Recently in Jewelry Category

Alex and Ani's handcrafted jewelry adorns women in inspiring, spiritual designs made from recycled metals. Produced in the United States, the line reflects the concept of jewelry as eco-friendly works of art--a concept that owner/designer Carolyn Rafaelian is steadfastly dedicated to. Celebrities who have worn her pieces include Drew Barrymore, Cameron Diaz, and Oprah Winfrey.

Offered in precious metals or the company's signature Russian Gold and Russian Silver finishes, the pieces contains sacred stones and symbols. Some of them also contain Alex and Ani's Signature Expandable Concept, a patented technology that trades traditional jewelry clasps for a sliding mechanism that makes necklaces, bracelets, and rings adjustable--no more worries about getting the perfect fit.

The company's concept of Charity By Design allows for proceeds from the sale of the jewelry line to go toward charitable causes such as relief efforts for the survivors of natural disasters and wildlife preservation efforts and natural disaster relief.

Alex and Ani is sold at stores including Saks Fifth Avenue, Bergdorf Goodman, Fred Segal,  and Henri Bendel. It is also available on www.AlexAndAni.com. 

Take advantage of the limited-time special deal offered by Juara Skincare and Ippie Design: $50 in Juara products will get you a free pair of sterling silver Ippie earrings with Swarovski crystals ($45 value). Available while supplies last.

Juara is a natural line for face and body; you may have already seen it in the August 2009 issue of Elle. Ippie's fun, elegant jewelry has been featured on InStyle.com.

Kristi Celmer Wraye creates one-of-a-kind silver rings and pendants by hand. Her designs can be found in boutiques throughout the United States and also online.

"I've always loved art and creating," says Kristi. "I've dabbled in all sorts of arts, some successfully (glass painting and acrylics) and others not so successfully (I failed miserably at pottery...kudos to all you potters!)"

"Designing sterling silver jewelry has been my favorite endeavor. I love the physical aspect of it (sawing, filing, hammering) combined with the creative aspect. Tends to be a stress-reliever! I also like that it is an art you can wear. I can keep my true passion with me at all times...even while I work my day 'real' job."

"All of my jewelry items are hand-crafted by me of heavy gauge .925 sterling silver and natural cabochon stones," she explains. "I pride myself on quality in both materials and craftsmanship. All of my designs are very unique and one-of-a-kind. I may make similar pieces, but I will never make any two exactly the same. I am totally self taught and am learning more and more each day."
 
"I create items I feel are versatile and can be worn casually or dressed up. I enjoy abstract designs and most of the time I have no plan when I sit down to create a piece. Or, if I do have a plan, I often change it numerous times as I'm working so the piece comes out different than planned anyway. I love the clean, bold look of cabochon stones and the 'pop' of color they add to my pieces." 

"Each of my items is special to me and I have a difficult time parting with them. However, the only thing better than creating my designs is sharing them with others. There is nothing more rewarding than having a customer select a special piece for herself or as a gift. I send wishes of happiness and health with each piece."

"My retail accounts keep increasing," she adds. "My plans for the future include continuing to grow my business. I have endless design ideas for new pendants and rings and will be adding very unique bracelets to my line this year. I feel the possibilities are endless and I am excited for my journey! I hope you share it with me!"

To view the collection, visit www.kristiwraye.com, www.kristiwraye.etsy.com, or www.trunkt.org/kristiwraye .

People expect more and more these days from online stores, and some companies are able to step ahead of the crowd and meet those expectations. Generally, innovative online companies don't just focus on providing exactly what the brick-and-mortar stores provide, but seek to surpass them. In addition, with so many companies opting for an Internet presence to sell diamonds direct, it's important to distinguish your own online business from that of your competitors. Abazias not only surpasses the brick-and-mortar store model for selling diamonds, but it also has earned itself a place of leadership within other online diamond merchants through its commitment to public education, customer service, and competitive pricing.

The Shopping Experience is Definitely Different. When you set out to look at some genuine diamonds, you will usually start in a jewelry store dealing with people far more knowledgeable than you. It can be an intimidating experience, if not humbling. You might have a lot of questions, but don't feel comfortable bother the sales clerk who might even be working on commission, unless you're ready to make a sale. Unfortunately, you might want to educate yourself before you're ready to buy and that presents a bit of a quandary. How do you get information from people without wasting their time and feeling somewhat uncomfortable? That's when you might get the bright idea to look online.

