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.

Barbary Coast Beaded Gemstone Jewelry Collection Video

December 2, 2011 By jbrana Leave a Comment

Barbary Coast Beaded Gemstone Handmade Jewelry Collection

Dynamic shapes and countless layers of richly textured semi-precious gemstones define this show stopping statement jewelry collection which also features gold vermeil, 14K gold, 18Kgold, and fine and sterling silver. For those who love a statement piece (Press and Celebrity Photos), the Barbary Coast collection is perfect for those who choose to build an ensemble around their jewelry.

Over 60% Off Select Handmade Jewelry – Sale of the Year

November 23, 2011 By jbrana 3 Comments

Black Friday Sale of the Year on Handmade Jewelry by San Francisco jewelry designer John S Brana

Click on the Picture to Save over 60% on Select Handmade Jewelry by San Francisco jewelry designer John S Brana

Save Over 60% Off Retail during my one time only Sale-of-the-Year on all Handmade Jewelry.

Click here to Shop Select Handmade Jewelry!

Sale ends at 11:59PM PST Saturday, November 26th!

*Offer applies to in-stock items only. This offer cannot be combined with any other offer including promotions, gift certificates, coupon codes or contest redemptions. One offer per household. Not valid on previous orders. Free USPS Priority Shipping for all orders over $50.00, valid for domestic shipping only. Standard Returns Policy applies.

Tips for Men Buying Jewelry for Women

October 15, 2011 By jbrana 2 Comments

Lime Anodized Aluminum Lily Pad Earrings - Handmade Jewelry by John S Brana

Lime Anodized Aluminum Lily Pad Earrings - 3 Tier

If you are thinking of buying jewelry, then you must be feeling something deep and emotional for a very special woman. The act of purchasing a stunning diamond pendant necklace or a pair of gold tear drop earrings is something that every guy will have to undertake sooner or later when he meets the perfect girl.

Unfortunately, most men would not know how to buy jewelry if their partners led them by the hand right to the store itself. With the right tips and techniques though, purchasing an item that she will adore does not have to be rocket science. With the following advice, jewelry shopping will become a piece of cake.

The Secrets of Her Jewelry Box

What your girlfriend, partner or spouse already wears will tell you a lot about what she would like to receive in the future. Her jewelry collection will provide plenty of information about the types of accessories that she enjoys and will give you an idea about the best items to buy. Purchase jewelry that matches what she already owns. You can also use her jewelry collection to measure her ring size or preferred necklace length.

The Effect of Her Personality and Lifestyle

Anyone buying accessories for their special woman will know them back-to-front. Her character and hobbies will give you a good idea of what to buy for her. If she is a successful businesswoman, powerful jewelry such as copper disc earrings will be a smart buy. On the other hand, if she enjoys a night on the town, maybe something more exotic such as a coral and garnet necklace will be more suitable. Match the girl to the jewelry and you will be on to a winning gift.

Insight from Her Friends, Family and More

Chased Copper Disc Earrings

Seeing as they probably have known your loved one for longer than you, her mother, sister and best friends will have a fairly good idea of what jewelry she enjoys wearing. Her regular jeweler will also remember the types of accessories that she normally purchases. If you cannot gather any information this way, try this subtle technique: the next time that the two of you are out shopping, casually stroll past some local jewelry stores and see what she stops to have a look at.

Do Some Extra Research

Try to find out more information about your special girl and about the jewelry that is available. If you are thinking of buying a birthstone necklace, make doubly sure that you remember her birthday accurately. As well as this, ensure that you know how to spot a good quality piece of jewelry that will last her forever. Ask your local jeweler about what they recommend, or continue to search for information over the Internet like you are doing now.

One final piece of advice is to offer her the jewelry that you have purchased in a romantic setting. Receiving one of these pieces can be very emotional and it will make the moment even more special if the timing is absolutely perfect.

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 Jewelry by John S Brana Accessorizes Photo Shoot by San Francisco Photographer Tricia Murajdova

October 11, 2011 By jbrana 3 Comments

Blue Patinated Copper Pendant and Neckwire with Copper Lily Pad Earrings - Muir Woods Collection by John S Brana Handmade Jewelry

Chalk Turquoise and Onyx Gemstone Necklace with Onyx Tear Drop Earrings and Hammered 14K Gold Cuff Bracelet - Barbary Coast Collection by John S Brana Handmade Jewelry

Chalk Turquoise and Onyx Gemstone Necklace with Onyx Tear Drop Earrings and Hammered 14K Gold Cuff Bracelet -- Barbary Coast Collection by John S Brana Handmade Jewelry

