Fashionable Lightweight Handmade Aluminum Jewelry

May 3, 2010 By jbrana 40 Comments

Aluminum Lily Pad Earrings

Handmade Aluminum Jewelry

If you favor the sheen and polish of sterling silver, but are wary about the rising cost, you’ll love the look of aluminum jewelry. Fashionable and lightweight, aluminum jewelry has increasingly grown in popularity because its wear demonstrates flair and stylishness while being easy on the budget. High style without the high cost; what could be better?

Fashionistas often choose aluminum jewelry as an alternative to silver for many reasons:

• Larger earrings made from sterling silver, platinum or white gold can feel heavy on your ears while earrings made from aluminum can be as large as you like without causing discomfort.
• Light-as-a feather aluminum bracelets can bring the bling without bringing the noise.
• Aluminum is a metal that can be easily dyed, stamped and shaped into nearly any form a creative designer can imagine and it does not require special care.
• It is also a non-reactive metal that is nickel-free which makes it an excellent choice for many women with a hypersensitivity to other metals.

In addition, there is no need to worry about tarnishing as it requires no polishing to keep it looking bright. Best of all, you won’t have to sacrifice high style while you’re watching your pennies. But don’t assume “affordable” signifies “cheap” when choosing this fun, durable and sleek alternative to sterling.

Hammered Aluminum Tear Drop Earrings

Stylish Aluminum Jewelry

John S. Brana offers an elegant line of aluminum jewelry among our coveted collections, including a hand-hammered aluminum bangle that carries the look of high fashion, as well as embossed, textured and hammered teardrop earrings that can be worn anywhere. Although the metal used may not be considered “precious”, the same artistic vision and creative talent goes into creating pieces of aluminum jewelry as it would into silver or gold designs.

Whether you’re attending an elegant luncheon, romantic dinner, or just hanging out with the girls, you can be comfortable, stylish and fashion forward in lightweight, designer aluminum jewelry.

Fleur de Lis Jewelry – A Touch of Class

April 14, 2010 By jbrana 32 Comments

Sterling Silver Fleur de Lis Earrings with Amethyst

Is there anything more elegant and tasteful than silver fleur de lis jewelry? The fleur de lis, a symbol that is well-known throughout the world, has a rich and varied history. Literally translated, fleur de lis means “lily flower” and its origin can be traced back to as early as the Middle Ages throughout Europe.

Over the centuries, the fleur de lis design has come to represent many things and has appeared in jewelry design for hundreds of years. Although it is most closely associated with French royalty, the list of countries where this delicate symbol can be found on coats of arms or flags includes Great Britain, Germany, Spain, Italy and Bosnia. In addition to its use as a royal symbol by various kings and monarchs, it has also been displayed on military uniforms and badges due its resemblance to the tip of a spear. Even today fleur de lis jewelry shows a sense of class.

This popular symbol was also often used in religious art as a representation of the Trinity or in some cases, as the Virgin Mary. As such, it can be found in many old English churches. The fleur de lis design can also be seen atop iron fences, originally intended to be not only decorative, but also to thwart intruders. The fleur de lis has come to be known as a symbol of grace and purity.

In modern times, the fleur de lis symbol is a popular design motif used in home décor and the fashion world, including makers of upscale handbags and jewelry. John S. Brana, a noted designer of fine jewelry uses the fleur de lis pattern in one of his many sought-after and distinctive sterling silver collections.

Fleur de lis jewelry offers a classic design with a timeless quality that never goes out of style.

SoMa Statement Cuff Collection

December 3, 2009 By jbrana 12 Comments

Karri Ann Frerichs introduces the SoMa Statement Cuff Collection by San Francisco jewelry designer John S. Brana during his trunk show at Bloomingdale’s – Stanford. These bold Sterling Silver and Copper cuffs come in a variety of anticlastic styles and textures including corrugated, texturized, chased, and hammered.

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

October 16, 2009 By jbrana 6 Comments

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 13^th 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.

InDesign Magazine – Unique Gemstone Rings by San Francisco jewelry designer John S. Brana

October 9, 2009 By jbrana 5 Comments

The Finer Things – Customer Types by Cindy Edelstein

InDesign Sept-Oct 2009 Haute Hippie Features Designer John S Brana

“Chunky yet whimsical natural designs bring to mind elfin spirits in the woods while simultaneously channeling the raw gem trend. Unique gemstones and obscure minerals that have a lot going on inside will resonate with our gal.”

Sterling silver and bronze rings from the Muir Woods collection with 23-carat Lepidochrosite cabochon, by John S.Brana, www.johnsbrana.com.

About the Author – Cindy Edelstein is the owner of Jeweler’s Resource Bureau, a niche marketing firm that offers the industry unique solutions for helping designers and retailers connect and profit together. Her newest brainstorm is www.JewelryDesignerFinder.com, the ultimate sourcing tool for retailers seeking designer collections and connections.

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

August 6, 2009 By jbrana 8 Comments

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.

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.

Jewelry Designer John S. Brana Talks About His Beaded Gemstone Collection Barbary Coast

June 5, 2009 By John S. Brana 5 Comments

San Francisco jewelry designer John S. Brana is interviewed by Karri Ann Frerichs, PR Director of Altitude Promotions backstage at "Bella Bikini Fashion Show" by Charleston Pierce at Temple nightclub. John talks about his festive statement jewelry collection Barbary Coast. 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, the Barbary Coast collection is perfect for those who choose to build an ensemble around their jewelry.

Click here to view the Barbary Coast Collection

Handcrafted Silver Jewelry – Meant to Last a Lifetime

March 28, 2009 By John S. Brana 3 Comments

Handcrafted Fine Silver Necklace with Chrysoprase Many 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

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