Etsy Shop for MeshelDesigns

PERIDOT SWIRLS peridot and sterling silver artisan earrings

Wed, 25 Nov 2009 14:29:30 -0500

$26.00
This simple pair of earrings brings together 2 of my favorite design elements: swirls of sterling silver and the gorgeous gemstone peridot!

I fashioned the swirls out of sterling silver, then hammered them flat and strong. Using smaller gauge sterling silver wire, I wove onto the swirly frames gorgeous faceted peridot roundels.

They are a lovely little pair of hoops, very simple, but very beautiful. They aren't flashy or showy, but they are B E A U T I F U L and will last a lifetime. You can wear them every single day if you choose.

The ear wires used are sterling silver lever backs. They can be substitued for traditional french ear wires if you prefer.

These earrings would make a beautiful gift for you or one you love.

Thanks very much and have a beautiful day,
Michelle

About the components of this piece:

PERIDOT: Peridot is a stone known by three names: peridot, chrysolite and olivine. Chrysolite is named from the Greek for 'gold stone', since greenish gold is the color of peridot. Olive is the mineral from which the gemstone peridot is derived. 'Peridot" comes from the Greek word 'peridona', which means 'to give richness'. " Peridot is absolutely my favorite stone, though it is challenging to work with, because it is so often drilled with teeny tiny holes and it is easily broken if care is not taken when working with it.

SILVER: All metal components in my pieces are either fine or sterling silver, and I incorporate many, many Bali sterling beads into my work, as I appreciate the great attention to detail and the handmade beauty of these beads.

My Top Sellers. HOOPS and DREAMS EARRINGS hand forged swirls of sterling silver

Mon, 23 Nov 2009 19:42:29 -0500

$16.00
HOOPS and DREAMS EARRINGS hand forged swirls of sterling silver

These earrings are FuN, casual enough to be worn every day, beautiful and eyecatching enough to garner compliments with each and every wearing.

This is a comment I received from my most recent purchaser of this design, as she came back to buy her second pair in this style: "So.......these earrings have TOTALLY become my favorite! They also become a favorite of a coworker! EVERY time I wear them, she has to comment on them! So, this pair is for her!"

They are a relatively simple design, one which I've made in several size and loop variations, to please the B.O.L.D. as well as the (understated).

This involves bending the wire using my special mojo and an amazing set of pliers, work-hardening the silver, filing the rough edges away, and then working it to perfection and polishing.

I hope you'll like these earrings. If you like the style, the idea, but would like to see something with a particular gemstone added, please just shoot me a note. You can also let me know if you'd like them nice and demure or big and showy or someplace in between. I aim to please.

These are fun to make and fun to wear.

About the components of this piece:

SILVER: All metal components in my pieces are either fine or sterling silver. These earrings are made from 0.925 Sterling Silver.

NOVEMBER DAYS Carnelian and Citrine Gemstone and Sterling Silver Artisan Earrings by Meshel Designs

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 16:25:16 -0500

$30.00
NOVEMBER DAYS Carnelian and Citrine Gemstone and Sterling Silver Artisan Earrings by Meshel Designs

These lovely dangle - drop earrings are made with faceted carnelian gemstones, the different red and orange shades showing the variety of colors carnelian produces under different treatments.

The gorgeous golden yellow faceted gemstones that form the fringe on the bottom of the hoops are delicious little citrine roundels, woven onto the hoop with sterling silver wire.

I forged the frames for the earrings myself, and the metal beads I used are authentic Bali sterling silver. If you don't know anything about Bali silver, you can read a bit about it in my little blurb below.

Thank you for supporting artisan craftsmanship! It means the world!

Carnelian and Bali Silver, each the perfect accompaniment for the other. Though simple in design, these earrings are a true work of art, mostly thanks to God and nature for giving us such amazing elements.

If you like these earrings but are looking for something slightly (or completely!) different, please let me know. I welcome all custom orders and modifications with enthusiasm for the challenge of pleasing the unique, artsy jewelry lovers out there!

Thanks, love, blessings!
Michelle

About the components of these earrings:

CARNELIAN: Carnelian is my favorite semi-precious stone. It is just gorgeous! It is a semiprecious stone of the silica mineral chalcedony. Carnelian ranges in color from a clear orange red to a dark orange brown. It is found in Australia, Brazil, Madagascar, Russia, South Africa, and the USA.
Today, carnelian is often heat treated to enhance the reddish brown color. This color is beautiful and uniform and very easy to distinguish from carnelian that has not been treated. I like both varieties. The variegation in the untreated variety is gorgeous. You see a rainbow of oranges, reds, and clears in the stones, sometimes all in the same stone.

CITRINE: Citrine is the stone for the month of November. Many people have come to know and love this stone under the name gold topaz, or Madeira or Spanish topaz. Citrine is a member of the large quartz family. The name is derived from the color - the yellow of the lemon - , although the most sought-after stones have a clear, radiant yellowish to brownish red. There are not many yellow gemstones in the world of jewels.

SILVER: All metal components in my pieces are either fine or sterling silver, and I incorporate many, many Bali sterling beads into my work, as I appreciate the great attention to detail and the handmade beauty of these beads.

BALI SILVER BEADS: Bali is a small island located in southeast Asia. Bali, Indonesia is known around the world for its silver jewelry made by master metal smiths. Each and every bead is made by hand by craftsmen exceptionally skilled in the trade. The attention to detail is apparent when you look at these beads close up. I have become addicted to Bali silver.

AMBROSIA DEW, Amethyst and Bali Silver Artisan Earrings, Customer Order

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 16:25:15 -0500

$17.00
Gorgeous faceted amethyst gemstones are wonderfully complimented by these deliciously detailed Bali silver bead caps and ornate head pins. These are wire wrapped onto a thick sterling silver chain connector to make a lovely dangle that will catch the light and inspire countless oooos and aaaaahs.

Silver is easily kept clean with a silver cleaning cloth, such as Sunshine Cleaning Cloths (the kind I use), which are embedded with cleaners that rub the tarnish off your jewelry and onto the cloth.

ABOUT THE MATERIALS USED IN THESE EARRINGS:

Amethyst: Amethyst is a member of the quartz family of minerals. It is beautifully, brilliantly purple and has long been associated with royalty. The amethyst stones in this piece are small are round and micro-faceted. I like to describe this type of faceting as looking like a little disco ball! Like a disco ball, these babies really glimmer when they catch the light!

SILVER: All metal components in my pieces are either fine or sterling silver, and I incorporate many, many Bali sterling beads into my work, as I appreciate the great attention to detail and the handmade beauty of these beads.

About BALI SILVER Beads: Bali is a small island located in southeast Asia. Bali, Indonesia is known around the world for its silver jewelry made by master metal smiths. Each and every bead is made by hand by craftsmen exceptionally skilled in the trade. The attention to detail is apparent when you look at these beads close up. I have become COMPLETELY addicted to Bali silver.

HOOP-STR Sterling Silver Artisan Forged Hoop Earrings by Meshel Designs

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 16:25:15 -0500

$19.00
HOOP-STR Sterling Silver Artisan Forged Hoop Earrings by Meshel Designs

These earrings are FuN, casual enough to be worn every day, beautiful and eyecatching enough to garner compliments with each and every wearing. They go with everything. Period.

They are a relatively simple design, one which I've made in several variations, using different methods and different sizes of loops to please the B.O.L.D. as well as the (understated).

This pair has a 1.5 inch diameter (or ~3.5cm).

I can make these earrings in any size you like, if this size is not what you are looking for. It would just add a day (or two at the most) to your order.

This involves bending the wire using my special mojo and an amazing set of pliers, work-hardening and filing the silver, and then working it to perfection and polishing.

I hope you'll like these earrings. If you like the style, the idea, but would like to see something with a particular gemstone wrapped onto it or a specific diameter of hoop, please just shoot me a note.

You can let me know if you'd like them nice and demure or big and showy or someplace in between. I aim to please.

These are fun to make and fun to wear.

About the components of this piece:

SILVER: All metal components in my pieces are either fine or sterling silver. All silver in these hoops are 0.925 Sterling Silver.

Amethyst Dangles on Gold. Artisan Wrapped Earrings

Sun, 15 Nov 2009 20:23:50 -0500

$34.00
These gorgeous amethyst dangle earrings will make a great addition to your jewelry collection. These are original, artisan designs, with a touch of class.

These beautiful earrings are great for everyday or special occasion wear. They are glimmering, glamorous, fun and modern, and they are made of high quality materials.

The components of these earrings are 14 karat gold filled textured links, wire, and ear wires.

Dangling from the bottom of the textured links are onion briolettes of microfaceted Amethyst gemstone. The brios are carefully wrapped with 14 karat gold filled wire for an added touch of elegant artsiness.

These earrings hang roughly 2.25 inches (5.5 cm) from the top of the ear wire. The ear wires are 14 karat gold filled. If you prefer, they can be exchanged for 14 k gold filled lever backs for $3 more.

Please let me know if you like this piece but would like something unique to your style or preference. I love doing custom work and would love to help you to create your vision.

About the components of this piece:

AMETHYST: Amethyst is an amazing stone to work with. It's lovely deep purple color makes any piece look amazing. There are many positive metaphysical properties associated with wearing amethyst. Among many others, it is said to bring stability, peace, calm, balance, courage and inner strength.

GOLD-FILLED WIRE: What Is Gold-Filled Wire?
Pure gold is 24 karat and is so soft that is it impossible to utilize it in wire wrap jewelry. 14 karat rolled gold wire is created by taking a sheet of 14 karat gold and bonding it through extreme heat and pressure to a core of semi-precious metal. This is a very sophisticated process and only a few mills in the world do it. You should not mistake this process for gold plating. There is a very big difference. The end result is a 14 karat tube which is strong, durable, and resistant to tarnish because of its 14 karat gold covering. Today there are very few jewelry items made with this metal commercially. Usually they are done in a very inferior gold plate to keep the costs down. There is 100 times more gold in 14 karat Gold filled (rolled gold) than in gold plate. A 14/20 Gold Filled piece is considered a lifetime piece of jewelry.

SPRING labradorite and garnet artisan earrings on a hand forged swirly sterling silver frame

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 10:49:49 -0500

$38.00
SPRING labradorite and garnet artisan earrings on a hand forged swirly sterling silver frame

These earrings are FuN, casual enough to be worn every day, beautiful and eyecatching enough to garner compliments with each and every wearing.

They are a relatively simple design, one which I've made in several variations, using different stones and different sizes of loops to please the B.O.L.D. as well as the (understated).

This involves bending the wire using my special mojo and an amazing set of pliers, work-hardening the silver, and then working it to perfection and polishing. Finally, I wrap sterling wire around the beads (in this case lovely AAA grade garnet roundels and AAA labradorite teardrops accented with Bali Sterling Silver) to attach them to the frame.

