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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Is Brass the New Gold?

Bark Nu Gold Large Tear Drop Earrings - Brass Jewelry

Bark Nu Gold (Red Brass) Large Tear Drop Earrings

Brass Jewelry – A Fashionable Alternative to Gold

Fashionistas and models alike are itching to get their hands on the hottest new jewelry designs. Instead of gold, silver, or platinum, however, they’re flocking towards a vintage metal with a bright future: brass. Although more recently the metal of choice for locks, keys, and doorknobs, brass has been making a new appearance on fashion runways everywhere.

Jewelry styles using this surprising choice of metals range from delicate to chunky, from vintage to modern. Whether you’re in to steam punk fashion or are looking for something a bit more delicate, brass may be just what you’ve been looking for. Brass jewelry ranges from large, dramatic bangles and rings to dainty beaded earrings – no matter your fashion style, there’s likely a brass design to suit you.

Nu Gold 3 Tiered Lily Pad Earrings - Red Brass Jewelry

Nu Gold (Red Brass) 3 Tiered Lily Pad Earrings

Brass Jewelry – The Nu Gold Standard

Brass is an alloy of copper and zinc, and has long been prized for it’s artistic appeal. Jewelry artisans are now turning to red brass or Nu Gold as a design medium, and the result is both beautiful and amazing. Brass is as flexible as gold or silver, and can be worked and shaped into nearly any design. It can be left with a matte finish or buffed to a glossy shine; this flexibility makes it a popular material for designers to work with.

Attention Getting Brass Jewelry

Brass jewelry is not for the faint of heart; chances are, if you’re wearing it, you’ll get attention. Most brass jewelry designs are both beautiful and unique. The sheen of brass is sure to draw attention to your accessories from those who are fashion conscious; after all, it’s clearly not gold or silver. If you like to turn heads and be on top of the newest and hottest fashion trends, brass is clearly your metal of choice.

Brass jewelry offers a unique appeal with a break from the traditional styles we’re used to seeing. If you want to shake things up this season, consider accessorizing with brass. This metal offers an antique shine for nearly any outfit, and the design options are virtually limitless. If you’re ready to shake up your fashion accessories for a new season, consider purchasing a brass piece or ensemble today.

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Copper.org Features Copper Jewelry by John S. Brana

Copper.org Features Handmade Copper Jewelry by John S. BranaFebruary 2010 – Issue #34 – “Copper in the Arts,” on Copper.org features contemporary copper jewelry designs by jewelry designer John S. Brana.  Contributing writer Rebecca Troutman discusses the allure of John S. Brana’s copper jewelry designs…

Texturized Anticlastic Copper Bracelet

Handmade Texturized Anticlastic Copper Bracelet

“Brana loves to feature nontraditional metals, his most recent collection thrusting copper and aluminum in the spotlight. His designs are flirtatious and intricate, often with elegant geometric textural elements and clean curves. His new line, named after the South of Market district, “SoMa,” is inspired by the curved angles of the architecture and the “opulent gold rush period” of its heyday.

Not many other jewelry designers value the unique abilities of copper the way Brana does. In a contemporary jewelry industry founded on the classic value of semi-precious metals and gemstones, his choice of materials like copper, bronze and aluminum is giving a new sheen to the high end jewelry industry. “  Read the entire story on Copper.org

Handmade Brass Turquoise Patinated Bangle

Handmade Brass Turquoise Patinated Bangle

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Shop Handcrafted Designer Jewelry by John S. Brana Jewelry All Season Long at Bloomingdales – Stanford!

Apple Green Patinated Brass Tear Drop Earirngs MWE-23During his first weekend trunk show at Bloomingdale’s – Stanford this October, John S. Brana showcased just how popular his handcrafted, nature-inspired jewelry designs are with the Bloomingdale’s shopper. To celebrate this success, Bloomingdale’s – Stanford has invited John S. Brana back for a series of five subsequent holiday trunk shows beginning in November. All shows occur in conjunction with various Bloomingdale’s shopping promotions and sales, and shoppers will receive special pricing on jewelry by John S. Brana as well. Each trunk show will occur between 12:00pm to 6:00pm on the following dates: November 13-14, November 27-29, December 5-6, December 19-20, and December 26-27.

John S. Brana’s October showcase was situated in Bloomingdale’s accessory department right next to the Marc by Marc Jacobs handbag collection. Shoppers were immediately drawn to Brana’s handcrafted jewelry showcased by displays of cast iron sculptural tree branches that beautifully reflect his nature-inspired jewelry designs. “This is different,” shoppers would comment and immediately start browsing among Brana’s collections of patinated copper and brass leaf-shaped earrings, texturized sterling silver cuffs, and large carat gemstone rings. “Customers were really drawn to my latest earring designs which remind me of colored geranium leaves or lily pads,” describes Brana when asked about his best sellers. “They are also pleasantly surprised to learn that I handcraft each jewelry piece and am still able to price many of my designs under $100.”

Bloomingdale’s will host the following events and promotions which may also be applied to jewelry purchases during each John S. Brana Holiday Trunk Show:

• November 13-14, 20% off Secret Santa Promotion
• November 27-29, Black Friday Sales
• December 5-6, Bloomingdale’s Private Sale
• December 19-20, Bloomingdale’s Insider Sale
• December 26-27, Bloomingdale’s After Christmas Sale.

Shoppers are encouraged to visit www.Bloomingdales.com and choose the Stanford location through the store locator for detailed information on each sale and promotion. To preview jewelry that will be available at each Bloomingdale’s Holiday Trunk Show, shoppers are encouraged to visit www.JohnSBrana.com and click on the collections tab to view jewelry styles from the Muir Woods, Pacific Heights, Monterey, and SoMa Collections.

