyst

The Forefront of Today’s Fashion – Gemstone Pendant Necklaces

One item that is making a huge comeback this spring is the pendant, which has been spotted in numerous American magazines already. Celebrities of all types are sporting these exquisite pieces of designer jewelry, which certainly are a fantastic way to complement anyone’s wardrobe. Richly jeweled designs are right at the forefront of today’s fashion world, and it seems like the larger the gemstone pendant is, the better. So, if you are searching for a new addition to your jewelry collection, one that will keep you in trend and in style, gemstone pendants are certainly the way to go.

Add A Flash of Color to Any Outfit with Gemstone Pendant Necklaces

Thanks to the creativity of professional jewelers around the globe, plus the extensive variety of gems found in nature, the range of gemstone pendant necklaces encrusted with these sparkling stones is simply amazing. These elegant designs are a great way to add a flash of color to your outfit no matter what clothes you are wearing. With a few purchases, you can have access to the full rainbow within your personal collection, allowing you to don a gemstone pendant regardless of whether you are going to the office, a restaurant or a nightclub. These items are just so versatile and are suitable for a number of outfits and settings.

14K Gold Filled Wire Wrapped Pendant with Green Gold Quartz

Artisan Handmade Gemstone Pendant Necklaces

Of course, the base material also plays a big part in how a piece of jewelry looks, and also how much it will cost you. Fortunately, there are enough options so that anyone, regardless of their budgets, can get their hands on a pendant necklace of any size. Gold-filled designs will suit those with a bit more money to spend, while silver and bronze pendants are more affordable and will still look absolutely stunning, especially if purchased from a skilled artisan. Remember, as well, that the materials used will determine how durable the piece is and what you will have to do to take care of it.

Once you have purchased your gemstone pendant necklace, you will then be left to choose what to wear it with! The most important thing is that the gem’s colors have to match with the clothes that you put on. Big pendants will always be the center of your outfit, so you must make sure that nothing else competes for attention from those around you. Items such as bright gemstone jewelry will go well with simple clothes that are black, grey or white. If you opt for a more subtle piece, you will need to brighten up your outfit to provide some balance.

So if you are the type of person who loves keeping up with the latest fashion trends, it is time that you went out and purchased a large gemstone pendant today. Join ranks with popular celebrities such as Taylor Swift, Molly Sims, Amy Adams and more, and strut your stuff knowing that you are looking in style and absolutely stunning with your newly-purchased designer pendant. This spring, being fashionable is as easy as choosing a handmade gemstone pendant to wear on your necklace while you are out and about.

Inspiration for Designer Jewelry

March 31, 2011 By jbrana 28 Comments

Facted Amber Sterling Silver Tree Branch Ring

Designer Jewelry – A Fountain of Inspiration

One only has to look at the wide selection of designer jewelry found in stores all around the world to know that there is a great deal of creativity to be found within the talented individuals in this field. But where does this fountain of ideas come from? Within this profession, the best artisans will look to a variety of sources for inspiration on how to create truly innovative designer jewelry. The ideas are already there. They just have to be sparked by a certain scene, event or emotion first. Afterwards, a first class fashion accessory can be brought to life.

Finding Inspiration for Designer Jewelry in Your Backyard

Despite the fact that most people consider their neighborhood ordinary, the best jewelers show their true creativity by finding sources of inspiration within these local areas. The architecture in some districts can provide a range of design ideas that can then be used to create stunning pieces of jewelry from gold-filled pendants to wire wrapped earrings. This applies whether the buildings are modern or traditional, as creating a structure is just as much an art form as designing and forming an elegant piece of handmade jewelry. Both are great examples of the talent and ingenuity of humankind as a whole.

Copper Lily Pad Earrings with Red Patina

Nature – An Abundance of Inspiration for Designer Jewelry

Jewelers who love to travel can find inspiration further afield. Often, this leads to more exotic creations such as copper leaf earrings and coral bracelets. Of course, these ideas come from a range of sources as the world is full of breathtaking sights. Nature provides a lot of these, as mountains, oceans and plains are all beautiful scenes that can inspire a master jeweler to create a number of new designs. As well as this, the different cultures and people found around the world are also a fountain of ideas that can be used to create unique pieces of jewelry.