I hope you'll like these earrings. If you like the style, the idea, but would like to see something with a particular gemstone or a certain color, please just shoot me a note. You can also let me know if you'd like them nice and demure or big and showy or someplace in between. I aim to please.

These are fun to make and fun to wear.

The earwires are sterling silver hooks plated with fine silver. They can be replaced with sterling lever backs for $3.

About the components of this piece:

SILVER: All metal components in my pieces are either fine or sterling silver, and I incorporate many, many Bali sterling beads into my work, as I appreciate the great attention to detail and the handmade beauty of these beads.

GARNET: Garnets are very popular and sought after gemstones. Due to their high refractive index, garnets display great brilliance and luminosity. The rich color of the red garnet used in these earrings reminds me of the seeds of a ripe pomegranate. There are two types of red garnet. The first is pyrope, a spirited red stone, often with a slight brownish nuance. The second is rhodolite, a mixed crystal of almandine and pyrope. This popular garnet is a magnificent velvety red color with subtle violet or raspberry undertones. I believe the garnet in these earrings is rhodolite garnet due to its velvety appearance

LABRADORITE: Labradorite is truly a fascinatingly beautiful mineral. Its a mineral whose charm is not fully noticed and may be overlooked if not viewed from the proper position. Generally a dull, dark looking mineral with no special virtue until the colorful shiller is observed glowing on the surface. Labradorite can produce a colorful play of light across cleavage planes and in sliced sections called labradorescence. The usually intense colors range from the typical blues and violets through greens, yellows and oranges. Some rare specimens display all these colors simultaneously. The color display is from lamellar intergrowths inside the crystal.

About BALI SILVER beads: Bali is a small island located in southeast Asia. Bali, Indonesia is known around the world for its silver jewelry made by master metal smiths. Each and every bead is made by hand by craftsmen exceptionally skilled in the trade. The attention to detail is apparent when you look at these beads close up. I have become addicted to Bali silver.

RASPBERRY GARNET GALAXY Garnet and Sterling Silver Artisan Dangles

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 10:48:50 -0500

$27.00
RASPBERRY GARNET GALAXY Garnet and Sterling Silver Artisan Dangles

These lovely dangles are made from several different shapes of quality rhodolite garnet gemstones, including faceted teardrop briolettes, faceted rounds, and faceted roundels. The garnet is complimented by gorgeous handcrafted, authentic Bali sterling silver bead caps. If you don't know anything about Bali silver, please read about it in my little blurb at the end. I ADORE Bali silver.

These gorgeous dangles would make a great gift for you or for someone special on your shopping list. They are beautiful and will certainly be enjoyed for years to come with proper silver care.

Not wearing them in the shower or during your workouts will go a long way. Storing them in a drawer or a jewelry box when you're not wearing them will help even more. The inevitable tarnish can be easily wiped away to make your jewelry look brand new with a simple jewelry cleaning cloth. I use sunshine brand cleaning cloths, but I'm sure that other brands work well too. They are saturated with cleaners so you just have to rub them on your jewelry and the tarnish comes off on the rag. When the rag is black, you toss it. You never wash it. I don't think I've ever actually thrown one away. They just keep cleaning forever.

Anyway, thanks, peace, love! Let me know if you have any questions or special requests! ciao!

About the materials used to make these earrings and other
Meshel Designs originals:

SILVER: All metal components in my pieces are either fine or sterling silver, and I incorporate many, many Bali sterling beads into my work, as I appreciate the great attention to detail and the handmade beauty of these beads.

About BALI SILVER beads: Bali is a small island located in southeast Asia. Bali, Indonesia is known around the world for its silver jewelry made by master metal smiths. Each and every bead is made by hand by craftsmen exceptionally skilled in the trade. The attention to detail is apparent when you look at these beads close up. I have become addicted to Bali silver.

GARNET: Garnets are very popular and sought after gemstones. Due to their high refractive index, garnets display great brilliance and luminosity. The rich color of the red garnet used in these earrings reminds me of the seeds of a ripe pomegranate. There are two types of red garnet. The first is pyrope, a spirited red stone, often with a slight brownish nuance. The second is rhodolite, a mixed crystal of almandine and pyrope. This popular garnet is a magnificent velvety red color with subtle violet or raspberry undertones. I believe the garnet in these earrings is rhodolite garnet due to its velvety appearance.

MAROON MAGIC, Red Jasper and Bali Silver Artisan Wire Wrapped Dangle Earrings

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 10:46:59 -0500

$24.00
MAROON MAGIC, Red Jasper and Bali Silver Artisan Wire Wrapped Dangle Earrings

Gorgeous faceted Ovoid-shaped Red Jasper briolettes were the inspiration for these earrings. I wrapped them with sterling silver wire to create a lovely organic bead cap, and topped that off with an outstanding handcrafted Bali silver bead. If you don't know about Bali silver, you should read about it below. I adore Bali silver and use it in all of my pieces. I wrapped another gorgeous Bali bead to the Red Jasper briolette to create this lovely dangle earring, which hangs about 2.25", including the ear wire.

Thanks, peace, love! mwa! Michelle

About the materials used to make these earrings and other
Meshel Designs originals:

RED JASPER: Jasper is an opaque silicate mineral that comes in many varieties and is often used to make gorgeous gemstones like those used in these earrings. Red Jasper is one of the many varieties of Jasper that can be found, and it owes its red color to iron (III) inclusions. It's a beautiful stone with many bands of color streaming through it, so no two stones really ever look the same.

SILVER: All metal components in my pieces are either fine or sterling silver, and I incorporate many, many Bali sterling beads into my work, as I appreciate the great attention to detail and the handmade beauty of these beads.

About BALI SILVER beads: Bali is a small island located in southeast Asia. Bali, Indonesia is known around the world for its silver jewelry made by master metal smiths. Each and every bead is made by hand by craftsmen exceptionally skilled in the trade. The attention to detail is apparent when you look at these beads close up. I have become addicted to Bali silver.

PATH OF LIFE blue apatite, peridot, and sterling silver swirl artisan pendant

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 10:46:59 -0500

$34.00
PATH OF LIFE blue apatite, peridot, and sterling silver swirl artisan pendant

The path of life contains many twists and turns indeed, and many choices of which path to follow.

Gorgeous blue apatite and luscious peridot gemstones are wire wrapped onto this hand forged swirl of sterling silver. Along with them is woven an additional coil of sterling silver, which adds a very beautiful effect.

The pendant is just striking and will make an excellent addition to your wardrobe!

Comes with a sterling silver snake chain of 16, 18 or 20 inches.. your choice!

Thank you for supporting artisans!

SPRING artisan earrings on a hand forged swirly sterling silver frame

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 10:46:30 -0500

$29.00
SPRING artisan earrings: faceted green quartz drops and roundels on a hand forged swirly sterling silver frame

These earrings are FuN, casual enough to be worn every day, beautiful and eyecatching enough to garner compliments with each and every wearing.

They are a relatively simple design, one which I've made in several variations, using different stones and different sizes of loops to please the B.O.L.D. as well as the (understated).

This involves bending the wire using my special mojo and an amazing set of pliers, work-hardening the silver, and then working it to perfection and polishing. Finally, I wrap sterling wire around the beads (in this case lovely green quartz gemstones) to attach them to the frame.

I hope you'll like these earrings. If you like the style, the idea, but would like to see something with a particular gemstone or a certain color, please just shoot me a note. You can also let me know if you'd like them nice and demure or big and showy or someplace in between. I aim to please.

These are fun to make and fun to wear.

About the components of this piece:

SILVER: All metal components in my pieces are either fine or sterling silver, and I incorporate many, many Bali sterling beads into my work, as I appreciate the great attention to detail and the handmade beauty of these beads.

SANCTUARY Faceted Aqua Blue Quartz and Sterling Silver Dangle Hoop Earrings.

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 10:46:29 -0500

$22.00
SANCTUARY Faceted Aqua Blue Quartz and Sterling Silver Dangle Hoop Earrings.

These are Gorgeous Hoop Earrings!

These earrings are truly fantastic in the way they glimmer and shine, capturing and reflecting the light.

For this pair of gemstone and silver earrings, I used sterling silver wire to wrap the lovely aqua blue quartz briolette teardrops, creating a rich, feminine pair of earrings that will complement your evening wear as well as your favorite jeans.

The frame is sterling silver and is hand formed and hand hammered. Sterling silver wire is used to hand wrap the beads, and the quality of the wire wrap is evident in the close up pictures. Examine the precision and beauty of this quality wire wrapping and hopefully you will appreciate the many years of experience I have put into perfecting my craft.

I hope you will love these earrings as much as I enjoyed making them!

About the components of this piece:

SILVER: All metal components in my pieces are either fine or sterling silver.

BLESSINGS Carnelian Red and Orange Gemstone and Sterling Silver Artisan Earrings by Meshel Designs

Mon, 09 Nov 2009 19:17:56 -0500

$19.00
BLESSINGS Carnelian Red and Orange Gemstone and Sterling Silver Artisan Earrings by Meshel Designs

These lovely little drop earrings are made with faceted carnelian gemstones, the different red and orange shades showing the variety of colors carnelian produces under different treatments.

I forged the frames for the earrings myself, and the beads I used are authentic Bali sterling silver. If you don't know anything about Bali silver, you can read a bit about it in my little blurb below.

Thank you for supporting artisan craftsmanship! It means the world!

Carnelian and Bali Silver, each the perfect accompaniment for the other. Though simple in design, these earrings are a true work of art, mostly thanks to God and nature for giving us such amazing elements.

If you like these earrings but are looking for something slightly (or completely!) different, please let me know. I welcome all custom orders and modifications with enthusiasm for the challenge of pleasing the unique, artsy jewelry lovers out there!

Thanks, love, blessings!
Michelle

About the components of these earrings:

CARNELIAN: Carnelian is my favorite semi-precious stone. It is just gorgeous! It is a semiprecious stone of the silica mineral chalcedony. Carnelian ranges in color from a clear orange red to a dark orange brown. It is found in Australia, Brazil, Madagascar, Russia, South Africa, and the USA.
Today, carnelian is often heat treated to enhance the reddish brown color. This color is beautiful and uniform and very easy to distinguish from carnelian that has not been treated. I like both varieties. The variegation in the untreated variety is gorgeous. You see a rainbow of oranges, reds, and clears in the stones, sometimes all in the same stone.

SILVER: All metal components in my pieces are either fine or sterling silver, and I incorporate many, many Bali sterling beads into my work, as I appreciate the great attention to detail and the handmade beauty of these beads.

BALI SILVER BEADS: Bali is a small island located in southeast Asia. Bali, Indonesia is known around the world for its silver jewelry made by master metal smiths. Each and every bead is made by hand by craftsmen exceptionally skilled in the trade. The attention to detail is apparent when you look at these beads close up. I have become addicted to Bali silver.

