Can You Tell the Difference Between Truly Handmade Jewelry and Manufactured Jewelry?
Published Date:January 02, 2019
What is Anticlastic Jewelry?
Published Date:October 15, 2015
Anticlastic jewelry is a series of techniques used in metal forming to create handcrafted jewelry. The artist stretches sheet metal to create a concave curve on the outer surface while compressing the metal to create a convex curve in the middle. Both major curves, which are at 90 degrees to one another, go in the same direction. The bowl or dome shape is the ultimate form. Anticlastic jewelry is very unique and requires great patience and skills from the jewelry designer.
The Process of Anticlastic Raising
During the process of anticlastic rising, a flat sheet of metal is formed by stretching the center and compressing the sides so that the metal creates two curves that are of right angles to one another. While the pattern of the sheet is important to create the desired form, various forms can often be made from the same pattern. The final result is that of a “Pringle” potato chip or saddle shape.
Anticlastic raising is generally performed with a combination of plastic, steel, and wooden tools. A steel stake and plastic mallet are usually the quickest technique, but offers less control which ultimately requires more planishing. The preferred method is typically a plastic stake and steel hammer. This combination requires minimal planishing, and offers good speed and control. Available in various shapes and sizes, the stakes used in anticlastic raising primarily depend on the width of the metal and desired curves. The width of the pattern cannot exceed the distance between the crests.
Metals Used in Anticlastic Jewelry
Anticlastic raising is best suited for ductile metals, including silver, gold, copper, and bronzes. When this technique is used for jewelry, the metal can be quite thin. Shoppers can find a large selection of anticlastic jewelry as the technique offers a unique variety of design choices. Some popular choices include anticlastic earrings, cuffs, and bracelets. These pieces of art are highly sleek, sensual, and contemporary with a handcrafted touch.
Due to today’s high metal prices, a major advantage to anticlastic raising is the ability to create relatively thin and structural strength forms. The result is often a form that is springy and flexible, such as a necklace that requires flexibility to be worn comfortably. Anticlastic raising is both modern and ancient, with little history in between. During the Bronze Age Ireland, a ribbon torc necklace was crafted from a sheet of metal and twisted into a double helix. This creative technique of metalworking did not appear again until the end of the 20th century.
Click Here to Read More About the Most Popular Trends in Handmade Jewelry
Top 5 Jewelry Essentials for Every Woman
Published Date:April 22, 2015
Jewelry is a fashion accessory that many women purchase and update regularly. There are, however, several jewelry essentials that no women can do without. Putting together the perfect jewelry collection doesn’t happen overnight, and the styles you select may evolve over time as your personal tastes change. In many cases, the basics of your jewelry collection will remain constant. With that in mind, here are some tips to learn about the jewelry essentials every woman should own.
1. Chandelier Earrings Chandelier earrings are simple pieces of jewelry that can easily glam up any ensemble. Bring any outfit to the next level, from a simple turtleneck to a chic sheath dress. Select chandelier earrings that are timeless, such as silver, gold, or textured pieces. Chandelier earrings are the perfect statement earring that can be both luxurious and affordable.
2. Bangle Bracelets Bangle bracelets never go out of style. Add one or several to your wrist to add an instant touch of chic. Whether you prefer thin or thick, gold, silver, or even copper, bangle bracelets add fun and sophistication to anything you wear. Fold formed aluminum bangle bracelets have become highly popular, as well as contemporary bronze pieces that exude a unique luster not found in traditional silver or gold.
3. Pearls Pearls are the ultimate addition to any piece of woman’s jewelry. They are so simple, but ultra-elegant. Look for pearls in a wide range of colors, such as blue, green, red, silver, and gold. Don’t just settle on traditional pearl necklaces, as there are many modern pieces of pearl-inspired jewelry. Necklaces, bracelets, and even earrings can be found adored with beautiful freshwater pearls.
4. Cocktail Rings Cocktail rings are a bold way to add pizazz to any ensemble. Never underestimate the power that a beautiful cocktail ring can provide to your look and confidence. This oversized, sexy yet classy piece of jewelry is small but packs a big punch. Try a cocktail ring with one of your favorite gemstones, such as black onyx, amber, amethyst, quartz, sunstone, or blue topaz.
