Handmade Gemstone Pendant Necklaces

April 7, 2011 By jbrana 12 Comments

14K Gold Filled Wire Wrapped Pendant with Amethyst

The Forefront of Today’s Fashion – Gemstone Pendant Necklaces

One item that is making a huge comeback this spring is the pendant, which has been spotted in numerous American magazines already. Celebrities of all types are sporting these exquisite pieces of designer jewelry, which certainly are a fantastic way to complement anyone’s wardrobe. Richly jeweled designs are right at the forefront of today’s fashion world, and it seems like the larger the gemstone pendant is, the better. So, if you are searching for a new addition to your jewelry collection, one that will keep you in trend and in style, gemstone pendants are certainly the way to go.

Add A Flash of Color to Any Outfit with Gemstone Pendant Necklaces

Thanks to the creativity of professional jewelers around the globe, plus the extensive variety of gems found in nature, the range of gemstone pendant necklaces encrusted with these sparkling stones is simply amazing. These elegant designs are a great way to add a flash of color to your outfit no matter what clothes you are wearing. With a few purchases, you can have access to the full rainbow within your personal collection, allowing you to don a gemstone pendant regardless of whether you are going to the office, a restaurant or a nightclub. These items are just so versatile and are suitable for a number of outfits and settings.

14K Gold Filled Wire Wrapped Pendant with Green Gold Quartz

Artisan Handmade Gemstone Pendant Necklaces

Of course, the base material also plays a big part in how a piece of jewelry looks, and also how much it will cost you. Fortunately, there are enough options so that anyone, regardless of their budgets, can get their hands on a pendant necklace of any size. Gold-filled designs will suit those with a bit more money to spend, while silver and bronze pendants are more affordable and will still look absolutely stunning, especially if purchased from a skilled artisan. Remember, as well, that the materials used will determine how durable the piece is and what you will have to do to take care of it.

Once you have purchased your gemstone pendant necklace, you will then be left to choose what to wear it with! The most important thing is that the gem’s colors have to match with the clothes that you put on. Big pendants will always be the center of your outfit, so you must make sure that nothing else competes for attention from those around you. Items such as bright gemstone jewelry will go well with simple clothes that are black, grey or white. If you opt for a more subtle piece, you will need to brighten up your outfit to provide some balance.

So if you are the type of person who loves keeping up with the latest fashion trends, it is time that you went out and purchased a large gemstone pendant today. Join ranks with popular celebrities such as Taylor Swift, Molly Sims, Amy Adams and more, and strut your stuff knowing that you are looking in style and absolutely stunning with your newly-purchased designer pendant. This spring, being fashionable is as easy as choosing a handmade gemstone pendant to wear on your necklace while you are out and about.

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.

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.

John S Brana – Handmade Designer Jewelry – Accessorizes Photo Shoot by San Francisco Photographer Rachel Schwarz

November 2, 2010 By jbrana 3 Comments

Sterling Silver Amazonite and Serpentine Chain Mail Necklaces

Red and Turuoise Patinated Tear Drop Earrings

Corrugated Sterling Silver Anticlastic Cuff with Sterling Silver Tree Branch Ring set with Moonstone

Corrugated Sterling Silver Anticlastic Cuff with Sterling Silver Tree Branch Ring set with Moonstone and Aluminum Leaf Earrings

Corrugated Anticlastic Copper Cuff with Red and Turquoise Patinated Tear Drop Earrings

Copper Fold Formed Leaf Earrings

Red and Turquoise Patinated Tear Drop Earrings

Model: Ellen Hancock of City Model/ San Francisco
www.ellenhancock.com

Make-Up Artist: Tamra Marie of Look Artist Agency/ San Francisco
www.tamra-marie.com/

Hair Stylist: Preston Nesbit
www.prestonnesbit.com/

Jewelry by John S. Brana
www.johnsbrana.com

Mesh Body Suit & Leather & Mesh Vest by Chelsea Cutrell

Mens Designer Jewelry – Choosing Jewelry for Your Man

October 5, 2010 By jbrana Leave a Comment

Rawhide Mens Sterling Silver Curb Link Bracelet

Mens Jewelry – Things to Consider

If you are searching for the ultimate gift for your special man, purchasing some mens jewelry may be a good idea. Gone are the days when items such as bracelets and rings were only thought of as presents for women. These days, men are often seen sporting stylish cufflinks, bracelets, and necklaces. However, before you decide on one particular piece, there are a few things to consider about which type will please him best.

