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 Bigger Better? When Bold Jewelry is Best

Aluminum Lily Pad Earrings and Pendant by John S. Brana Bold Jewelry

Aluminum Lily Pad Earrings and Pendant by John S. Brana

Jazz Up a Simple Outfit with Bold Jewelry

Big, bold jewelry isn’t for everyone, and it certainly isn’t for everyday wear but sometimes a bit of bling can be just what the fashion doctor ordered to jazz up a simple outfit and take it to a whole new level. The Little Black Dress is a perfect example. Simple, monochrome clothes are a blank canvas that you can easily splash vibrant colors and large designs onto without clashing or appearing too brash.

Likewise, a formal pants and shirt combo can be brought to life with a larger than life necklace, stunning focal pendant or layers of bangles.

Don’t Overload Two Areas Close Together with Bold Jewelry

Professional make up artists have a rule that the focus should be either on the eyes or the mouth for the greatest effect. Likewise, when accessorizing with bold jewelry you shouldn’t overload two areas that are close together. Chandelier earrings paired with a multi-strand necklace can look fussy, while wearing giant cocktail rings with bulky, beaded bracelets runs the risk of you looking like a toddler who raided their mom’s jewelry box.

The key to wearing bold jewelry with style is to pick a few key pieces and showcase them, rather than making them compete against each other
for attention.

Keep Genres Similar with Bold Jewelry

When choosing large pieces of jewelry make sure that you choose designs that will work well with your overall look. Avoid pairing large gemstones with pearls, or mixing jewelry genres such as boho beaded strands with cast designs with faceted gems and polished metals.

Don’t be scared to experiment – dressing up with bold jewelry can be fun!

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Handcrafted Jewelry Designer John S Brana Talks About His Monterey Collection

Karri Ann Frerichs, PR Director of Altitude Promotions interviews San Francisco jewelry designer John S. Brana backstage at “Bella Bikini Fashion Show” by Charleston Pierce at Temple nightclub. Rich hues of the softest Italian mesh metal ribbon is embellished with precious and semi-precious stones or pearls and is available by the piece or in sets of over 30 different colors. John also describes his process of anticlastic metal raising that he uses to produce beautiful one-of-a-kind Sterling Silver, Copper, and 14K and 18K Gold Cuffs and Earrings.

Click here to view the Monterey Collection

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July’s Zodiac Gemstones – Handcrafted Fine Jewelry by John S. Brana

 

 

Keishi Pearl NecklaceHappy Birthday July! 

Cancer, June 22nd through July 21st, is a water sign, along with Pisces and Scorpio, and just like the ocean tides, Cancers are ruled by the moon. This beautiful tidal polarity is best celebrated through each of Cancer’s birthstones, the pearl and moonstone. Both gems emit a unique and enchanting shimmer as the pearl glows in its soft iridescence and the moonstone captures and refracts incident light.

 What better way to celebrate the essence of Cancer than with this stunning creation from John S. Brana’s Seacliff Collection. The dramatic display of Keishi pearls, moonstones, crystals and sea glass softened by the feminine hues of lavender captures the emotional and loving characteristics of Cancer. 

Come full circle to your tidal water roots by completing the look with a playful sea creature ring cast in sterling silver, such as the starfish, anemone or hidden pearl. Enjoy your month and take pleasure in life’s beautiful amenities!

 

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John S. Brana Handmade Jewelry Accessorizes Fashion Model 2008

Amber Citrine Crystal Quartz Necklace

Amber Citrine Crystal Quartz Necklace

Fashion Model 2008 – May 24, 2008 – San Francisco, CA – Veronica wears Crystal Quartz – Amber – Citrine Necklace from the Barbary Coast Collection.

Barbary Coast Garnet Earrings and Gemstone Necklace

Barbary Coast Garnet Earrings and Gemstone Necklace

Fashion Model 2008 – May 24, 2008 – San Francisco, CA – Quincy wears Garnet Wire Wrapped earrings
and
Pink Coral, Garnets, and Citrine necklace from the Barbary Coast Collection.

Barbary Coast Amber Gemstone Necklace

Barbary Coast Amber Gemstone Necklace

Fashion Model 2008 – May 24, 2008 – San Francisco, CA – Quincy wears Amber and Onyx necklace from the Barbary Coast Collection.

Chalk Turquoise Necklace from the Barbary Coast Collection

Chalk Turquoise Necklace from the Barbary Coast Collection

Fashion Model 2008 – May 24, 2008 – San Francisco, CA – Merissa wears a Green Chalk Turquoise necklace from the Barbary Coast Collection and Fine Silver Anticlastic earrings from the SoMa Collection.

Barbary Coast Freshwater Pearl Wire Spiral Earrings

Barbary Coast Freshwater Pearl Wire Spiral Earrings

Fashion Model 2008 – May 24, 2008 – San Francisco, CA – Liz wears a Spiral 14K Gold Filled earrings set with White Freshwater Pearls from the Barbary Coast Beaded Gemstone Collection.

