2012 Spring/Summer Collection Revealed!

Trident Earrings by York Avenue Studio

Here is my 2012 Spring/Summer Collection!  This is a special collection because I combined Silver and Gold with genuine gemstones, focusing on the colors of Red White and Blue and incorporating lots of detail while keeping the items small and also affordable.

Tiny Maple Earrings by York Avenue Studio

Silver metal clay opens up so many possibilities for designs.  I love using real leaves to capture tiny details using the actual leaves as the mold.

Maple Seed Earrings by York Avenue Studio

I love the contrast of color between Silver and Gold.  Some designs have 14K yellow Gold and I've used 14K Gold Filled for others.

Horse Shoe Earrings by York Avenue Studio

Each design has tiny detail, like this Horse Shoe with the handstamped textures.

Gold Pear Hoop Earrings by York Avenue Studio

The gemstones in this collection include Freshwater Pearls, Turquoise, Garnet, Red Jasper and Crystal Quartz.

Herkimer Diamond Ring by York Avenue Studio

My signature design style is rustic and shabby chic, and I love to take a minimalist approach to interpret themes of Nature.

Super Long Necklace and Earring Set by York Avenue Studio

I've enjoyed showing my 2012 Spring/Summer Collection to you!  Let me know what you think!

Turquoise and Red Earrings by York Avenue Studio

Discovery! Natural Rainbow Hematite Gemstone

Rainbow Hematite Earrings by York Avenue Studio

Never heard of this gemstone?  A client mentioned that she had seen some beautiful jewelry years back made with Rainbow Hematite, and she had always wanted to own some.  I had to look it up because I had never heard of or seen this gem before.  Instantly thrilled, I found a supplier and ordered some pieces that were rough, not finished.

The sparkly surface looks man-made, with gleaming rainbow colors.  The colors are vivid and there are several colors all grouped tightly together, it almost seems impossible that such a gem is natural.  Bright pink and electric blue, peacock purple and greens, amazing colors!  The gem reflects light when held one way, and seems to appear dark gray or black when turned slightly.  The top and bottom both have completely different colors and it was very hard to decided which side to call the top.


The material is very brittle, flakes of glitter come off easily and the gem seems very easy to chip and break.  I sanded the edges smooth to fit a bezel with 600 grit, very softly and slowly.

I decided to make earrings, which would be less stressful for the gems, less chance of being bumped on tables, less wear and tear like a ring would receive.

Inspired by a tutorial from Marilyn Mack, I decided to fabricate a multi gemstone collage.  Her tutorial, “Atlantisite Serpentine Pendant” is available on the Interweave site shop.


Recently, I am finding that my designs have a pear-shape.  Without doing this intentionally, I noticed that the pieces I like the most have this same shape, like a mini-pear.  Rounded near the bottom, sloping up and curving off center a bit.  Somewhat like paisley shape.  For these earrings, the same thing happened.  As I put the gems around the Rainbow Hematite, my eye picked up the familiar pear-shape again.  I decided to turn it upside down and for earrings, this looked very nice with the larger wider portion at the top tapering down.

My design is a little Southwest with some Art Deco mixed in.  I selected some gems to compliment the colors:  Ruby, Amethyst, Aquamarine, and Tsavorite Garnet.  I drew a sketch, laid out the gems, and made a few adjustments.

A couple of days work, and Voila!  The green Tsavorite Garnet really lights up and plays off the Ruby and Rainbow Hematite.  The subtle Amethyst and Aquamarine look perfect as complimenting colors.  The Rainbow Hematite is gorgeous all by itself, and I didn’t want to distract from it.

I made post earrings with puffy squares in a line, which have a patina with glints of blue and red hues.  Overall, the design has an organic rustic look.  Nature inspired, these earrings look like a leaf dangling from a branch, bursting with Spring color. 
I’d love to hear your comments about Rainbow Hematite.
Kathy

Moonstone Magic Harnessed

Moonstone is a gemstone in the Feldspar family.  The name conjures the image of moonbeams and wispy clouds that glow and shimmer from within the stone.  The Opalescence and milky hue of this gem have long been admired and coveted as powerful, passionate and magical.  Beauty lies within….

The association with the Magic of the Moon lends itself to the imagination and all the possible special affects this stone might bestow on those that possess it.  Could you imagine what powers one could have if the powers of the Moon could be harnessed in a gem?  The mind wonders…

I love the name Moonstone.  The other Geological name Hecatolite doesn’t really “feel” positive.  Moonstone, that is a great name especially for jewelry!  Did you know Moonstone is an alternate Birthstone for June?  Traditional Birthstone for June is Pearl, as well as Alexandrite.  Lucky are those with June birthdays!!

Moonstone possesses an actual phenomenon.  Adularescence is when light scatters within a stone between the natural flat layers within the gem.  A marvel of nature as the stone forms in the right conditions with the right minerals.
My favorite color of Moonstone is White with blue flashes.  I’ve seen this color called Rainbow Moonstone.  Other colors include peach, green, blue, gray, brown.  Photographing Moonstone is tricky, catching the light just right, the result will be different on bright days v. cloudy days.

