Promotional Video for Shop Opening

End of Summer... and a New Beginning

I've been busy for the past couple of weeks, hence my inefficiency at planning and executing posts.  This spring I was accepted into a Ph.D. program (yay!!) with a full fellowship (double yay!!).  So for the majority of June though July and into the beginning of August I've been going in to get reacquainted with the lab, and thus my schedule has gone off the rails trying to readjust to the stressful life of a student.  I am going through with opening my shop and I will try extremely hard not to neglect it.  I know it's going to be a rough couple of years but if by the end of it I have an established shop it will be well worth it.  Here are a couple of new creations that will be making an entry into my shop! Stay tuned Grand Opening will be under way shortly!! 

Vacation in New Orleans

First and foremost: the contest.  What have I learned from this contest?? One month is not enough time to design and make a well thought out  piece for a contest, so how am I going to reconcile my discovery?? I'm going to start designing a contest piece for next year, since there will always be a seed bead contest at Fire Mountain Gems.  So color pallets, design concepts, and selecting components for my piece, will be a process this time.  I have one whole year to get it together.  Okay so back on track.... vacation in New Orleans!! Well sort of...

My husband had to attend a Microsoft conference in New Orleans, his company was setting him up in a nice hotel for a week.  When I found out that he was going, I jumped on the band wagon as well, a semi free vacation: YES PLEASE!  My husband's plane ticket was payed for, five days in the hotel was paid for, and his food was paid for; we just had to pay for my air fare and an extra night.

New Orleans was GORGEOUS! The architecture is just breathtaking, and the iron work just left me speechless!

These beauties were hanging in front of a cafe. 

Palm Trees...These could have been taken in Florida!

The Audubon Insectarium, I really wanted to go in but the hubby wasn't into it.

There were so many street artists and each one was as unique as the last!

The Cathedral in front of Jackson Square.

Another view of the Cathedral.

I believe this was a cruise. The harbor/river walk was serene, I was sitting along some steps leading to the river catching
my breath after a two mile walk!

I don't know if you can see the intricacies of the iron work but they are truly inspirational!

Another building with lovely intricate iron work, I could sit and stare at it all day long. 

We were staying at a hotel near the Convention center, so my walk to the French Quarter was about a mile. I would go out in the morning and be back by noon, that's when the temperature was unbearable.  Once the hubby was back from the conference we would go out for dinner, either with our cousin or with his team.  Over all I had fun, it was nice to just get away for  a while and not have to think about what I needed to do to launch my business or the fact that in less than a week now I'm going to be starting my Ph.D. (pounds head on desk). My postings will lessen, but hopefully I'll do a better job at scheduling and maintaining blog posts. Stay tuned for more jewelry!!

Blue Statement Necklace for the FMG Contest: Sneak Peak!

It's been really busy for the past week and a half. I've had to do so many things it's not even funny. This weekend my baby brother graduated from Widener University as an engineer!!! So very proud of him. Anyways, we had to leave at 7:30am to get there by 8:30 so that we would be able to find seats and get situated by 9:00am when the ceremony actually started. It was a beautiful day, not too hot and not too cold but there was a chill in the air.

Waiting at Widener University for the Commencement to begin

 We couldn't stay for the whole ceremony, we waited until 12:00pm and when it was still not over we called my brother and told him to come out.  We congratulated him and took pictures with him and left because we had to go to New Jersey. It took us a good two hours to get there: traffic was just brutal.

Ok, rewind to last Monday or Tuesday, I can't remember, I woke up with intense lower back pain.  I was unproductive for a week! The first couple of days it was excruciating to sit, to stand, to lay down and to bend over to pick something off the ground but towards the end of the week I was doing so much better and then Saturday happened.  Sitting on those seats at the graduation, sitting awkwardly in the car for at least five hours and then going to the movies and sitting on those stupid seats for another three hours: IT. WAS. AGONY! But I'm better now, it still hurts but not to the extent that it did, I'm taking better care of my self so my beading has gone down to a minimum.  I have managed, though, to create most of the individual components for my contest piece.

This was my initial sketch of the piece that I am making, it started out with just an encased rivoli at the center and everything else just fell into place.  As I have made each component the piece has evolved. For example the central rivoli should be relatively small compared to the one that I made:

I just love the brilliant and magical blue of the rivoli which complements the subtle bi-cones that embellish it. This was my second attempt at the central component the first was as follows

The same brilliant rivoli but it is completely embellished with pyrite, I had to disregard this for the central component because it was just too subtle and small.

