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.

Chainmail Jewelry

February 16, 2011 By jbrana 24 Comments

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

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.

Textured Metal Jewelry

September 15, 2010 By jbrana Leave a Comment

Bubble Embossed Tear Drop Copper Earrings

Metal Jewelry Textures

A skilled jeweler will be able to create a wide variety of textures on any sheet of metal. These can be used to form pieces of jewelry, which are irregular, smooth or are covered with more detailed patterns such as ripples or bubbles.

Hammered Metal Jewelry

Metal jewelry that has simply been hammered will have a rough, uneven texture due to how the hammer strikes the metal. Pieces such as John S. Brana’s hammered copper bracelets are hand crafted and are very on trend and stylish.

Metal Jewelry Polishing Techniques

To remove the flaws from a piece of metal jewelry, whether from hammering or otherwise, a jeweler generally has to polish it. This is achieved by using a work wheel and a fine abrasive. Polishing is great for creating flawless pieces of jewelry. For something a little more interesting, brushed metal jewelry can be made by rubbing fine sandpaper over the surface. This creates many minute lines and removes some of the metal’s lustre giving it a much more distinctive look.

Embossed Metal Jewelry

Bubble jewelry is formed by embossing the metal’s surface with a pattern of various-sized, connected circles. Examples of this style include John S. Brana’s handmade aluminum bubble earrings, which have a very natural appearance.

Aluminum Cuff with Bark Texture

Chased Metal Jewelry

Finally, lines can also be added to metal. These come in a variety of patterns such as the radial design found on John S. Brana’s chased copper scarf ring, or the more natural style of his corrugated copper disc earrings. The diversity of these items is limited only by the jewelers imagination.

The fact that metal is so malleable, means that master craftsmen across the globe can create bracelets, necklaces and earrings which will suit almost anyone’s tastes and which can be worn in a large number of situations. Metal jewelry is so versatile and is a true gift from both these expert jewelers and Mother Nature herself.

Metalsmithing 101 – The Jewelers Toolbox

August 9, 2010 By jbrana Leave a Comment

14K Gold Filled Chased Bangle Bracelet

Techniques of Master Jewelers

Working and shaping metal into exquisite pieces of jewelry takes time, patience and the knowledge of various metalworking techniques such as chasing, repoussé, hammering and piercing. Expert craftsmen, like John S. Brana, use a variety of techniques on each piece of jewelry to create the various masterpieces within their collection.

Chasing and repoussé are both very similar techniques used to form patterns on the surface of a metal. A jeweler chases metal by forming imprints on it without altering the reverse side. These markings are clearly seen on the chased gold and copper bracelets by John S. Brana. With repoussé, a raised design is formed on the front by working the back of a metal sheet.

Basic Jewelers Tools

Hammering is the most basic technique but is also one of the most versatile. By striking hot or cold metal with a hammer, the craftsman is able to bend and twist it as desired. Jewelers typically use an iron bench block for a solid base and a highly polished planishing hammer so as not to leave unwanted marks on the metal’s surface after it has been shaped.

Chased Copper Triangle Earrings with Garnets

Piercing with a Jewelers Saw

Piercing is exactly what it sounds like. The jeweler will remove pieces out of a metal surface and create intricate shapes by using a very fine saw blade. A drill will have to be used first if the hole is to be made in the center of the metal sheet. For an example of this, have a look at the chased copper earrings with garnets by John S. Brana. These feature an oval hole which would have been created by piercing.

Using a combination of these techniques, jewelers all over the globe are now creating stunning earrings, necklaces and bracelets in a multitude of designs, so that we can enjoy wearing a range of accessories while out and about.

Handmade Gemstone Jewelry – A Classic Timeless Look

March 20, 2009 By John S. Brana 3 Comments

When you think of handmade gemstone jewelry, you may think of your weird aunt, still living in the 1960’s and her macramé beaded “creations.” Or, you may think of the junky trinkets sold at your local art and crafts fairs. But not to fear, there is another type of handmade jewelry that is neither tacky, “retro”, nor prone to falling to pieces after a few times of wear.

Modern, high-end jewelers create handmade gemstone jewelry that will stand the test of time and hold up against any piece you could find in any store. “Handmade” does not mean “homemade” – it means that it was crafted by a professional, a craftsman, and someone who cares about and takes pride in the work they do. There is nothing quirky or tasteless about it.

If you have seen the handmade creations of modern jewelers, you will see nothing like what you imagined. Handmade jewelry can be exquisite, intricate, and timeless. Take a look at women walking down any red carpet event and you will see them adorned with many different types of handmade pieces. Jewelry that appears to come from the larger jewelers may well be handmade creations, custom-made for just such occasions. In fact, in many cases, you can’t tell a quality piece of handmade jewelry from those of famous well-know jewelry designers.

When evaluating handmade gemstone jewelry, the first thing you must insist on is quality materials. Only the highest quality metals and gemstones should be used, and all settings and clasps must be the best available. Any reputable jeweler will allow you to see how and where he works, the materials he uses, and often the sources he utilizes to get his materials. A jeweler of character and distinction will want to design a piece of jewelry that you are proud of and one that will attract the attention you deserve.

Click Here To Find Distinctive Handmade Gemstone 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

Looking for Inexpensive Jeweler’s Saw Blades for your Chainmail Production?

October 25, 2007 By John S. Brana 1 Comment

I go through Jeweler’s Saw Blades like crazy when I make jump rings. Saw blades normally run $13.00+ a piece and can drive up production costs very quickly, so if you seriously produce jumprings for chain and chainmail, here’s a great source for inexpensive replacement blades.

Enco Industrial Supply currently sells them for $5.12 a piece for 1 1/4 blades and offers blade sizes from 1 inch to 4. Make sure you accurately measure your blade before ordering.

Hope this helps!

John

Jeweler's Saw Blade

Resources:
A few of my jewelry tools
Organizing Beads And Jewelry Making Tools

Tips for Men Buying Jewelry for Women

Recommended Reading

Chainmail Jewelry

Sterling Silver Chainmail Necklace with Serpentine

Chainmail Jewelry – From Casual to Formal Wear

Chainmail Jewelry – A Diverse Design Style