ELECTRIC IRIS artisan pendant with Labradorite, Amethyst and Bali Silver on a Hoop Sterling, Chain Included

Mon, 09 Nov 2009 19:17:56 -0500

$39.00
ELECTRIC IRIS artisan pendant with Labradorite, Amethyst and Bali Silver on a Hoop Sterling, Chain Included

This is a gorgeous pendant, overflowing with luscious, high quality real gemstones. Shimmering labradorite and deep purple amethyst pair beautifully in this piece. There are 2 large wrapped faceted teardrop shaped labradorite briolettes hanging from the bottom of the pendant, with a lovely surrounding collection of faceted amethyst. The pendant's frame is hand forged from sterling silver, and it hangs from a gorgeous sterling silver snake chain. The chain pictured is 16", but you may select a 16 or 20 inch chain, as you prefer.

Not subtle nor understated, this pendant is artsy and bold. It is absolutely GORGEOUS and is not recommended for those who don't care to draw attention to themselves.

I have been doing wire work for over ten years, and I hope that shows in the quality of my work. I do all the wire work by hand, from the construction of the hoop frames, to the weaving of the gemstones, to the wire wrapping and the creation of each and every swirl. I stand behind everything I make, and I hope you will enjoy wearing my original creations as much as I enjoy making them.

I work to keep the prices as low as possible, to encourage sales and to allow everyone to be able to enjoy high-quality artisan creations. Compare the quality and price of the artisan creations on this site to those available at Nordstroms or Macys and you will never buy department store jewelry again!

Additionally, by buying artisan, you are supporting an artist who makes each and every piece him- or herself. Nothing is mass produced, and you can wear your art with pride.

If you like this piece but are looking for something slightly different, please let me know. I welcome all custom orders with enthusiasm for the challenge of pleasing the unique, artsy jewelry lovers out there!

ABOUT THE COMPONENTS OF MESHEL DESIGNS PIECES:

I use SEMI-PRECIOUS & PRECIOUS GEMSTONES and PEARLS most frequently in my pieces.

AMETHYST is an amazing stone to work with. It's deep and vibrant purple color makes any piece look amazing. There are many positive metaphysical properties associated with wearing amethyst. Among many others, it is said to bring stability, peace, calm, balance, courage and inner strength.

SILVER: All metal components in my pieces are either fine or sterling silver, and I incorporate many, many Bali sterling beads into my work, as I appreciate the great attention to detail and the handmade beauty of these beads. The ear wires are also sterling silver. Please let me know if you need them replaced with hypoallergenic stainless steel.

AUTHENTIC BALI STERLING SILVER BEADS: Bali is a small island located in southeast Asia. Bali, Indonesia is known around the world for its silver jewelry made by master metal smiths. Each and every bead is made by hand by craftsmen exceptionally skilled in the trade. The attention to detail is apparent when you look at these beads close up. I have become addicted to Bali silver, and I'm sure you will too!

TRANSCEND Turquoise, Amethyst and Bali Sterling Silver Artisan Swirl Earrings

Mon, 09 Nov 2009 19:17:56 -0500

$21.00
TRANSCEND Turquoise and Bali Sterling Silver Artisan Earrings will make a great addition to your jewelry collection. These are original, artisan designs, with a fun little swirl!

These beautiful earrings are great for everyday wear. They are fun and modern, and made of high quality materials.

The components of these earrings include Turquoise semi precious stone roundels, Bali sterling silver bead caps and accent beads, sterling silver wire, and a hand forged sterling silver frame.

Dangling from the bottom of the swirl are gorgeous microfaceted Amethyst gemstones on beautifully detailed Bali sterling silver head pins,

These earrings hang roughly 2.5 inches from the top of the ball ear wire. The ear wires are sterling silver.

About the components of this piece:

SILVER: All metal components in my pieces are either fine or sterling silver, and I incorporate many, many Bali sterling beads into my work, as I appreciate the great attention to detail and the handmade beauty of these beads.

About BALI SILVER BEADS: Bali is a small island located in southeast Asia. Bali, Indonesia is known around the world for its silver jewelry made by master metal smiths. Each and every bead is made by hand by craftsmen exceptionally skilled in the trade. The attention to detail is apparent when you look at these beads close up. I have become addicted to Bali silver.

TURQUOISE: Turquoise is an opaque blue/green mineral of undeniable beauty. It is found in many varieties throughout the world, with the biggest concentrations in the USA, Afghanistan, China, Iran, Mexico and Israel.
I read once that the blue turquoise is male and comes from the sky, and that green turquoise is female and comes from the earth. In reality, the blue color comes from copper, and the green color comes from iron. Some varieties have more copper or more iron, thus resulting in different shades of turquoise.

Turquoise is almost always treated to make it harder and more durable. Treatment also helps to preserve the color and prevent fading. The turquoise in this piece has been treated to enhance its durability and to preserve the richness of the color.

AMETHYST: Amethyst is an amazing stone to work with. It's lovely deep purple color makes any piece look amazing. There are many positive metaphysical properties associated with wearing amethyst. Among many others, it is said to bring stability, peace, calm, balance, courage and inner strength.

FAITH artisan earrings with Amethyst and Bali Silver with a Hoop and a Swirl of Sterling

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 18:46:15 -0500

$44.00
Have FAITH in your dreams, in your God, in yourself, in your journey, in your craft, in your thoughts, in your children, in the transformative power of following your heart.

FAITH artisan earrings with Amethyst and Bali Silver with a Hoop and a Swirl of Hand Forged and Hand Hammered Sterling

These are great earrings for earring lovers. They are my current favorites, so I'm making them with several different gemstones besides amethyst, including garnet, peridot, turquoise, smokey quartz and black onyx. I have been wearing my pair every day and loving them to pieces. I wish I could make them look as beautiful in these pictures as they do in person. They are absolutely phenomenal!

They are true dangles, hanging long from your lobes and grabbing the attention of each and every passerby. Not subtle nor understated, these earrings are artsy and bold. They hang 3.25 inches from the top of the earwire to the bottom of the woven, faceted amethyst fringe.

Though they are long, these earrings are surprisingly light, like most all of my creations. Each long but lightweight earring weighs less than 0.25 ounce.

I have been doing wire work for over ten years, and I hope that shows in the quality of my work. I do all the wire work by hand, from the construction of the hoop frames, to the weaving of the gemstones, to the wire wrapping and the creation of each and every swirl. I stand behind everything I make, and I hope you will enjoy wearing my original creations as much as I enjoy making them.

I work to keep the prices as low as possible, to encourage sales and to allow everyone to be able to enjoy high-quality artisan creations. Compare the quality and price of the artisan creations on this site to those available at Nordstroms or Macys and you will never buy department store jewelry again!

Additionally, by buying artisan, you are supporting an artist who makes each and every piece him- or herself. Nothing is mass produced, and you can wear your art with pride.

If you like this piece but are looking for something slightly different, please let me know. I welcome all custom orders with enthusiasm for the challenge of pleasing the unique, artsy jewelry lovers out there!

ABOUT THE COMPONENTS OF MESHEL DESIGNS PIECES:

I use SEMI-PRECIOUS & PRECIOUS GEMSTONES and PEARLS most frequently in my pieces.

AMETHYST is an amazing stone to work with. It's deep and vibrant purple color makes any piece look amazing. There are many positive metaphysical properties associated with wearing amethyst. Among many others, it is said to bring stability, peace, calm, balance, courage and inner strength.

SILVER: All metal components in my pieces are either fine or sterling silver, and I incorporate many, many Bali sterling beads into my work, as I appreciate the great attention to detail and the handmade beauty of these beads. The ear wires are also sterling silver. Please let me know if you need them replaced with hypoallergenic stainless steel.

AUTHENTIC BALI STERLING SILVER BEADS: Bali is a small island located in southeast Asia. Bali, Indonesia is known around the world for its silver jewelry made by master metal smiths. Each and every bead is made by hand by craftsmen exceptionally skilled in the trade. The attention to detail is apparent when you look at these beads close up. I have become addicted to Bali silver, and I'm sure you will too!

CHERRY BLOSSOMS, Faceted Garnet Gemstones Woven on Artisan Sterling Silver Hoop Earrings

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 18:46:15 -0500

$29.00
CHERRY BLOSSOMS, Woven Garnet and Sterling Silver Artisan Hoop Earrings

I made these frames myself from heavy gauge sterling wire, hammered to work harden it and give it a nice clean shape. The hoops are just a hair over an inch in diameter.

I wove the small, high quality, faceted garnet gemstones directly onto the frame with smaller gauge wire. The aaa grade garnet is a lovely rich red color that shows fantastic glimmers of purple, pink, and violet in the light.

Garnet is one of my favorite stones. Today I might even say it is my favorite, though I suppose I'm a bit fickle and tomorrow it might be peridot or carnelian. But it's always in the top three. It's gorgeous, it's a luminous, deliciously ripe red that is so richly colored you just want to eat it up. The only downside to garnet is that it's fragile, meaning that it's difficult to get good quality stones without really paying for them. You can't drill a big hole in a little garnet gemstone and expect it to stay together like you could through jasper or quartz. It's more like iolite or peridot in that there are tiny holes and quality gemstones are costly, because they are hard to produce. i.e. It's precious because it's difficult. Like a beautiful woman, I supppose. But we're worth the extra effort!

These gorgeous hoops would make a great gift for you or for someone special in your life. They are beautiful and will certainly be enjoyed for years to come with proper silver care.

Not wearing them in the shower or during your workouts will go a long way. Storing them in a drawer or a jewelry box when you're not wearing them will help even more. The inevitable tarnish can be easily wiped away to make your jewelry look brand new with a simple jewelry cleaning cloth. I use sunshine brand cleaning cloths, but I'm sure that other brands work well too. They are saturated with cleaners so you just have to rub them on your jewelry and the tarnish comes off on the rag. When the rag is black, you toss it. You never wash it. I don't think I've ever actually thrown one away. They just keep cleaning forever.

Thanks, peace, love!

Let me know if you have any questions or special requests!

About the materials used to make these earrings and other
Meshel Designs originals:

SILVER: All metal components in my pieces are either fine or sterling silver, and I incorporate many, many Bali sterling beads into my work, as I appreciate the great attention to detail and the handmade beauty of these beads.

GARNET: Garnets are very popular and sought after gemstones. Due to their high refractive index, garnets display great brilliance and luminosity. The rich color of the red garnet used in these earrings reminds me of the seeds of a ripe pomegranate. There are two types of red garnet. The first is pyrope, a spirited red stone, often with a slight brownish nuance. The second is rhodolite, a mixed crystal of almandine and pyrope. This popular garnet is a magnificent velvety red color with subtle violet or raspberry undertones. I believe the garnet in these earrings is rhodolite garnet due to its velvety appearance.

