image: star Blum ring
Today only, 12% off Jewellery on all items marked by a little red boot (Santa's )
You might want to hurry up, most items are limited editions.
PLease click here to indulge
Delivery in gift box all around the world
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
ADVENT PROMOTION TODAY
Jewellery and Objects of Desire High end Jewelry in precious metals, for women with a great sense of Style and Fashion, created by French designer Kalicat, in her London based studio. Sterling silver and 18K gold with shimmering pearls and precious sparkly gems to complement your stunning beauty.
image: star Blum ring
Today only, 12% off Jewellery on all items marked by a little red boot (Santa's )
You might want to hurry up, most items are limited editions.
PLease click here to indulge
Delivery in gift box all around the world
image: star Blum ring
Today only, 12% off Jewellery on all items marked by a little red boot (Santa's )
You might want to hurry up, most items are limited editions.
PLease click here to indulge
Delivery in gift box all around the world
Monday, November 30, 2009
ADVENT CALENDAR on Dawanda
From November 24th, until 16th December,
Every day there will be a little surprise waiting for you in one of these lovingly handknit stockings,
12% off the category of the day, all sellers taking part will be indicated by a little red boot icon
dawanda will feature a different DaWanda main category (Fashion, Accessories etc.), where you can receive a 12% discount off the sale price in all participating shops - products in the promotion can be recognised by a little red stocking symbol on the listing. The reduced price will be calculated and displayed during the order process, and in your shopping basket.
to find out more about this promotion, click here
Every day there will be a little surprise waiting for you in one of these lovingly handknit stockings,
12% off the category of the day, all sellers taking part will be indicated by a little red boot icon
dawanda will feature a different DaWanda main category (Fashion, Accessories etc.), where you can receive a 12% discount off the sale price in all participating shops - products in the promotion can be recognised by a little red stocking symbol on the listing. The reduced price will be calculated and displayed during the order process, and in your shopping basket.
to find out more about this promotion, click here
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Celebrity gifting
My stacking Ludiques ring has been selected by Dawanda for celebrity gifts.
Check it out, next to miss Hepburn
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
little doodle
It's my Autumn cleaning spree, and I come across lots of little doodles in the corner of envelopes, bits of napkins...
Yes, i DO have a sketchpad as well :)
This is just something that happens when I am on the phone.
Yes, i DO have a sketchpad as well :)
This is just something that happens when I am on the phone.
Sunday, November 1, 2009
Citrine - a little selection
Curated by SimplySuzula
items available at http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=32457561
horse
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Sapphire through History and Myths
• The word sapphire originated from the Green word “sappheiros”, meaning blue. Because of this, during much of the ancient world all blue gemstones were referred to as sapphires, even if they were technically different gems. The irony is that, as mentioned above, sapphires come in colors other than blue. Sapphires are actually the same mineral as rubies; whenever the stone appears in a red color it is known as a ruby and when corundum is any other color it is a sapphire. Blue sapphires have been long been favored by royalty as a symbol of wisdom, virtue and holiness, and many rulers have worn sapphire necklaces or pendants as a protection from harm. Supposedly the Ten Commandment tablets were actually made of sapphire, likely due to the sapphire’s role throughout history as a symbol of virtue and holiness.
• Ancient Persians poetically believed that the earth rested on a large sapphire, and that the skies reflected the brilliant blue color of the gemstone. The sentiment that sapphires were symbolic of the heavens runs through many cultures in history, and even today many people feel that sapphires are a representation of heaven.
• When Prince Charles proposed to Princess Diana he used a ring with sapphires, boosting the gemstone’s popularity in engagement rings. Even today many engagement rings utilize sapphires, whether sapphires are flanking a diamond center stone, the center stone is a blue sapphire or the center stone is a clear sapphire used to mimic the appearance of a diamond.
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Discover Renaissance
Renaissance M. Austin is multi talented. She has an amazing sense of style and lovely (Blue) hair ans started crochet at a young age.
Reminds me of someone ...
She has kindly accepted to answer some questions for us.
- How did you get started ?
My cro
chet beginnings started when I was 8 years old. My grandmother taught me the beautiful craft and from then, I took it and ran with it. I crocheted throughout my schools, doing it because I simply loved it. I didn't crochet much throughout my high school years. But in the year 2000 I picked up the crochet hook again when I was in a store called J.Crew and I saw these crocheted head ties that sort of looked like bonnets and I said to myself, "I can make this!". From that point on I started making head ties and selling them at different fairs and marketplaces. That was my true entrance into the world of crafting. It's amazing how I went from that one product into everything I have now.
- Where are you from?
I am from Los Angeles although I am often thought to be from the South, Jamaica, Nigeria, or London. I think the London thing has to do with how I dress! lol.
- Are your creations limited editions or unique?
Some items are definitely limited. There are a few designs that I've just stop making, not for any particular reason. I believe I am always thing of something new and fresh to make while leaving the old behind. Majority of my designs I would say are unique as well.
- How long have you been doing it?
I've been running my business since 2000. It's been an awesome journey.
- Are you a professional artist or is this a hobby?
Definitely a professional artist. All that I do is for the purpose of my life. My art, breathing, and living is all for me to share with others. I know that I am hear to inspire through what I do!
- What inspires you?
Speaking of inspiration. Beauty really, really inspires me. Beauty in a certain fiber yarn, in photography, in a painting, in music, the pure and kind hearts of people, beautiful women are all very inspiring. Fashion magazine are wonderfully inspiring and Love above all is highly inspiring, especially being in and out of love...
- What is your favorite piece (that you still have for sale) and why?
