Initials in Trees

Though not particularly tree-friendly, carved initials on trees seem to shout to the world: we're in love!

So, for a friend's 11th anniversary present, I made her a necklace with a charm from Bonbon Charms - custom sterling charms by Erica Clements out of Eugene, Oregon.

Handwired with sterling silver branches, recycled green glass, and moss agate, I created this one-of-a-kind necklace for Pia. The piece closes in the front with a vine-wrapped sterling silver toggle. Happy anniversary to the Garneaus - P+B - with much love!

If you're interested in a carved initials necklace for yourself, let me know: camillammann at sbcglobal dot net.

Happy Valentines' to Me!

 

I think it was all my time as a florist in Berkeley, but I truly despised Valentines' Day for many years.  And though I've softened towards the holiday, Jake knows better than to get me red roses and chocolate.  His solution to the Valentine's Day gift quandry: I get to make my own present!

This year I was inspired by Jake carving our initials into an aspen tree near Blue Lake during a camping trip last summer.  I never knew how cheesy my husband could be - until that afternoon - and, despite my horror at him cutting into a living tree, I decided to commemorate that event with a sterling silver charm from Bonbon Charms - custom sterling charms by Erica Clements out of Eugene, Oregon.

I recycled some sterling silver toggles from old necklaces that I don't wear anymore and hand-wired the charms with oxidized sterling wire and chain.  Faceted golden pyrite pillows add some warmth to the pieces.

Happy Valentines' Day to me!