5. Statement Necklaces The necklace is generally the piece that “makes” the outfit. The statement making necklace is a piece for every woman of any age. It’s truly a smart investment, and also extremely versatile. Wear a statement making necklace embellished with colored beads and pearls or a powerful copper necklace made from interlocking rings.
Whether you’re just starting to build your jewelry collection or have an advanced collection of your favorite pieces, there’s always room for the essentials. No need to limit yourself to pieces that you’ll only wear for special occasions. These basic pieces that belong in every woman’s jewelry collection can be worn everyday. From gleaming gemstones to lustrous pearls, these essential jewelry pieces are the ideal way to add a fashionable touch to every outfit.
So that's my top 5 suggestions! I would love to hear what do you think? Please make your must have jewelry suggestions in the comments section below. Also, I would love it if you would pin your favorites to Pinterest and join me on Pinterest too!
Current Trends in Handmade Designer Jewelry
Published Date:August 01, 2014
San Francisco Jewelry - Endless Creativity
The city of San Francisco is well-known around the world for its creative scene. From paintings to sculpture to performing art, there is so much to see that will challenge the senses and encourage a more liberal, open mind. With this kind of culture permeating the very essence of the city, it is not surprising that the humble San Francisco jewelry designer has also been affected. As a result, some of the best selections of accessories, from copper earrings to gem-encrusted bracelets, are on sale here, each offering their own unique story into this fascinating city.
There is nowhere else in the US in which will you find such a wide variety of creative minds in the one location. Even within the San Francisco jewelry designer community, each artisan works at their own pace, forming sets of accessories that are beautiful, elegant and very unique. This is a city that creates, rather than follows, the trend, allowing America to grow and develop through sheer imagination and innovation. Here, new territory is being explored within the jewelry world, as the craftsmen themselves work to produce original designs that will then change the fashion world as we know it.
Handmade San Francisco Jewelry
One major reason for all of this artistic development is that the city is haven for the liberal-minded, allowing ideas to flow forth like water from a faucet. Each San Francisco jewelry designer is encouraged to develop their own style and techniques within a community that fosters newcomers and promotes quality over quantity. For this reason, there are many small boutique accessory stores in the area in which the artisan carefully creates their products by hand. This individual attention means that each item is unique in that it is the artist’s own version of perfection. The city is highly multicultural as well, and is a mixing pot of races and nationalities from all over the world. This provides the ultimate source of inspiration for the average San Francisco jewelry designer as there is so much to see even when taking a short stroll. From the paintings in the city’s art galleries to the architecture found in each of its many districts, there is simply a fountain of ideas which can then be put into the next bracelet, necklace or pair of earrings. By keeping their eyes open, it is simple for a jeweler to find inspiration in this city.
San Francisco Jewelry - For the Fashion Conscious
By adding all of the above together, it is easy to see that there is no better place to find a series of stunning, individual accessories as in San Francisco. The truly fashion conscious should walk through some of the city’s best boutique stores, keeping an eye out for the latest handmade creations. Stay ahead of the trend and ensure that you look as beautiful as possible with a little help from a San Francisco jewelry designer or two. There really is no better place on Earth to find a wider range of unique, fashionable jewelry such as those found here in California’s most cultural city.
Fold Forming – A New Approach to Jewelry Design
Published Date:May 28, 2014
Designing Jewelry by Fold Forming
Fold forming is a collection of techniques developed and pioneered by Charles Lewton-Brain. These fold forming techniques are now being used in a wide array of jewelry styles, from earrings to bracelets. During the process of fold forming, sheets of metal are hammered and annealed into three-dimensional shapes without any soldering. While only a couple decades old – hailing back to the 1980s – this metalsmithing process employs metal’s plasticity to create complex forms. Fold forming has become widely recognized as a new approach to jewelry-making and metal-working all over the world. Modern fold forming is considered a combination of traditional metalwork and origami. It’s about allowing the metal to fold in natural ways according to its plasticity, instead of forcing form. When one does not fight to form the metal, forming becomes extremely rapid and efficient. Highly complex relief forms can be produced with just a single sheet of metal and a few tools, including your hands, fingers, mallets, hammers, anvils, and rolling mills. Fold forming techniques can be used with a wide range of metals, including steel, niobium, and aluminum. They are often used in enameling, holloware, and jewelry as there is no soldering required.