GREEN EYES faceted green quartz drops on a hand forged swirly sterling silver frame

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 18:45:52 -0500

$18.00
GREEN EYES faceted quartz drops on a hand forged swirly sterling silver frame

These earrings are FuN, casual enough to be worn every day, beautiful and eyecatching enough to garner compliments with each and every wearing.

They are a relatively simple design, one which I've made in several variations, using different stones and different sizes of loops to please the B.O.L.D. as well as the (understated).

This involves wrapping heavy gauge sterling wire around the beads (in this case lovely faceted green quartz teardrops), bending the wire using my special mojo and an amazing set of pliers, work-hardening the silver, and then working them to perfection and polishing.

I hope you'll like these earrings. If you like the style, the idea, but would like to see something with a particular gemstone or a certain color, please just shoot me a note. You can also let me know if you'd like them nice and demure or big and showy or someplace in between. I aim to please.

These are fun to make and fun to wear.

The earwires are sterling silver hooks plated with fine silver. They can be replaced with sterling lever backs for $3.

About the components of this piece:

SILVER: All metal components in my pieces are either fine or sterling silver, and I incorporate many, many Bali sterling beads into my work, as I appreciate the great attention to detail and the handmade beauty of these beads.

BLUE LACE - sale - Gorgeous Blue Lace Agate Earrings, Wire Wrapped with elegance with Bali Silver, finished with hand forged ear wires

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 18:45:52 -0500

$22.00
BLUE LACE - Gorgeous Blue Lace Agate Earrings, Wire Wrapped with elegance with Bali Silver, finished with hand forged ear wires.

The stars of these earrings are huge (0.75 inches long), fat, faceted blue lace agate briolettes, with their characteristic bands of blue and white. The coloration of the stones makes the facets subtle, but they shimmer in the light, catching the sun magnificently. You can see how differently the stones look, at least on film, outside in the sunshine or inside under fluorescent light. They are gorgeous gemstones, and completely natural in the varigation of their coloring.

I wire wrapped these briolettes to 8mm round blue lace agate stones of equal beauty. The rounds are capped by Bali silver beads, including extraordinarily detailed ropelike bead caps, which are absolutely exquisite. Atop the bead caps are tiny smoky quartz beads, just for a little variety.

I made the ear wires myself. Some people love that, some people don't. If you prefer pre-fabricated ear wires, I'd be happy to change these out for you. The advantage of my ear wires is that they will never slip off the earring. They are wire wrapped to it, so they is no chance of a loop opening and the earring slipping off the ear wire. Also, I add a litle extra something to each of my ear wire pairs. This pair has a lovely set of Bali silver beads to grace your lobes.

These earrings are 2 inches long without including the earwire and 2.5 inches from the top of the earwire to the bottom of the briolette.

These are great earrings for everyday wear or a night out getting wild. They are light and you will never notice the weight of them in your ears.

I have been doing wire work for over ten years, and I hope that shows in the quality of my work. I stand behind everything I make, and I hope you will enjoy wearing my original creations as much as I enjoy making them.

I work to keep the prices as low as possible, to encourage sales and to allow everyone to be able to enjoy high-quality artisan creations. Compare the quality and price of the artisan creations on this site to those available at Nordstroms or Macys and you will never buy department store jewelry again!

Additionally, by buying artisan, you are supporting an artist who makes each and every piece him- or herself. Nothing is mass produced, and you can wear your art with pride.

If you like this piece but are looking for something slightly different, please let me know. I welcome all custom orders with enthusiasm for the challenge of pleasing the unique, artsy jewelry lovers out there!

ABOUT THE COMPONENTS OF MESHEL DESIGNS PIECES:

I use SEMI-PRECIOUS & PRECIOUS GEMSTONES and PEARLS most frequently in my pieces, though sometimes I incorporate swarovski crystal and cubic zirconia.

SILVER: All metal components in my pieces are either fine or sterling silver, and I incorporate many, many Bali sterling beads into my work, as I appreciate the great attention to detail and the handmade beauty of these beads. The ear wires are also sterling silver. Please let me know if you need them replaced with hypoallergenic stainless steel.

About Bali Silver Beads: Bali is a small island located in southeast Asia. Bali, Indonesia is known around the world for its silver jewelry made by master metal smiths. Each and every bead is made by hand by craftsmen exceptionally skilled in the trade. The attention to detail is apparent when you look at these beads close up. I have become addicted to Bali silver, and I'm sure you will too!

AFTER THE RAIN, stunning faceted peridot and light amethyst earrings in a OOAK design that is simply breathtaking

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 08:31:59 -0500

$74.00
I made these earrings five times at least. They just weren't right. I knew I could do better. I spent hours and hours and hours.

Then. At last. I knew it. They were done. I was so pleased. I AM so pleased with how they turned out. These are beautiful earrings.

I hope you can appreciate them, from the few pictures I've taken with my mediocre digital camera: the time and attention to detail, the precision in the design. I should take a picture of the backs of the earrings, to show you how, in this final design, they are just as pretty as the fronts.

Of course I made these several weeks ago now. I'm in the middle of preparing for a move, so I haven't had any time for my passion, my love. I wonder if I'll ever be able to reproduce them. These may indeed always be OOAK (one of a kind). When I work that hard to get a design down right, I like to make a least a few pairs, with different stones or something!

These stones are genuine peridot and amethyst, both faceted and gorgeous. All the silver is sterling, including the wire and the hand-formed frame and the ear-wires. The sterling beads are all authentic Bali sterling silver, made by the best silver craftsman in the world.

I'm tired as I write this, can you tell? I've been packing and working and packing and working and not getting enough sleep.

I'll stop rambling now. I hope you like my AFTER THE RAIN earrings. I do adore them, and I'd love for someone to really appreciate them as I do.

Thanks,
Michelle

FAITH artisan earrings with Smokey Quartz and Bali Silver with a Hoop and a Swirl of Sterling

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 14:52:21 -0400

$38.00
Have FAITH in your dreams, in your God, in yourself, in your journey, in your craft, in your thoughts, in your children, in the transformative power of following your heart.

FAITH artisan earrings with GORGEOUS smokey quartz gemstones and Bali Silver with a Hoop and a Swirl of Hand Forged and Hand Hammered Sterling

These are great earrings for earring lovers. They are my current favorites, so I'm making them with several different gemstones besides smokey quartz, including amethyst, peridot, garnet, turquoise and black onyx. I have been wearing my pair every day and loving them to pieces. I wish I could make them look as beautiful in these pictures as they do in person. They are absolutely phenomenal!

They are true dangles, hanging long from your lobes and grabbing the attention of each and every passerby. Not subtle nor understated, these earrings are artsy and bold. They hang 3.25 inches from the top of the earwire to the bottom of the woven, faceted amethyst fringe.

Though they are long, these earrings are surprisingly light, like most all of my creations. Each long but lightweight earring weighs less than 0.25 ounce.

I have been doing wire work for over ten years, and I hope that shows in the quality of my work. I do all the wire work by hand, from the construction of the hoop frames, to the weaving of the gemstones, to the wire wrapping and the creation of each and every swirl. I stand behind everything I make, and I hope you will enjoy wearing my original creations as much as I enjoy making them.

I work to keep the prices as low as possible, to encourage sales and to allow everyone to be able to enjoy high-quality artisan creations. Compare the quality and price of the artisan creations on this site to those available at Nordstroms or Macys and you will never buy department store jewelry again!

Additionally, by buying artisan, you are supporting an artist who makes each and every piece him- or herself. Nothing is mass produced, and you can wear your art with pride.

If you like this piece but are looking for something slightly different, please let me know. I welcome all custom orders with enthusiasm for the challenge of pleasing the unique, artsy jewelry lovers out there!

ABOUT THE COMPONENTS OF MESHEL DESIGNS PIECES:

I use SEMI-PRECIOUS & PRECIOUS GEMSTONES and PEARLS most frequently in my pieces.

SMOKY QUARTZ: Smokey quartz, as its name implies, is a lovely smoky-grayish black variety of quartz. There are few gemstones of this color, so smokey quartz is easily recognized, well known and very popular. Natural smoky quartz is mined from granitic rocks in locations around the world. The most notable sources are Brazil, the Pikes Peak area of Colorado, and the Swiss Alps.

SILVER: All metal components in my pieces are either fine or sterling silver, and I incorporate many, many Bali sterling beads into my work, as I appreciate the great attention to detail and the handmade beauty of these beads. The ear wires are also sterling silver. Please let me know if you need them replaced with hypoallergenic stainless steel.

AUTHENTIC BALI STERLING SILVER BEADS: Bali is a small island located in southeast Asia. Bali, Indonesia is known around the world for its silver jewelry made by master metal smiths. Each and every bead is made by hand by craftsmen exceptionally skilled in the trade. The attention to detail is apparent when you look at these beads close up. I have become addicted to Bali silver, and I'm sure you will too!

SALE PERIDOT PASSION artisan silver hoop earrings of gemstone and Bali sterling deliciousness

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 14:52:21 -0400

$48.00
SALE PERIDOT PASSION artisan silver hoop earrings of gemstone and Bali sterling deliciousness

WERE $58, now only $48! Plus, these can still be used in the holiday buy 2 get 1 half off promotion. :)

Gorgeous faceted and smooth peridot in various sizes and shapes make these silver earrings absolutely dance. They are gorgeous! I'm really happy with how they turned out, and I know you'll be really happy to wear them or give them as a gift. They are the kind of earrings you will not want to take off. Seriously beautiful!

The frame is sterling silver and is hand-formed and hand-hammered. Sterling silver wire is used to wrap all the beads, and the quality of the wire-wrap is evident in the close-up pictures. Examine the precision and beauty of this quality wire-wrapping and hopefully you will appreciate the many years of experience I have put into perfecting my craft.

I hope you will love these earrings as much as I enjoyed making them!

Making earrings is my favorite pastime! If you see these and like them and would like something similar made with your favorite stone or crystal, please let me know. I welcome all custom orders with enthusiasm for the challenge of pleasing the unique, artsy jewelry lovers out there!

These earrings are approximately 2.25", not including the ear wires. They are 2.75" from the top of the ear wire.

About the components of this piece:

PERIDOT: Peridot is a stone known by three names: peridot, chrysolite and olivine. Chrysolite is named from the Greek for 'gold stone', since greenish gold is the color of peridot. Olive is the mineral from which the gemstone peridot is derived. 'Peridot" comes from the Greek word 'peridona', which means 'to give richness'. " Peridot is absolutely my favorite stone, though it is challenging to work with, because it is so often drilled with teeny tiny holes and it is easily broken if care is not taken when working with it.

SILVER: All metal components in my pieces are either fine or sterling silver, and I incorporate many, many Bali sterling beads into my work, as I appreciate the great attention to detail and the handmade beauty of these beads.