Finally, the best artisans will form their range of designer handmade jewelry from ideas that spring from within, drawing from experiences and emotions to create a range of items that most people will admire. These pieces are very personal as each contains a part of the craftsman’s past and inner psyche. This is how the best jewelry is often made as the creator desires the final product to be perfect. After all, rings, necklaces and bracelets inspired from mental and spiritual sources will need to properly reflect the character, thoughts and soul of the jeweler as he or she wishes.

Of course, a combination of all of these sources will create a more diverse range of jewelry, so it is not surprising that the best craftsmen are always on the lookout for inspiration no matter where they are. The spark can come at any time and so a jeweler must be aware of their surroundings to take advantage of any new ideas that suddenly pop into mind. Through this, they will be able to create a selection of earrings, bracelets and pendants that will be completely unique in this world and that will be snapped up by designer jewelry lovers worldwide.

Cyber Monday is Coming. Are You Ready?

November 12, 2010 By jbrana 32 Comments

Black Friday - Cyber Monday Handmade Designer Jewelry Sale

Cyber Monday – One Time Only – Sale-of-the-Year!

Starting this Black Friday – November 26th, and continuing through 11:59 p.m. PST on Cyber Monday, shop and save on all handmade designer jewelry featured on www.johnsbrana.com

This is a one-time-only site-wide sale of the year. Savings and discounts will also apply to sale items and already reduced items, including FREE USPS Priority Shipping on all orders.

Members of my newsletter ENEWS will receive additional savings not offered to the public, so sign-up today!

Discount codes will be emailed to all ENEWS subscribers beginning the week of November 22nd.

John S Brana – Handmade Designer Jewelry – Accessorizes Photo Shoot by San Francisco Photographer Rachel Schwarz

November 2, 2010 By jbrana 3 Comments

Sterling Silver Amazonite and Serpentine Chain Mail Necklaces

Red and Turuoise Patinated Tear Drop Earrings

Corrugated Sterling Silver Anticlastic Cuff with Sterling Silver Tree Branch Ring set with Moonstone

Corrugated Sterling Silver Anticlastic Cuff with Sterling Silver Tree Branch Ring set with Moonstone and Aluminum Leaf Earrings

Corrugated Anticlastic Copper Cuff with Red and Turquoise Patinated Tear Drop Earrings

Copper Fold Formed Leaf Earrings

Red and Turquoise Patinated Tear Drop Earrings

Model: Ellen Hancock of City Model/ San Francisco
www.ellenhancock.com

Make-Up Artist: Tamra Marie of Look Artist Agency/ San Francisco
www.tamra-marie.com/

Hair Stylist: Preston Nesbit
www.prestonnesbit.com/

Jewelry by John S. Brana
www.johnsbrana.com

Mesh Body Suit & Leather & Mesh Vest by Chelsea Cutrell

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.

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.

Peridot – August’s Birthstone

August 1, 2010 By jbrana Leave a Comment

14K Gold Fold Formed Earrings with Faceted Peridot

The History of Peridot in Jewelry

The green and gold hues of the gem, peridot, have been in high demand for thousands of years. Ancient Egyptian priests drank to the goddess, Isis, from cups made out of the stone. This connection with a higher power continued over the ages, and peridot can now be found within many medieval churches and in European artwork, specifically from the baroque period. In modern times, jewelers continue to use this stone to make stunning bracelets, necklaces and much more. For example, many amazing pieces from John S. Brana contain peridot, like his hammered copper earrings and his sterling silver starfish rings.

Sterling Silver Starfish Ring with Peridot

Peridot is August’s Birthstone

Not only do the inner impurities and amazing green color of peridot make it a truly breathtaking gem, but it is also the birthstone for those born in August. Because its interior seems almost alive, peridot is representative of vitality and strength. It signifies inner power and long-lasting relationships, as well as future success and positive growth. The stone is also said to have many mystical properties such as reliving stress, healing the heart, enhancing fame, and boosting the potency of medicinal products. All of this makes a piece of peridot jewelry the perfect gift for all those August babies.

August’s Birthstone in Handmade Designer Jewelry

The gem, peridot, looks great no matter where it is used. Everyone from the ancient Egyptians to the baroque artists knew of this fact. Luckily, the stone still looks fantastic today and can be found in modern-day jewelry such as rings and bracelets. John S. Brana’s chalk turquoise necklace contains peridots mixed in with the other gems while his gold fold formed leaf earrings also contain the stone. No matter what item catches your eye, that sparkling green found in the peridots within will make it something you wish to wear everywhere, regardless of whether it is your birthstone or not.

