What I am working on now

Sometimes I just look at a single item and as I open boxes of beads to look for things to go with it, I get into a color scheme that I don't want to let go of for awhile.  I am currently in that process.  The need to go back to some semiprecious stones and a look inspired by nature starting with a carved light green jade leaf has taken me on a journey of soft greens, dark greens, roses and peachy pink pearls.  I have one entire 3 piece set done, a couple of pairs of earrings, working on a bookmark, and am about to open the super lucious gemstone box and break out some of the expensive faceted tourmaline to go with a Karen Hill Tribe Sterling Silver leaf pendant for what will likely turn into another 3 piece set.  I will be doing at least one super long pair of earrings for my wonder customer Olivia as well.  It often takes 2 to 3 weeks to get things done, photographed and listed, but keep posted!  I hope you are all enjoying your summer!  Try to stay cool!   A rose from my garden to you.

Preview of Pearl Sets to come!

This is a preview of some pearl sets and one super long pair of earrings soon to be posted on Etsy.  I love pearls!  So classic, simple, yet elegant.  Dave says I don't so simple - it's just not in me to not make things elaborate.  However, I really do see the simple beauty of a single pearl.  The Vintage Swarovski pearl bracelet and the set actually has no Swarovski crystals on it.  I love them all.  I hope to get these posted tomorrow!  Going to the mountains today for a day with the dog and the husband - to cool off!

New Earrings

I have been working on photos of some of the recent jewelry made.  Posted here are a few pics of soon-to-be-posted earrings on Etsy.  I also have some pearl 3 piece sets coming (1 white and 1 ivory) and a collection of Vitral jewelry.  I often find when I get a box of beads open, I can't make just one piece of jewelry.  I like to create 3 piece sets, but realize that everyone does not like 3 piece sets.  Usually I split them up and sell separately, but you will soon see some that are only going to be sold as at least 2 piece necklace and earring sets.  Anyhow, keep posted!  Everything seems to me take me longer than I anticipate.  Perhaps I take on too much, do too much, or something!  Wish I could afford to do this full time.  Someday.... another blog.

A wonderful Sunday

Sweet Potato Face

Everyone's Happy!

I put some pictures on Facebook (look for me under Barbara Zinkhan) of my son (Jerry) and grandson (Izaiha) last Sunday.  I have not seen Izaiha in awhile so it was really, really nice.  Here's a few pics.

Custom set for Maria

I have had the great pleasure of working with a terrific person and customer to create just the special set for her!  This set was created with all sterling silver, olivine Swarovski, and turquoise Czech glass beads with the lovely Picasso finish.  She sent me a picture of her wearing all 3 pieces and she just radiated!  Thought I would share it with you!  Please feel free to contact me if you have any special needs - I LOVE custom work - making something that is just perfect for that special someone - YOU!

New gemstones in!

I just got some new faceted gemstones in!

• Faceted Tourmaline in several types including some tiny faceted briolettes cut like Swarovski that sparkle like Swarovski - very expensive but so worth it!  I love the versatility and all the colors of Tourmaline from black to gold, rose pinks, watermelons, olive greens, and more.  What fun!
• Peruvian Chalcedony - a beautiful light aqua stone much like Amazonite - in long graduated daggers (like 40mm long!) and carved, yes CARVED, leaves.  Think I will use them some faceted smokey quartz.
• Green Chalcedony - tiny gemstones with tons of sparkle that I think will go gorgeous with something blue.
• Some trillion cut blue quartz little pyramids that are fantastic!  I think these would go gorgeous with Swarovski Tanzanite.  Don't know what I'm going to make with these yet, but they are gorgeous.  I want to get more in other colors!