About BALI SILVER BEADS: All metal beads used to make these earrings are authentic Bali silver beads. The large barrel shaped beads at the top are Bali silver beads, as are all the bead caps and the gorgeous headpins used in the centerpieces of each hoop. Bali is a small island located in southeast Asia. Bali, Indonesia is known around the world for its silver jewelry made by master metal smiths. Each and every bead is made by hand by craftsmen exceptionally skilled in the trade. The attention to detail is apparent when you look at these beads close up. I have become addicted to Bali silver.

FIRST OF SPRING Peridot and Smoky Quartz Silver Dangle Hoop Artisan Earrings by Meshel Designs

Thu, 29 Oct 2009 18:55:28 -0400

$57.00
Gorgeous faceted and smooth peridot and smoky quartz gemstones of various sizes and shapes make these silver earrings absolutely dance. They are gorgeous! I'm really happy with how they turned out, and I know you'll be really happy to wear them or give them as a gift. They are the kind of earrings you will not want to take off. Seriously beautiful!

The frame is sterling silver and is hand-formed and hand-hammered. Sterling silver wire is used to wrap all the beads, and the quality of the wire-wrap is evident in the close-up pictures. Compare the precision and beauty of this quality wire-wrapping and hopefully you will appreciate the many years of experience I have put into perfecting my craft.

I hope you will love these earrings as much as I enjoyed making them!

Making earrings is my favorite pastime! If you see these and like them and would like something similar made with your favorite stone or crystal, please let me know. I welcome all custom orders with enthusiasm for the challenge of pleasing the unique, artsy jewelry lovers out there!

These earrings are approximately 1.5", not including the ear wires. They are 2" from the top of the ear wire.

About the components of this piece:

PERIDOT: Peridot is a stone known by three names: peridot, chrysolite and olivine. Chrysolite is named from the Greek for 'gold stone', since greenish gold is the color of peridot. Olive is the mineral from which the gemstone peridot is derived. 'Peridot" comes from the Greek word 'peridona', which means 'to give richness'. "

SMOKY QUARTZ: Smokey quartz, as its name implies, is a lovely smoky-grayish black variety of quartz. There are few gemstones of this color, so smokey quartz is easily recognized, well known and very popular. Natural smoky quartz is mined from granitic rocks in locations around the world. The most notable sources are Brazil, the Pikes Peak area of Colorado, and the Swiss Alps.

SILVER: All metal components in my pieces are either fine or sterling silver, and I incorporate many, many Bali sterling beads into my work, as I appreciate the great attention to detail and the handmade beauty of these beads.
About BALI SILVER BEADS: All metal beads used to make these earrings are authentic Bali silver beads. Bali is a small island located in southeast Asia. Bali, Indonesia is known around the world for its silver jewelry made by master metal smiths. Each and every bead is made by hand by craftsmen exceptionally skilled in the trade. The attention to detail is apparent when you look at these beads close up. I have become addicted to Bali silver.

SUMMER RAIN, turquoise and sterling silver dangles perfect for any season

Thu, 29 Oct 2009 18:55:28 -0400

$27.00
SUMMER RAIN, turquoise and sterling silver dangles perfect for any season

I read once that the blue turquoise is male and comes from the sky, and that green turquoise is female and comes from the earth. In reality, the blue color comes from copper, and the green color comes from iron. Some varieties have more copper or more iron, thus resulting in different shades of turquoise.

These earrings are just over 3" long, not including the ear wires. They make for a nice, long, dramatic pair of earrings, but ones which are still casual enough to wear with anything in your closet.

If you like this piece but are looking for something slightly (or completely!) different, please let me know. I welcome all custom orders with enthusiasm for the challenge of pleasing the unique, artsy jewelry lovers out there! Even if it's just, "michelle, could you please make me some earrings like this that aren't so darn long!?". Of course, I'd be happy to. :)

ABOUT THE COMPONENTS USED IN THIS AND OTHER MESHEL DESIGNS ORIGINALS:

SILVER: All metal components in my pieces are either fine or sterling silver, and I incorporate many, many Bali sterling beads into my work, as I appreciate the great attention to detail and the handmade beauty of these beads. The Bali silver beads in these earrings are the lovely daisy spacers. I also purchased the sterling connector rings from Bali, but I'm not sure if these qualify as "bali beads" or not (i.e. whether or not they are handcrafted as the real Bali beads are).

About BALI SILVER beads: Bali is a small island located in southeast Asia. Bali, Indonesia is known around the world for its silver jewelry made by master metal smiths. Each and every bead is made by hand by craftsmen exceptionally skilled in the trade. The attention to detail is apparent when you look at these beads close up. I have become addicted to Bali silver.

TURQUOISE: Turquoise is an opaque blue/green mineral of undeniable beauty. It is found in many varieties throughout the world, with the biggest concentrations in the USA, Afghanistan, China, Iran, Mexico and Israel.

NATURE'S BEAUTY artisan earrings with green amethyst, peridot and moss agate gemstones

Thu, 29 Oct 2009 18:55:28 -0400

$44.00
NATURE'S BEAUTY artisan earrings with green amethyst, peridot and moss agate gemstones

Artisan woven earrings on a hand forged frame of sterling silver. Gorgeous moss agate gemstones are wrapped around the circumference of the frame, which is itself wrapped with sterling silver wire. From the center of the frame dangles a gorgeous AAA grade faceted green amethyst (aka prasiolite) teardrop gemstone, accented by a halo of peridot, green amethyst and moss agate stones.

These earrings were fun to make, though a bit difficult to construct. I remade them at least three times! But I love the way they turned out, and I hope you enjoy wearing them as much!

Thank you for your support of artisan craftspeople!

Peace. Love. Blessings.

PRETTY POINTY PEARLS a lovely, funky, irridescent necklace

Sun, 25 Oct 2009 21:46:24 -0400

$33.00
On Sale for a limited time, Normally $42.

This is a lovely, funky necklace of irridescent black pearls with shades of green, violet, blue, gold, purple, even red throughout, which readily change with the light.

These are freshwater cultured pearls, top drilled, with rare and funky pointed ends. I confess I'd never seen pearls like these before and I had to have them. There seemed something almost primitive about them, though of course they are formed in the way any cultured pearl is formed (see below).

I finished the strand with a pair of straight drilled pearls and a gorgeous set of Bali sterling bead caps, handmade in Indonesia. The detail on these beads is just gorgeous.

I wire wrapped the strand of pearls to heavy duty and attractive sterling patterned chain, 2.5 inches in length. This necklace is adjustable to lengths between 16.5 and 19 inches. I add chain to most of my designs to allow for adjustments in length to accomodate various sized necklines as well as various sized necks. I finished the chain with a pearl and Bali silver charm for fun.

I made another necklace just like this, only shorter, because I think this necklace would also look amazing as a choker, but I haven't had a chance to get it listed yet.

The clasp is hand formed and hand hammered and fits nicely in the links of the chain.

About the materials used to make this piece:

SILVER: All metal components in my pieces are either fine or sterling silver, and I incorporate many, many Bali sterling beads into my work, as I appreciate the great attention to detail and the handmade beauty of these beads.

About BALI SILVER BEADS: Bali is a small island located in southeast Asia. Bali, Indonesia is known around the world for its silver jewelry made by master metal smiths. Each and every bead is made by hand by craftsmen exceptionally skilled in the trade. The attention to detail is apparent when you look at these beads close up. I have become addicted to Bali silver.

CULTURED PEARLS: Pearls are created when small particles inadvertently or purposely become embedded in the tissue of an oyster or clam. In response, the animal secretes nacre. Nacre is a combination of crystalline and organic substances. As the nacre builds up, it surrounds the trapped matter and eventually forms a pearl.
Natural pearls are those formed in nature by chance. In contrast, cultured pearls are created when people implant an object in a mollusk or oyster, thereby inducing the creation of a pearl. The same natural process of pearl creation takes place. Only in the case of cultured pearls, humans lent a helping hand.

PINK PEARL freshwater pearl and sterling silver artisan bracelet

Sun, 25 Oct 2009 21:46:23 -0400

$27.00
PINK PEARL freshwater pearl & sterling silver artisan bracelet

This is a gorgeous bracelet, made from luminous cultured freshwater pearls. The color of the majority of the pearls is a light subtle pink, though in some of the pictures there is a hint of peach, which is not accurate coloration, just amateur photography! Sorry, taking the photos isn't my strong suit! The small pearls on the very ends are ivory or off-white. They are capped by gorgeous sterling silver bead cones with leaves patterned on them.

I've made the bracelet adjustable to fit a range of wrist sizes. The clasp is composed of a sterling lobster clasp and heavy gauge, beautiful textured sterling silver chain with an ivory coin pearl charm at the end on a bali headpin.

Thanks for your interest, and thanks for supporting artisan craftspeople! It makes a world of difference!

:) Michelle

About the components of this piece:

SILVER: All metal components in my pieces are either fine or sterling silver, and I incorporate many, many Bali sterling beads into my work, as I appreciate the great attention to detail and the handmade beauty of these beads.

About BALI SILVER BEADS: Bali is a small island located in southeast Asia. Bali, Indonesia is known around the world for its silver jewelry made by master metal smiths. Each and every bead is made by hand by craftsmen exceptionally skilled in the trade. The attention to detail is apparent when you look at these beads close up. I have become addicted to Bali silver.

CULTURED PEARLS: Pearls are created when small particles inadvertently or purposely become embedded in the tissue of an oyster or clam. In response, the animal secretes nacre. Nacre is a combination of crystalline and organic substances. As the nacre builds up, it surrounds the trapped matter and eventually forms a pearl.

Natural pearls are those formed in nature by chance. In contrast, cultured pearls are created when people implant an object in a mollusk or oyster, thereby inducing the creation of a pearl. The same natural process of pearl creation takes place. Only in the case of cultured pearls, humans lent a helping hand.

MODERN GIRL PEARLS a spikey, pointy, non traditional, cultured pearl bracelet

Sun, 25 Oct 2009 21:46:23 -0400

$27.00
This is a gorgeous bracelet, made from luminous cultured freshwater pearls. The pearls have a great shape. They are all tapered or rather pointed at the ends, so they look fantastic on this bracelet. I have a necklace that isn't listed yet with the same pearls. It's equally sensational.

The color of the pearls is a luminous ivory or off-white. They are capped by gorgeous sterling silver bead cones with leaves patterned on them.

I've made the bracelet adjustable to fit a range of wrist sizes. The clasp is composed of a sterling lobster clasp and heavy gauge, beautiful textured sterling silver chain with an ivory coin pearl charm at the end on a bali headpin.

Thanks for your interest, and thanks for supporting artisan craftspeople! It makes a world of difference!

