Chainmail Jewelry

Sterling Silver Chainmail Necklace with Serpentine - Chainmail Jewelry

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 - Chainmail Jewelry

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.

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Pearl Earrings

Sterling Silver Amber Chainmail Freshwater Pearl Earrings

Sterling Silver Amber Chainmail Earrings

Pearl Earrings – A Basic Necessity

If you are looking for a classic addition to any outfit, pearl earrings are a guaranteed hit. Simultaneously dazzling and elegant, they are suitable for any formal function or office meeting. Whether chosen for lunch at your favorite restaurant or to complement that floral top or fine-cut summer dress, pearl earrings are the perfect addition to any outfit.

Nature is such a perfectionist, especially when it comes to the pearl. As the only gemstone which does not require any cutting or polishing, it is only expected that craftsmen such as John S. Brana would choose to use these semi-precious stones in their collections. Pearl earrings have been created for centuries, and the image of a lady sporting these shining stones on her earlobes is a picture of style that will last throughout the ages.

Hammered Fine Silver Tear Drop Earrings with Blue Freshwater Pearl Earrings

Hammered Fine Silver Tear Drop Earrings with Blue Freshwater Pearls

Pearl Earrings Come in a Variety of Colors

One attribute to pearls, which makes them almost irresistible for use in earrings, is that they can have different colored hues. John S. Brana has used both the lavender and light blue varieties to create some dazzling freshwater pearl earrings. Whether you choose a long, hanging design, or a simple single stone embedded into the earring, pearls are a definite winner when it comes to fine jewelry.

For a bit of variety, pearls also mix well with other gemstones to create some beautiful patterns and displays of color. One outstanding design example is freshwater pearls combined with garnets in John S. Brana’s hammered fine silver earrings. Of course, there are many more varieties, ensuring that anyone can choose one, regardless of their style or taste.

Matching Sets – Necklaces, Bracelets, and Pearl Earrings

Pearl earrings of any sort will make a fantastic addition to anyone’s personal jewelry collection. They work well on their own, or in creating a set with a pearl necklace or one or two pearl bracelets. Discover the magic of these flawless gemstones today.

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Handmade Fine Jewelry

Brass Lily Pad Earrings - Handmade Jewelry

Brass Lily Pad Earrings

Elegant Handmade Jewelry

Handmade fine jewelry is an excellent gift choice for both men and women for practically any occasion. Rather than purchasing a piece of jewelry that has been mass produced by machine, a piece of jewelry made by hand offers an extra element of elegance and a personal touch.

Handmade Jewelry – Higher Quality Than Production Jewelry

Handmade fine jewelry is available from many artisans specializing in the craft. Jewelers who make each of their pieces by hand still use the same high quality materials as large manufacturers and in many instances they have a greater control over the quality of gemstones and other elements used, as they can inspect each element individually.

Serpentine Sterling Silver Chainmail Necklace - Handmade Jewelry

Serpentine Sterling Silver Chainmail Necklace

While purchasing handmade jewelry may cost more than purchasing one of the mass produced pieces, many people appreciate that there is value in knowing that each piece is unique and made with care. When a person is making something by hand, he tends to put more of himself into the piece, thereby producing a quality and personality not found in mass production pieces.

Handmade Jewelry Makes a Statement

Handmade jewelry often makes a stronger style statement than mass produced designs, so a little more care should go into deciding how to accessorize an outfit. Continuing to purchase pieces will fill a jewelry box full of options so no matter what someone wears, there will be hand crafted jewelry to go along with it. The right piece of handmade jewelry can take a drab outfit and add just the right amount of pizzaz to turn it into something fabulous.

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Is Bigger Better? When Bold Jewelry is Best

Aluminum Lily Pad Earrings and Pendant by John S. Brana Bold Jewelry

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!

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Opal – October’s Birthstone

African Opal Citrine October's Birthstone Gemstone Bracelet

African Opal Citrine Gemstone Bracelet

The play of light off an opal makes this one of the most unique gemstones in the world. Those lucky enough to be born in October will be pleased to know that the opal is the birthstone for that month. Whether worn in rings, bracelets or necklaces, this is most definitely a stunning stone which will make a great addition to your jewelry collection. It also has a long history and some very interesting properties which can be used to enhance your lifestyle.

October’s Birthstone Throughout the Ages

Opals have long been popular throughout the ages. The Romans used to mine them from the area now known as the Czech Republic, the Aztecs used to source theirs from Mexico, and even the Australian Aborigines mentioned the stone in their ancient stories and folklore. As for its meaning, the Romans perceived the stone as a symbol of purity and hope, while the Greeks believed it gave the wearer the power of foresight and prophecy.