If you land on the Abazias site, you are now in control of the diamond buying experience. That's because Abazias knows that people who come to buy items like a diamond engagement ring may be completely new to the process and have many questions. They provide a large collection of written articles and online videos to help people find the answers to their questions without feeling like they're wasting anyone's time. This online content delves deep into the technicality of the 4 Cs (carat, color, clarity, and cut) and touches upon with more socially conscious issues like Kimberley certification.

You might be able to find some content on other online vendor sites, but even so, the Abazias site is completely unique. They allow people to build their own rings using a ring simulator that can create your own custom design in virtual 3-D. The application is so finely tuned that it allows you to create it with the budget you have in mind.  

Speaking of price, there can be a large difference in price from brick-and-mortar and even between online vendors. Since Abazias seeks to provide near wholesale prices to the general public, you can save hundreds, if not thousands of dollars when comparing other both offline and online vendors. Imagine taking your new purchase to a local appraiser and finding out you got a real sweet deal. Then, think about how happy your new fiancée will be too when she finds out how much the ring compares to others in nearby local stores. She'll not only think she's marrying a generous man, but a smart one too! 

Show how much you love your pet!  Laurie Sarah Designs, recently featured here at Chic Galleria, has a just launched their new Paw Printz Pendants. Simulated stones set in Sterling Sliver. Perfect as pendant or charm bracelet!

Visit http://lauriesarahpetz.etsy.com.

Chic Galleria and Laurie Sarah Designs are giving 1 lucky reader a Paw Printz Pendant. Leave us your comments and tell us about your pets!  Be sure to subscribe to our Weekly Newsletter to be automatically entered in all giveaways at Chic Galleria. Ends April 30th midnight EST.

This contest has ended.

Winner will have the choice of a Dog or Cat Paw Print Pendant. The pendant will be shipped to the winner within 7 business days of the contest as print is custom made.

The Darby Scott collection of handbags, accessories, and jewelry is designed for the discriminating connoisseur who appreciates old world craftsmanship and an unfailing attention to detail. Founded by renowned designer, Darby Scott in 1994, the Darby Scott brand has become synonymous with sophisticated style and refined taste.

Prior to founding her own line, Scott concluded a successful career as Vice President of women's merchandising and design for the North American division of Aquascutum of London. This position followed nearly a decade of design experience at venerable international fashion houses including Perry Ellis and Karl Lagerfeld.  With a vast career in fashion and design experience to her credit, Scott felt it was time to launch her own line of luxury goods and pursue her passion.

Debuting at Saks Fifth Avenue in September of 1994, the first Darby Scott collection entailed cocktail and evening dresses, which featured elegantly tailored silhouettes crafted from sumptuous fabrics.  Enthusiastically received by retailers and the media, the Darby Scott line quickly found a place with consumers who found the simple elegance of the Darby Scott line highly appealing.

With the new millennium came a new line. In the Fall of 2000, Scott released her first collection of handbags, which has now grown to include a full range of large multi-functional day bags, evening clutches, and special occasion minaudières.   What makes the Darby Scott handbag collection unique is Scott's artful blend of rich skins and opulent fabrics paired with semi-precious stones, natural shell, horn, bone, and wood.  The result is some of the most striking bags, which are carried by leading social figures and the Hollywood elite.

Scott continues her creative endeavors with future products that incorporate unique fabrication with classic design. The collection also includes traditionally inspired jewelry, with contemporary influences, resulting in many unique and one of a kind pieces. Scott is also available for wedding gown design and wardrobe creation. The Darby Scott collections are available through the company's private showroom in New York, and at Bergdorf Goodman. www.darbyscott.com .

Kharisma Ryantori, owner of Popnicute, actually goes by Kay Sommers. "Kay as short for Kharisma and Sommers is my fiance's last name. Since my clients are mostly speaking English I thought that name more English friendly than my real name. Kharisma lives in Surabaya, Indonesia. Surabaya is a big city, the second biggest in Indonesia next to Jakarta. Surabaya is pretty near to Bali, which is quite nice. Bali has some gorgeous Silver that I need for my jewelry."

