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

San Francisco Handcrafted Jewelry Designer John S Brana Creates Global Club for VIP Design Connoisseurs

July 21, 2009 By jbrana 5 Comments

“Handcrafted fine jewelry designer, John S. Brana, turns growing client base of online shoppers into devoted jewelry collectors.”

The number of John S. Brana jewelry collectors, versus one-time shoppers, has grown for the San Francisco-based handcrafted fine jewelry designer by 38% since launching his initial website, www.johnsbrana.com in 2006. With a diversified design portfolio of over 2000 handmade fine jewelry and fashion jewelry designs in price points ranging from $30 to $20,000, Brana has also increased his e-commerce presence to six niche market jewelry retailing websites. This innovative online jewelry retailer now invites his devoted and soon-to-be jewelry collectors to become VIP members of the Jewelry Guide for Design Connoisseurs.

Browsers are invited to become “Connoisseurs” for free and, once subscribed, receive exclusive pricing on his latest and past seasons’ collections as well as wardrobing advice directly from the jewelry designer. As so much of the jewelry buying process depends upon each client’s relationship to the designer, John S. Brana shares his design inspirations and personal stories directly with his Connoisseurs through email. First time Connoisseurs also enjoy purchase offers at incredible rates on selections of his handmade fashion jewelry.

“My client’s always let me know about how many compliments they receive on their jewelry purchases and that’s why they become collectors,” describes John S. Brana. “It really comes down to how good it makes you feel to wear it, and I wanted to reward my collectors because we all deserve extra ways to feel great!” Shoppers are invited to join the Jewelry Guide for Design Connoisseurs and receive their VIP promotions at any of John S. Brana’s targeted websites including:

Handcrafted Fine Jewelry by John S Brana Accessorizes Photoshoot by San Francisco Photographer Tony Maesto

April 19, 2009 By John S. Brana 6 Comments

Handcrafted geometric copper and sterling silver links from John S. Brana’s SOMA Collection accentuate the voluminous black lace layers of this high-neck, corset-back top from Revelation by M.E. When wearing an ensemble of all-black, or any other solid neutral color, create dimension and define a focal point with a dramatic statement necklace. This latest fashion trend of 2009 remains a classic look and may be updated each season with vibrant gemstones, geometric shapes, mix-matched metals, and varying textures. Browse through statement necklaces by John S. Brana to complete your look today!

Photographer – Tony Maesto

Wardrobe Stylist – Karri Ann Frerichs

Lace Top – Revelation by M.E.

Make Up – Rita Brown, Shu Uemura

Hair – William Soriano, W’s Salon – Santana Row

Jewellery World Review Interviews Jewelry Designer John S. Brana

April 2, 2009 By John S. Brana 3 Comments

San Francisco is a truly charming city where talented artists frequently show their skills to the public. As we are starting 2009, JWR takes you to the city by the bay to meet skillful designer John S. Brana, and talk about his background, ideas, and his new collection.

Late last year, new work in fine jewelry by the otherwise bridge category designer proved favorable to the crowd at the "Designers by the Bay" event held at Shreve & Co. in San Francisco. The newcomer to the list of 20 established fine jewelry exhibitors showcased textured cuffs, sculpted earrings and intricate filigree scrollwork in 18K and 14K gold and fine silver with gemstones. Now, John is with us to share his views.

Let’s start with a very basic question, John , what originally inspired you to become a jewelry designer?

My artistic background is rooted in childhood work with my father as a stained glass artist. As I helped him assemble the different pieces, I began to become more intrigued by their geometric shapes and glowing colors. In high school, I worked extensively with ceramics. Working with my hands and using tools to form shapes and to carve patterns that were of my own design is what I truly fell in love with.

Can you share with us an experience from your training or a competition when you were a newcomer?

I’ve only been designing handcrafted jewelry since 2006. I recently won the "2008 Bay Area’s Best Designer Jewelry Award," a voter-based award recognizing best business in all areas of fashion, lifestyle, and shopping from the San Francisco Chronicle’s online division, www.sfgate.com. I reached out to my customers to provide testimonials and before I knew it, clients who shop online, who I’ve met at various events, and who I’ve designed custom work for were responding left and right. I’m so thankful to have a dedicated client base who enjoy the work and time I put into designing each piece.

What about your work background?

As I grew older I moved away from the creative fields and climbed the corporate ranks to become a Vice President of Finance for Charles Schwab. After 9/11, I really began to rethink what I was doing with my life and I couldn’t necessarily say that I loved my job. When my father died in 2003, I decided to take the offer for voluntary layoffs and adopted by new mentality of "Do what you love and explore what you are passionate about." But I didn’t necessarily know what that was. Some months later I heard about a new Japanese product called PMC (precious metal clay). I set up a basic jewelry-making shop in my basement and went from there.

