Iolite Chain Bracelet

I started this bracelet years ago and never finished it until today. At first, I wasn't sure if I liked the stones dangling from the chain, then I got stuck with deciding how to finish the closure. Suddenly it came to me, to toggle it in a cold connection kind of way. It's not a new toggle technique or design, it's just the first time I've used it. It seems right. I'm happy with it.

Etsy

Shea Butter Soap

My sample of Honey Almond Soap from Naturessheabutter.com arrived today. It smells so good and a little less expensive than L'Occitane's Shea butter soap. I can't wait to try it. 

 

Cast Heart Ring Save

This was created and inspired by a ring Grandma gave me back when I was in high school. I made a mold of it and cast it. The casting seemed to go well until I found a bubble in the crown when finishing it. I was so discouraged and wasn't sure of what to do with it, until now. I decided to cut another heart shape out of the crown, where the hole was uncovered. I just put the saw blade right in the hole and started cutting. It took me an hour and a half from start to finish and not one broken saw blade. With the size that it was cast, I knew it would be a perfect fit for a friend who I promised a ring.  I'm extremely happy with the save and will probably treat the other heart ring casting in the same manner.

 

Evolve/Redo

I've been staring at some of my past creations and wondering what to do with them. Some pieces can be easily recycled and others are already products of momentary genius and should remain as they are. These earrings were a little bit of both, but the design no longer fit my current aesthetics, so I redesigned them.

I'm happy with the results. I love the exotic look of the Bali beads, which are a works within themselves. I just choose my own special ways to display them. The drops represent a simple sophistication. I love the warm caramel color of the Chalcedony. 

And yes I'm aware that one earring is longer than the other. I haven't decided what, if anything, to do about it. They're handmade and imperfect just like the person who'd wear them.