"I'm a self taught wire wrapper. I've always been fascinated by the arts and crafts world and have been trying various kind of arts and crafts all my life. From oil painting, digital painting, gift wrapping, to jewelry. Basically anything that sparks my interest. My first jewelry was made when I took a short course in paper clay. I made cute animal heads and sold them to schoolmates as necklaces. That was 10 years ago. I tried bead stringing, but since college took most of my time, I stopped doing it and only occasionally did it when my mom and aunts wanted me to make them jewelry. I have a degree in visual communication design and I'm also a freelance graphic designer."

"In summer 2008, I made my first wire wrapped jewelry and I fell in love in instance. I feel that this is my true calling. The possibility is endless and ideas keep coming. My fiance's mother bought me my first 6 spools of colorful wire. I live in Indonesia where wire wrapping is not popular so not much material is widely available here. Most of my material is imported from around the world. My fiance's is American. From 2006 I tried to collect some money to help me move to America. Regular job just wouldn't do, so I started to accept digital painting commissions online and now selling jewelry."

"Usually when I saw something that I like, it can spark my ideas. Colors, magazine, beads, flowers, plants, anything visual. Sometimes the ideas had nothing to do with what I saw. It's kind of like one thing lead to another and another and another. Browsing some "eye candy" in the internet definitely helps. I don't like to copy others works so even though I may start with something similar, they usually end up looking completely different. But that's the way I like it. My signature creation is my Cocoon Beads."

"One of my plan is to get married and to be finally together with someone I love. Right now we're in a long distant relationship. We have plans for the future to open our own studio. For graphics and jewelry. We both have graphic design as our educational background."

Visit www.popnicute.etsy.com and www.artfire.com. Surabaya, Indonesia

Gina Towarnick always been a creative person.  "I'm happiest when I'm designing or creating something. I started making jewelry a few years ago, and opened my shop, The Glass Onion one year ago," says Gina. 

"I adore working with vintage beads.  I am always searching for interesting and unusual vintage finds.  I like creating modern pieces from old components.  I tend to mix elements like feminine vintage glass with chunky oxidized silver chain for contrast.  I'm usually inspired by my beads and materials.  Occasionally I might sketch a necklace design on paper, first.  But usually I put all my beads in front of me and see what I come up with.  Most of my free time is spent doing something related to my shop - designing, doing inventory, putting orders together, bead shopping, promoting, day dreaming of vintage beads, organizing my work space. You can often find me working (if you can call it work) late at night after everyone else is in bed.  It's my most productive time of day."

"My best selling items would probably be my "spot on" earrings and my "biggest blooms" earrings, both are sold out at the moment.  It's so satisfying that people like my jewelry enough to spend their hard earned money on it.  It's awesome when people appreciate my work.  It's why I love doing what I do.  I hope that I can continue to do this and always be inspired." 

Visit www.theglassonion.etsy.com.  San Francisco, California
Chic Galleria readers receive FREE SHIPPING if you mention Chic Galleria at checkout.

Laurie Sarah began selling hand-knotted friendship bracelets in college to make ends meet. The rest is history. She soon found herself immersed in the wonderful world of beads, gems, and precious metals. Today she teams up with a diamond setter and another designer to produce just the right piece for you. Custom jewelry is the specialty of Laurie Sarah Designs. Between Laurie and her husband, they have been in business over 35 years. Their client base includes many wonderful return customers as well as multiple celebrities (ranging from Actors, Musicians and various Sports Stars).

"I started out just a normal, starving college kid, making string friendship bracelets to buy my next meal. But once you enter the world of jewelry, there is no way out!  Before I knew it, I was buying more beads. And more... Then someone sold me my first gemstones. I was hooked! I was introduced to a diamond setter (the best in Los Angeles they said). I began designing and creating dream pieces for my clients and my diamond setter would "make it happen". But when my late husband was diagnosed with cancer, my jewelry business came to a screeching halt. I took care of him for the next few years. His untimely death left me with 3 small children to provide for. I decided I would start up the jewelry business again, but this time it was sink or swim. I contacted my diamond setter and we began working hard together... and talking... turns out he was single... Out of the darkest time of my life a new rose sprung up. This last July, we were married. Now, together, we have joined forces to bring my customers everything they can imagine in the world of gemstones," says Laurie.

