Not a whole lotta earrings

But lots of necklaces :)
And some rings for good measure..............

Twin necklaces: salt & pepper finishes

And can't forget the bracelet!

Listing new work is always such a looooong process. I've been trying to get it done in one day, but it almost never happens even though I am determined that time around to accomplish that goal. The problem is that I am still finishing work that morning.....setting stones, applying finishes, etc. So here I am the next day....AGAIN ;)

Okay, I'm off to list!

p.s. I'm listening to this beautiful song right now...love it.

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A bit of business...

This morning I shipped out all of my orders. Yesterday I made a custom turquoise ring to go along with my 'Memories of New Mexico' necklace and while making it I decided to make myself something as well. So I guess this is Happy Birthday to me....:)

This puppy goes well with my growing collection! (don't pay attention to the clash of sequins and turquoise...heeheehee)

Well my Etsy shop has wrapped up and closed for vacation. I decided yesterday that I had better close up a few days earlier because I definitely wanted the remaining two days to be focused on preparing to leave. There really is still so much to do. I have to cut all of my monkeys' hair (that includes Mr. Melnikov :), finish up packing, clean house, water plants, charge batteries, etc..... I'm afraid I may lose some plants while we are gone...but I guess that is to be expected. I hope the casualties will be low though!

I have been trying to make this blog post for an hour now....that's what happens when you have two crazy kids jumping all around you ;)

On a side note I have been really digging these guys lately....LOVE Such Great Heights. You all should see me when I'm working. I dance in my chair A LOT :)

See you in transit....

Gifts

Here are a few pics of the necklaces that I am making for my mom and sister. I thought I would share some images of the pieces, mid-process. Below is a pic of the bezel wall, which is made of fine silver and holds the stone in place. Underneath is the 'baseplate' of sterling silver. I first soldered the bezel together and then I soldered the bezel to the baseplate.

I am very meticulous with each fabrication stage. I have learned what works best for me in creating a finished piece of high quality.

The baseplate underneath will be cut away until it is flush with the bezel wall and then I will solder the bails (the piece that connects to the necklace) to the whole piece. There are a lot of other things in between that I do, such as filing, and lastly everything is buffed.

One day I will make some videos of my process and post. I am always curious to see how other silversmiths work....so perhaps some of you are as well ;)

For now I am off to have some afternoon coffee (this is my favorite blend of coffee in the world - the Adobe Morning Blend to be specific) and then I will finish the necklaces and post pics of them when I am done.

Adiós

Almost done

My five necklaces and one pair of earrings are currently in the tumbler and will soon be set with stones. Today was a great day. For all the metalsmiths out there, it is amazing how some days the solder just flows perfect. My hands followed my mind's lead wonderfully. I had constant realizations today that I am in my element....the fish who finally found water. It is such an exhilarating feeling to be content, challenged and excited in what you DO.

So since I refuse to blog without posting pictures (I am an ultra-visually stimulated person myself) I decided to post some pictures of etsy items that I adore. I just found these items today...what beautiful designs, don't you think?

I quickly added these to the favorites section of my shop. Etsy is very addicting. I am in a constant state of inspiration and awe when I browse through there.

I've got to go and finish my pieces now...they'll be up in my shop tomorrow ;)