We know the path of success is never easy. You’ve come this far and sometimes your road wasn’t smooth. Did you have difficult times in your career? What was it, and how did you get through it?

My greatest challenge was to make a transition from "corporate life" to the entrepreneurial world of self marketing and promotion…both online and offline, and learning about all the different facets and segments of the jewelry industry. I was fortunate to be introduced to the San Francisco Small Business Development Center ( a branch of the US-Small Business Administration) that had business consultants specializing in the wholesale jewelry industry. I was able to use their industry expertise and apply it to my business plan. This allowed me to jump start my business by learning John S. Brana - Studio - Workshop from their mistakes and successes and I have flourished ever since.

Currently, the entire world is being hit by an economic crisis, including the jewelry market. What do you think about the situation and what should those in the business do to survive these tough times?

I think we’re all trying to figure that out right now. I’ve been communicating with my retailers and core clients to learn what they need and want right now and I’ve been giving it to them. I’m also working on building a greater online base and have launched several targeted jewelry sites to reach specific customers, www.handmadecopperjewelry.com, www.handmade-silver-jewelry.com, and www.handcrafted-gold-jewelry.com along with a recent facelift to www.johnsbrana.com.

People can always expect an awesome collection from you. They may wonder how you can create such fine things. Ca Corrugated Sterling Silver Anticlastic Cuff n you tell us where the ideas come from?

All of my collections are named after different neighborhoods or areas in and around San Francisco, where I live. To me, this is the most beautiful city in the world. We have so much cultural diversity and contrasts in natural and urban landscapes. Anyone can drive down the Pacific Coast Highway, take a drive through wine country, or stroll through the micro-neighborhoods and be inspired.

Let’s talk about your latest collection. Which one is your most favorite piece?

My latest work focuses on various metal raising techniques within my SoMa Collection (commonly referred to as anticlastic, synclastic, and fold forming). I would have to say that my Corrugated Silver Bracelets are my favorite, since they pose the greatest challenge – that of not marring or collapsing the corrugation while forming the bracelet.

What will we be seeing from John S. Brana in 2009?

Expanded offerings across many of my collections, with the bulk of new items in the Nob Hill, SoMa, and Men’s Jewelry Collections. For the Nob Hill, look for an introduction of pendants and rings. SoMa will expand to include a wide variety of 14K and 18K Hammered and Embossed Yellow Gold set with faceted colored gemstones. The Men’s Jewelry Collection will expand to include rings set with colored gemstones and diamonds, along with a male version of the SoMa collection.

We often talk about your jewelry collections. However, we wish to know your lifestyle as well. Care to share, John?

Work, work, work… can best some it up! I’ve always been a workaholic and put in at least 75 hours a week, so it’s probably a blessing that I’m single. I’ve traveled the world during my corporate days, so when I do wind down, I like to coordinate my travels with jewelry related business. I also network quite a lot within the local San Francisco fashion scene.

Do you have any favorite precious metal or gemstone? If so, we wonder why you love it?

I have always loved the rich color of 18K yellow gold along with large faceted colored gemstones. This is why over the next ye Copper Texturized Anticlastic Cuff ar you will be seeing quite a few new pieces in 18K gold. Another favorite metal, although not considered precious, is copper. This evolved at the request of a customer. She commissioned a piece about two years ago that was made in copper, and ever since, I have favored the metal. Its rich color is easily confused with rose gold, and at a faction of the price, has proved to be one of my hottest selling lines.

Do you have a favorite quote?

"Do what you love and explore what you are passionate about."

Thank you very much for joining JWR Magazine. Before biding farewell, do you have any other thing to say to our readers and the industry worldwide?

Just a bit of advice as we start a new year…evaluate what worked for your business in 2008 and keep doing more of it, stop doing what didn’t. To quote Albert Einstein, "Insanity: Doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results."

This feature can be found staring on page 60 of the Jan/Feb 2009 edition of Jewellery World Review.

The Importance of Jewelry Appraisals

March 28, 2009 By John S. Brana 4 Comments

The Importance of Jewelry Appraisals Why should I have my fine jewelry appraised? The most common reason to get a jewelry appraisal is for insurance coverage. A detailed document describing your jewelry and its worth assure you of a comparable replacement in case of loss. Appraisals are generally performed on items valued in excess of $500, or on items that have unusual sentimental value, and are also valuable for when you choose to sell, trade or bequeath your jewelry.

Is my jewelry worth appraising? How can I tell? Putting a limit on the items to be appraised should be determined by the owner, accompanied with the expert knowledge of the appraiser. If you own a piece that you could not afford to replace, and it is something that you wear daily, like a wedding set, diamond stud earrings or a fine watch, then insuring the item is critical.