"We now team up together as husband and wife to bring you spectacular designer jewelry to brighten up your life. My best friend, Kimberly, handles all of our marketing, Midwest sales and contributes to many designs as well.  Our specialty is colored stone Engagement Rings and Wedding Sets, although we can create anything else imaginable too! We can customize an existing design, exchange a stone in a setting, or customize a piece directly from scratch."

"Our inspiration comes from not only the clients that we work with but also the stones that we are working with.  For example: We have a client who came to us with some estate pieces and wanted more modern styles, so we reset the stones into a gorgeous piece. We come across stones at a gem cutter's shop that just has to be made into something spectacular.  Opus is an excellent example of that. The Ametrine is 121 ct and the necklace has 2 cttw of diamonds on it as well.  It is a stunning piece!"

"We have a celebrity we are working with right now who has requested a multi carat diamond ring for several photo shoots she has coming up for upcoming magazine cover.  That design is in process. We love working with all of our clients but it is always exciting working with couples on their Engagement Ring(s).  It is a piece that they will always cherish and they usually have creative ideas to make it their own design. Many have later sent us pictures with the ring in the shot want us to make their matching wedding sets."

"We have started selling Gift Certificates online and are expanding our advertising into more states.  We have also started marketing to the entertainment industry so that our pieces will be used as part of wardrobes for movies and TV shows."

Visit http://lauriesarahdesigns.etsy.com and www.lauriesarahdesigns.com.  Los Angeles, California 

Erin Keys recently got started designing jewelry from inspiration she received from a group that she owns, Unique Women In Business. "I was an avid etsy shopper way before I decided to try my hand at the jewelry designs! I love creating new things and seeing them sell! It is such a great feeling!!"

"A lot of my inspiration came from the wonderful women in Unique Women In Business. I also have created several Sex and The City items. My love for the fashion on that show has inspired several of my pieces! My best selling item is The Charlotte earrings, inspired by feminine Charlotte from Sex and The City! Last Saturday sadly I sold out of all the pieces and parts for those earrings and will soon have them back in stock for sale. I sold 5 of them last weekend!!! I even got a conversation from someone who had seen them sell and wanted to know how she could get a pair! That was the best feeling ever!!!!"

I absolutely love this Cupid necklace!  An antique white velvet ribbon with velvet red beads shows off a beautiful white flower in brass filigree.

Visit www.erinkeys.etsy.com  Indianapolis, Indiana

CurrentVine.com, in partnership with jewelry company Ippie Design, is offering readers an exclusive coupon code that will allow them to purchase all Ippie pieces at 30% off. The offer includes the company's Breast Cancer Collection--20% of the proceeds from the set goes to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation.

The offer is valid through March 15, 2009 and includes the company's standard free shipping. For details, visit http://www.currentvine.com/2009/02/ippie_code/.

Pictured: Sterling Silver Round CZ Hoop Earrings by Ippie Design. Photo courtesy Ippie Design.

Penny Drolet Walintschek, glass artist and owner of Penny Glass Girl, features fused glass work.  She recently started a new shop, Penny Shop Girl for her jewelry creations which include copper enameling and fine silver. "I have been an artist my entire life, but have been working mainly in glass for the last seven years.  I began after my first son was born and my husband and I needed an activity that didn't involve children," says Penny. "We took a stained glass class together and although my husband soon quit, I was addicted. When I then started fusing glass, I really fell in love - there's nothing like heating stuff up to 1500 degrees and seeing what happens. Now my hobby has become my passion and the way in which I make a living."

"My passions in life include my family and my art and I currently work full-time at both, which makes for some late nights. Most of my work is done into the wee hours so that I can spend as much time with my kids as possible. Although they are only seven and three years old they inspire me and the work that I produce. I used to be very conservative about the way I used colour, but the go for broke attitude of children with a new box of crayons is truly to be admired. They are often involved with the design process, urging me to use more colour and not be so conservative."

"In addition to colour, I think that the medium itself inspires me. I love to experiment with many different materials and am constantly trying new processes to see how I can push myself and my work. I use everything from paints to metals to organic materials in my glass.  It doesn't always work out, but when it does, it's very satisfying. In addition to my etsy sites, I sell to retail, wholesale, and often take commissions for my stained glass work."


