Distinctive Jewelry | Handmade Jewelry Blog by Jewelry Designer John S Brana

John S. Brana Will Showcase New Fine Jewelry Designs at Designers by the Bay Event Hosted by Shreve & Co.

July 26, 2008 By John S. Brana 1 Comment

John S. Brana – Distinctive Jewelry will feature his handcrafted fine jewelry collections at the 12^th Annual Designers by the Bay and Fine Jewelry Showcase. This event will take place Thursday, August 21, 2008 at 7:00 p.m. and will be held at Shreve & Co., 200 Post Street, San Francisco. More than 200 expected guests will be the first to see John S. Brana’s latest creations in silver and 14K-18K gold.

“Being the premier fine jewelry event in Northern California, I am honored to be given the opportunity to exhibit my designs at such a prestigious event,” said Brana who will showcase for the first time at this event presented by the Women’s Jewelry Association, Northern California Chapter. Guests will enjoy Brana’s latest designs including large carat gemstone solitaire rings set in hand-sculpted and hammered silver and 18K gold from his SoMa and Pacific Heights Collections. Delicate filigree earrings, dramatic sculpted and anticlastic cuffs and new designs in 18K gold wire-work pendants set with large solo gemstones will also be featured.

The continual growth of Designers by the Bay has lent it the reputation for being the premier fine jewelry event in Northern California. More than 20 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.

“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 – Distinctive Jewelry enhances popular SoMa Collection of hammered jewelry with rings and incorporates 14K gold

July 8, 2008 By John S. Brana 2 Comments

Of John S. Brana’s eight distinctive jewelry collections, SoMa is the most contemporary and has been worn by celebrities including Natasha Bedingfield and Janice Dickinson. This collection includes hammered link necklaces and earrings, as well as his unique copper collection, and will now include 14K and 18K gold designs and rings set with solitaire gemstones.

Until now, Brana’s only ring designs were elaborate cocktail rings with intricate wire settings from his Pacific Heights Collection and enchanting sea creatures cast in sterling silver from his Seacliff Collection. The new SoMa ring designs are simple and geometric and will feature 8+ carat gemstones encased in hammered sterling silver, 14K gold, or bronze. Available gemstones include green-gold quartz, blue topaz, opal, amethyst, green amethyst, and citrine…just to name a few. The designs are clean and understated yet remain true to Brana’s signature stand-out-from-the-crowd jewelry characteristics. Brana will also release designs in 14K and 18K yellow, rose and green golds which were previously only available in sterling and fine silver, 14K gold-filled and copper. Look for hammered and chased geometric link designs, several of which will be set with semi-precious gemstones.

John S. Brana resides in San Francisco where he handcrafts his eight distinctive jewelry collections inspired by neighborhoods in and around San Francisco. Each collection is as diverse as its namesake and includes:

Barbary Coast- a dramatic and colorful display of layering semiprecious gemstones

Monterrey- brightly colored Italian mesh metal intertwined through hammered silver

Nob Hill – delicate filigree wire earrings inspired by Victorian architecture

Pacific Heights- large faceted solo gemstones encased in 14K gold-filled and sterling silver settings

Sea Cliff- surprisingly elegant life-like art pieces of metal-casted marine elements

Sonoma- chainmail jewelry dripping with berry-like, cascading stones

And the Men’s silver-cast jewelry collection featuring cuff-links, bold rings, textured pendants and minimalist silver bracelets.

To view each of the John S. Brana- Distinctive Jewelry collections visit www.johnsbrana.com. For wholesale information and media requests, please contact Karri Ann Frerichs, Altitude Promotions at karriann@altitudepromotion.com or 402.490.2579.

New Jewelry – SoMa Collection

Fall in Line…with Distinctive Jewelry This Season

June 5, 2008 By John S. Brana 4 Comments

Jewelry collections by John S. Brana are on target with the Fall 2008 Ready-to-Wear designer runways.

The Fall 2008 season is characterized by gray being the new black…again, the maxi dress in bold patterns and red-carpet glamour, and rich textured fabrics ruched, frayed and displayed in origami folds. Not to be overlooked however, chunky beaded necklaces, jeweled teardrop earrings and undeniable cuffs all played strong supporting roles in collections of main fashion houses. Iconic designers including Louis Vuitton, Lanvin, John Galliano and Yves St. Laurent each showcased standout jewelry pieces, whose themes may be interpreted in the eclectic jewelry collections of John S. Brana.

A true talent for combining colors and textures has always been present in several of Brana’s San Francisco-inspired collections, including Barbary Coast and Monterey. This upcoming season, feel free to lighten up a classic turtleneck tucked into belted trousers as a solid black or gray ensemble with a chunky gemstone necklace in a tri-tone color scheme. Choose your favorite of these colors and complete the look with a matching clutch and pair of heels and you are ready for the office or a lunch meeting.

A simpler, but just as dynamic, alternative to the chunky necklace is the large pendant. Get ready for the night in your knockout maxi gown by drawing the eye to your low, flirty neckline with a stunning solo gemstone set in an intricate wire setting. Brana’s Pacific Heights collection embodies the statement of luxury you want to make. Adorn you fingers (gloved or bare) in an over-the-top cocktail ring sure to leave a lasting impression. Brana personally selects each gemstone for shape, carat and clarity before creating an elaborate setting unique to each piece.