Onyx and Crystal Quartz Necklace - Barbary Coast Collection

Onyx and Crystal Quartz Necklace - Barbary Coast Collection

Fashion Model 2008 – May 24, 2008 – San Francisco, CA – Ashley wears Fleur-de-lis Earrings set with faceted Onyx and a Gold Quartz, Citrine, and Onyx necklace from the Barbary Coast Beaded Gemstone Collection.

Amethyst Italian Mesh Metal Ribbon Necklace  from the Monterey Collection

Amethyst Italian Mesh Metal Ribbon Necklace from the Monterey Collection

Fashion Model 2008 – May 24, 2008 – San Francisco, CA – Sivan wears Purple Italian Mesh Metal Ribbon earrings and Amethyst Italian Mesh Metal Ribbon necklace from the Monterey Beaded Gemstone Collection.

Monterey Collection - Orange Italian Mesh Metal Ribbon Necklace

Monterey Collection - Orange Italian Mesh Metal Ribbon Necklace

Fashion Model 2008 – May 24, 2008 – San Francisco, CA – Fernanda wears Orange Italian Mesh Metal Ribbon earrings and necklace set with Carnelian from the Monterey Beaded Gemstone Collection.

Pacific Heights Citrine Gemstone Earrings

Pacific Heights Citrine Gemstone Earrings

Fashion Model 2008 – May 24, 2008 – San Francisco, CA – Quincy wears Teardrop Citrine Gemstone earrings from the Pacific Heights Collection.

Pacific Heights Wire Wrapped Gemstone Jewelry Collection

Pacific Heights Wire Wrapped Gemstone Jewelry Collection

Fashion Model 2008 – May 24, 2008 – San Francisco, CA – Fernanda wears a matching set of wire sculpted Citrine earrings, pendant, and ring from the Pacific Heights Collection.

Fold Formed Silver Earrings and Keishi Cornflake Pearl Necklace from the Sea Cliff Collection

Fold Formed Silver Earrings and Keishi Cornflake Pearl Necklace from the Sea Cliff Collection

Fashion Model 2008 – May 24, 2008 – San Francisco, CA – Sivan wears Fold Formed Fan Coral Fine Silver
earrings and Keishi Pearl necklace from the Sea Cliff Collection.

Sea Cliff Collection Pearl Necklace

Sea Cliff Collection Pearl Necklace

Fashion Model 2008 – May 24, 2008 – San Francisco, CA – Jenna wears a Mother of Pearl and Fine Silver necklace from the Sea Cliff Collection.

Nob Hill Filigree Jewelry Collection

Nob Hill Filigree Jewelry Collection

Fashion Model 2008 – May 24, 2008 – San Francisco, CA – Photographer Sarah Ross wears
Large Tear Drop Filigree earrings from the Nob Hill Collection and Hammered Fine Silver necklace from the
SoMa Collection.

Chalk Turquoise Necklace from the Barbary Coast Collection

Chalk Turquoise Necklace from the Barbary Coast Collection

Fashion Model 2008 – May 24, 2008 – San Francisco, CA – Merissa wears Fine Silver Anticlastic earrings from the SoMa Collection and a Green Chalk Turquoise necklace from the Barbary Coast Collection.

SoMa Hammered Silver Jewelry Collection

SoMa Hammered Silver Jewelry Collection

Fashion Model 2008 – May 24, 2008 – San Francisco, CA – Liz wears Brazilian Fire Agate
Hammered Fine Silver necklace and Hammered Fine Silver earrings from the
SoMa Collection.

Hammered Copper Jewelry - Fold Formed Copper Leaf Earrings - Fold Fomed Copper Cuff - Hammered Copper Neckwire with Brazilian Fire Agate Pendant

Hammered Copper Jewelry - Fold Formed Copper Leaf Earrings - Fold Fomed Copper Cuff - Hammered Copper Neckwire with Brazilian Fire Agate Pendant

Fashion Model 2008 – May 24, 2008 – San Francisco, CA – Liz wears Brazilian Fire Agate Copper Necklace, Copper Leaf Earrings, and Copper Fold Formed Bracelet from the Handmade Copper Jewelry Collection by John S. Brana.

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Carlyn Galerie – “Autumn Jewels” features John S. Brana – Distinctive Jewelry

Carlyn Galerie

September 13 – October 7, 2007 – Carlyn Galerie, (Dallas, TX) presents “Autumn Jewels”, a collection of jewelry for all tastes: Sterling Silver, Gold-filled, Glass, Semi-precious and Precious Stones, Pearls, and Mixed Metals. Along with twelve other artists, Carlyn Galerie is featuring selected pieces from my Monterey, Barbary Coast, Pacific Heights, and Sea Cliff collections.