I would say the body knits because I truly love them, but I would have to be final with the wooden bracelets. I am a huge fan of wood, especially the chunky ones. I love the way they look on my arms when I stack them and I love how they make me feel. I am truly one with natural materials like wood. I feel smooth and bold just like them.
- How do you promote your work?
I promote mostly on etsy by staying visual as much as I can in the treasuries, chat rooms, virtual labs, the forums, and The Storque. Second is my blog. I try to filter everything through my blog as much as possible because it is home base really. That is where the videos, article, the fun, and life of my handmade brand happen. Thirdly I use twitter. I really like being involved with multiple conversations. I tweet everything that I do from my blog and from etsy. I love myspace as well. Myspace comments are a really great tool.
- Where are you showing your work?
Right now I am showing my work in Upland at the 2nd Street marketplace. It's a weekly marketplace.
- What is your favorite material?
Definitely wood and cotton yarn. I really love cotton. It is very cool in the summer.
- favorite food ?
I really love Japanese cuisine with a passion. Then next, I love veggies and fruits. I am a very simple eater. I am not very small, but I don't eat much. I just love making my own smoothies and snaking on nuts and dry healthy snack.
- What advice you wish someone had told you when you started?
Hmmm... this is a good one. I wish that I had know to research more. R&D are the most important element to a business. More research in the beginning would have been mor
e helpful to me.
- Do you have any advice for fellow artists?
Sure! First believe in yourself and your craft. Negativity gets you nowhere. You have to have faith and be positive and see things the way you visualize them and not the way that they really are. Research, research, research everything! I can't stress that enough. Know your brand, other brands, your competition, and all of the marketing and promoting outlets and objectives. Also remember that when you open an etsy shop, you become a business, which means sales aren't just going to happen. You have to go out and get those sales by being visual. Lastly, it is hard work! Know that from the start and take the best photos you can take. I happened to already be a photographer. Study photography as much as you can. It is key to selling online.
- Anything else you'd like to add?
Business should be unselfish. When you are unselfish you get more in return. It's the principle of giving. I really believe in it. Have masterful knowledge about your craft. When I am at craft shows, people's faces just light up when I start showing them my etsy shop on my laptop and talking about yarn and different fibers. They can see that I am passionate and knowledgeable about what I do and it puts a smile on their faces!
- Do you make anything else that you keep just for you?
Yes, I do now. At first I would never make anything for myself, but I had to remember that I am the walking advertisement of my brand. So I make sure that I make a few things for myself to wear. I a couple of my own body knits and crocheted skirts, hats, and head pieces...
- Her site - raghousenternational.etsy.com
- Her blog - http://artfulchatterbyrenaissance.blogspot.com/
Reminds me of someone ...
She has kindly accepted to answer some questions for us.
- How did you get started ?
My cro
chet beginnings started when I was 8 years old. My grandmother taught me the beautiful craft and from then, I took it and ran with it. I crocheted throughout my schools, doing it because I simply loved it. I didn't crochet much throughout my high school years. But in the year 2000 I picked up the crochet hook again when I was in a store called J.Crew and I saw these crocheted head ties that sort of looked like bonnets and I said to myself, "I can make this!". From that point on I started making head ties and selling them at different fairs and marketplaces. That was my true entrance into the world of crafting. It's amazing how I went from that one product into everything I have now.- Where are you from?
I am from Los Angeles although I am often thought to be from the South, Jamaica, Nigeria, or London. I think the London thing has to do with how I dress! lol.
- Are your creations limited editions or unique?
Some items are definitely limited. There are a few designs that I've just stop making, not for any particular reason. I believe I am always thing of something new and fresh to make while leaving the old behind. Majority of my designs I would say are unique as well.
- How long have you been doing it?
I've been running my business since 2000. It's been an awesome journey.
- Are you a professional artist or is this a hobby?
Definitely a professional artist. All that I do is for the purpose of my life. My art, breathing, and living is all for me to share with others. I know that I am hear to inspire through what I do!
- What inspires you?
Speaking of inspiration. Beauty really, really inspires me. Beauty in a certain fiber yarn, in photography, in a painting, in music, the pure and kind hearts of people, beautiful women are all very inspiring. Fashion magazine are wonderfully inspiring and Love above all is highly inspiring, especially being in and out of love...
- What is your favorite piece (that you still have for sale) and why?
I would say the body knits because I truly love them, but I would have to be final with the wooden bracelets. I am a huge fan of wood, especially the chunky ones. I love the way they look on my arms when I stack them and I love how they make me feel. I am truly one with natural materials like wood. I feel smooth and bold just like them.
- How do you promote your work?
I promote mostly on etsy by staying visual as much as I can in the treasuries, chat rooms, virtual labs, the forums, and The Storque. Second is my blog. I try to filter everything through my blog as much as possible because it is home base really. That is where the videos, article, the fun, and life of my handmade brand happen. Thirdly I use twitter. I really like being involved with multiple conversations. I tweet everything that I do from my blog and from etsy. I love myspace as well. Myspace comments are a really great tool.
- Where are you showing your work?
Right now I am showing my work in Upland at the 2nd Street marketplace. It's a weekly marketplace.
- What is your favorite material?
Definitely wood and cotton yarn. I really love cotton. It is very cool in the summer.
- favorite food ?
I really love Japanese cuisine with a passion. Then next, I love veggies and fruits. I am a very simple eater. I am not very small, but I don't eat much. I just love making my own smoothies and snaking on nuts and dry healthy snack.
- What advice you wish someone had told you when you started?
Hmmm... this is a good one. I wish that I had know to research more. R&D are the most important element to a business. More research in the beginning would have been mor
e helpful to me.- Do you have any advice for fellow artists?
