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

Copper Cuff

I wanted to use my bracelet mandrel and make a cuff. Some time ago, I purchased the book The Jeweler's Studio Handbook, by Brandon Holschuh, that had instructions for a copper cuff. This is the first project that I've made from this book, but I still recommend it based on the well written instructions and detailed photographs. I made a few changes to suit my own esthetics. I hammered the finish (because I can't stop hammering) and rounded the the edges. I also had to rely on my own knowledge and expertise when I had problem with the assembly. I couldn't get the bracket to solder to the cuff. I tried about five times before giving up. I decided to drill holes and use rivets, which created a new set of problems. The tubes were too big to fit the aquamarine that I'd chosen for this project. I didn't have anything suitable with a large hole and still fit the frame. I came across an old flat turquoise bead, that had a hole big enough for the tubes, but it was too big wide for the bracket. Since turquoise is a soft stone, I cut and sanded it to fit. 

Sometimes, you just need to make something! I'm happy with it.