Visit www.pennyglassgirl.etsy.com and www.pennyshopgirl.etsy.com.  Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Paula Taylor is a native Californian, living in the warm and sunny suburbs of Concord, California. She began creating hand-made jewelry almost six years ago. "I am basically self-taught, but take on-going beading and jewelry design classes to broaden my imagination. I started my own jewelry business almost six years ago and sell my designs on-line as well as in several boutiques; and host trunk shows at various events, salons and boutiques," said Paula in a recent interview.

"With the exception of custom orders, most of my designs are freely created, without a pre-conceived idea, which often begins with a single bead, crystal pendant, or vintage pendant and then my imagination takes over. My goal is to create unusual designs with unique products and components, that are fresh, fun, and easy to wear. I like to mix modern with vintage to create a timeless -yet edgy- classic/retro look."

When describing her best selling items, Paula spoke of her signature designs using crystal, pearls and glass flowers, such as glass flower cluster rings, pearl and crystal braided necklaces, cuff bracelets with vintage appliques and free-wire design earrings with crystals and semi-precious stones. "One of my favorite experiences happened when I was selected by "Fire Mountain Gems" magazine, as Notable Artist in 2008!"

Paula wants to continue to follow her heart's desire to create designs for that "individual" woman. Make each design better and more unique than before. Keep being original and creative to maintain her "brand" and "signature" style. Maintain relationships with her loyal customers and continue to gather a dedicated customer base. "I'm doing exactly what I'm meant to be doing-and loving it!"

Visit www.dolliecs.com.   Concord, California

Barney's Bling is a line of matching jewelry for people and their pets using genuine diamonds and precious metals.   The concept was born in 2007, when founder Bridget Livingston met her baby Barney, a Yorkie, while on vacation in Chicago.  She spoiled her new best friend with cashmere sweaters and organic treats, but noticed that his jewelry kept falling apart.  She saw an opportunity as she searched Los Angeles' finest pet stores unable to find some real quality "bling" for Barney...so she took it upon herself to create her own.  Bridget also decided to add in some matching bling for herself as an extra treat.  The signature design is based on the concept that each pet makes a paw print on their owner's heart...the entire collection is about connecting the hearts of people and their pets in an elegant and sophisticated manner.

Bridget and Barney believe in karma and charitable causes, so 10% of proceeds are donated to Perfect Pet Rescue and Autism Speaks, to benefit both people and pets.

Bridget, can you please share a little about yourself?

I got my undergrad degree in Finance from Michigan State and worked in insurance for seven years.  Two years ago I was in Chicago on vacation and I met Barney.  I knew I had to get him and when we came home to LA my entire world changed.  I discovered my true passions- people, pets and jewelry.  Soon I was able to leave my insurance job to focus full time on designing beautiful jewelry based on Barney.

Where do you draw inspiration for your products?

I am a very creative and innovative person.  I also really enjoy psychology and sociology so I am great at listening and observing.  As an extrovert I also talk to pretty much everyone I come in contact with.  I am inspired by other people's views on life and their love of their pets.  Barney and my love for him is the main inspiration.

Describe your best selling items?

My best selling item is the heart bone necklace and dog charm in sterling silver.  We recently introduced this popular design in silver and it has really taken off.  It is a simple small design that incorporates two hearts- the dog's heart and the owner's heart with a simple line- thus creating a heart bone.  It is the simplest way to express your love for your pet.

What are your plans for the future?

I am working on expanding our line to include some fun jewelry that is made in bright colors:  pink, yellow and blue and also creating a matching t-shirt line made with rhinestones.  

Visit http://barneysbling.com  Santa Monica, California

Jennifer Shon started making jewelry when her friend took her to a bead store and she became inspired to start creating pieces. After wearing the pieces she had made, her friends and strangers started complimenting her on them and requesting pieces. "I got my collection into a store and the pieces took off and I started to sell out right away, which then I started my website to reach out to more people," says Jennifer.

I draw inspiration from a lot of nature and the beauty of a bead. I create my jewelry to be worn everyday and every occasion. I don't want my customer to only be able to wear a piece once.

Some of my best selling items are the circle eternity necklace and bracelet. I wear mine everyday and it's even durable to shower and sleep in. Also the swarovski necklace which can be doubled or tripled around the neck. It's the perfect necklace for a cocktail dress or to add a little sparkle to a tee and jeans. My favorite experiences with my profession is seeing people on the street wearing my creations. It makes me happy to see someone enjoying my piece and looking great!