Fold Forming - The Basic Folds
Names are given to the basic folds in the process of fold forming. These may include T-Folds, Line-Folds, Rueger Folds, and Cross-Folds, among others. Both traditional and non-traditional metals can be used in fold forming. Copper is an ideal medium, often used in jewelry, for its brilliant luster and versatility. While fold forms are beautiful in themselves, they are often used as components in more complex pieces. Once basic folds have been mastered, fold forms can be manipulated, sliced, and rejoined.
Form folding is an art form that provides quick and gratifying results and lead to fresh and innovative design ideas in jewelry and other objects. While there are a set of basic fold-forms known, each can be taken in many directions. It’s entirely possible to create a form that has never been done before. Due to their uniqueness and beautiful qualities, fold formed jewelry makes for the perfect gift idea for any occasion.
The Rolex Awards for Enterprise, The British Museum Research Lab, and several others have certified the process of fold forming as new and has never been done in the history of metal working. Fold forming is unlike traditional forms of jewelry as they have more texture and creative properties that make them must-have pieces in every jewelry box.
A Must-Try Trend: Chandelier Earrings
Published Date:July 06, 2011
Chandelier Earrings - A Must-have Earring Style
Chandelier earrings are back with a vengeance – and everyone is wearing them. Earrings are the perfect way to jazz up any wardrobe, and can be easily worn without any complementing jewelry. They are feminine, stylish, and can be found in a wide assortment of precious metals, textures, and designs. Chandelier earrings add just the right amount of color and shine, getting their name from elaborate chandelier light fixtures. If you’re looking to expand your jewelry collection, chandelier earrings are a must-have style that will certainly add uniqueness to your attire.
Features of Chandelier Earrings
Quality: Chandelier earrings often have many moving parts, making quality on the top of the list for important features. Handmade chandelier earrings are made with a high attention to detail, making them the ideal option if you are looking for durable jewelry. Sturdy metals, including platinum, gold, copper, and sterling silver, are terrific options. Colors: While many women prefer brilliant, bold colors, be sure that you select a pair of earrings that are versatile enough to be worn with many different outfits. If you want a neutral metal that will match nearly anything you wear, opt for two-toned earrings or select earrings that will pair well with your existing jewelry. Styles: When it comes to style, chandelier earrings have many to choose from. Some chandelier earrings consist of geometric shapes that give them an ‘art deco’ feel. Others feature multi-gemstone, free-falling designs that offer a bohemian effect. Consider your wardrobe before selecting a pair of chandelier earrings to properly match outfits.
Comfort: Always consider comfort over style, especially when it comes to larger chandelier statement earrings. Backings should be study, as the weight of the earrings can put too much pressure on the earlobes. Many women look for chandelier earrings with hooks, as these provide more support for the ears, minimizing the weight.
Benefits of Chandelier Earrings
Movement: If you appreciate the beauty of movement, from falling leaves in autumn to the astounding swiftness of a ballet dancer, you’ll love chandelier earrings. This style of earrings sway with every movement you make. When decorated with shimmering gems or beads, the movement is even more eye-catching. Face-Shape: Women with rounder face shapes can greatly benefit their style by wearing a pair of chandelier earrings. These earrings help to balance out round and square faces, creating a slimming effect. Experiment with an assortment of dangling earrings to compliment your facial shape and features. Dressy: If you like to dress up, a pair of chandelier earrings is a must-have accessory. If you’re the type of woman who prefers to wear a little black dress to most events, transform it from bland to “wow” with an elegant pair of chandelier earrings. Different styles are decorated with pearls or gemstones, turning up the elegance factor. Cultures: Chandelier earrings are often associated with Indian styles, as these remain a popular type of earring. Think Bollywood films. If this sounds like your style, then an intricate pair of chandelier earrings may be ideal for your personal style, adding flair to your wardrobe instantly. Chandelier earrings are a huge fashion favorite at the moment. While they have never really “gone out of style”, modern styles are considered glamorous, yet casual enough to be worn with jeans and a tee. Some are affordable, while others costly and exquisite. Chandelier earrings are certainly a fashion staple that every woman should incorporate into their own handmade jewelry wardrobe.Chic Handmade Jewelry by John S Brana
Published Date:February 15, 2011
Chic One-of-a-kind Handmade Jewelry
As handmade jewelry becomes more popular, these pieces are becoming conversation pieces and are to be cherished. Many great accessories have come from handmade artists, from beaded bracelets to wired necklaces.