:) Michelle

About the components of this piece:

SILVER: All metal components in my pieces are either fine or sterling silver, and I incorporate many, many Bali sterling beads into my work, as I appreciate the great attention to detail and the handmade beauty of these beads.

About BALI SILVER BEADS: Bali is a small island located in southeast Asia. Bali, Indonesia is known around the world for its silver jewelry made by master metal smiths. Each and every bead is made by hand by craftsmen exceptionally skilled in the trade. The attention to detail is apparent when you look at these beads close up. I have become addicted to Bali silver.

CULTURED PEARLS: Pearls are created when small particles inadvertently or purposely become embedded in the tissue of an oyster or clam. In response, the animal secretes nacre. Nacre is a combination of crystalline and organic substances. As the nacre builds up, it surrounds the trapped matter and eventually forms a pearl.

Natural pearls are those formed in nature by chance. In contrast, cultured pearls are created when people implant an object in a mollusk or oyster, thereby inducing the creation of a pearl. The same natural process of pearl creation takes place. Only in the case of cultured pearls, humans lent a helping hand.

SILVER AND GOLD cultured pearl and sterling silver earrings

Tue, 20 Oct 2009 20:28:13 -0400

SILVER AND GOLD cultured pearl and sterling silver earrings

Tue, 20 Oct 2009 20:27:42 -0400

$7.00
Take a peek and take your pick of a lovely pair of pearl earrings in gorgeous gold or shimmering silver. Or take them both! You can take advantage of the buy 2 get 1 half off sale going on NOW!

These are lovely freshwater cultured pearls, matched to produce perfect sets, then put on lovely petite sterling silver headpins. These I wrapped onto beautiful textured links for that little something extra and connected them to fantastic little ear wires that are sterling silver with fine silver plating.

These earrings are tiny and gorgeous. The pearl is less than half an inch long, roughly a centimeter in length. The whole earring from the top of the earwire is 3.5 centimeters long, or just under an inch and a half.

About the components of this piece:

SILVER: All metal components in my pieces are either fine or sterling silver, and I incorporate many, many Bali sterling beads into my work, as I appreciate the great attention to detail and the handmade beauty of these beads.

About BALI SILVER BEADS: Bali is a small island located in southeast Asia. Bali, Indonesia is known around the world for its silver jewelry made by master metal smiths. Each and every bead is made by hand by craftsmen exceptionally skilled in the trade. The attention to detail is apparent when you look at these beads close up. I have become addicted to Bali silver.

CULTURED PEARLS: Pearls are created when small particles inadvertently or purposely become embedded in the tissue of an oyster or clam. In response, the animal secretes nacre. Nacre is a combination of crystalline and organic substances. As the nacre builds up, it surrounds the trapped matter and eventually forms a pearl.

Natural pearls are those formed in nature by chance. In contrast, cultured pearls are created when people implant an object in a mollusk or oyster, thereby inducing the creation of a pearl. The same natural process of pearl creation takes place. Only in the case of cultured pearls, humans lent a helping hand.

SPRING DELIGHT PENDANT woven AAA peridot and citrine gemstones on hand forged hoop and swirl of sterling silver

Tue, 20 Oct 2009 15:33:42 -0400

$27.00
'SPRING DELIGHT' ARTISAN PENDANT

Woven AAA gemstones including peridot and citrine are woven on a hand forged hoop and swirl of hammered sterling silver.

Place on your favorite cord or chain and simply be fabulous.

BRIGHT EYES hand forged swirly sterling silver dangle earrings with faceted aqual blue quartz briolettes

Tue, 20 Oct 2009 15:27:32 -0400

$18.00
BRIGHT EYES faceted quartz drops on a hand forged swirly sterling silver frame

These earrings are FuN, casual enough to be worn every day, beautiful and eyecatching enough to garner compliments with each and every wearing.

They are a relatively simple design, one which I've made in several variations, using different stones and different sizes of loops to please the B.O.L.D. as well as the (understated).

This involves wrapping heavy gauge sterling wire around the beads (in this case lovely faceted bright aqua quartz briolettes, the name for flat teardrop shaped gems), bending the wire using my special mojo and an amazing set of pliers, work-hardening the silver, and then working them to perfection and polishing.

I hope you'll like these earrings. If you like the style, the idea, but would like to see something with a particular gemstone or a certain color, please just shoot me a note. You can also let me know if you'd like them nice and demure or big and showy or someplace in between. I aim to please.

These are fun to make and fun to wear.

The earwires are sterling silver hooks plated with fine silver. They can be replaced with sterling lever backs for $3.

About the components of this piece:

SILVER: All metal components in my pieces are either fine or sterling silver, and I incorporate many, many Bali sterling beads into my work, as I appreciate the great attention to detail and the handmade beauty of these beads.

SPRING aqua blue quartz artisan earrings on a hand forged swirly sterling silver frame

Tue, 20 Oct 2009 13:21:45 -0400

$26.00
SPRING artisan earrings: faceted aqua blue quartz drops and roundels on a hand forged swirly sterling silver frame

These earrings are FuN, casual enough to be worn every day, beautiful and eyecatching enough to garner compliments with each and every wearing.

They are a relatively simple design, one which I've made in several variations, using different stones and different sizes of loops to please the B.O.L.D. as well as the (understated).

This involves bending the wire using my special mojo and an amazing set of pliers, work-hardening the silver, and then working it to perfection and polishing. Finally, I wrap sterling wire around the beads (in this case lovely aqua blue quartz gemstones) to attach them to the frame.

I hope you'll like these earrings. If you like the style, the idea, but would like to see something with a particular gemstone or a certain color, please just shoot me a note. You can also let me know if you'd like them nice and demure or big and showy or someplace in between. I aim to please.

These are fun to make and fun to wear.

The earwires are sterling silver hooks plated with fine silver. They can be replaced with sterling lever backs for $3.

About the components of this piece:

SILVER: All metal components in my pieces are either fine or sterling silver, and I incorporate many, many Bali sterling beads into my work, as I appreciate the great attention to detail and the handmade beauty of these beads.

QUARTZ: Quartz is important in the gem trade. Many varieties are faceted as gems, and some are well known. Amethyst is the most popular quartz gem, and citrine is the most valuable. Rose quartz, smoky quartz, rock crystal, and aventurine are also cut into gems. Clear quartz crystals are worn by some as pendants for good luck.
The transparent, colorless variety of quartz is known as rock crystal or rock quartz, and this is often dyed to create a rainbow of different and beautiful colored quartz gemstones for use in the gem and jewelry trade. The quartz used in these earrings is dyed aqua blue quartz.

About BALI SILVER beads: Bali is a small island located in southeast Asia. Bali, Indonesia is known around the world for its silver jewelry made by master metal smiths. Each and every bead is made by hand by craftsmen exceptionally skilled in the trade. The attention to detail is apparent when you look at these beads close up. I have become addicted to Bali silver.

FAITH artisan earrings with Fuschia Chalcedony, Hot Pink Jade and Bali Silver with a Hoop and a Swirl of Sterling

Mon, 19 Oct 2009 15:50:49 -0400

$44.00
Fuschia Chalcedony, Hot Pink Jade and Bali Silver with a Hoop and a Swirl of Hand Forged Sterling

These are great earrings for earring lovers. They are true dangles, hanging long from your lobes and grabbing the attention of each and every passerby. Not subtle nor understated, these earrings are artsy and bold.

Though they are long, these earrings are surprisingly light, like most all of my creations. Each long but lightweight earring weighs less than 0.25 ounce.

I have been doing wire work for over ten years, and I hope that shows in the quality of my work. I do all the wire work by hand, from the construction of the hoop frames, to the weaving of the gemstones, to the wire wrapping and the creation of each and every swirl. I stand behind everything I make, and I hope you will enjoy wearing my original creations as much as I enjoy making them.

I work to keep the prices as low as possible, to encourage sales and to allow everyone to be able to enjoy high-quality artisan creations. Compare the quality and price of the artisan creations on this site to those available at Nordstroms or Macys and you will never buy department store jewelry again!

Additionally, by buying artisan, you are supporting an artist who makes each and every piece him- or herself. Nothing is mass produced, and you can wear your art with pride.

If you like this piece but are looking for something slightly different, please let me know. I welcome all custom orders with enthusiasm for the challenge of pleasing the unique, artsy jewelry lovers out there!

ABOUT THE COMPONENTS OF MESHEL DESIGNS PIECES:

I use SEMI-PRECIOUS & PRECIOUS GEMSTONES and PEARLS most frequently in my pieces.

Hot Pink/Fuschia Chalcedony

Hot Pink Jade

SILVER: All metal components in my pieces are either fine or sterling silver, and I incorporate many, many Bali sterling beads into my work, as I appreciate the great attention to detail and the handmade beauty of these beads. The ear wires are also sterling silver. Please let me know if you need them replaced with hypoallergenic stainless steel.

AUTHENTIC BALI STERLING SILVER BEADS: Bali is a small island located in southeast Asia. Bali, Indonesia is known around the world for its silver jewelry made by master metal smiths. Each and every bead is made by hand by craftsmen exceptionally skilled in the trade. The attention to detail is apparent when you look at these beads close up. I have become addicted to Bali silver, and I'm sure you will too!

BRIGHT EYES hand forged swirly sterling silver dangle earrings with faceted black quartz briolettes

Mon, 19 Oct 2009 15:49:21 -0400

$18.00

BRIGHT EYES faceted quartz drops on a hand forged swirly sterling silver frame

These earrings are FuN, casual enough to be worn every day, beautiful and eyecatching enough to garner compliments with each and every wearing.

They are a relatively simple design, one which I've made in several variations, using different stones and different sizes of loops to please the B.O.L.D. as well as the (understated).

This involves wrapping heavy gauge sterling wire around the beads (in this case lovely faceted black quartz briolettes or flat teardrops), bending the wire using my special mojo and an amazing set of pliers, work-hardening the silver, and then working them to perfection and polishing.

I hope you'll like these earrings. If you like the style, the idea, but would like to see something with a particular gemstone or a certain color, please just shoot me a note. You can also let me know if you'd like them nice and demure or big and showy or someplace in between. I aim to please.

These are fun to make and fun to wear.

The earwires are sterling silver hooks plated with fine silver. They can be replaced with sterling lever backs for $3.

About the components of this piece:

SILVER: All metal components in my pieces are either fine or sterling silver, and I incorporate many, many Bali sterling beads into my work, as I appreciate the great attention to detail and the handmade beauty of these beads.

GENTLE WAVES Sterling Silver Artisan Dangles with AAA London Blue Topaz, Peridot, Iolite and Bali Silver

Sat, 17 Oct 2009 12:55:15 -0400

$88.00
GENTLE WAVES Sterling Silver Artisan Dangles with AAA London Blue Topaz, Peridot, Iolite and Bali Silver

These earrings were a labor of love. I kept changing them and tweaking them as I went along to make the final product more what I had envisioned in my mind's eye. The earrings turned out beautifully, and they would make an excellent gift to spoil yourself or someone you love.