How often should I update my appraisals? The Insurance Institute of America recommends that jewelry be re-appraised every two years. If you are interested in having your jewelry appraised for free, Smythe & Cross – Purveyors of Precious Jewelry will be holding a Jewelry Appraisal Clinic starting on March 31, 2009 and running through April 2nd, 2009 at their Burlingame, California headquarters.

In addition to having your jewelry appraised, preview collections of fine and diamond jewelry, along with selected pieces of handcrafted fine jewelry by John S. Brana. Smythe & Cross keeps all of your appraisal documents on file, making insurance claims effortless if you ever experience a loss. For more information about this even, please contact Smyth and Cross at 650-995-4292 or via email.

Handcrafted Silver Jewelry – Meant to Last a Lifetime

March 28, 2009 By John S. Brana 3 Comments

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

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

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

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

Click Here To Find Handcrafted Silver Jewelry

Fine Gemstone Jewelry Throughout the Year

March 18, 2009 By John S. Brana 2 Comments

Keishi Cornflake Pearl Necklace and Corrugated Anticlastic Sterling Silver Cuff

When people think of fine gemstone jewelry, they traditionally think of the holidays. Whether you are dressing up for Christmas parties or New Year’s Eve, this type of jewelry is usually reserved for these occasions and then put away for the rest of the year. This is really a shame for two reasons. People have bought you that jewelry because they love you. Or, you have bought the jewelry because you love it. Either way, this love is only being expressed and shown one time a year.

Fine gemstone jewelry should be worn throughout the year, and not just on special occasions. Wearing jewelry that was bought with love should be an everyday thing – not just for when you want to feel special. Feel special everyday!

One reason people choose not to wear their fine jewelry more often than they do is because they are frightened of losing it, damaging it, or wearing it out. If your jewelry is of the finest quality, it will not wear out. If you take care of it properly, you should not be able to damage it. Learning when to wear and not wear a particular piece is very important.

With diamonds and other precious stones, it is imperative that you get the piece checked out by a jeweler at least once a year to ensure that the setting is secure and there is no existing damage to any part of the piece. Once you feel secure in a stone’s setting, you will worry less about wearing it more often.

If you fear losing or breaking a piece of fine gemstone jewelry, then make sure you have photographed the piece, had it appraised, and had it added to your homeowner’s insurance. This may cost you a little, but by doing so, you will be able to replace it should something happen.

Click Here To Find Fine Gemstone Jewelry

Handmade Sterling Silver Jewelry: A Gift for Anyone

March 14, 2009 By John S. Brana 3 Comments

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

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

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

Click Here To Find Handmade Sterling Silver Jewelry

Handcrafted Fine Jewelry by John S. Brana Gets Ready for Spring Shopping Events

March 5, 2009 By John S. Brana 1 Comment

Corrugated Copper Fold Formed Earrings

After a whirlwind schedule of Valentine’s runway and theatrical shows wardrobing models and performers with dramatic jewelry, John S. Brana gears up for Spring shopping events for his fans. Look for his signature high end handcrafted fine jewelry collections including corrugated cuffs and layered gemstone necklaces at the Contemporary Crafts Market in San Francisco’s Fort Mason, March 14 and 15. Shoppers will also enjoy copper, sterling silver and 14K gold-filled designs priced under $150 at Appel and Frank’s Spring into Style Shopping Event, March 26 at the Regency Center.

"It’s times like these that make it even more important to stay in the public eye and to show your clients how much you appreciate them," described Brana who encourages shoppers to take advantage of free or discounted advance tickets for both events. For a limited time, guests may visit http://www.contemporarycraftsmarket.com/ to print passes for two free admissions to the 24^th annual fair showcasing one-of-a-kind designs from over 250 diverse artists. Shoppers may also enjoy $5 admissions into the Appel and Frank event, which will feature over 70 designers, when purchasing two tickets online at http://www.appelandfrank.com/.

New and current fans of the San Francisco-inspired handcrafted jewelry designer will appreciate Brana’s latest experiments in metallic textures. Embossed plaques, corrugated leaves, spiraling shells, and light-as-a-feather links are just a sampling of the additions shoppers will enjoy this spring. To view John S. Brana’s complete jewelry collections, please visit his following websites: http://www.johnsbrana.com, http://www.handcrafted-gold-jewelry.com, http://www.handmade-silver-jewelry.com, http://www.handmadecopperjewelry.com. For all press and events inquires, please contact Karri Ann Frerichs, Altitude Promotions, at +1.402.490.2579 or info@altitudepromotion.com.