Personality and Sense of Style is Key When Selecting Mens Jewelry

One key idea is that men will often wear jewelry which suits their own individual personality and style. If your man is sporty and rugged, he may enjoy something from the Rawhide Collection created by John S. Brana. These pieces have the texture of raw leather and hark back to the days of the Wild West. Alternatively, your man may be more refined. In this case, simply purchase him something a little more distinctive and chic like a mens ring set with a large colored gemstone.

Wave Sterling Silver Ring with Blue Topaz

Mens Jewelry Fashion Trends

Another thing to remember is that men typically do not follow the latest trends in fashion. This means that you will not get a good idea of what he likes by examining fashion magazines and websites. Fortunately, if you are at the stage where you wish to purchase him jewelry, you should already know a bit about his inner character. This will reveal all that you need to know about what items he will enjoy.

Of course, the simplest way to purchase your special guy the perfect piece of mens jewelry is to go shopping with him! Peruse over catalogs found at online jewelers such as John S. Brana or pay a visit to your local jewelry store. While you will not be able to surprise him, at least you will be making the purchase as a couple, and he will be truly happy with the piece that you buy.

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.

Copper Jewelry by John S. Brana

November 28, 2009 By jbrana 8 Comments

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.

Handcrafted Fine Jewelry by John S Brana Accessorizes Photoshoot by San Francisco Photographer Tony Maesto

April 19, 2009 By John S. Brana 6 Comments

Handcrafted geometric copper and sterling silver links from John S. Brana’s SOMA Collection accentuate the voluminous black lace layers of this high-neck, corset-back top from Revelation by M.E. When wearing an ensemble of all-black, or any other solid neutral color, create dimension and define a focal point with a dramatic statement necklace. This latest fashion trend of 2009 remains a classic look and may be updated each season with vibrant gemstones, geometric shapes, mix-matched metals, and varying textures. Browse through statement necklaces by John S. Brana to complete your look today!

Photographer – Tony Maesto

Wardrobe Stylist – Karri Ann Frerichs

Lace Top – Revelation by M.E.

Make Up – Rita Brown, Shu Uemura

Hair – William Soriano, W’s Salon – Santana Row

There’s Something About Fine Silver Jewelry

February 21, 2009 By John S. Brana 15 Comments

Fine jewelry silver is actually pure silver or 99% silver. Sterling silver, on the other hand, is an alloy of 92.5% silver mixed with 7.5% copper. Pure silver is usually too malleable to be used in jewelry, unless it is hammered or tumbled to "work harden" the silver to a point where it is just as strong as Sterling Silver. The advantage of Fine Silver, is that it does not tarnish, making care of fine silver jewelry effortless.

Silver and gold are the two most well-known, and popular, precious metals used in creating fine jewelry. Fine jewelry silver is less expensive than gold, which makes it more popular for that reason alone. Many people also prefer the color and look of silver over gold. Gold is typically thought of a warm, friendly color, while silver is more cool and distinguished.

Fine silver jewelry is crafted for both men and women. For men, it consists of cufflinks – the one fashion accessory women have never needed. Then there are bracelets, necklaces and pendants, and rings. As with any fine fashion accessory, many famous designers work in the fine silver jewelry field. Their creations are offered at many fine jewelry stores, although unfortunately the current economic climate has seen the closing down of many of those stores. Nowadays, many designers have websites that showcase their creations.

Fine silver jewelry has been crafted for over a thousand years, so in addition to new pieces, many fabulous classic and antique pieces are available for purchase…at antique stores or on Ebay, for example. It’s all a matter of finding a particular design or designs that you like. If you love fine silver jewelry, you’ll want to educate yourself as to its history. The evolution of the history of design and of the famous designers of all time make enjoyable reading, and will enable you to fully appreciate the craft that goes into the pieces you now enjoy.

Click Here To Get Your Hands On Fine Jewelry Silver Designs

Men’s Silver Jewelry – Definitely For Everyone

February 19, 2009 By John S. Brana 27 Comments

Some people like gold jewelry, and some people like silver. It all depends on if you like the warmth of gold, or the coolness of silver. If you’re a woman or a man, silver jewelry may very well be your thing. Silver and gold are the two main metals that have been used for jewelry since jewelry first started being worn!