Sure! First believe in yourself and your craft. Negativity gets you nowhere. You have to have faith and be positive and see things the way you visualize them and not the way that they really are. Research, research, research everything! I can't stress that enough. Know your brand, other brands, your competition, and all of the marketing and promoting outlets and objectives. Also remember that when you open an etsy shop, you become a business, which means sales aren't just going to happen. You have to go out and get those sales by being visual. Lastly, it is hard work! Know that from the start and take the best photos you can take. I happened to already be a photographer. Study photography as much as you can. It is key to selling online.
- Anything else you'd like to add?
Business should be unselfish. When you are unselfish you get more in return. It's the principle of giving. I really believe in it. Have masterful knowledge about your craft. When I am at craft shows, people's faces just light up when I start showing them my etsy shop on my laptop and talking about yarn and different fibers. They can see that I am passionate and knowledgeable about what I do and it puts a smile on their faces!
- Do you make anything else that you keep just for you?
Yes, I do now. At first I would never make anything for myself, but I had to remember that I am the walking advertisement of my brand. So I make sure that I make a few things for myself to wear. I a couple of my own body knits and crocheted skirts, hats, and head pieces...
- Her site - raghousenternational.etsy.com
- Her blog - http://artfulchatterbyrenaissance.blogspot.com/
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
15% off Jewelry - Dawanda wall fall sale
The DaWanda "Wall Fall Sale" will run from Monday 19.10 at 12:00 CEST until Sunday, 25.10 at 23:59 CET.
In all participating shops (where products will be marked with a little flag icon), in which you are shopping for the first time, you will receive a 15% Discount off the original price during the sale period! The reduced price will be calculated and displayed during the order process, and in your shopping basket. Please note - the discount will only apply for your first purchase, so it's best to pack a few things into your shopping basket at once!
I am participating, you will find my lovely jewelry products on http://kalicat.dawanda.com
Have you told your friends about the Wall Fall Sale yet? New users receive a 15% discount on their first purchase in all participating shops!
Jewelry sale - October - 15%% off
The DaWanda "Wall Fall Sale" will run from Monday 19.10 at 12:00 CEST until Sunday, 25.10 at 23:59 CET.
In all participating shops (where products will be marked with a little flag icon), in which you are shopping for the first time, you will receive a 15% Discount off the original price during the sale period! The reduced price will be calculated and displayed during the order process, and in your shopping basket. Please note - the discount will only apply for your first purchase, so it's best to pack a few things into your shopping basket at once!
I am participating, you will find my lovely jewelry products on http://kalicat.dawanda.com
Have you told your friends about the Wall Fall Sale yet? New users receive a 15% discount on their first purchase in all participating shops!
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
October Birthstone Opal
the October Birthstone is the Opal.
It comes in many shimmering colors, and also in bright orange = the fire opal, light pink, blue andean opal, "black" opal...
Opal is a mineraloid gel which is deposited at a relatively low temperature and may occur in the fissures of almost any kind of rock, being most commonly found with limonite, sandstone, rhyolite, marl and basalt.
The Opal derives its name from the Latin word "opalus," meaning precious jewel. Prized for its unique ability to refract and reflect specific wavelengths of light, the Opal was called "Cupid Paederos" by the Romans, meaning a child beautiful as love. One legendary explanation for this gemstone's origin is that it fell from heaven in a flash of fiery lightning.
It comes in many shimmering colors, and also in bright orange = the fire opal, light pink, blue andean opal, "black" opal...
Opal is a mineraloid gel which is deposited at a relatively low temperature and may occur in the fissures of almost any kind of rock, being most commonly found with limonite, sandstone, rhyolite, marl and basalt.
The Opal derives its name from the Latin word "opalus," meaning precious jewel. Prized for its unique ability to refract and reflect specific wavelengths of light, the Opal was called "Cupid Paederos" by the Romans, meaning a child beautiful as love. One legendary explanation for this gemstone's origin is that it fell from heaven in a flash of fiery lightning.
Thursday, October 8, 2009
focus on magnets
this month, a very special offer from a talented Spanish illustrator
OCTOBER HAPPY DAYS (From Thursday 1 to Sunday 11st):
2x1: Buy 1 item of my shop, get 1 free (of equal or lesser value). In the note to seller let me know your selected free item and the code "FF2x1".
^_^
Luisa says
"I love draw. Inspiration emerges from my two main hobbies: cinema and fashion. I enjoy creating characters who are the protagonists of my little stories."
OCTOBER HAPPY DAYS (From Thursday 1 to Sunday 11st):
2x1: Buy 1 item of my shop, get 1 free (of equal or lesser value). In the note to seller let me know your selected free item and the code "FF2x1".
^_^
Luisa says
"I love draw. Inspiration emerges from my two main hobbies: cinema and fashion. I enjoy creating characters who are the protagonists of my little stories."
Sunday, September 27, 2009
Do you know Barbara Chandler?
Early in July, I have met Barbara Chandler.
She is a Journalist, who in addition to being lovely, is multitalented and an altruit !
She came to Hidden Art to give us tips about contacting the media.
A very useful talk, thank you :)
Here is a quick little bio : journo photographer wife mum granny; writes 4 Lndn Eveng Stndrd, Hmes & Gdns & more; sells hand-made photo cds & mounted prints; exhibitsHer passion is photography and she has a wonderful eye, I lov eher black and white phtos of people, and teh way she captures little moments of life.
Here are a few photos of her work for you to peruse, and maybe fall in love with
Thank you for talking about me :)
To see more photos taken by Barbara, and learn about her exhibitions, please visit her website.
Friday, September 18, 2009
latest Press coverage - Johnny Depp
Recent coverage, in German,
from http://blog.dawanda.com/2009/09/18/oh-johnny-depp/
How exciting!