Contemporary Crafts Market at the Festival Pavilion, Fort Mason Center, San Francisco, CA. Saturday, March 14^th through Sunday, March 15^th, 2009. 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. http://www.contemporarycraftsmarket.com

Appel and Frank’s Spring /nto Style Event at the Regency Center, Sutter Room, 1270 Sutter St., San Francisco, CA. Thursday, March 26^th 5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. http://www.appelandfrank.com

Corrugated Sterling Silver Leaf Earrings

Enter to Win a $100 Gift Certificate – Handcrafted Fine Jewelry by John S. Brana

March 1, 2009 By John S. Brana

THE $100 GIFT CERTIFICATE DRAWING IS CLOSED AS OF MARCH 1st, 2010 – PLEASE ENTER OUR MONTHLY JEWELRY DRAWING

Win a $100 Gift Certificate on any Selection of Handcrafted Fine Jewelry on JohnSBrana.com

Enter To Win

Every month, JohnSBrana.com will be holding a drawing for one (1) $100 Gift Certificate good for any purchase on www.johnsbrana.com

Contest Rules

How to Enter: NO PURCHASE OR PAYMENT OF ANY KIND IS NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN THIS SWEEPSTAKES. A PURCHASE OR PAYMENT WILL NOT INCREASE OR IMPROVE YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING. To participate in this monthly drawing, just leave a comment on this post stating what you like about my designs or your favorite piece of jewelry or collection.
Prize: One (1) $100 Gift Certificate redeemable on www.johnsbrana.com Certificate is valid for 1 year, and cannot be combined with any other offer, sale, or discount. The prize is not redeemable in cash.
Participation: All winners must be 18 years of age or older and a legal resident of the United States at the time of entry. Only one registration per person, duplicate entries will be eliminated. Your entry in the contest constitutes your acceptance of these rules. By entering you are also requesting and agreeing to be subscribed to our free E-News newsletter. You can easily unsubscribe at any time by clicking on the unsubscribe link at the bottom of your emails or by sending an email to info @ johnsbrana.com. Removing your name from our E-News newsletter automatically withdraws that name from the monthly drawing pool.
Incomplete entries: Incomplete entries will be declared void. Please leave a complete post along with your email address. All information is protected by our privacy policy.

Must re-enter each contest period: Entries are not carried over from one contest to the next one. You must re-enter for each successive contest.
Contest Start & Drawing: The contest is monthly and the first drawing starts on 03/01/09. Every month or 30 days, one (1) winner will be drawn at random. JohnSBrana.com reserves the right to cancel the contest at any time.
Winner Notification: Winners will be notified by email the following month and will have 3 calendar days to respond. If the winner fails to respond in 3 calendar days, a new winner will be selected randomly from the remaining entries. Decisions about winners are final. Winners are solely responsible for all taxes and/or fees that may be incurred.
Entrants Privacy: In order to receive prize, participant permits use of recipient’s name/likeness for advertising/trade without further compensation, unless prohibited by law. At a minimum, the winner agrees to have her/his first name, last initial, and city/state listed on www.johnsbrana.com.
Changes to Contest Rules: Contest rules can be changed at any time, so read the rules for each successive contest. Void where prohibited by local, state or federal laws.

W25mag.com Features Fine Jewelry by John S. Brana – “Waiting for the Bailout Boat”

February 24, 2009 By John S. Brana 1 Comment

"Waiting for the Bailout Boat," W25 Magazine – February 2009 Issue, features selected fine jewelry from the SoMa Collection by jewelry designer John S. Brana. Photographed by Nels Olvin Stylist: Karri Ann Frerichs Make up & Hair: Katie Nash Model: Mirela Retouching: Denis Kuznetsoz

Bustier – Vintage hand-me down circa 1983.

Hammered fine silver necklace with Chrysoprase – John S. Brana $665

Multi-tiered floral skirt – H&M $59.90

Hammered Sterling Silver Disk Earrings by John S. Brana

Bustier – Vintage hand-me down circa 1983.

Hammered Sterling Silver Disc Earrings – John S. Brana $87

Tuxedo Blazer – H&M $49.90

Wide Leg Trouser – H&M $59.90

Hammered Fine Silver Necklace with Chrysoprase by John S. Brana

Bustier – Vintage hand-me down circa 1983.

Hammered fine silver necklace with Chrysoprase – John S. Brana $665

Multi-tiered floral skirt – H&M $59.90

Hammered Sterling Silver Disk Earrings by John S. Brana

Hammered Sterling Silver Earrings by John S. Brana

Checkered Blouse – Vintage hand-me down circa 1974.

Patent Leather "Clock" Purse – Vintage gift circa 1968.

Hammered Sterling Silver Disc Earrings – John S. Brana $87

Tuxedo Vest – H&M $24.90

Wide Leg Trouser – H&M $59.90

About W25 Magazine : "W25 Magazine is an independent and nontraditional publication, dedicated to starching the boundaries in photography, music, illustration, lyric,and all other creative stuff presenting artists work from around the world on our free e-magazine online and now available also in print on demand for the ones that want to see it in print"