The smaller of the two main components does not have the same visual impact.

The larger of the two central pieces, two more of the smaller rivolis will be set along side the larger component.

 I have to make a couple of more components, six more to be exact (I hope), and then I need to connect everything together, take pictures, and enter the contest.  It's a lot of pressure because the first place winner will recieve a $1,000 to spend at Fire Mountain Gems.  This could possibly jump start my business!!


I was linking up to my usual blog hops and guess what I discovered??  I was featured at the Fine Craft Guild! It truly is a milestone for me!! Hop over to the Fine Craft Guild, she has a great selection on different topics!!



*Website update: we upgraded that platform that we are going to use so that I can add more items to the shop, however we hit a few snags when we tried to integrate a gallery of sorts.  It might take a bit longer to sort this out, especially since the hubby has started class again*

The Adventures of the Beaded Bead: The Bead Cap

As you may have gathered I have a slight obsession when it comes to bead weaving and those tiny little seed beads.  I love how some thing so tiny can be combined together to create something beautiful: the possibilities are endless!!  I'm going to let all of you on a tiny secret, I'm finally working on a piece that will enter the Fire Mountain Gem's Beading Contest for seed beads.  My color palette is steely grey with a metallic bright blue accent, and of course pyrite has to be involved (what would I do with out it!?!). I have the basic layout ready and I was working on the central drop when I decided that a beaded bead would have to be showcased here.  Half way through, weaving the little beauty, I had a epiphany: that lovely half a beaded bead could work so nicely as a bead cap and bail.  That's when I was derailed from my project, I spent two days of precious time trying to figure out the best stone to be captured by the bead cap. Remember those lovely electroplated quartz daggers?!  The thin ones fit perfectly into the bead cap!  And the final product truly does look like an extravagant embellished dagger.  After I made one, I had to make another, this time I used a quartz briolette instead which was just as equally extravagant. 

This beaded bead cap securely displays the beauty and the exotic nature of the quartz dagger. 

The quartz dagger along with the alluring quartz briolette that sits so comfortably in the bead cap.

The beaded bead cap with the quartz briolette pendant.

These two pendants are just a glimpse of the piece that I am making for the contest it is slightly similar to my A Peacock in Paradise necklace, but it's going to be more elaborate.  But you can be sure to see more of these stunning beaded bead caps!  On a side note, my shop is almost finished (there are slight glitches I need to fix), I hope to have it up and running by next week! YAY!

Electroplated Druzy Quartz Pendant:

Ok, so I know that druzy has been "in" for a while and I was late as usual to jump on the bandwagon.  I saw these wonderful druzy's and I just knew that I would somehow manage to use them in my designs.  As usual I decided that I would use my beloved peyote stitch to bezel the irregular stone, and I was able to complete my quest but I found myself in a quandary (I love thesaurus.com to death, it saves me from using boring words all the time!) in which I must ask your help as a consumer.

Electroplated Quartz Druzy
Encased using Peyote Stitch

Would you buy a pendant with an open back, secured only by the peyote encasing? or would you rather have the stone secured to some sort of leather backing (like in bead embroidery)?  The hydro stone's were quite different, they were symmetrical on both sides, front and back, so the peyote encased it perfectly, the encasement on flat back stone's is incomparable since the tight pull of the peyote does not fully catch the stone and there in lies the problem.

Open Back Peyote Stitch Encasement

So here is what I would like to know, do you prefer
1. Open back using peyote only
2. Bead Embroidered, leather backing
3. Doesn't matter, as long as it is well made

Peyote Pendent Frenzy: Chalcedony, Amethyst, Onyx, and Quartz

I believe it was last year when I stumbled upon a stall at the International Gem and Jewelry Show called Best   in Gems. Usually when I see a vendor that is selling loose cut gemstones I try to avoid them because if I fall in love with a $200 gemstone I would be a goner, anyways, what caught my eyes were three large bins each with a sign 60% off the marked price.  My inner brown instincts kicked in and I bee-lined for the bins. Oh it was HEAVEN!  There were so many different types of gemstones just waiting to be picked up and loved and taken home to be transformed into stunning jewelry. (I know, I talk about gemstones as if they were kittens) What I fell in love with instantly were the hydro stones, the chalcedony, amethyst, aquamarine, onyx and quartz.  I knew immediately that they would make gorgeous pendants if they were bezeled using peyote stitch! And I was right, I love each and every one of these stones to death! I have only made three pendents and have quite a few left to bezel but I hope you enjoy this man made beauty as much as I did.