Bronze Ring with Boulder Opal - October's Birthstone

Bronze Ring with Boulder Opal

October’s Birthstone Brings Good Luck

Nowadays, the opal is believed to be a gemstone signifying good luck, beauty and allure. This dates back to ancient times when Cleopatra wore one to attract Mark Antony’s attention. Some say, however, that this unique stone has the ability to project the energy of the wearer back on his or herself. If you believe in the power of gems, then only wear October’s birthstone if you are a person with many positive thoughts and deeds.

Whether you are looking for an item of jewelry for its looks or its meaning, the wide range of opal accessories now available will leave you spoiled for choice. Artists such as John S. Brana have used the stone in items such as boulder opal bronze rings and African opal bracelets. The choice is yours, so have a look to see which particular pieces catch your eye with October’s Birthstone.

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Design Styles in Handmade Jewelry

Fold Formed Copper Leaf Earrings with Traditional Green Patina - Organic Jewelry

Fold Formed Copper Leaf Earrings with Traditional Green Patina

Organic Jewelry vs Geometric Jewelry

The world of jewelry is truly diverse thanks to the range of artistic talent out there. When studying the many items available these days, it becomes clear that there are two major design styles in the jewelry world: organic and geometric. Both of these can be used to enhance the appearance in different ways.

Organic Jewelry

Organic jewelry is typically made from natural products such as bone, shells or wood. It can also be created using irregular gemstones such as coral or pearls or by shaping different metals into organic patterns. Jewelers use these materials, along with some inspiration from various natural settings, to design their stunning organic jewelry collections.

Aluminum Brass Small Circle Earrings with Onyx

Aluminum Brass Small Circle Earrings with Onyx

Geometric Jewelry

Geometric jewelry is the polar opposite of their organic counterparts. Made with regular shapes ranging from simple cubes and spheres to the more complex gemstone cuts, these items scream out to the world that man definitely was responsible for creating objects of this beauty. They can be just as stunning, if not more so, than organic jewelry depending on the situation.

Natural-looking items combining irregular shapes with organic colors exude a very casual feel. These pieces of organic jewelry are great for taking the edge off formal attire or making a playful dress or top even more colorful. Natural materials such as coral and Keishi pearls are completely unique in their appearance, so that jewelry such as the Carnelian necklaces from John S. Brana are one-of-a-kind.

As can be expected, geometric jewelry is better suited for plain or formal clothing. They provide the wearer with a look of elegance and style that would not be out of place in a high-class dinner or at a night at the opera. This type of jewelry is also great to bring out at big occasions such as proposals, weddings and anniversaries.

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The Perfect Gift – Tips On How To Select Handmade Jewelry

Handmade Jewelry - Brass Lily Pad Earrings

Brass Lily Pad Earrings

Plan Ahead Before Shopping for Handmade Jewelry

Shopping for handmade jewelry can be difficult without the right forethought and planning. Before shopping online, at a boutique, or a gallery or jewelry store that specializes in handmade jewelry, take a moment to think about a few things. Knowing a woman or man’s taste in jewelry and what items they already own is a good start. Purchasing an addition to their collection can be a smart decision, so search through the jewelry that they already have and look for anything which they may be missing, or any materials and gemstones which they prefer. For example, if they favor gold, but only have a few gold earrings, then purchasing a pair will be a smart choice.

Choose Quality Over Quantity When Buying Handmade Jewelry

Choose quality over quantity every time. Purchasing a smaller, well-made piece, such as the three-tiered aluminum lily pad earrings from John S. Brana, is much better than buying a larger, poorer quality item for the same price. Speaking of price, those on a budget simply need to remember that good handmade jewelry is not always expensive. It is the quality and look that truly counts, not the amount paid.

Handmade Jewelry - Men's Redwood Sterling Silver Ring

Men's Redwood Sterling Silver Ring

Select Handmade Jewelry Appropriate for the Occasion

The jewelry purchased should suit the stage of the relationship which you are at. If things are not serious, do not buy anything too extravagant. Additionally, consider what each gem says. Sapphires represent friendship, rubies mean passion, and diamonds signify eternal love. For this reason, avoid diamond jewelry unless you are certain about your future relationship. Additionally, avoid rings unless proposing to prevent giving the wrong impression.

Choosing Handmade Jewelry Based on Facial Types

One final thing to consider is what style suits a woman’s face and neck. Some basic tips to remember are that v-shaped necklaces match heart-shaped faces, chokers are good for long necks, and petite women will look better in delicate jewelry. Also remember to have a good idea about wrist and ring sizes to avoid future embarrassment when buying handmade jewelry.

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Copper Jewelry by John S. Brana

 

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.

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Sea Cliff Handmade Freshwater Pearl Jewelry Collection

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.

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Handcrafted Silver Jewelry – Meant to Last a Lifetime

Handcrafted Fine Silver Necklace with ChrysopraseMany 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

 

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