Thursday, September 17, 2009
September Gemstone - Sapphire
Sapphires are members of the corundum family of minerals. They exist in nearly every color except red, as red corundum is called ruby.
One of the hardest minerals, sapphires are durable gemstones that have been in demand since ancient times.
© Catherine Marche - 18K white gold ring with sapphires and diamonds
Sapphire Hardness
• 9 on the Mohs' scale; compare to diamonds at 10 and turquoise at 5-6.
Sapphire Colors
• Cornflower blue is the most popular sapphire color, but all shades of blue are found
• Sapphires exist in many other colors, including yellow, colorless white, black, white, orange, pink, purple and brown
• A variety of orangish-pink sapphire is called padparadsha, which means "lotus flower."
Sapphire Treatments
• Heat treatment is commonly used to deepen sapphire color and improve clarity
Where Sapphires Are Found
• Quality sapphires are found in Ceylon, Thailand, Australia, India, Burma, Africa, and Brazil.
Unusual Sapphires
• Some sapphires are cut into cabochons (smooth domes) and produce a star with six rays that stretch across the sapphire's surface.
Synthetic Sapphires
• Like many other popular gemstones, sapphires can be created in a laboratory. Some synthetic sapphires are difficult to distinguish from gemstones formed in nature.
One of the hardest minerals, sapphires are durable gemstones that have been in demand since ancient times.
© Catherine Marche - 18K white gold ring with sapphires and diamonds
Sapphire Hardness
• 9 on the Mohs' scale; compare to diamonds at 10 and turquoise at 5-6.
Sapphire Colors
• Cornflower blue is the most popular sapphire color, but all shades of blue are found
• Sapphires exist in many other colors, including yellow, colorless white, black, white, orange, pink, purple and brown
• A variety of orangish-pink sapphire is called padparadsha, which means "lotus flower."
Sapphire Treatments
• Heat treatment is commonly used to deepen sapphire color and improve clarity
Where Sapphires Are Found
• Quality sapphires are found in Ceylon, Thailand, Australia, India, Burma, Africa, and Brazil.
Unusual Sapphires
• Some sapphires are cut into cabochons (smooth domes) and produce a star with six rays that stretch across the sapphire's surface.
Synthetic Sapphires
• Like many other popular gemstones, sapphires can be created in a laboratory. Some synthetic sapphires are difficult to distinguish from gemstones formed in nature.
Sunday, September 13, 2009
Going native
I just noticed a wonderful little native necklace, all made by hand by Pippit, the designer of Giftbearer , contemporary tribal style jewellery
Here is what she says about the piece:
This necklace is from my Hollowform Broken Hearts (TM) line.
The strand is 20" long, and the heart centerpiece including fringe is 2 3/4" long.
These symbolize regeneration in the face of adversity.
The broken heart has a dangle (in this case a pearl and coral bead) inside like a seed growing or egg hatching in the void, springing forth new life. In these pieces there are always an odd number of dangles at the bottom symbolizing that extra option you didn't know existed. They have an amulet-like feel about them.
In this one there are gorgeously carved bone beads (the quality of which I have never been able to find again after my supplier stopped being able to obtain them), Turquoise, Aquamarine, and Coral, and sterling spacers in-between.
Bali sterling silver hooks in the front which fasten on either side of the heart make it easy to put on or take off.
If you're really looking for something special with deeper meaning I'm sure you will be more than satisfied. Although the heart component is casted from a mold I made, each of these necklaces is one-of-a-kind.
I have been told that people have been deeply affected by them and that they spoke to them on a deep level.
Anyone you give this to as a gift will treasure this piece and will definitely know that you took special care to pick out something they'd love.
This wonderful creation is available for sale on etsy
Here is what she says about the piece:
This necklace is from my Hollowform Broken Hearts (TM) line.
The strand is 20" long, and the heart centerpiece including fringe is 2 3/4" long.
These symbolize regeneration in the face of adversity.
The broken heart has a dangle (in this case a pearl and coral bead) inside like a seed growing or egg hatching in the void, springing forth new life. In these pieces there are always an odd number of dangles at the bottom symbolizing that extra option you didn't know existed. They have an amulet-like feel about them.
In this one there are gorgeously carved bone beads (the quality of which I have never been able to find again after my supplier stopped being able to obtain them), Turquoise, Aquamarine, and Coral, and sterling spacers in-between.
Bali sterling silver hooks in the front which fasten on either side of the heart make it easy to put on or take off.
If you're really looking for something special with deeper meaning I'm sure you will be more than satisfied. Although the heart component is casted from a mold I made, each of these necklaces is one-of-a-kind.
I have been told that people have been deeply affected by them and that they spoke to them on a deep level.
Anyone you give this to as a gift will treasure this piece and will definitely know that you took special care to pick out something they'd love.
This wonderful creation is available for sale on etsy
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Cuteable, diamonds and husbands
a little mention in Cuteable, A daily blog with posts on cute apparel, jewelry, toys, home decor and more!
Thursday, August 20, 2009
Nifty Knits, a beautiful knitting obsession
Let me introduce you to Heather who has accepted to answer a few questions to let you discover her talent - How did you get started ?
I learnt to knit as a girl, but got started again when I was off sick from my day job.
- Where are you from?
UK, in the beautiful Kent countryside of southern England.
- Are your creations limited editions or unique?
Well – they’re unique in the sense that I make my own patterns, but I keep knitting them as long as people want them.
- How long have you been doing it?
My Etsy shop opened in April 2008, but I’d been selling for a year or so on ebay before that.
- Are you a professional artist or is this a hobby?
