Swing from the Chandeliers!

I always feel as if I'm in constant motion from Halloween through New Year's Day. So, amid all the chaos that is the holiday season, I was inspired to make earrings for my Earrings of the Month members that remind them to enjoy life, create memories, giggle, and swing from the chandeliers…not literally, but you get the idea.

These one-of-a-kind pieces are made with each recipient in mind using glass, gemstones, and sterling silver. They are all handwired with sterling silver and will ship out later this week.

The Ice Cream Orchid

I am easily swayed to make new jewelry. And it's usually spawned by something I'm reading...or eating. Since I just started reading Tim Ecott's Vanilla: Travels in Search of the Ice Cream Orchid, I suppose it was only a matter of time before I wanted an orchid necklace.

Luckily I located a local artisan who handcasts all of his pieces using the lost wax method. Check out Pete Conder's shop on etsy.

I handwired his sterling silver orchid with clear quartz coins and faceted rondelles of golden citrine to create this one-of-a-kind necklace. Then I made coordinated earrings with faceted pear chalcedony briolettes and clear quartz coins.

I'll have to check out more of Pete's pieces. This orchid is eye-catching and gorgeous without being too heavy. It was exactly what I wanted.

Bushels of Beads

One of my favorite family activities for this season: picking apples with my boys. Of course I love the jams, pies, tarts, and chutneys that result. But there is something inspiring about the reds and greens of fresh Fall fruits. And it is with winesaps, pippins, and galas in mind that I created my October EcoChic Designs' earrings-of-the-month - Bushels of Beads. Think red chalcedony, green aventurine, Burmese rubies, garnets, and green onyx...all handwired with sterling silver. All one-of-a-kind. All made specifically for each recipient. These went out to my subscribers this week. I hope they enjoy them!