I would love to hear your comments on Moonstone, whether you own this gemstone, your favorite color or piece of jewelry and maybe a little story of what the stone means to you!  Have you harnessed the Magic of Moonstone?
Please, comment below.

Virtual Craft Show - See Me There - Free Giveaways!

Pretty Things Blog is hosting a Virtual Craft Show which is showcasing 70 Artists and their handcrafted gifts.  I am super excited to be a part of this showing and invite you to visit and enter to win one of the 70 free items in the Giveaway drawings.

I am offering a special coupon code in my Etsy shop .  50% off orders over $200, use code stockingstuffer

Perfect jewelry gifts for the ladies on your list, you can add $200 of items to your cart, and only pay $100!  A great place to start is the section called Jewelry Under $30.  Sterling Silver earrings make great stocking stuffers!

Shipping is Free to US address!

Personalized and custom orders are welcome.  After Dec 5th, custom orders may require expedited shipping to receive before Christmas.

I hope you enjoy the Virtual Craft Show as well as the Stocking Stuffer sale in my shop.

Kathy

New! Fall/Winter 2011 Collection Revealed

Dream Cloud Ring with Citrine by York Avenue Studio

I'm so happy to show off my latest line of designs!  This collection is all about genuine gemstones and bold silver settings.  This Dream Cloud Ring has puffy swirls that showcase the delicate colored Citrine.  I've added blue hues with a patina to the prong setting, which reflect thru the stone, very unique!

Dream Cloud Ring by York Avenue Studio

Each design is completely fabricated in my studio by hand giving me the freedom to customize the design according to customer preference of gemstone, ring size, etc.

Genuine White Opal Heart Earrings by York Avenue Studio

My goal was to produce genuine gemstone jewelry that is affordable and durable.  The design style for this collection is Shabby Chic and Rustic.

Pearl Engagement Ring by York Avenue Studio

The gemstones I've included in this series are delicate and light, with Pearls, Opals, Citrine.

Pearl Silver Ring by York Avenue Studio

This collection includes matching earrings and rings.

Pearl Silver Earrings by York Avenue Studio

I love working with Silver Art Clay and Sterling Silver.  Every design in my collection for Fall/Winter 2011 is made with precious metal and genuine gems!

Steampunk Silver Heart Ring by York Avenue Studio

The entire collection is available in my shop on Etsy.  Custom orders are always welcome! 

Sterling Hoop Earrings by York Avenue Studio

Each piece is priced at a great value for fine silver and gemstone jewelry.

Spider Web Ring by York Avenue Studio

I'd love to hear your comments and which piece you like and why! 
Thanks for looking and sharing this big reveal moment with me!
Kathy

CLOSED - Free Jewelry Giveaway - 100th Follower Celebration Continues

Genuine White Opal and Alexandrite Ring by York Avenue Studio

I'm so excited that my blog has so many followers and I'm about to break the 100 mark!  In anticipation of reaching that milestone, I've offered a 50% discount on my Fine Silver Feather Earrings!  That blog post can be found by clicking here.

To continue the fun, I am also holding a Free Jewelry Giveaway for my Genuine White Opal and Alexandrite Ring!  One lucky winner of my Giveaway will receive this ring absolutely free!

Genuine White Opal and Alexandrite Ring by York Avenue Studio

Rare genuine Alexandrite gemstone accents make this a truly unique Opal ring, not something you will find everywhere. The Alexandrite gems are color changing from green to red when worn in different types of light. The Genuine White Opal has beautiful rainbow flashes of color, which also appear differently with natural light compared to other light sources.

The sterling silver setting has tiny swirls on each side of the main gem that wrap around the accent gems, very nice detail.  Size 7.  Any local jeweler can resize this ring if needed.

The genuine White Opal is 7x5mm, .45ct. Opal is the birthstone for October
The Alexandrite gems are just under 2mm round each and have blue-green color, changing to purple-red. Alexandrite is also a birthstone for June, along with pearl.

Genuine White Opal and Alexandrite Ring by York Avenue Studio

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To enter my Free Jewelry Giveaway, see below and enter as many times as you like!  The winner will be contacted after the random drawing on July 31, 2011 and must be 18 years or older, US or Canada address for shipping.  Previous giveaway winners can win again!

1.  Leave a comment below that you are a follower of my blog, and be sure to click "Follow" on the right column so I can find you in the list.  Followers will only be entered by leaving a comment, not automatically included this time.
2.  Order a pair of Fine Silver Feather Earrings, with or without using the 50% off coupon code - see this blog post for details.  One entry for each pair ordered.
3. Leave a comment below describing something in my Etsy Shop that you like and why.
4. Leave a comment below describing something in my Etsy Shop that you feel needs to be changed.  Be honest, I welcome the critique!
5. Leave a comment below describing my "style of jewelry" in your own words.  This would mean a lot to me to know what you think.
6.  Invite a friend to leave a comment below mentioning you....you will get an extra entry, too!