Chalk Turquoise and Onyx Gemstone Necklace with Onyx Tear Drop Earrings - Barbary Coast Collection by John S Brana Handmade Jewelry

Lime Anodized Aluminum Lily Pad Earrings - Muir Woods Collection by John S Brana Handmade Jewelry

Lime Anodized Aluminum Lily Pad Earrings - - Muir Woods Collection by John S Brana

Lime Anodized Aluminum Lily Pad Earrings -- Muir Woods Collection by John S Brana Handmade Jewelry

Sterling Silver Jellyfish Pendant with Amazonite - Aluminum Bark Cuff - SoMa Collection by John S Brana Handmade Jewelry

Sterling Silver Jellyfish Pendant with Amazonite - Aluminum Bark Cuff - John S Brana Handmade Jewelry

Sterling Silver Jellyfish Pendant with Amazonite - Fine Silver with Abalone Earrings - Sea Cliff Collection by John S Brana Handmade Jewelry

Yellow Jade Sterling Silver Chainmail Necklace and Earrings - Sonoma Collection by John S Brana

Yellow Jade Sterling Silver Chainmail Necklace and Earrings -- Sonoma Collection by John S Brana

Tricia Murajdová Photography

http://www.bijouimages.com

http://triciamurajdova.posterous.com/

MUA: Terry Alabata of Believe in Beauty Artistry

http://www.believeinbeautyartistry.com

Models: Faye Vale Trina Thierry

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.

Shopping for Handmade Jewelry

March 12, 2011 By jbrana 26 Comments

Brass Large Tear Drop Handmade Earrings with Garnets

Handmade Jewelry – Quality is #1

When shopping for handmade jewelry, it is important to pay careful attention to the quality of the products that are being sold. After all, some pieces can be quite expensive and you should make sure that they are worth the price before you hand over your hard-earned cash. There are a number of characteristics to look for when choosing a necklace or bracelet from any jewelers shop. These include how the items look, how they feel when worn, whether they can be used in a variety of situations and how good the craftsmanship is.

Appearance

The main function of any piece of handmade jewelry is to make the wearer look stunning, enhancing their physical features. This applies whether we are talking about gemstone earrings or aluminum bracelets. In either case, the best quality handmade jewelry will look fantastic, able to bring out the wearer’s best features and drawing the attention of others. This should be the first thing that you notice when shopping for high quality accessories. If they look like they are worth a million dollars then they probably are.

Lime Anodized Aluminum 3-Tiered Lily Pad Earrings

Comfort

The next aspect to check when shopping for first-rate accessories is how well they fit you and whether or not they can be worn for long periods of time. The best quality metallic necklaces and gemstone rings will be light enough so that they can be worn for hours, and gently molded so that they do not cause chafing and cuts when taken on and off. The true master jeweler can fashion their particular types of products in such as way so that the wearer does not feel any ill effects while out and about.

Versatility

As well as this, the most creative artisans can design handmade jewelry which can be used in a wide range of circumstances. After all, there is nothing better than purchasing a flashy handmade bracelet or a stunning gemstone pendant that can be worn at the office, the nightclub or the local coffee shop. The finest pieces will allow you to look your best anywhere and anytime. When shopping for handmade jewelry, think about whether the item that you are looking at can be worn in both formal and informal occasions or not.

Craftsmanship

Finally, the way in which a piece of handcrafted jewelry is made is very important. By using the most effective techniques, a craftsman can create rings and bangles that will retain their original appearance for a long time to come. They will not fade and they will not break, so that you can use them for years after you have purchased them. This is the most important consideration to make when choosing fine jewelry as it will ensure that the item that you buy will remain useful far into the future.

Of course, it will be essential to focus on all of the above if you wish to purchase accessories that are truly worthwhile. Take your time and do your research and you should be able to add some high quality items to your handmade jewelry collection.

Black Anodized Aluminum Marquise Drop Earrings – March 2011 Jewelry Freebie

March 1, 2011 By jbrana 26 Comments

Black Anodized Aluminum Mini Marquis Earrings

For March, win these beautiful Black Anodized Aluminum Marquise Drop Earrings by entering your email address on any pop-up hang-tag that appears on www.johnsbrana.com or on the entry form below. Your entry carries over month to month, so there’s no need to re-enter every month.

Each month will feature a different piece of jewelry, so enter now!

Congrats to our February 2011 Jewelry Freebie Winner – Kathy Larson of Ann Arbor, Michigan!!

Click here to see the contest rules.

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.