My plans for the future are more of the same!  I enjoy to be able to produce affordable pieces that everyone can buy and enjoy for years.

Visit www.jennifershon.com  Los Angeles, California

Special 20% discount for Chic Galleria.com readers.  Just enter coupon code chic2009

Bethany Piermantier, owner of Natural Beauty Jewelry, is fascinated by natural gemstones and pearls and feels they are mysteriously beautiful. She lets the beauty of the materials inspire each design and draws ideas from the latest styles and trends. She likes to incorporate eco-friendly materials such as bamboo, wood and coconut shell into her designs. "I am always designing new items, learning new techniques, and fulfilling special requests from my customers as best I can," says Beth.

I have always been the type of person who likes to keep busy with their hands. From an early age, I embraced any activity that allowed me to be creative and to produce a beautiful end product that I (and others) can appreciate and admire. I think I naturally gravitated towards those that could be worn - jewelry. From there, designing jewelry naturally became a creative outlet that I was drawn to.

I taught myself how to make jewelry about 10 years ago and gave away finished pieces to friends and family. I took a jewelry class in high school and fell in love with all of the tools and techniques that can be combined to create anything you can imagine. Continuing to make jewelry throughout college, I obtained a degree in Business Administration and in 2007 launched into selling my own designs through Natural Beauty Jewelry. I am dedicated to providing quality handmade jewelry created from semi-precious gemstones, freshwater pearls, sterling silver, and other natural materials. I love what I do and I pour my heart into it!

Some of my favorite experiences within my profession have been seeing people wear my jewelry. Jewelry is a personal item that represents who you are as an individual and the fact that someone has identified with my work is a huge compliment.

My best selling items include a collection of Sterling Silver Cuff Bracelets that come in an assortment of patterns and sizes. They are easy to put on and you can mix and match them to create a bangle feel. The Turquoise Dangle Earrings, Assorted Stone Necklace, and my new Black and White Collection have also been very popular items. All of my jewelry is packaged in recycled paper gift boxes and all hook earrings come with a pair of free rubber earring backs as well. I provide special services such as custom sizing, custom designed bridal jewelry and jewelry repair.

My plans for the future include diversifying my product line to include new and different materials, bangles, rings, and one-of-a-kind items. I hope to expand the availability of Natural Beauty Jewelry to specialty shops and boutiques who feel my work is right for their customers.  
 
Visit www.naturalbeautyjewelry.com    St. Paul, Minnesota

20% off for Chic Galleria Readers - Enter coupon code chic09 during checkout.

Danielle Stirling started making jewelry as a child. My mother bought me a bead loom at one point and I was hooked! I started Elle Jule in 2006 so that I could turn my passion into a business that would allow me to stay home with my children, and the rest is History!

I find inspiration for my designs in many different ways; it really depends on my mood. The seasons are a really big color trigger for me, I have always loved fairies and folklore, so a lot of my designs are heavily influenced by paintings and stories.

The thing I have come to love the most about my business is the feedback I have received from customers, I feel so blessed to be doing what I love and am overjoyed when I hear from a customer that is really enjoying one of my designs. It warms me to be able to share a part of myself that way.

I am in this for the long haul with Elle Jule. It can be difficult getting noticed on the internet, but I have been blessed to have some really wonderful sites like this one express interest in my jewelry and write about Elle Jule. This has gotten me some really good exposure. I also have some new designs and collections planned for the next year that I am really excited about moving forward with!

Visit www.ellejule.com.

Growing up, Detta Poster was always a crafty girl.  I remember my mother sending me to a neighborhood craft camp.  The cost was a whopping .75 for the day.  Yeah, she sent me A LOT!  I graduated onward and upward to my first big challenge... a belt made for my mom with cardboard discs covered in foil, string and lots of Elmer's glue.   Truly a work of art (in the eyes of a seven year old). Imagine my shock when she left for the store that day and forgot to wear my newest creation!!
 
My grandfather did lapidary work and often made me treasured trinkets.  A turtle pin using turquoise, a flower necklace using opals.  I still have them today.  Now when I hold them I am amazed that he took the time to make them for me and at his craftsmanship.  It is true that a well made piece of jewelry is timeless and will last for generations.
 