Big and Bold Handmade Jewelry
Chunky accessories have become highly trendy in the fashion industry and are being worn by fashion models all over the runways. Beaded jewelry sometimes falls into this category when the beads are large in size, stacked, or created with vibrant colors. Handmade gemstone jewelry is also chic, especially when created with various types of gemstones in many sizes. Cuffs, bangles, and multi-layered necklaces are just a few of the handmade pieces that stand out from the crowd.
Filigree Handmade Jewelry
Filigree-style detailing is a popular technique used in the art of handcrafted jewelry. This is especially true for pieces such as ring mounts, earrings, and pendant necklaces. Filigree is typically made from platinum, gold, silver, and other finer metals. The delicate design created with these metals often lead this type of jewelry to become heirloom pieces. Filigree can take on various shapes and abstract designs. Many women choose filigree jewelry to wear when dressing up for dates, business meetings, or weddings.
Layering Handmade Jewelry
Layered jewelry has become an appealing trend among jewelry-wearers of all ages. Stacked bracelets and rings are created to portray distinctive layers and look fantastic with dressy attire or just a pair of jeans and a blouse. Multi-strand necklaces are also ideal for many occasions that call for unique pieces to give confidence and individuality. Handmade jewelry that uses layers exudes sophistication and makes a bold statement without being too distracting. Remember to only wear one layered piece at a time as to not overdo it.
Silver and Colors
As one of the more affordable types of precious metal, sterling silver is highly trendy in the fashion world. Quality handmade sterling silver jewelry pieces will last for many years and go well with nearly any wardrobe selection. Many pieces of gemstone jewelry are made from sterling silver, especially pendants, rings, and earrings. Handmade jewelry in Sterling silver is often complimented with bright colored and exotic gems that add shine and color to the metal. Wear silver with contrasting colors to spice up neutral outfits.
Click Here to View More Handmade Designer Jewelry by John S Brana
Subscribe
15% OFF YOUR FIRST PURCHASE
As a subscriber, you get first access to my latest jewelry designs and subscriber-only discounts!
Recent Articles
-
Top 15 Jewelry Gifts for Mother's Day from John S. Brana
Published date:April 19, 2024
-
The Psychological Connection Between Jewelry and Self-Expression
Published date:April 11, 2024
-
Celebrating Your Love with Meaningful Anniversary Jewelry
Published date:March 24, 2024
-
7th Anniversary Copper Jewelry: Top Gift Ideas for Her
Published date:March 19, 2024
-
Fall 2023: The Season of Infinite Possibilities in Jewelry Fashion
Published date:October 11, 2023
-
The Perfect Jewelry to Pair With Your White Button Down Blouse
Published date:August 24, 2023
-
The Best Way to Clean Metal Jewelry - Mother's Mag & Aluminum Polish
Published date:August 03, 2023
-
2023 Handmade Jewelry Trends: A Fusion of Classic and Contemporary
Published date:June 25, 2023
-
Gold Vermeil Necklaces - Get the Luxurious Look of Gold for Less
Published date:September 08, 2022
-
Fall Bracelet Trends 2022 - The Statement Cuff
Published date:August 26, 2022
+Most Popular Articles
2023 Handmade Jewelry Trends: A Fusion of Classic and Contemporary
What Clothes Color Combinations Work Best with Copper Jewelry: A Complete Guide
Top 5 Pure Copper Men's Bracelets for 2022
What Clothes Color Combinations Work Best with Copper Jewelry: A Complete Guide
Shine Bright with John S Brana's Dazzling Aluminum Jewelry Collection