The first pendant I created was from the blue chalcedony, which is by far one of my favorite pieces I have created
it took my days to figure out how best to encase this rich, opaque stone.
The embellished pyrite gives the pendant a finished feel: cooler and edgier! 

The second pendent I created was the amethyst, as much as I wanted to add pyrite to this one
it just didn't seem to take to the color scheme.
I might have to re-bezel this one in a silver tone to add the pyrite, I'm not entirely sure.

This third pendant, the onyx, was one of my least favorites
It has a tremendous "Bollywood" feel to it,
maybe it's just me and biased view.

 A little explanation on the hydro stone.  A hydro stone is made by crushing bits and pieces of raw gemstone, and re-bonding it to a desired shape.  These stones are not naturally this big, if they were they would cost a fortune.  The hydro version is may be cheaper but it has the same elegance that a natural stone would have.  I still have to finish up my aquamarine pendent as well as my quartz pendants.

*The hubby and I are working tirelessly on my shop, we will not be using the Etsy platform for various reasons.  We are sincerely hoping to launch the shop by this weekend!! If it does then that means a GIVEAWAY!! YAAY!! Stay tuned... the fun is about to begin!*

Triangle Studs

Triangle Olive Green Studs
Bead woven with Swarovski Crystals

Yellow Triangle Studs
Bead woven using Delicas and Swarovski Crystals

These little studs were fashioned using the triangle motif in the Galaxy bead by Gill Slone,  The color ways were inspired by the two other studs that I have created using 8mm Swarovski rivolis which can be seen here, along with the visually aesthetic necklace here.  These studs however won't be going in to my jewelry shop {the hubby and I are working tirelessly on it to get it up and running as soon as possible!} unless I find a better glue to set the post onto the back.  The glue that I'm using right now isn't doing a great job, maybe I just need to let it cure a bit before finishing up the back. I'll test that theory out as well on some other crystals that I have laying around.  I would love it if you left opinions one these designs! I'm always looking for ways to improve my technique along with my skill set especially since I'm taking blogging seriously again so any input is valuable input at this time.

Alvara: Statement Necklace of Strength

Alvara

The leaves rustled, flowers bloomed and the the dew shined like never

before. As the sun rose, little rays of light peaked through the thick brush

of the forest; everything the light touched seemed to be given a new life. 

This was the moment Alvara had been waiting for, she placed pieces of 

rock on an alter with mystical capabilities. As the sun touched the alter, 

it began to glow, the seemingly ordinary stones began to change, they 

turned to dull gold, and she knew the wearer of these stones would be 

protected from the harsh realities of life for generations to come.

This statement necklace was fashioned from seven
iron pyrite beads, each stone was chain wrapped
with fashion chain of different finishes.
This bib style necklace sits comfortable against the
neckline.

Strips, Spikes and Pyrite

Stripes and Spikes and Pyrite by nissa89 featuring Pyrite drop earrings

The International Gem and Jewelry Show: A Bummer

I have always looked forward to the international gem and jewelry show every year, with lots of vendors each with their own unique perspective. However, this year was super disappointing because the convention was moved from Valley Forge to Oaks, lots of vendors opted out because  they thought that the move would affect sales.  There was a total of five aisles to walk through and some of the vendors I buy from were not there. (insert frowny face here).  I still managed to get a good haul though with lots of pyrite, and quartz.

Pyrite Druzy

Pyrite and electroplated Quartz daggers! 

Quartz Druzy

I am super excited like a kid on Christmas,  I have a feeling that I'll be keeping one of the pyrite druzy's for myself.  I always end up keeping pieces that I love.  My mom thinks I'm crazy for it, but hey I make jewelry for myself first!  

Robin Egg Blue

I opened the window to let in some fresh air, looked down and there she was sitting in her nest mothering her eggs.  The second I stuck my head out she had her eye's on me.  I was careful not to disturb her although she did fly away making a commotion to draw the elusive predator, me, away from her precious eggs.  I took a quick shot of her eggs and closed the window.  I checked on her a few minutes later and found her comfortably sitting on her eggs once again.  I absolutely cannot wait to watch those eggs hatch. It's like watching the Discovery Channel, in real life!

Robin sitting in her nest eyeing me.

Three beautiful blue robin eggs

Inspired: A Peacock in Paradise Earrings

Olive Green drop earrings with a Bronze Bezel
embellished with pyrite!