Silver jewelry is actually made from "sterling silver", which is an alloy consisting of 92.5% silver with 7.5% copper. That’s because silver, like gold, is too soft in its normal state to be used – it is too easily deformed. Sterling silver is harder than pure silver. (When it comes to "hallmark quality" silverware, Britannia silver is used – that consists of 95.8% silver). Sterling silver is also sometimes "flashed." That means, its plated with a thin coat of .999 fine silver to give it a shiny finish.

When people think of jewelry, they usually associate jewelry being just for women, but for a man, silver jewelry has recently taken off. Silver bracelets, cufflinks, necklaces, and rings are all very popular. Although silver jewelry is made for both men and women, typically, jewelry aimed at men is more "masculine." Not only is it larger in diameter (to accommodate larger wrists and fingers), but also it’s more massive and sturdy.

Many elite jewelers craft designs for the male market. Hand-crafted designs are the most elegant and unique, while mass-market jewelry – made from lesser materials (usually stainless steel and plated brass) – are available as well. Guys want to wear unique silver jewelry for the same reasons that women do: to get noticed, to be confident, and to be unique.

Click Here To Get Your Hands On Lots Of Man Silver Jewelry

Handmade Gemstone Pendant Necklaces

14K Gold Filled Wire Wrapped Pendant with Amethyst

The Forefront of Today’s Fashion – Gemstone Pendant Necklaces

Add A Flash of Color to Any Outfit with Gemstone Pendant Necklaces

14K Gold Filled Wire Wrapped Pendant with Green Gold Quartz

Artisan Handmade Gemstone Pendant Necklaces

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Shopping for Handmade Jewelry

Handmade Jewelry – Quality is #1

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Chainmail Jewelry

Sterling Silver Chainmail Necklace with Serpentine

Chainmail Jewelry – From Casual to Formal Wear

Chainmail Jewelry – A Diverse Design Style

Traditional Chainmail Earrings with Pearls - 14K Gold Filled

Basic Chainmail Jewelry Designs

Unique Chainmail Jewelry Sets

Recommended Reading

John S Brana – Handmade Designer Jewelry – Accessorizes Photo Shoot by San Francisco Photographer Rachel Schwarz

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Mens Designer Jewelry – Choosing Jewelry for Your Man

Mens Jewelry – Things to Consider

Personality and Sense of Style is Key When Selecting Mens Jewelry

Mens Jewelry Fashion Trends

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Metalsmithing 101 – The Jewelers Toolbox

Techniques of Master Jewelers

Basic Jewelers Tools

Piercing with a Jewelers Saw

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Copper Jewelry by John S. Brana

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Handcrafted Fine Jewelry by John S Brana Accessorizes Photoshoot by San Francisco Photographer Tony Maesto

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New Products – Handcrafted Designer Jewelry by John S. Brana

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14K Gold Filled Wire Wrapped Pendant with Green Gold Quartz Artisan Handmade Gemstone Pendant Necklaces

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Handmade Jewelry – Quality is #1

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Sterling Silver Chainmail Necklace with Serpentine Chainmail Jewelry – From Casual to Formal Wear

Chainmail Jewelry – A Diverse Design Style

Traditional Chainmail Earrings with Pearls - 14K Gold Filled Basic Chainmail Jewelry Designs

Unique Chainmail Jewelry Sets

Recommended Reading

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Mens Jewelry – Things to Consider

Personality and Sense of Style is Key When Selecting Mens Jewelry

Mens Jewelry Fashion Trends

Recommended Reading

Techniques of Master Jewelers

Basic Jewelers Tools

Piercing with a Jewelers Saw

Recommended Reading

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Become My Fan on Facebook and Receive Up to 35% Off Featured Jewelry!

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Handcrafted Jewelry

14K Gold Filled Wire Wrapped Pendant with Amethyst

The Forefront of Today’s Fashion – Gemstone Pendant Necklaces

14K Gold Filled Wire Wrapped Pendant with Green Gold Quartz

Artisan Handmade Gemstone Pendant Necklaces

Sterling Silver Chainmail Necklace with Serpentine

Chainmail Jewelry – From Casual to Formal Wear

Traditional Chainmail Earrings with Pearls - 14K Gold Filled

Basic Chainmail Jewelry Designs