Their beauty is largely due to the gemstones themselves, which are AAA grade (ie the best of the best) gemstones called London Blue Topaz, Iolite, and Peridot. I hope the pictures capture just how lovely these stones really are. I know pictures hardly ever do artisan jewelry justice, especially when taken by a point and click photographer like me! These stones are cut into gorgeous faceted onion briolettes, teardrop briolettes, faceted roundels and rounds, all of which are absolutely clear and flawless. Just gorgeous!

The earring dangles, the waves, are hand forged from sterling silver, and all the wire work is also done by me. These are a bit more labor intensive than some of my other designs, but I just love the look of the final product. So although it takes a while, I will definitely make a couple of variations eventually.

Accenting the gemstones are lovely and authentic Bali sterling silver handcrafted beads. If you don't know anything about Bali beads, read my little blurb below. These Bali beads are large bead caps with lots of intricate detail apparent. They are a nice contrast against the shimmering perfection of the gemstones.

These are quite long, for true earring lovers, dangling about 3.5 inches from the top of the ear wire to the lowest briolette. The ear wires are sterling silver from Bali with a four ball design on the front of each each wire. If you would like to replace them with sterling silver lever backs instead, they are $3 more.

Thanks for checking out my etsy site! I adore making jewelry and I love it when new people find me and become fans of my work. The passion I have for creating jewelry is surpassed by few things, so I appreciate your support!

Thanks, peace, love! mwa! Michelle

About the materials used to make these earrings and other
Meshel Designs originals:

PERIDOT: Peridot is a stone known by three names: peridot, chrysolite and olivine. Chrysolite is named from the Greek for 'gold stone', since greenish gold is the color of peridot. Olive is the mineral from which the gemstone peridot is derived. 'Peridot" comes from the Greek word 'peridona', which means 'to give richness'. " Peridot is absolutely my favorite stone, though it is challenging to work with, because it is so often drilled with teeny tiny holes and it is easily broken if care is not taken when working with it.

LONDON BLUE TOPAZ: Topaz is a silicate mineral and the birthstones of both November (yellow topaz) and December (blue topaz). It can occur in a variety of colors, including white, gray, green, blue, pink, reddish-yellow, transparent or translucent. Some of these require heat treatment or irraditation to achieve, including blue topaz and the popular variety London Blue Topaz. Blue Topaz is also the Texas state gemstone, which I have just learned.

IOLITE: Iolite is the gemstone variety of the mineral cordierite. It has a gorgeous violet blue color that is unlike other gemstones, although it has been compared to a light blue sapphire. It is this reason that it is sometimes known as "water sapphire". Three different color shades can be seen in the same iolite stone. In the viewing an iolite stone, the colors violet blue, yellow gray and a light blue can be seen. The major sources of gem grade iolite come from Sri Lanka, India, Madagascar and Burma.

SILVER: All metal components in my pieces are either fine or sterling silver, and I incorporate many, many Bali sterling beads into my work, as I appreciate the great attention to detail and the handmade beauty of these beads.

About BALI SILVER beads: Bali is a small island located in southeast Asia. Bali, Indonesia is known around the world for its silver jewelry made by master metal smiths. Each and every bead is made by hand by craftsmen exceptionally skilled in the trade. The attention to detail is apparent when you look at these beads close up. I have become addicted to Bali silver.

FAITH artisan earrings with Peridot and Bali Silver with a Hoop and a Swirl of Sterling

Sat, 17 Oct 2009 12:54:43 -0400

$44.00
Have FAITH in your dreams, in your God, in yourself, in your journey, in your craft, in your thoughts, in your children, in the transformative power of following your heart.

FAITH artisan earrings with Peridot and Bali Silver with a Hoop and a Swirl of Hand Forged and Hand Hammered Sterling

These are great earrings for earring lovers. They are my current favorites, so I'm making them with several different gemstones besides peridot, including garnet, amethyst, turquoise, smokey quartz and black onyx. I have been wearing my pair every day and loving them to pieces. I wish I could make them look as beautiful in these pictures as they do in person. They are absolutely phenomenal!

They are true dangles, hanging long from your lobes and grabbing the attention of each and every passerby. Not subtle nor understated, these earrings are artsy and bold. They hang 3.25 inches from the top of the earwire to the bottom of the woven, faceted peridot gemstone fringe.

Though they are long, these earrings are surprisingly light, like most all of my creations. Each long but lightweight earring weighs less than 0.25 ounce.

I have been doing wire work for over ten years, and I hope that shows in the quality of my work. I do all the wire work by hand, from the construction of the hoop frames, to the weaving of the gemstones, to the wire wrapping and the creation of each and every swirl. I stand behind everything I make, and I hope you will enjoy wearing my original creations as much as I enjoy making them.

I work to keep the prices as low as possible, to encourage sales and to allow everyone to be able to enjoy high-quality artisan creations. Compare the quality and price of the artisan creations on this site to those available at Nordstroms or Macys and you will never buy department store jewelry again!

Additionally, by buying artisan, you are supporting an artist who makes each and every piece him- or herself. Nothing is mass produced, and you can wear your art with pride.

If you like this piece but are looking for something slightly different, please let me know. I welcome all custom orders with enthusiasm for the challenge of pleasing the unique, artsy jewelry lovers out there!

ABOUT THE COMPONENTS OF MESHEL DESIGNS PIECES:

I use SEMI-PRECIOUS & PRECIOUS GEMSTONES and PEARLS most frequently in my pieces.

PERIDOT: Peridot is a stone known by three names: peridot, chrysolite and olivine. Chrysolite is named from the Greek for 'gold stone', since greenish gold is the color of peridot. Olive is the mineral from which the gemstone peridot is derived. 'Peridot" comes from the Greek word 'peridona', which means 'to give richness'. " Peridot is absolutely my favorite stone, though it is challenging to work with, because it is so often drilled with teeny tiny holes and it is easily broken if care is not taken when working with it.

SILVER: All metal components in my pieces are either fine or sterling silver, and I incorporate many, many Bali sterling beads into my work, as I appreciate the great attention to detail and the handmade beauty of these beads. The ear wires are also sterling silver. Please let me know if you need them replaced with hypoallergenic stainless steel.

AUTHENTIC BALI STERLING SILVER BEADS: Bali is a small island located in southeast Asia. Bali, Indonesia is known around the world for its silver jewelry made by master metal smiths. Each and every bead is made by hand by craftsmen exceptionally skilled in the trade. The attention to detail is apparent when you look at these beads close up. I have become addicted to Bali silver, and I'm sure you will too!

Garnet FAITH artisan earrings with gorgeous gemstones and hand forged sterling silver by MESHEL DESIGNS

Tue, 13 Oct 2009 19:16:55 -0400

$39.00
Have FAITH in your dreams, in your God, in yourself, in your journey, in your craft, in your thoughts, in your children, in the transformative power of following your heart.

FAITH artisan earrings with GORGEOUS Garnet gemstones and Bali Silver with a Hoop and a Swirl of Hand Forged and Hand Hammered Sterling

These are great earrings for earring lovers. They are my current favorites, so I'm making them with several different gemstones besides garnet, including amethyst, peridot, turquoise, smokey quartz and black onyx. I have been wearing my pair every day and loving them to pieces. I wish I could make them look as beautiful in these pictures as they do in person. They are absolutely phenomenal!

They are true dangles, hanging long from your lobes and grabbing the attention of each and every passerby. Not subtle nor understated, these earrings are artsy and bold. They hang 3.25 inches from the top of the earwire to the bottom of the woven, faceted amethyst fringe.

Though they are long, these earrings are surprisingly light, like most all of my creations. Each long but lightweight earring weighs less than 0.25 ounce.

I have been doing wire work for over ten years, and I hope that shows in the quality of my work. I do all the wire work by hand, from the construction of the hoop frames, to the weaving of the gemstones, to the wire wrapping and the creation of each and every swirl. I stand behind everything I make, and I hope you will enjoy wearing my original creations as much as I enjoy making them.

I work to keep the prices as low as possible, to encourage sales and to allow everyone to be able to enjoy high-quality artisan creations. Compare the quality and price of the artisan creations on this site to those available at Nordstroms or Macys and you will never buy department store jewelry again!

Additionally, by buying artisan, you are supporting an artist who makes each and every piece him- or herself. Nothing is mass produced, and you can wear your art with pride.

If you like this piece but are looking for something slightly different, please let me know. I welcome all custom orders with enthusiasm for the challenge of pleasing the unique, artsy jewelry lovers out there!

ABOUT THE COMPONENTS OF MESHEL DESIGNS PIECES:

I use SEMI-PRECIOUS & PRECIOUS GEMSTONES and PEARLS most frequently in my pieces.

GARNET: Garnets are very popular and sought after gemstones. Due to their high refractive index, garnets display great brilliance and luminosity. The rich color of the red garnet used in these earrings reminds me of the seeds of a ripe pomegranate. There are two types of red garnet. The first is pyrope, a spirited red stone, often with a slight brownish nuance. The second is rhodolite, a mixed crystal of almandine and pyrope. This popular garnet is a magnificent velvety red color with subtle violet or raspberry undertones. I believe the garnet in these earrings is rhodolite garnet due to its velvety appearance.

SILVER: All metal components in my pieces are either fine or sterling silver, and I incorporate many, many Bali sterling beads into my work, as I appreciate the great attention to detail and the handmade beauty of these beads. The ear wires are also sterling silver. Please let me know if you need them replaced with hypoallergenic stainless steel.

AUTHENTIC BALI STERLING SILVER BEADS: Bali is a small island located in southeast Asia. Bali, Indonesia is known around the world for its silver jewelry made by master metal smiths. Each and every bead is made by hand by craftsmen exceptionally skilled in the trade. The attention to detail is apparent when you look at these beads close up. I have become addicted to Bali silver, and I'm sure you will too!

1 SMOKIN' MAMA smokey quartz and mother of pearl artisan sterling silver earrings

Tue, 13 Oct 2009 19:16:55 -0400

$12.00
1 SMOKIN' MAMA smokey quartz and mother of pearl artisan sterling silver earrings

I made the sterling silver swirl frame that these earrings sit on by hand. The silver beads I've used are authentic Bali sterling silver beads. If you don't know anything about Bali beads, you can read about them if you like in my little blurb at the bottom.

The square flat, creamy beads are mother of pearl and are shiny and luminous. The charcoal grayish brown gemstones are smokey quartz and are one of my favorite stones to work with and to wear. I love how they go with absolutely everything! You can match them with either brown or black, as they will pick up the hues of either.

About the components of this piece:

SILVER: All metal components in my pieces are either fine or sterling silver, and I incorporate many, many Bali sterling beads into my work, as I appreciate the great attention to detail and the handmade beauty of these beads.

