Did you do your homework and watch yesterday’s video about my black diamond “Carpe Diem” skull designs? If not, you should do it now … and don’t forget to leave a comment for extra credit! I promised nice still shots of the three-piece mini collection today. Actually, I’ve already shared plenty of photos of the…
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March’s Jewels of the Month: Carpe Diamond!
A few weeks ago, famous groundhog Punxsutawney Phil did not see his shadow, and you know what that means — an early Jewels of the Month post for March! I just can’t wait any longer to share the video for the official debut of my black-diamond “Carpe Diem” mini collection. If you’re a regular reader,…
Jewel of the Month: Ring Redesign With Rubies
I was going to wait until we were further into February to reveal the Jewel of the Month, but I just put the finishing touches on it today and I can’t resist sharing! Gorgeous client Phala asked me to turn her classic ruby-accented engagement ring and wedding band into a nontraditional, single ring. For inspiration,…
Small Cats for Leo Season on 1stdibs; Week in Review
Leo season started last Sunday, and I’ve got the lion jewelry of your dreams. That said, big cats aren’t always better! Why not do something different and get some small-cat jewelry for a feline-loving Leo’s birthday? I’ve got designs inspired by my own beloved FitzRoy the cat on 1stdibs. Fitzy is Instagram-famous for sitting in…
Jewel of the Month: ANZA PURE Charm Ring
Because the rough-gemstone jewelry of my ANZA PURE x Wendy Brandes collection generated a bit of excitement recently, I’ve decided that my newest ANZA PURE piece should be April’s Jewel of the Month. It’s an 18K yellow gold charm ring set with a large, rough grossular garnet, modeled by ANZA Gems founder Monica Stephenson in…
Two ANZA Rings Are Even Better Than One
Image consultant and jewelry expert Amy Roseveare interviewed ANZA Gems founder Monica Stephenson about what inspired Monica to launch her company in 2014. Because I work with ANZA gemstones, I’ve described ANZA’s mission a number of times, but I think you’ll be interested in how Monica herself tells the story. CLICK HERE FOR THE INTERVIEW….
Mean Boys and Rough Jewelry
One of the great things about the jewelry business — in my 13 years of experience, at least — is the dearth of mean girls. via GIPHY The majority of the women I’ve encountered in the industry have been friendly, collaborative, and supportive. Their encouragement has often kept me going through challenging times. But, to…
Vote for My Rings (Because Safety First!)
In the early days of blogging, I had fun campaigning for online contests, but this time I’m conflicted. It’s been eight years since the vast reach and power of Poodle made that tech company my personal Voldemort. I never imagined that the social-media company that I will now refer to as Spacenook would become even…
ANZA PURE Designs Heading Off to Their New Homes
I’m happy to see that one necklace and two pairs of earrings from the ANZA PURE x Wendy Brandes collection are heading off to their new homes! These ANZA PURE pieces by @wendybrandesjewelry just sold—we’re getting them ready to go to their new homes, and planning more! #oneofakind #givesback #roughgems #puregems #anzapure #spinel #mahengespinel #garnet…
More About the Garnet Man Brooch
I already wrote about the garnet man brooch that is January’s Jewel of the Month on Monday, but here it is again! I can’t resist, because Monica Stephenson — ANZA Gems founder, garnet provider, and customer — shared the brooch on Instagram, and I’m amused by her caption. Shhh! Can you keep a secret? We…