It’s certainly not just a hobby, but I don’t earn enough from knitting to eat just yet!
- What inspires you?
Nature. Most of my best ideas come whilst walking in the countryside, though clearly the meerkats and trekkies owe more than a bit to my TV habit!
- What is your favorite piece (that you still have for sale) and why?
I have to say the meerkats (otherwise their feelings will be hurt) but I really love my daffodils. I was really pleased with how they turned out – and I’m no good with real potplants. Even I can’t kill these!
- How do you promote your work?
I’m a member of EtsyTreasuryTeam, we promote each other through treasuries which is great fun. I blog, and am pretty much obsessed with Twitter.
- What is your favorite material?
I enjoy working with fancy yarns but to be honest I prefer good old fashioned acrylic. It’s really sturdy so it works well for toys and models, and I can get it in lots of bright colours.
- favorite food ?
bacon, nice and crispy from the grill.
- What advice you wish someone had told you when you started?
I wish I’d known from the start how important it is to have good photos, and not to underprice my time and skill.
- Do you have any advice for fellow artists?
Don’t expect to be able to fill your shop and sit back! It’s up to you to get people through the virtual door – good luck!
Thank you Heather, for more about her, visit
her websites nifty knits and http://www.blogger.com/www.niftyknits.folksy.com and blog Follow her on Twitter
I learnt to knit as a girl, but got started again when I was off sick from my day job.
- Where are you from?
UK, in the beautiful Kent countryside of southern England.
- Are your creations limited editions or unique?
Well – they’re unique in the sense that I make my own patterns, but I keep knitting them as long as people want them.
- How long have you been doing it?
My Etsy shop opened in April 2008, but I’d been selling for a year or so on ebay before that.
- Are you a professional artist or is this a hobby?
It’s certainly not just a hobby, but I don’t earn enough from knitting to eat just yet!
- What inspires you?
Nature. Most of my best ideas come whilst walking in the countryside, though clearly the meerkats and trekkies owe more than a bit to my TV habit!
| kalicat.etsy.com |
- What is your favorite piece (that you still have for sale) and why?
I have to say the meerkats (otherwise their feelings will be hurt) but I really love my daffodils. I was really pleased with how they turned out – and I’m no good with real potplants. Even I can’t kill these!
- How do you promote your work?
I’m a member of EtsyTreasuryTeam, we promote each other through treasuries which is great fun. I blog, and am pretty much obsessed with Twitter.
- What is your favorite material?
I enjoy working with fancy yarns but to be honest I prefer good old fashioned acrylic. It’s really sturdy so it works well for toys and models, and I can get it in lots of bright colours.
- favorite food ?
bacon, nice and crispy from the grill.
- What advice you wish someone had told you when you started?
I wish I’d known from the start how important it is to have good photos, and not to underprice my time and skill.
- Do you have any advice for fellow artists?
Don’t expect to be able to fill your shop and sit back! It’s up to you to get people through the virtual door – good luck!
Thank you Heather, for more about her, visit
her websites nifty knits and http://www.blogger.com/www.niftyknits.folksy.com and blog Follow her on Twitter
Saturday, August 15, 2009
Sources of peridot gemstone
Peridot, also called Chrysolite and Olivine.
The most beautiful stones come from the border area between Pakistan and Afghanistan.
However, the peridot as a gemstone also exists in Myanmar, China, the USA, Africa and Australia.
Stones from East Burma, now known as Myanmar, have a vivid light green and fine inclusions with a silky shine to them. Peridot from Arizona, often used in native Indian jewellery, exhibits golden and browns tones.
The most beautiful stones come from the border area between Pakistan and Afghanistan.
However, the peridot as a gemstone also exists in Myanmar, China, the USA, Africa and Australia.
Stones from East Burma, now known as Myanmar, have a vivid light green and fine inclusions with a silky shine to them. Peridot from Arizona, often used in native Indian jewellery, exhibits golden and browns tones.
Monday, August 10, 2009
Peridot - beliefs
Peridot gems are believed to have the power to drive away evil spirits, a power enhanced when the stone is set in gold.
Peridot gemstones are believed to be receptive and promote protection, health, wealth and sleep.
Peridot is worn or carried for general healing purposes. Its deep green hue suggests its use in wealth - attracting spells
Peridot is the birthstone for the zodiac sign of Leo, and the month of August.
Peridot gemstones are believed to be receptive and promote protection, health, wealth and sleep.
Peridot is worn or carried for general healing purposes. Its deep green hue suggests its use in wealth - attracting spells
Peridot is the birthstone for the zodiac sign of Leo, and the month of August.
Sunday, August 2, 2009
Peridot - August Gemstone
This gemstone was once called the "gem of the sun,"
Because the iron which creates the color is an integral part of its structure, it is found only in green, ranging from a summery light yellowish green to a dark
bottle green
It has already been used in Antiquity; it can be found in Egyptian jewellery from the early 2nd millennium B.C.. The stones used at that time came from a deposit on a small volcanic island in the Red Sea, some 45 miles off the Egyptian coast at Aswan
The ancient Romans too were fond of this gemstone and esteemed its radiant green shine, giving it the name of "emerald of the evening'.
Peridot was also used to decorate medieval churches, maybe carried back to Europe by the Crusaders. Large peridots, more than 200 carats in size, adorn the shrine of the three magi at the Cologne Cathedral
The peridot is cut in accordance with its crystal shape, mostly faceted or in classical table cuts, or round, antique, as an octahedron or oval. Smaller crystals are cut into standardised series stones, larger ones into imaginative one-offs. Cabochons are made if the material contains more inclusions, for the domed cut brings out the fine silky shine of the inclusions to their best.
