cab challenge

I am issuing myself a challenge.  I will use one of my grandfathers cabochons in a piece of jewelry every month.  Every month I will post a picture of the piece that I make!  I already have an idea for March...

etsy see, etsy do

I've added two more pieces to my etsy site.  Here are close-up pics.  To see the full, picture go to the site!

ovals

I made a big serving spoon.  The top part is inspired by the wrought iron in Westminster Abbey(see previous post).  The bottom is inspired by vintage Georg Jensen.  Here is the back of the spoon:

Here is the front:

My Grandfather was a gemologist.  Here are some of the cabochons that he made:

I plan to use all of these cabochons in jewelry.  It will probably take me a few years.  

inspiration

Here are some really, super inspirational pieces:

My grandma Goldye had an impressive jewelry collection.  How could she not?  With a name like Goldye.  I LOVE this handmade pomegranate.  She purchased it from the artist in NYC probably in the 40's or 50's.
Here is an over the top faux bois, bird pendant that also belonged to Goldye.  It's probably from the 70's.  I love how the striations on the stone mimic the rings of a log.  I also find the bird to be so sweet.  
Here is a piece from Goldye's American Indian collection.  A completely handmade inlay, fabricated bolo tie.  The workmanship is awe inspiring.  It's equally beautiful on the back.
I love the iron work and arches.  Westminster Abbey 
Here is a solid gold greek tiara.  This tiara is in the British Museum.
It's a full, fluffy tiara.  I find it very impressive that it is in such impeccable condition.  The leaves are paper thin and appear that they are moving.  Notice the acorns...

etsy items

I've posted some new items in my etsy shop.

work hard

here is my tumbler.  i was work hardening and polishing poseidon trident earrings
pouring out the water and polishing chemicals
pile of stainless steel shot and a tangle of earrings
polished and work hardened

Still life from my studio.

extra virgin, first press

WOW!!!!!  This is my first press.  To view the real, beautiful, shiny pictures in person pick-up the Feb, 08 issue of 944 magazine.  Two of my pieces are featured in the All That Glitters, spread.  I was lucky enough to get two pages!!!  I am so pleased that my two most fun, handmade pieces were featured.  Yay Athena Necklace and Siren Tiara!!!!!  If you are an urban siren or a modern day Athena, I'll custom make you either one of these two pieces.  Keep checking back, i'll soon be posting pictures of the Poseidon Trident collection.  OF COURSE the Poseidon Trident collection is made to be worn by the urban Athena.  

magical tiaras and dangerous urban sirens

Here is one of my latest pieces.  It as you can see is a tiara, The Siren Tiara.  It is made to be worn by the beautiful women who live on Sirenum Scopuli, an island in greece.  If you are in Greece and happen to sail past this island make sure to cover your ears.  Otherwise, you'll wreck your ship and be stuck there forever.  If you yourself are an urban siren and are in desperate need of a solid sterling silver tiara to make yourself even more dangerous and magical I'd be honored to make you one.  For a small fee, of course.