This year’s colour of the year is “cloud dancer”, but with as much of the white stuff as we’ve been getting, today calls for a little more “mocha mousse” warmth from 2025.
If you are lucky enough to get to stay inside today, we hope that you are cuddled up with a cup of comfort.
Or if you are lucky enough to enjoy playing in frosty fluff outside, we hope that your joy burns bright and your toes thaw quickly when you come home.
Warm thoughts, all around.
In fact, why not throw on your personal regalia, your most cherished parure, and host an indoor dance party?
And if you have been inspired to adorn yourself in toasty tones, but find that you lack such noble finery, drop by Jewel Envy and get comfy with our handmade jewellery!
Did you ever wonder when in history was the Baroque Period? It was after the renaissance from the early 17th century to the mid-18th century. This was an extravagant time marked by social, political and artistic transformations. When one thinks of Baroque jewelry, it shows a sense of drama, grandeur and ornamentation. Also, you can think of Baroque jewelry as jewelry that has intricate craftsmanship and the use of precious materials.
While the Renaissance period embraced linear and harmonious aesthetics and forms, the Baroque style embraced a more dynamic and theatrical style.
So why was this era so extravagant and full of drama and grandeur? Well, during this time, the Catholic Church was trying to reassert its dominance through elaborate displays of wealth and opulence. So, you could say it was a movement; an artistic movement which influenced not only jewelry but also music, literature and architecture.
Baroque jewelry, with its intricate designs and lavish use of gemstones, became a symbol of wealth and status during this period. The jewelry of the Baroque era often featured elaborate motifs such as flowers, leaves, and scrolls, meticulously crafted in gold or silver. Precious gemstones like diamonds, rubies, and emeralds were also incorporated into the designs, adding a touch of opulence and luxury.
One of the key characteristics of Baroque jewelry was its emphasis on movement and dynamism. Pieces were designed to catch the light and sparkle, enhancing the overall effect. Necklaces, bracelets, and earrings were often adorned with cascading gemstones or intricate chains, creating a sense of fluidity and motion.
December birthdays can be tricky when it comes to gift giving. With all of the special events going on, how does a December birthday gift stand out? With personalization! Customization! Any gift stands out when it connects directly with the recipient, and what connects more to a December birthday than a unique, handmade December birthstone present?
One December birthstone is Turquoise, which comes in a myriad of tones and can be used in a myriad of ways. Here at Jewel Envy, we have pieces in stock that can be adjusted or sized if needed.
We do require 4-6 weeks for new custom pieces, so check the birthstone of your loved one and drop by to discuss a custom piece soon!
Acid etching is when you create a design on metal and then using a strong acid like ferric nitrate or ferric chloride to eat away specific areas. I use it for decorative reasons. Some people use nitric acid too but that is very corrosive.
Process:
Step 1: Prepare your metal to make sure there are no oils on there and make sure its clean.
Step 2: Add a resist to your metal. Some examples are nail polish and shellac.
Step 3: Now it’s time to design on your metal. A lot of times people use something sharp to scratch the design onto the resist on the surface of the metal so the resist is removed and it will be exposed to acids.
Step 4: immerse it into the bath and wait, making sure to stir the bath and move the liquid often to make the process go faster.
Step 5: remove and clean up.
Here is a beautiful example of acid etched designs on jewellery .
Are you in Toronto before Hannukah and Christmas and looking to explore local shops?
Whether you are feeling topsy-turvy, on a mission, or relaxed and taking in the sights and sounds of city, you are welcome to come and see us at the Jewel Envy Studio today (until 6pm), tomorrow (10am-6pm), and Tuesday (10am-4:30).
We have lots of unique gifts and lovely pieces to look at that will have you spinning or centered, depending on your preference.
Just look for the biggest blue house in Roncesvalles, on the corner of Roncesvalles and Marion Street.