Because the iron which creates the color is an integral part of its structure, it is found only in green, ranging from a summery light yellowish green to a dark
bottle green
It has already been used in Antiquity; it can be found in Egyptian jewellery from the early 2nd millennium B.C.. The stones used at that time came from a deposit on a small volcanic island in the Red Sea, some 45 miles off the Egyptian coast at Aswan
The ancient Romans too were fond of this gemstone and esteemed its radiant green shine, giving it the name of "emerald of the evening'.
Peridot was also used to decorate medieval churches, maybe carried back to Europe by the Crusaders. Large peridots, more than 200 carats in size, adorn the shrine of the three magi at the Cologne Cathedral
The peridot is cut in accordance with its crystal shape, mostly faceted or in classical table cuts, or round, antique, as an octahedron or oval. Smaller crystals are cut into standardised series stones, larger ones into imaginative one-offs. Cabochons are made if the material contains more inclusions, for the domed cut brings out the fine silky shine of the inclusions to their best.
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Dawanda spotlight
Yipee, I have been chosen as designer of the week for the Dawanda homepage
Here is a little image of the feature...
New interview coming soon
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Saturday, July 25, 2009
a new feature, a Pretty rock
One on my peridot rings has just been featured on A Pretty Rock,
in an article on picking the right gemstone for birthstone jewelry.
Peridot , a symbol of success, dignity & protection
Monday, July 20, 2009
Ruby - July Gemstone
Ruby is a gemstone in the Corundum family.
It exhibits a range of red colors, and the most desired color is pigeon’s blood (pure red with a hint of blue).
On Mohs’ scale of hardness, ruby is 9, which is very hard.
It has a strong luster, like diamonds
Sources of this gemstone include Burma (Myanmar), Thailand, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Afghanistan, Cambodia, Kenya, Madagascar, and Vietnam.
FREE giveaway
Just noticed you can win a free pair of earrings until tonight...
just go to the Satin Doll July Blog Giveaway: Sassy Earrings,
to enter the competition
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Etsy :: Light Heather Grey Beret with Black and White Swirl buttons
a very nice beret... I know, the summer is here, but the French in me just could not resist...
Etsy :: Light Heather Grey Beret with Black and White Swirl buttons
Shared via AddThis
Etsy :: Light Heather Grey Beret with Black and White Swirl buttons
Shared via AddThis
Monday, July 13, 2009
Kathryn Partington
Just discovered a new artist today,
x
very beautiful image of her jewellery, which seems made with textiles
x
very beautiful image of her jewellery, which seems made with textiles
Friday, July 10, 2009
Lavish in red
A couple of days ago, inpired by a friend going to the Opera and wearing a nice crushed velvet burgundy dress, I started to play around with some luscious red jade briolettes, and dared marrying them with purple
I added a beautiful waterfall of faceted amethysts and a little ruby.
They turned out looking quite striking
Ideal for a lovely cocktail party or a glamourous evening with the stars
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
10x: Living Through Jewelry's Good Old Days
10x: Living Through Jewelry's Good Old Days
written by Victoria Gomelsky on June 19, 2009
written by Victoria Gomelsky on June 19, 2009
They say creativity thrives during times of financial hardship.
Based on my experiences over the past week, I can't help but agree. In the
span of seven days, I’ve seen more interesting work from up-and-coming
and established jewelers than I typically see in six months of trade
shows, where mainstream buyers lessen the incentive to offer truly
cutting-edge design.
This was hardly the case in London last week, when my brief stopover en route to Geneva happily coincided with the last few days of Coutts London Jewellery Week.
It’s the type of organized, well-promoted effort that should make
designers in any other part of the world emerald-green with envy.
Sponsored by Coutts & Co., an investment bank that traces its roots
back to 1692, when it provided banking services to buyers of its plate
and jewelry supplies, the second annual week-long gathering,
chock-a-block full of lectures, demonstrations and cocktail parties, is
intended to raise the profile of the city’s creative talent and
technical expertise in jewelry making.
My first stop was Treasure, a collection of more than 70 designers selling their wares beneath the soaring ceilings of the Flower Cellars event space in Covent Garden.
There, I met Jig Pattni, a Londoner descended from a long line of Indian goldsmiths. Pattni’s work evokes not the glorious 22-karat gold traditions of his ancestors but the icons of 20th century pop culture. To wit: At Treasure, Pattni
unveiled his new diamond collection, The King, in homage to Elvis Presley. It included two 18-karat gold pendants, one fashioned into a bust of the crooner, complete with a slicked back pompadour, and the other a seductive pair of blue sapphire-studded shoes.
At a neighboring showcase, Nina Koutibashvili,
a London designer who hails from the republic of Georgia, couldn’t have embraced a more different aesthetic (the diversity at Treasure, and at London Jewellery Week, in general, was astonishing). The piece in her showcase that I most coveted was a large linked white gold bracelet covered by a thin layer of black stingray skin (see below), its trademark bubble pattern so beguilingly exotic.
Downstairs in Treasure’s sprawling cellar, JeDeCo, the Jewellery Designer’s Collective, a brand new group of more than 20 artist-jewelers, had set up shop.
Guided by the principle that there’s strength in numbers, the group formed just a couple weeks ago, though their professional promotional materials and uniformly high standard of design would suggest otherwise.
By the time I returned to New York on Tuesday, capping three weeks of travel that began in Las Vegas, at jewelry market week, I was fairly sure that no other piece of jewelry would ever hold my attention again.
