Handmade Jewelry Blog by Jewelry Designer John S Brana
The creative process Blog of San Francisco Jewelry Designer John S. Brana. In-depth articles on designing and marketing handmade jewelry and handcrafted fine art jewelry.
Rectangular Hammered Aluminum NuGold Earrings with Peridot
When it comes to these earrings it’s what’s on the inside–and the outside–that counts! Nu Gold wire is wrapped around light weight hammered rectangular aluminum rims that are set with Peridot nuggets. Creating interesting dimension and undeniable style, these earrings create an eye-catching spectacular look that is guaranteed to turn heads.
Price:$70.00
Triangular Hammered Aluminum Earrings with Onyx
The triangular drop hoop design of these aluminum earrings is fashioned with a highly polished surface and a lightly hammered texture. Creating interesting dimension and undeniable style, these earrings feature Onyx gemstone beads, set on Nu Gold wire inside of the aluminum rims. The use of black, gold, and silver creates an eye-catching spectacular look that is guaranteed to turn heads.
Price:$95.00
 Large Hammered Aluminum Nu Gold Earrings with Garnets These elegant drop earrings are handcrafted in a chic, elongated triangular shape with a wire wrapped interior for remarkable texture. Garnet gemstone beads, set on Nu Gold wire inside of the aluminum rims, add eye-catching color to complete this spectacular look.These super light-weight earrings are guaranteed to turn heads. Price:$95.00 |
14K Gold Wire Sculpted Amethyst Cocktail Ring
Cocktail rings are defined as oversized rings that usually feature wide or thick metal bands and large precious or semiprecious stones. They’re meant to be dramatic, attention-getting, and just a little bit over the top. Perhaps why they are so popular with celebrity divas!
This kind of statement jewelry has been popular since the 1920s when most people dressed for dinner, which is how these dazzling rings got their name. Usually worn on the middle or index finger of the right hand, they were often displayed prominently at upscale cocktail parties, film premieres, theater openings and just about anywhere else where one could flaunt their style and status. Those who might not have been able to afford diamonds during The Great Depression could still appear chic and fashionable in one of these oversized beauties.
Sterling Silver Wire Wrapped Marquise Cut Blue Topaz Cocktail Ring
In modern times, fashionable women wear cocktail rings for fun, drama, and to make a statement. A single amethyst, emerald, ruby or other large and colorful stone is generally the main feature in a cocktail ring but they can sometimes be surrounded by other smaller stones and embellishments. They can be made from the finest materials such as gold or platinum set with diamonds or from less expensive metals, semi-precious gemstones or even large glass beads.
Antique cocktail rings are in high demand at auctions, but modern versions are just as bold and stunning as ever. One bold and dazzling cocktail ring paired with polished fingernails wrapped around a martini glass makes quite a statement without any need for further embellishment.
Cocktail parties may not hold the same cachet as they once had, but cocktail rings still represent personal style and flair. They can be seen adorning celebrity hands at award ceremonies, fashion runways, and other social functions. But they’re not just for celebrities anymore. Cocktail rings are an essential component for anyone looking to ‘bring the bling’ to a night out on the town.
John S. Brana – Distinctive Jewelry will feature his handcrafted fine jewelry collections at the 12th 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.