Statement Jewelry

June 27, 2010 By John S. Brana 5 Comments

Brazilian Fire Agate Orange Coral Vermeil Necklace

Statement Jewelry – Defining Your Unique Sense of Style

Statement jewelry has boldness, high style, and most of all, presence. It’s the kind of jewelry that makes an immediate and long lasting impression. It doesn’t just show up, it makes an entrance. This is why it is a popular choice for independent women with a strong sense of their own style.

Statement Jewelry 14K Gold Amethyst Pendant

14K Gold Filled Wire Wrapped Pendant with Amethyst

Statement jewelry is big, bold, usually brightly colored, and sometimes layered for an even greater fashion impact. It often includes large and chunky jewels and pearls, either real or faux, mixed with thick chains and pendants. Some statement jewelry includes charms stamped with motivational words or significant dates. It’s meant to be noticed immediately which means that one fabulous statement jewelry piece is all you need to add polish and personality to an outfit. No doubt you’ve seen some terrific examples on international fashion runways and also adorning the ears and necklines of some of the world’s most well-known and well-dressed women such as Nicole Kidman, Sarah Jessica Parker and Cate Blanchett.

Oversized gemstones are a popular choice for red carpet events, while layers of long necklaces and chunky cuffs can add a bit of bling to a little black party dress.

Statement jewelry always brings drama to any outfit and carries a luxe look. Although luxe doesn’t necessarily mean big bucks, the nature of these pieces mean that any investment is well worth the money.

Statement Jewelry Anticlastic 14K Gold Cuff

14K Gold Chased Anticlastic Cuff Bracelet

The trick behind statement jewelry is to choose a size and style that represents you and the fashion statement you want to make to the world. It usually means wearing only one big, bold, eye-catching necklace, chandelier earrings, wide cuff bracelet, or chunky ring as the attention-getting focus of an outfit. Moderation is key; too many bold items make the wrong statement!

John S. Brana features several dazzling and dramatic pieces among his couture collection. Each finely crafted, limited edition item in the collection delivers a statement that declares the wearer to be sophisticated, stylish and uniquely fashion-forward.

Handmade Bronze Jewelry – The Next Best Jewelry Trend

Why Bronze Jewelry?

Why Handmade Bronze Jewelry?

Locating the Best Bronze Jewelry Retailers

Bronze Jewelry – A Look to Be Proud Of

Recommended Reading

It’s Time to Jump on Board with Statement Jewelry

Bracelets and Cuffs are Hot Items in Statement Jewelry This Fall and Winter

Recommended Reading

14K Gold Filled Wire Wrapped Pendant with Amethyst The Forefront of Today’s Fashion – Gemstone Pendant Necklaces

Add A Flash of Color to Any Outfit with Gemstone Pendant Necklaces

14K Gold Filled Wire Wrapped Pendant with Green Gold Quartz Artisan Handmade Gemstone Pendant Necklaces

Recommended Reading

Facted Amber Sterling Silver Tree Branch Ring Designer Jewelry – A Fountain of Inspiration

Finding Inspiration for Designer Jewelry in Your Backyard

Copper Lily Pad Earrings with Red Patina Nature – An Abundance of Inspiration for Designer Jewelry

Recommended Reading

Black Friday - Cyber Monday Handmade Designer Jewelry Sale

Cyber Monday – One Time Only – Sale-of-the-Year!

Recommended Reading

Recommended Reading

Mens Jewelry – Things to Consider

Personality and Sense of Style is Key When Selecting Mens Jewelry

Mens Jewelry Fashion Trends

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

The History of Peridot in Jewelry

Peridot is August’s Birthstone

August’s Birthstone in Handmade Designer Jewelry

Recommended Reading

Statement Jewelry – Defining Your Unique Sense of Style

Recommended Reading

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Handcrafted Jewelry

14K Gold Filled Wire Wrapped Pendant with Amethyst

The Forefront of Today’s Fashion – Gemstone Pendant Necklaces

14K Gold Filled Wire Wrapped Pendant with Green Gold Quartz

Artisan Handmade Gemstone Pendant Necklaces

Facted Amber Sterling Silver Tree Branch Ring

Designer Jewelry – A Fountain of Inspiration

Copper Lily Pad Earrings with Red Patina

Nature – An Abundance of Inspiration for Designer Jewelry