Yesterday, however, during a daylong blitz of various jewelry events around Manhattan, I stood corrected. At the Jewelry Information Center’s annual fine jewelry luncheon at Vermilion, a six-month-old Indian-Latin fusion restaurant in midtown, I was captivated by a $30,000 silver and gold choker necklace by Todd Reed featuring his trademark rough diamond cubes; a $19,000 carved emerald ring by Christian Tse; as well as a $175 teak wood cuff set with black onyx and deep pink quartz, the work of Zapphire by Kanupriya Khurana.
The best part of the event? Editors were asked to place their business cards in a bowl for a series of giveaways that the JIC’s Helena Krodel and Amanda Gizzi (just back from maternity leave, looking marvelous) had organized. I couldn’t believe my good fortune when my name was called. I won an 18-karat white gold Kir Royale ring, set with a 12.56-carat amethyst accented by diamonds and rubies, by Gumuchian (see below). Oddly, this was the second Gumuchian cocktail ring I have won—the first is an 18-karat yellow gold and Tahitian pearl ring that I wear every single day. I’m thrilled to be the New York jeweler’s walking, talking billboard.
Slightly dazed by my good luck, I ventured further uptown, to the Kara Ross
showroom on East 60th Street, where I promptly fell in love with a cuff from Ross’s new capsule fine jewelry collection. Known for her chic use of exotic animal skins, Ross wrapped this 18-karat gold and pavé-sprinkled number in purple stingray skin (see below). I’m now officially obsessed with the material.
My final appointment of the day brought me to the Upper Eastside showroom of Camilla Dietz Bergeron, the estate dealer. The sight of so many vintage Deco, Retro and Seventies baubles made me feel a bit delirious. So many rings, so little time. I circled the round wooden table at the heart of the showroom like a vulture. From a classic Seaman Schepps rock crystal frog brooch dappled with cabochon emeralds, to scores of whimsical 1940s-esque gold charms (harem slippers dangling teeny tiny akoya pearls, a miniature house complete with a garage and moving car, a lamppost pointing the way to Place Vendôme), the vintage treasures on display were each more charming than the last. I was tempted to laud the “good old days” of jewelry design, such is the temptation to
idolize the past at the expense of the present, but then I recalled my
day and my week and realized that the good old days are now.
Sunday, July 5, 2009
no dirty gold
Beautiful and desirable, few people see beyond the sparkling surface of gold. This is true of both jewellers and the public. The many down sides of this fabulous metal are not commonly known. One of the most devastating is the toxicity and volume of the waste produced by the mining process.
Only 0.00001% (one hundred thousandth of 1 percent) of ore is refined into gold - the rest is waste.
In the US, metals mining was the top polluter in the most recent data.Creating 46% of all toxic waste of ALL industries combined. 96% of arsenic emissions and 76% of all lead emissions.
Some toxins come from the ore itself e.g. heavy metals like mercury,arsenic, selenium and lead often drain out of the piles of waste rock. Others are introduced intentionally during extraction. Called 'heap leaching' the ore is crushed, piled into heaps and sprayed with cyanide. This trickles through the ore bonding with the gold. This solution is then processed to separate the gold and cyanide which gets stored in industrial ponds for reuse. This is an ongoing process with one layer of ore being layered over the other. This goes on for decades and results in the almost inevitable contamination of the surrounding environment.
Tailings a slimy highly toxic waste product is disposed of by pouring it into makeshift dams, which get enlarged as the waste levels rise. This results in an often unstable structure and tailings dam failures account for 3/4 of all major mining accidents over the last 25 years.
Some mines don't even bother with tailing dams and choose instead to pump them directly into nearby rivers, technically known as 'riverine tailings disposal'. This p
oisons the aquatic ecosystem, clogs rivers and can disrupt entire watersheds. This is banned in many countries, but continues illegally. Dumping into the oceans however is still practiced freely. US owned Minahasa mine in Indonesia dumped over 4 million tones of waste into Buyat Bay in the 7 years it was producing. This suffocates coral reefs, poisons fish and in local communities children have tested dangerously high lead and cyanide levels. As a result of public outcry, many mines have simply moved further out into the ocean and now dump in deeper water.
All this waste and pollution is only the first phase of the journey gold takes before it reaches you and the above only just touches on the issues and destruction involved. If you would like to find out more about what gold goes through before it reaches you, please click here to go to Earthworks' No Dirty Gold campaign.
Thank you to Michelle at avasarah for permission to reproduce this article
Only 0.00001% (one hundred thousandth of 1 percent) of ore is refined into gold - the rest is waste.
In the US, metals mining was the top polluter in the most recent data.Creating 46% of all toxic waste of ALL industries combined. 96% of arsenic emissions and 76% of all lead emissions.
Some toxins come from the ore itself e.g. heavy metals like mercury,arsenic, selenium and lead often drain out of the piles of waste rock. Others are introduced intentionally during extraction. Called 'heap leaching' the ore is crushed, piled into heaps and sprayed with cyanide. This trickles through the ore bonding with the gold. This solution is then processed to separate the gold and cyanide which gets stored in industrial ponds for reuse. This is an ongoing process with one layer of ore being layered over the other. This goes on for decades and results in the almost inevitable contamination of the surrounding environment.
Tailings a slimy highly toxic waste product is disposed of by pouring it into makeshift dams, which get enlarged as the waste levels rise. This results in an often unstable structure and tailings dam failures account for 3/4 of all major mining accidents over the last 25 years.