Copper Unagi Bracelet

Tropical Garden Necklace - Barbary Coast collection

A portion of all jewelry sales during this exhibit will be donated to CERF (Craft Emergency Relief Fund). “Craft Emergency Relief Fund is committed to supporting the careers of craft artists throughout the United States. Through business and career-strengthening programs, emergency relief support, advocacy and research CERF helps professional craft artists strengthen and sustain their careers so that they can thrive and, thus, contribute to the quality of life in our communities.”

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A Special Offer for Mother’s Day – 20% Off

I would like to extend to you a first sale special and a wonderful opportunity to stock up on my one-of-a-kind couture jewelry at www.johnsbrana.com

All Shopping Cart items will be discounted (20%) in celebration of Mother’s Day. This special sale starts May 1 thru 13th and features 4 collections:Barbary Coast: Colorful and festive, these pieces are perfect for those who want to leave a lasting impression.

Sea Cliff: Perfect for Sea lovers with a fondness for pearls

SoMa: Sleek and contemporary, the ideal “basic” collection for everyone

Pacific Heights: Sheer opulence, bold and sophisticated. Many of these designs are regularly featured in local, national, and international magazines including JCK (Jewelers’ Circular Keystone), JQ (International Jewelry Quorum), Jewellery World Review, City Magazine, and 7×7 San Francisco Magazine.

Mother’s Day is less than two weeks away and supplies are limited, so act now!

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JQ International Jewelry Quorum features John S. Brana’s Hidden Pearl Ring – November/December 2006 Issue

International Jewelry Quorum Features John S. Brana - Distinctive Jewelry

JQ - International Jewelry Quorum

JQ – The International Jewelry Quorum – is currently featuring my Hidden Pearl Ring in”Pearls – The Quintessential Accessory,” an article by Deborah A. Yonick, in its November/December 2006 issue.

The article focuses on how pearls have diverged in two distinct directions – fashion and luxury. “The fashion direction plays with the versatile and chameleon qualities of pearls, with designers exploring fancy shapes and colors to the max, and mixing pearls with a variety of other materials” while “the luxury direction focuses on the glamour and voluptuousness of pearls, with big pearls or pearl clusters set in precious metals richly embedded in diamond and gem pave.”

John S. Brana’s “Hidden Pearl Ring” from the Sea Cliff Collection is featured on page 32 of the magazine. The Sea Cliff Collection features custom handcrafted unique pieces that are bold in scale and accented with dramatic sea creatures, unusually shaped beads, and precious and semi-precious gemstones. Because each piece in this line of marine-themed necklaces, rings, and brooches is fashioned from hand-selected elements, no two are alike. The result is striking jewelry that truly makes a splash. Click here to see more of the Sea Cliff Collection.

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A New Addition to the Sonoma Jewelry Collection – Merlot

Garnet 14K Gold Filled Chainmail Bracelet - Handmade Jewelry

Garnet 14K Gold Filled Chainmail Bracelet

Handmade Garnet 14K Gold Filled Chainmail Earrings

Garnet 14K Gold Filled Chainmail Earrings

Garnet 14K Gold Filled Chainmail Necklace  - Handmade Jewelry

Garnet 14K Gold Filled Chainmail Necklace

I just finished working on this complete set of handcrafted 14K Gold Filled Chainmail featuring three sizes of Garnets. This set, along with individual sets in Amber, Amethyst, Pearls, and Serpentine can be found on my portfolio site under the Sonoma CollectionHere are some interesting factoids on Garnets:

Color: Red, Pink, Green, Orange, Yellow, Brown, Black
Birthstone: January (Modern & Traditional), May (Alternate)
Anniversary: 2nd, 6th (Alternate)
Occurrence: Worldwide
Rarity: Common
Temperaments: Love, Courage to Live, Stamina
Healing: Garnet regenerates the body. It stimulates the metabolism. Treats spinal and cellular disorders, purifies and reenergizes the blood, heart, and lungs, and regenerates DNA.
Attributes: Transparent or translucent crystal, often small and faceted or larger opaque piece.
Psychological: Garnet sharpens your perceptions of yourself and other people. It dissolves ingrained behavior patterns that are no longer serving you and bypasses resistance of self-induced unconscious sabotage.
Mental: It helps you let go of useless or old or obsolete ideas.
Emotional: Garnet removes inhibitions and taboos. It opens up the heart and bestows self-confidence.

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The SoMa Collection

SoMan Women's Jewelry Collection

The SoMa Collection is sleek and contemporary with a surprising bohemian undercurrent. Hammered fine silver, copper, 14K gold filled, or 14K gold give the line a funky urban charm. Semi-precious gemstones, Swarovski Crystals, and pearls add pop to many pieces. The result is that each piece feels like a hidden treasure. This versatile line is as appropriate at swank nightspots as it is at trendy coffee shops. Matching sets available in earrings, necklaces, and bracelets.

Stay tuned for the launch of John S. Brana due out in mid-August.

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