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Have fun and I am super excited about this Giveaway and hearing from you!!
Kathy

100th Follower Half Off Coupon Code for Fine Silver Feather Earrings!

In anticipation of reaching 100 followers on my blog, I am celebrating by offering a super special SALE on my Fine Silver Feather Earrings.  The special is for a limited time.  I will make as many pairs as needed for this offer and keep the offer open until the end of July 2011.  My goal is 100 pairs ordered.  I also will be forwarding the proceeds of this offer to a special family that recently lost their home to a foreclosure and are split temporarily while looking for another place to live together.  They are in my thoughts and my heart goes out to them. ♥

Fine Silver Feather Earrings by York Avenue Studio

For only HALF the regular price of $30, each customer will receive a pair of Fine Silver (.999) Feather Earrings with sterling silver ear wires for only $15, shipped FREE to the US.  For other locations, please see the shipping chart at the bottom of the listing in my shop.  You may also order them at full price, of course, and more proceeds will go to the family.

I use real feathers as shown in the photo.  The feather is the natural "mold" to shape and provide the amazing detail.  The result is .999 pure silver gorgeous feathers! 

Fine Silver Feather Earrings by York Avenue Studio

I will offer these as shiny silver with a satin brushed finish or with an antiqued silver finish, just let me know your prefererence at checkout.  The length is about 1 1/2 inches and each feather will be unique.  These are high quality, lightweight and very comfortable.  Feathers are very hot in fashion styles and this unique design is extraordinary and sophisticated!

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Please "Follow" my blog and leave a comment below requesting this special 100th Follower Half Off Sale!  I will email the Coupon Code to you, so make sure you include your email address.  If you'd rather just email me for the code and not leave the comment below, that is great, too!  The Coupon Code is only valid for these earrings in my Etsy Shop, York Avenue Studio.  Not valid on any other item in my shop.  These are custom made to order and the proceeds will be donated, please understand no refunds or returns.  Normally, these ship out in a few days, but please allow 7-10 business days to complete your order.  I'll notify you when they are ready to ship!

Pass this special along, use twitter, Facebook, call your friends and family, tell your co-workers!  These earrings will make great gifts for birthdays, teachers, wedding and bridal party gifts, moms, daughters, nieces, aunts, sweethearts, wife, girlfriend, etc.

Order a pair for yourself and order another pair to keep handy for a last minute gift.

Fine Silver Feather Earrings by York Avenue Studio

I hope you enjoy this special and I am very excited that I have so many blog followers and friends to share my jewelry-making adventures!  Feel free to leave a comment, even if just to say Hi! I realize most of my followers make their own gorgeous jewelry, and I appreciate your comments.  I certainly hope to find new followers that will join me and would appreciate fine silver at half off!

I'm also holding a Free Jewelry Giveaway to add to the celebration, click here!
Kathy

Closed - Jewelry Giveaway! Genuine Amethyst Sterling Silver Heart Necklace

Purple Amethyst Silver Heart Necklace by York Avenue Studio

Why does anyone buy colored gemstone jewelry?  Why not just buy gold and diamonds?  I'm curious why customers buy colored gems.  I know why I love colorful jewelry, but want to know what a person thinks that gets them online to search out a great gemstone ring, for example.  Is it an upcoming birthday for a daughter or a neice, Mother's Day, an engagement or anniversary?

Is the specific color gem they choose based on the birthstone for the one receiving the gift or is it the perceived value of the classic three precious gems Ruby, Emerald and Sapphire?

I'd love to hear how people select their gems.  If you leave a comment below with your preference on selecting gemstone jewelry, maybe a true story of a past purchase, or even just describe your favorite gemstone, etc. you will be entered into the Free Giveaway for the Purple Amethyst Silver Heart Necklace! 

I'll announce the winner April 9th along with my reasons why I love colored gemstone jewelry and why I started my collection and my shop.

Purple Amethyst Silver Heart Necklace by York Avenue Studio

This solid .925 Sterling Silver Heart pendant is both semi-textured and shiny.  The classic symbol of love and devotion.  The genuine Amethyst gemstone is 5mm round and .40cts with light purple color and super clarity!  I will include an 18" sterling silver chain.  Amethyst is the birthstone for February.  Retail value is $130.00.

Other ways to enter:

If you Follow my blog, you'll also be entered automatically for the Giveaway!

If you'd rather send me an email with your comments on gemstone jewelry, you will also be entered to win!

Share this link and tell your friends and family to visit and enter, too!  Fellow jewelry makers are welcome to enter as well as anyone, ANYONE, who enjoys genuine gems!  My only limitation is that I will only ship the item to an address within the US or Canada.  I'm sorry that I can't ship international on this item.

Good Luck and I can't wait to read your comments!

Kathy