Browse the Seacliff and SoMa collections for the perfect silver or copper cuff sculpted and hammered exclusively by Brana himself. A subtle texture in your favorite blazer, lace blouse or little black dress is easily enhanced when paired with an anticlastic handcrafted cuff. Finish with the delicate touch of hammered link earrings in fine silver, gold or copper. This style remains contemporary and understated but will continue to draw compliments to your discerning taste.

To view each of John S. Brana’s collections, visit www.johnsbrana.com. For wholesale, event and media inquiries contact Karri Ann Frerichs, Altitude Promotions at karri.altitude@gmail.com or 402.490.2479.

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

May 21, 2008 By John S. Brana 4 Comments

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sonoma Collection at Art People in the Crocker Galleria, San Francisco, CA

Bid on a $150 Gift Certicate from John S. Brana – Distinctive Jewelry and Support Public Television

April 5, 2008 By John S. Brana 2 Comments

The Great Auction on KQED Public Television

April 4th – April 27th, 2008 – Bid on a $150 Gift Certificate from John S. Brana – Distinctive Jewelry and hundreds of other unique deals for the perfect price on the Great KQED-KTEH Auction! Choose from luxurious getaways from Hawaii to Europe, local spa packages and dining experiences, to one-of-a-kind items from John S. Brana – Distinctive Jewelry . This is your opportunity to support great quality programming on KQED and KTEH with your winning bids. All auction proceeds support KQED, KTEH and the programming you enjoy on Northern California Public Broadcasting! Click here to Register and Bid NOW!

Now Browse by Gemstone, Metal, and Price Point!

February 28, 2008 By John S. Brana Leave a Comment

Each of us is drawn to our favorite things, a collection that defines who we are and makes us unique. We prefer certain colors, identify with distinctive shapes and place value on bright and shiny things. Some may even verge on a certain aesthetic addiction- an all-black wardrobe, complete households of minimalist square furniture, an entire family of “J” names! It’s okay, we understand.

John S. Brana-Distinctive Jewelry recently polled, you- his loyal clients, to learn how we could make www.johnsbrana.com more streamlined and user friendly. You wanted to see what amazing pieces were available in your favorite gemstone or precious metal. You also wanted to narrow by price point. It’s possible your ex-mother-in-law only wore rubies and you never care to see those again!

We listened and are excited to introduce the Browse by Gemstone, Metal, and Price Point features found on the lower left columns of all product pages! Now you can find your perfect birthstone piece, discover your next favorite mineral and expand your beautiful gold, silver and copper collections! Enjoy and take pleasure in life’s beautiful amenities.

Appel & Frank – Get 50% Off Entrance Fee – March 13th – Spring into Style San Francisco

February 26, 2008 By John S. Brana 1 Comment

If you act now and RSVP online at www.appelandfrank.com, you can receive 50% off the entrance fee. Just enter the discount code DESIGNERSF on the ticket purchase page. (Note, this code is only good for pre-event ticket sales, tickets at the door will be $10 each.)

“Spring into Style” San Francisco will be held at the Regency Center – Sutter Room, located at 1270 Sutter Street at Van Ness from 5:00pm to 9:30pm. Over 600 guests will shop from 65 designers, including John S. Brana – Distinctive Jewelry (where I will be launching my new filigree collection – Nob HIll), selling everything from jewelry and clothing, to accessories and more. In addition to the fabulous shopping, there will be complimentary drinks, beauty services, and giveaways.

The first 300 guests to purchase tickets at www.appelandfrank.com are GUARANTEED a gift bag filled with fabulous products and offers from:

SHOCK Cosmetics
CozmoCard
Bloomsberry
miniTissue
Barefoot Wine & Bubbly
Attune Probiotic Wellness Bars
Diva for the Day
SF Weekly

Natasha Bedingfield wears Hammered Copper Earrings with Aquamarine from John S. Brana – Distinctive Jewelry

December 12, 2007 By John S. Brana

Natasha Bedingfield wears jewelry from John S. Brana

Hammered Copper Earrings with Aquamarine

Natasha Bedingfield wears Hammered Copper Earrings from John S. Brana

Natasha Bedingfield at Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony

New York, NY – November 28, 2007 -Natasha Bedingfield at Rockefeller Center – Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony wearing Hammered Copper Earrings with Aquamarine from John S. Brana – Distinctive Jewelry – SoMa Collection.

Click Here to Buy These Earrings

John S. Brana – Distinctive Jewelry now at Monkey on Chestnut – San Francisco, CA

December 12, 2007 By John S. Brana Leave a Comment

For those readers that live in San Francisco, you can now find selected pieces from my Monterey, Pacific Heights, SoMa, and Sea Cliff collections at Monkey on Chestnut in San Francisco’s famous Marina District. Monkey on Chestnut, named after a Monkey seen gathering jewelry from the ruins in Cow Hollow after the 1906 San Francisco earthquake, is located right on Chestnut at Fillmore (2025 Chestnut). The store includes the works of over 100 local jewelry designers and vintage dealers. Come by and you’re in for a treat!
SoMa Jewelry Collection