Sunflower Color Burst Studs

Olive Green Color Burst Studs
Made using 8mm Swarovksi rivolis bezeled with bronze Delicas

Lotus

These lovelies were inspired by the colors of my statement necklace "A Peacock in Paradise".

Polyvore: Biker Chic

I love fancy earrings with a casual look, it takes casual to whole new level!  Now, I think I'm a little obsessed with the gladiator studded sandals, I need to find me one of those ASAP.  I did however manage to find some really great deals at Macy's One Day Sale.  A black blazer for less than 10 bucks... YES PLEASE!!  If only I could find a leather jacket for that much I think I would die from being so cheap.  Hey! Being cheap is fine...it's in my blood... Anyway's if I had a million bucks I would wear this outfit for at least half of my life.  You can find a close up of my lovely Athena earrings here!

Biker Chic by nissa89 featuring Athena Earrings

Presenting the Athena Collection: Earrings

These studs with a hint of metallic green, embellished with pyrite are sure to make
a statement with any outfit!

Strong and warrior like, these earrings are a bold assertion of every woman's inner warrior!!

These strong and compelling earrings are a  tribute to the strength and warrior like
abilities that we as women show everyday.
These earrings are sure to command attention!

Polvore: Grungy Elegance 1

For you fashion lovers out there, I finally joined Polyvore!!! I'll be sharing my sets here via Pinterest!!  You can see an up close version of the earrings here!

Grungy Elegance 1 by nissa89 featuring a Athena Studs

Pendents & Pyrite

These lovelies, I made months ago, but I never posted pictures here.

Pendent with Pyrite Cascade
18"

Pendent with Pyrite Cascade
18"

Blue Resin Pendent with Turquoise and Pyrite Cascade
18"

Pyrite Cascade
18"

Bead Fest Philly Spark Inspiration for Earrings

This past weekend was the Philadelphia Bead Fest, which is literally five minutes from my house. The set up was different than years past and it confused me a bit.  Any who, I went with a specific list of items that I needed which included: Pyrite (I am in LOVE with pyrite, it always catches my eye), Swarovski Rivolis, Seed Beads, Seed Pearls, and Larger Pearls.  I got everything on my list except for the larger sized pearls and instead of that I got some findings, base metal clasps in silver and antique bronze, charms, and ear wires.       The problem is that even though I didn't buy a lot of things that were not on my list and the ones that I did buy were good wholesale deals, I spent ALL of my money.  Every single last bit of it.  I need to get serious about selling my creations or else I won't have enough money to continue creating.  So I'm putting the necklace that I was going to make for myself on hold for a couple of days so that I can crank out some pieces. Starting with:

8mm Swarovski Rivoli Earrings
with Pyrite

I am in love with these little beauties,  there is just the right amount of sparkle for me.  So what did I do with them?  I gifted them to my friend.  She's been asking for some jewelry (rings) but I've never gotten around to doing any of that.  So after I made these I thought to myself that these are totally her style, and what better day to give a gift than Eid. For those of you that don't know Ramadhan, the month of fasting, ended yesterday and the celebration is called Eid.  She loved them and that's all that matters.  Now I need to make some more for gifts (for weddings and things) and for the boutique and I'm thinking of expanding where I'm selling so I need an inventory for that, so much to do, so little time.

Goal: Selling some items before the International Gem and Jewelry Show September 21-23 2012

A Peacock in Paradise: A Statement Necklace

I know, I was supposed to post pieces inspired by Project Runway. But I had inspiration coming from a different place: Pinterest.

Source: sal-vaje.tumblr.com via Nissa on Pinterest

Peacocks are the symbol of luxury, royalty, and everything expensive.  So I took that concept and designed

a necklace that embodied the rich hues of green and blue with bronze and gold. I have also entered this piece

in the FireMountainGem Summer Inspiration Contest.  It would be great to win it, the prize is a library full of 

inspiration and techniques. 

Each component took between an hour to two hours to complete so approximately 10 hours give or take.  

There was so much trial and error with this piece in regards to the size and techniques used to create the 

center piece as well as the beaded beads.  I am in absolute LOVE with the beaded beads!  I told my mom 

that before I sold this piece I wanted to wear it at least once. But she told me that was unprofessional and to

make myself a new one. Oh the agony I don't think I have the patience to make ANOTHER one of these,

This is going into my One of a Kind Piece collection.  Although, I still need to make a bracelet and a pair of

 earrings to go with this but that will come a bit later.  I have decided that I will make myself a unique one of 

a kind necklace, maybe not as glamorous as this one but slightly sophisticated and bold and neutral.