I have been making jewelry for many years.  I don't have a signature "look".  I wander from piece to piece, looking for inspiration in a beautifully faceted stone or a lustrous pearl.  They truly inspire me and sometimes it can take days or weeks to plan what to make with them.  I love mixing and matching and creating and wrapping and...well I could go on and on. Most of my pieces are one-of-a-kind. Recently I have started using pmc clay to make interesting pieces.  I have painted twigs with the pure silver paste and after firing it in a kiln, only the graceful shape of the twig is left.  Truly unique.
 
I love walking into a store and seeing someone wearing one of my pieces.  I am honored that they value my pieces and still wear them years after I've made them.

I am hoping to expand the number of stores that carry my jewelry.  As with many artists, marketing myself is not a strong point.  It is the love of creating a piece that keeps me going.

Visit www.jewelrybydetta.com.  Manlius, New York 

Maria Penate is a young jewelry designer from Europe whose pieces have captured the attention of women here in the US.  I am crazy about her rings and recently purchased a stunning red one for myself.

Maria, please tell us a little about yourself and how you got started.

I´ve always loved Arts and fashion. I studied music and piano, I love singing and painting, and I´m always looking for new ways to express myself.

One day, three years ago, I started making my own jewelry. Simple designs with wood beads, glass beads and silver. Many people showed interest in them and that encouraged me to go further. I learned new techniques, and I improved my old ones. Later, I included new materials in my work (like Swarovski crystals or Italian crystals) and I got a great response from my buyers. Two months ago, I joined Etsy. I have many ideas and projects for the future, and I hope they will become true.

Where do you draw inspiration for your products/service?

I love vivid and rich colors. Mixing different pieces and obtaining very surprising combinations is something wonderful.

I want that women who wear my designs will feel glamorous and chic, so that´s my first goal when I´m creating new pieces. With my jewels, I try to show creativity and colorful ideas. The world can be dark sometimes, but we can make it a little brighter.

Describe your best selling items and your favorite experience with making jewelry?

My best selling items are my rings, specially my "Summer Sun" ring. The bright colors, the sparkly Swarovski crystals and the solid sterling silver make of them powerful designs that look beautiful on the hand.

A great feeling surrounds me when I create something someone considers special, something "unique" for them. I also love when I can combine my ideas with the ideas of more people. I have made a lot of custom orders through these years and I find them very interesting.

What are your plans for the future?

I´m preparing a new collection of jewelry for some boutiques. This collection will be available in early 2009. I´m excited with this new project and I hope my customers will like it too.

I´m always looking to learn new techniques which allow me to improve my designs and create new ones, and that´s another of my goals for the new year.

Visit www.leelabijou.etsy.com.  Canary Islands

Mary Pat Boyd was born with spina bifada.  As an adult, she has dealt with situations in her family that include cancer, suicide, divorce and betrayal. She was misdiagnosed with bone cancer. A correct diagnosis showed a tumor on her parathyroid which resulted in surgery. A few years later, she was diagnosed with cancer again.

"I know what tough times are, and I also know what hope is.  I hope that my jewelry and my story are inspirational." says Mary Pat.  Yes, Mary Pat...you inspire me a great deal.

Like thousands of other women, I am a breast cancer survivor.   I've had the disease twice now and have been cancer free for 6 years.

I was a jewelry designer when I was first diagnosed with breast cancer; and I was deeply immersed in the sculptural and textural aspect of jewelry making at that time.  After my first diagnosis in 1996, I designed my first piece of breast cancer jewelry.  Now 12 years later, although I am still fascinated by various jewelry processes, cancer jewelry is my passion and my specialty.  

My jewelry line features hopeful, inspirational jewelry pieces.  Sometimes my clients ask for specialty pieces, and I try to accommodate them so that we can achieve a special piece that fits a particular person's needs.  One of my favorite parts of this business is the opportunity to speak with many different women regarding their lives and their challenges.  Virtually all of my clients' lives have been impacted by cancer, Alzheimer's Disease, or domestic abuse.      
These women inspire me to design.  And, I can relate to my clients because of my own experiences and challenges.  My mission is to offer inspirational and hopeful jewelry to these special women.

In the near future, I'd like to be involved with a charity that uses my jewelry designs to aid cancer patients.  Both cancer research and cancer awareness are important, but I also believe that we should do what we can to help the cancer patient with her daily living expenses.

Visit www.boydsilverworks.com.