Some mines don't even bother with tailing dams and choose instead to pump them directly into nearby rivers, technically known as 'riverine tailings disposal'. This p
oisons the aquatic ecosystem, clogs rivers and can disrupt entire watersheds. This is banned in many countries, but continues illegally. Dumping into the oceans however is still practiced freely. US owned Minahasa mine in Indonesia dumped over 4 million tones of waste into Buyat Bay in the 7 years it was producing. This suffocates coral reefs, poisons fish and in local communities children have tested dangerously high lead and cyanide levels. As a result of public outcry, many mines have simply moved further out into the ocean and now dump in deeper water.All this waste and pollution is only the first phase of the journey gold takes before it reaches you and the above only just touches on the issues and destruction involved. If you would like to find out more about what gold goes through before it reaches you, please click here to go to Earthworks' No Dirty Gold campaign.
Thank you to Michelle at avasarah for permission to reproduce this article
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Feature on the Carrotbox
What a surprise today as a jeweller friend congratulates me on being selected and showcased on the Carrotbox blog
Friday, June 26, 2009
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Ruby - July - the Lore
According to gem lore, rubies are believed to bring:
spiritual wisdom,
attainment of values,
economic stability and
protection from distress to the wearer.
Are you wearing one (or many) ?
ring featured : © Day and night, sterling silver with rubies and sapphires
available at http://kalicat.dawanda.com
Pearls meaning
Traditionally, pearls are believed to bring purity, faith, innocence, wisdom, and sincerity to the wearer.
definitely need to wear pearls more often then :)
June Gemstone - Pearl
June colour is white
so the white pearl is a very nice "gemstone" for people born in June
The scientific explanation for natural pearls is almost as mystifying as folklore. When an irritant, such as a small parasite or a fish lodges in the flesh of an oyster, mussel, or clam, a protective substance called "nacre" is produced. Over years, layer upon layer of shimmering nacre coats the intruder, creating a lustrous pearl. Natural pearls are relatively rare, so a process evolved in which a piece of shell or bead was placed inside a mollusk to stimulate the production of nacre.
This results in a cultured pearl, which accounts for about 90 per cent of the pearl industry.
What a girl needs - 4 steps
a reusable ring sizer is
everything a girl needs. :)
step one: measure finger with
an adjustable ring sizer extraordinaire
step 2, choose a ring
step 3, order the ring
step 4, wear the ring
Then choose another finger and go back to step 1
:)
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
dawanda Discovery
The DaWanda "Discovery Week" special is running from Monday 22.06 at 12:00 until Sunday, 28.06 at 23:59 CEST, 2009.
In all participating shops (where products will be marked with a little palm tree icon), in which you are shopping for the first time, you will receive a 15% Discovery Discount off the original price during the sale period! The reduced price will be calculated and displayed during the order process, and in your shopping basket. Please note - the discount will only apply for your first purchase, so it's best to pack a few things into your shopping basket at once!
Have you told your friends about Discovery Week yet? New users receive a 15% discount on their first purchase in all participating shops!
In all participating shops (where products will be marked with a little palm tree icon), in which you are shopping for the first time, you will receive a 15% Discovery Discount off the original price during the sale period! The reduced price will be calculated and displayed during the order process, and in your shopping basket. Please note - the discount will only apply for your first purchase, so it's best to pack a few things into your shopping basket at once!
Have you told your friends about Discovery Week yet? New users receive a 15% discount on their first purchase in all participating shops!
Monday, June 22, 2009
some blue gemstones
Here are a few gemstones in different shades of blue
at the far left, an aquamarine cabochon
at the bottom left, a faceted labradorite with blue fire
then, from left to right
a blue topaz
a blue iolite
a blue sapphire
Several of these stones come in different shades, from very light to very dark.
Thursday, June 18, 2009
Discover SewnNatural
A little selection of her work
SewnNatural's green collection helps families pair sustainable eco design with mod, offbeat styling. This shop reflects the values and esthetic we use in our own lives: clean, simple modern lines, sustainable design that lasts and lasts, and the rainbow of colors that make us (and our babies) smile.
SewnNatural is 1 designer, long-time textile artist and mother/grand-mother + assisted by 1 potter, teacher, marketer, stay-at-home mom/daughter.
Everything is designed and handcrafted
The designer in the duo has always loved creating and designing with textiles, colour play and repurposing beautiful vintage fabrics. She designs and handcrafts each item with great care, using exclusively NATURAL FIBRES. Most materials are also organic, reclaimed, repurposed or recycled. Often vintage.
"As a young girl sitting next to my patient, loving grandmother learning to sew my first patchwork quilt on a summer's day, I fell in love with textiles. Their textures, feel, colours and shapes really touched me. I strive to introduce warmth, joy, color and comfort into our lives. My passion for designing with beautiful, natural textiles and experience creating wonderful, functional things for ourselves, our children and our grandchildren is reflected in each item.
You can see a real person in my work."
SewnNatural's green collection helps families pair sustainable eco design with mod, offbeat styling. This shop reflects the values and esthetic we use in our own lives: clean, simple modern lines, sustainable design that lasts and lasts, and the rainbow of colors that make us (and our babies) smile.
SewnNatural is 1 designer, long-time textile artist and mother/grand-mother + assisted by 1 potter, teacher, marketer, stay-at-home mom/daughter.
Everything is designed and handcrafted
The designer in the duo has always loved creating and designing with textiles, colour play and repurposing beautiful vintage fabrics. She designs and handcrafts each item with great care, using exclusively NATURAL FIBRES. Most materials are also organic, reclaimed, repurposed or recycled. Often vintage.
"As a young girl sitting next to my patient, loving grandmother learning to sew my first patchwork quilt on a summer's day, I fell in love with textiles. Their textures, feel, colours and shapes really touched me. I strive to introduce warmth, joy, color and comfort into our lives. My passion for designing with beautiful, natural textiles and experience creating wonderful, functional things for ourselves, our children and our grandchildren is reflected in each item.
You can see a real person in my work."
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
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