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Handcrafted Jewelry Designer John S. Brana Showcases Stackable Rings for Designers by the Bay Event Hosted by Shreve & Co.

John S. Brana is introducing stackable rings and matching bangles and cuffs to his collection of fine jewelry designs in 14K, 18K Gold, and Sterling Silver exclusively for the 13th Annual Designers by the Bay and Fine Jewelry Showcase, Tuesday, October 20, 2009 at 7:00 p.m. The most exciting creations include stunning cuffs in Sterling Silver, 14K, and 18K gold, sculpted and texturized by hand in his San Francisco studio. More than 200 guests well known in the Northern California jewelry industry are expected to attend this premier event to be held at Shreve & Co., 200 Post Street, San Francisco.

“As a second year exhibitor, I will be showcasing upcoming Spring 2010 trends that emphasize sculptural textures, color, and versatility” said Brana who is best known by his clients for meticulous attention to handcrafted details in the bridge jewelry category. Each texture reflects light in its own unique way allowing admirers to easily distinguish between the individual bands and bangles. Numerous “looks” can be achieved simply by arranging textures and color. Stackable rings and bangles come in seven textures handmade in Sterling Silver, Copper, 14K Gold, and 18K Yellow, Green, and Rose Gold, with soon to be released designs set with white diamonds, colored diamonds, and semi-precious gemstones.

The continual growth of Designers by the Bay, presented by the Women’s Jewelry Association, Northern California Chapter, has lent it the reputation for being the region’s premier fine jewelry event. Only 15 select 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.

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John S. Brana to be Featured Jewelry Designer at Bloomingdale’s – Palo Alto Trunk Show

Collections by John S. Brana, handcrafted fine jewelry designer from San Francisco, will be showcased during a weekend trunk show hosted by Bloomingdale’s in the Stanford Shopping Center, Palo Alto. The jewelry event will take place Saturday, October 3 through Sunday, October 4, 2009, from 12:00 p.m. To 5:00 p.m. at the fine jewelry counter. Shoppers will also enjoy Bloomingdale’s Friends and Family Discount of 20% off all jewelry by John S. Brana during this exclusive weekend event.

Fold Formed Green Patinated Leaf Earrings Lepidochrosite Bronze Ring

Brana looks forward to premiering Muir Woods, his latest collection of nature-inspired jewelry, including one-of-a-kind cocktail rings and pendants featuring large carat semi-precious gemstones set in sterling silver and bronze. “It was perfect timing for Bloomingdale’s to contact me about a Fall event. I’m very proud of the Muir Woods Collection because it’s completely unique and I’m one of the few jewelry designers experimenting with different patina finishes,” describes Brana referring to his copper earring designs in various hues of turquoise, green, red, black and orange. Additional jewelry collections available during the event include filigree earrings, dramatic pendants, statement cuffs, cocktail rings, and necklaces layered with semi-precious gemstones.

Bronze Rutilated Quartz Ring Maroon & Green Patinated Copper Tear Drop Earrings

All fine jewelry designs may be purchased using Bloomingdale’s 20% off Friends and Family discount, and John S. Brana will be present to greet guests and answer all jewelry questions. Event details will be available by visiting www.bloomingdales.com, clicking on the Stores & Events page and choosing the Stanford location.

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

“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 Galleria NuVo Fashion Jewelry
Handmade Earrings by John S. Brana Handmade Copper Jewelry by John S. Brana
Handmade Silver Jewelry by John S. Brana Statement Jewelry by John S. Brana

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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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John S. Brana – Handcrafted Fine Jewelry to Accessorize “Babe Be Mine” Fashion Show by Charleston Pierce

Charleston Pierce hosts "Baby Be Mine" Valentine’s Day Fashion Show Thursday, February 12, 2009 at Temple Nightclub, 540 Howard Street, San Francisco,  CA  94103.  Six San Francisco Bay Area fashion designers will be featured along with runway jewelry designs provided by John S. Brana – Handcrafted Fine Jewelry.  Tickets can be purchased in advance for $10 through www.charlestonsf.com, or $20 at the door.  

 

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Who Knew Handcrafted Jewelry Could Be So…Interactive?

Always an innovator, John S. Brana launched three new websites this month and even gave a sleek new face lift to his home site, www.johnsbrana.com.  Each new site targets a specific customer based on their desire for gold, silver, or copper jewelry and features search and comparison features unparalleled to any handcrafted artisan in the industry. See for yourself at www.handcrafted-gold-jewelry.com, www.handmade-silver-jewelry.com, and www.handmadecopperjewelry.com . 

Jewelry buyers may now perform side-by-side comparisons on any number of their favorite pieces to determine just the right style, texture, gemstone, size and price. Visitors may participate in a live community poll to tell the designer specific preferences such as their favorite gemstone, karat or quality of gold, and type of earring they prefer. Those with the most discerning tastes can find exactly what they are looking for by narrowing their search, and if you just can’t decide, customers can add their favorite items to a wish list and be notified if those items go on sale through various RSS Feeds.

Bubble Embossed Copper Earrings

"After seeing the fashion and jewelry industries suffer this holiday season, I decided I would make it easier for customers seeking handcrafted fine jewelry to find me," says Brana of his business strategies. "And when they do find me, I want to be sure I’m giving them the styles they want."  Brana is known for his handcrafted jewelry designs inspired by the landscapes of San Francisco and has been consistently experimenting with new textures, such as embossing, or adding new layers to his metallic collection of "SOMA" jewelry. New styles are available online now.
 

 

For more information and to view all jewelry styles please visit:

 

Handcrafted Fine Jewelry by John S. Brana

Handcrafted Gold Jewelry by John S. Brana 

Handmade Silver Jewelry by John S. Brana

Handmade Copper Jewelry by John S. Brana

 

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.

 

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