It’s that time of year again! Alex is off to Munich to see the wild and crazy world of Art Jewellery.
Precious Collective will be presenting works from their members at ‘The Space Between’ for the fair!
I will post my favourite finds from the festival when I return!
Alex
The largest, oldest and most prestigious gem and mineral show in the world.
The Tucson Gem and Mineral Show has enjoyed international stature since the 1970s, and was the first gem and mineral show to bring the hobby enthusiast, the public, and the curator/professionals together for discovery and discussion. February 8th through 11th.
Three members of Jewel Envy will be in attendance, hunting for fun and interesting gems for future works! Looking for a custom piece in the future? Reach out and let us know and we can keep an eye out.
The show consists of educational talks, raw and processed gem/minerals for sale, exhibitions, and even field trips! It has something for both hobbyists and professionals, adults and children. If you *love* gems and minerals, this is definitely something to keep in mind to attend!!
This is your reminder that Jewel Envy is full of talented goldsmiths who can make beautiful gold jewellery, have made beautiful gold jewellery, and do make beautiful gold jewellery.
As you were.
When it comes to goldsmithing and jewellery making, chains are pretty much essential. Whether large or small, handmade or machine made, the chain we choose needs to work with the aesthetic of the piece, and hold up to the practical needs and weight of the piece. These choices also determine the cost of the finished piece, so financial balance is considered by our goldsmiths as well. Ideally, we want to feel good about every aspect of our jewellery, so here is a mini breakdown to help you decide.
Handmade and Hearty
Handmade chains tend to be unique and chunky. The desire for a handmade chain is the desire to see and feel the creativity of the artist. These pieces are statement pieces – one of a kind and easy to identify as yours. They tend to be made of solid material, like the solid Sterling silver pieces shown here, or solid gold that can be made upon request.
Half and Half
Almost any chain can be handmade, but the amount of labour it takes to form and solder each link in a dainty, long, symmetrical chain, makes it impossible to compete with the cost of machine made chains. Sometimes, a goldsmith will use machine made chain, not only to balance the cost, but to balance the weight of the piece. This way, the piece falls properly, without turning in a way that requires constant adjustment.
Smart, Savvy, and Symmetrical
We know that machines can make lighter, daintier, more affordable symmetrical chains, but it is not just in their technique. Machines are able to make chain out of material that is not solid gold/silver, such as very light, hollow links, or base metal wire with gold fused around it. The durability and wearablitily differs depending on your intention for these chains, and we have some beautiful options for sale in the studio.
If you are looking for a statement chain, a signature look, an easy accessory, or a replacement for a favourite pendant, come by the studio and let us guide you through the best options for your needs. We are more than happy to nerd out on ideas, or set you up with a quick, effective solution, whichever works best for you!
This post is going to be for the organised.
Having just come through an intense holiday season, you may not be ready to talk about Valentine’s. However, if you are thinking that you or a loved one would adore a gorgeous custom creation on February 14th, this is exactly the time to get that started.
Custom pieces do not fall to a specific timeline, so it is good to come to us with an idea as soon as you can. We can start the ball rolling by email, in person, or even over the phone. Not only do we assist people directly, we also can take notes or create a wish list of someone’s desires for a special piece. This way, a loved one in need of direction and guidance is sure to get it right, just by coming into the studio with their loved one’s name as a reference.
Recently, we made a gorgeous gift for a couple who wanted their connection to be reflected in a couple’s creation. They requested matching necklaces that come together to form a symbol of harmony and balance – the Yin and Yang.
If you have ideas about special people or moments you would like to express in a beautiful custom piece, reach out to us and let us create something wonderful.
Jennifer Trotman, one of our goldsmith members, has been working on a new line of “dream driven” rings, which are now available in our studio’s retail store. This line is based on a simple idea – stay focused on your dream.
Many of us have vision boards, or other ways to inspire us and remind us of the things in life we want to manifest. However, once those visual reminders are out of sight, they can be out of mind.
Jennifer’s vision is two-fold. One, a beautiful, easy to wear ring that helps to stay focused when making decisions about time, money everyday, all day. The second way it works is that, as a gift, it is a constant reminder of love and support as your loved one works towards their dream.
Our dreams and goals are varied and individual as we are, but the Focused line has launched with three:
More goals will be launched soon, so if you do not see yours, feel free to send an inquiry to Jennnifer.
Many jewellery pieces are dedicated to celebrating a goal accomplished, but Focus jewellery aims to keep you on track, and they look great just as beautiful stacking rings.
We currently have them in Sterling silver and yellow gold, so drop by soon and have a look
Just in time for Holiday Shopping, our goldsmiths at Jewel Envy have stocked our display bubbles with gorgeous new pieces.
Whether you have been eyeing a favourite all year and hoping to see variations, or you have been waiting on fresh options as a sign to start your gift-getting, we have the sparkle to inspire you.
From our established artists to our new members, the new pieces we put out today run the gauntlet of skill and style, wish-lists and price-points.
We are open until 6pm today, and would love to guide you through the showroom, so drop-by and let us impress you.
What better way to add some life to jewellery than using gemstones? They add depth and variety by bringing in colour and sparkle. Perfect for summer!
We have a bezel setting workshop running here at Jewel Envy next Saturday, June 7th. For more info give us a call or visit us in store. We’d love to help you!
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| Here are 3 samples of pendants made by students in one of our recent bezel setting workshops. |
A selfie of me and my rose gold and white gold septum ring, bezel set with a diamond.
Thanks for reading, and looking at my photos!
Come in anytime to talk jewellery!
Amanda
Website: Jewelust by Amanda Henderson
Facebook.com/Jewelust.by.Amanda.Henderson
It’s that time of year again. The Jewel Envy holiday party!
Join us for a glass of wine, homemade apple cider, and snacks…
And save 10% on all jewellery on display in the store!
This party is all about you! Thank you for being Jewel Envy customers. Thank you for being with us just this first year on Roncesvalles. We couldn’t do it with out you. Thank you!
See you Friday December 13th from 5-10pm.