About BALI SILVER BEADS: Bali is a small island located in southeast Asia. Bali, Indonesia is known around the world for its silver jewelry made by master metal smiths. Each and every bead is made by hand by craftsmen exceptionally skilled in the trade. The attention to detail is apparent when you look at these beads close up. I have become addicted to Bali silver.

SMOKEY QUARTZ. Smoky quartz has an unusual color for a gemstone. Only a few other brown or black minerals are ever cut for gemstones. The color of smoky quartz is variable from brown to black and sometimes smoky gray. The cause of the color of smoky quartz is likely related to the amount of exposure to radiation that the stone has undergone. Natural smoky quartz often occurs in granite rocks which have a small but persistent amount of radioactivity. Natural smoky quartz comes from many sources around the world. A few of the more noteworthy locations include Brazil, the world’s largest supplier, the Pikes Peak area of Colorado, and the Swiss Alps, which has produced many tons of fine specimens.

MOTHER OF PEARL Mother of pearl, also called nacre, is an iridescent layer of material which forms the shell lining of many mollusks. Pearl oysters and abalone are both sources of mother of pearl. Mother of pearl comes in several natural colors, and is often bleached and dyed for decorative use. The dye retains the shimmering layers which make mother of pearl so sought after.
Two substances combine to create mother of pearl. The first is plates of aragonite, a material which is secreted by the mollusk. Aragonite contains calcium carbonate and conchiolin, a natural protein. Alone, the plates are very hard, but also very brittle. As a result, the organism also secretes organic material similar to silk to layer between the plates. The result is a strong, flexible material which can withstand hard use.

LONDON peridot, london blue topaz, and sterling silver artisan earrings

Sun, 11 Oct 2009 14:15:46 -0400

$29.00
I fell in love with london blue topaz. It is so gorgeous: rich and lovely. Paired with peridot, it is striking.

The gemstones used in these earrings are all AAA grade, ie the best of the best. They are faceted and outstandingly beautiful, eliciting tremendous shine and shimmer. As you move your head around, these little earrings will catch the light in a million ways.

These earrings are gorgeous and could be worn any day and every day or for a very special occasion. They would make an outstanding gift for a loved one or for yourself.

The frames of the earrings are hand formed and hammered for strength. The gorgeous gemstones are professionally wire wrapped onto a textured ring, connected to the earring frame and the earwires.

These earrings hang 1.75 inches from the top of the ear wire, and 1.25 inches, not including the ear wire.

The ear wires are sterling silver plated with fine silver. They can be exchanged for a pair of sterling silver lever backs if you would prefer those for an additional $3.

Thanks very much for looking and for supporting artisan craftspeople. It really does make such a positive impact on our world to buy handmade. Have a beautiful day,
Michelle

About the components of this piece:

PERIDOT: Peridot is a stone known by three names: peridot, chrysolite and olivine. Chrysolite is named from the Greek for 'gold stone', since greenish gold is the color of peridot. Olive is the mineral from which the gemstone peridot is derived. 'Peridot" comes from the Greek word 'peridona', which means 'to give richness'. " Peridot is absolutely my favorite stone, though it is challenging to work with, because it is so often drilled with teeny tiny holes and it is easily broken if care is not taken when working with it.

LONDON BLUE TOPAZ: Topaz is a silicate mineral and the birthstones of both November (yellow topaz) and December (blue topaz). It can occur in a variety of colors, including white, gray, green, blue, pink, reddish-yellow, transparent or translucent. Some of these require heat treatment or irraditation to achieve, including blue topaz and the popular variety London Blue Topaz. Blue Topaz is also the Texas state gemstone, which I have just learned.

SILVER: All metal components in my pieces are either fine or sterling silver, and I incorporate many, many Bali sterling beads into my work, as I appreciate the great attention to detail and the handmade beauty of these beads.

About BALI SILVER beads: Bali is a small island located in southeast Asia. Bali, Indonesia is known around the world for its silver jewelry made by master metal smiths. Each and every bead is made by hand by craftsmen exceptionally skilled in the trade. The attention to detail is apparent when you look at these beads close up. I have become addicted to Bali silver.

OH BLACK BETTY, SHAMALAM, black onyx and bali silver earrings

Sun, 11 Oct 2009 14:15:46 -0400

$19.00
Gorgeous 10mm black onyx rounds capped by the most deliciously detailed bali sterling silver. Each of these is professionally wire wrapped to a heavy gauge link of sterling silver chain for a simple yet dramatic look that will go will anything and everything you own.

These earrings are just shy of 1.5", not including the ear wires. With the ear wires, which are sterling silver french ear wires (a commercial addition), they hang just shy of 2".

Thanks, peace, love!

About the materials used to make these earrings and other
Meshel Designs originals:

SILVER: All metal components in my pieces are either fine or sterling silver, and I incorporate many, many Bali sterling beads into my work, as I appreciate the great attention to detail and the handmade beauty of these beads.

About BALI SILVER beads: Bali is a small island located in southeast Asia. Bali, Indonesia is known around the world for its silver jewelry made by master metal smiths. Each and every bead is made by hand by craftsmen exceptionally skilled in the trade. The attention to detail is apparent when you look at these beads close up. I have become addicted to Bali silver.

WISHING and HOPING, HOPING and DREAMING gorgeous artisant wire woven peridot hoops

Sun, 11 Oct 2009 14:15:45 -0400

$44.00
WISHING and HOPING, HOPING and DREAMING gorgeous artisant wire woven peridot hoops. These are beautiful dangle earrings, perfect for yourself or a gift for a woman you love.

Gorgeous, high quality, AAA grade faceted peridot roundels in 2 sizes form the border of these stunning earrings. They are woven around hand forged sterling silver frames and finished with lovely silver weaving. These earrings absolutely dance in the light. They are gorgeous! I'm really happy with how they turned out, and I know you'll be really happy to wear them or give them as a gift. They are the kind of earrings you will not want to take off. Seriously beautiful!

The frame is sterling silver and is hand-formed and hand-hammered. Authentic Bali Sterling Silver head pins are used to make the center pieces of these hoops, which use round, smooth peridot gemstones, as well as some delicious faceted AAA grade peridot rondels. I hope you can see the quality of the stones and the construction in the close up photographs and appreciate the many years of experience I have put into perfecting my craft.

I hope you will love these earrings as much as I enjoyed making them!

Making earrings is my favorite pastime! If you see these and like them and would like something similar made with your favorite stone or crystal, please let me know. I welcome all custom orders with enthusiasm for the challenge of pleasing the unique, artsy jewelry lovers out there!

These earrings are approximately 2.25", not including the ear wires. They are 2.75" from the top of the ear wire.

About the components of this piece:

PERIDOT: Peridot is a stone known by three names: peridot, chrysolite and olivine. Chrysolite is named from the Greek for 'gold stone', since greenish gold is the color of peridot. Olive is the mineral from which the gemstone peridot is derived. 'Peridot" comes from the Greek word 'peridona', which means 'to give richness'. " Peridot is absolutely my favorite stone, though it is challenging to work with, because it is so often drilled with teeny tiny holes and it is easily broken if care is not taken when working with it.

SILVER: All metal components in my pieces are either fine or sterling silver, and I incorporate many, many Bali sterling beads into my work, as I appreciate the great attention to detail and the handmade beauty of these beads.

About BALI SILVER BEADS: All metal beads used to make these earrings are authentic Bali silver beads. All the bead caps and the gorgeous headpins used in the centerpieces of each hoop are Bali silver beads, as are the silver beads used at the top of each earring. Bali is a small island located in southeast Asia. Bali, Indonesia is known around the world for its silver jewelry made by master metal smiths. Each and every bead is made by hand by craftsmen exceptionally skilled in the trade. The attention to detail is apparent when you look at these beads close up. I have become addicted to Bali silver.

FAITH artisan earrings with Turquoise and Bali Silver with a Hoop and a Swirl of Sterling

Sun, 04 Oct 2009 11:51:50 -0400

$38.50
Have FAITH in your dreams, in your God, in yourself, in your journey, in your craft, in your thoughts, in your children, in the transformative power of following your heart.

FAITH artisan earrings with GORGEOUS turquoiae stones and Bali Silver with a Hoop and a Swirl of Hand Forged and Hand Hammered Sterling

These are great earrings for earring lovers. They are my current favorites, so I'm making them with several different gemstones besides turquoise, including amethyst, peridot, garnet, smokey quartz and black onyx. I have been wearing my pair every day and loving them to pieces. I wish I could make them look as beautiful in these pictures as they do in person. They are absolutely phenomenal!

They are true dangles, hanging long from your lobes and grabbing the attention of each and every passerby. Not subtle nor understated, these earrings are artsy and bold. They hang 3.25 inches from the top of the earwire to the bottom of the woven, faceted amethyst fringe.

Though they are long, these earrings are surprisingly light, like most all of my creations. Each long but lightweight earring weighs less than 0.25 ounce.

I have been doing wire work for over ten years, and I hope that shows in the quality of my work. I do all the wire work by hand, from the construction of the hoop frames, to the weaving of the gemstones, to the wire wrapping and the creation of each and every swirl. I stand behind everything I make, and I hope you will enjoy wearing my original creations as much as I enjoy making them.

I work to keep the prices as low as possible, to encourage sales and to allow everyone to be able to enjoy high-quality artisan creations. Compare the quality and price of the artisan creations on this site to those available at Nordstroms or Macys and you will never buy department store jewelry again!

Additionally, by buying artisan, you are supporting an artist who makes each and every piece him- or herself. Nothing is mass produced, and you can wear your art with pride.

If you like this piece but are looking for something slightly different, please let me know. I welcome all custom orders with enthusiasm for the challenge of pleasing the unique, artsy jewelry lovers out there!

ABOUT THE COMPONENTS OF MESHEL DESIGNS PIECES:

I use SEMI-PRECIOUS & PRECIOUS GEMSTONES and PEARLS most frequently in my pieces.

GARNET: Garnets are very popular and sought after gemstones. Due to their high refractive index, garnets display great brilliance and luminosity. The rich color of the red garnet used in these earrings reminds me of the seeds of a ripe pomegranate. There are two types of red garnet. The first is pyrope, a spirited red stone, often with a slight brownish nuance. The second is rhodolite, a mixed crystal of almandine and pyrope. This popular garnet is a magnificent velvety red color with subtle violet or raspberry undertones. I believe the garnet in these earrings is rhodolite garnet due to its velvety appearance.

SILVER: All metal components in my pieces are either fine or sterling silver, and I incorporate many, many Bali sterling beads into my work, as I appreciate the great attention to detail and the handmade beauty of these beads. The ear wires are also sterling silver. Please let me know if you need them replaced with hypoallergenic stainless steel.

AUTHENTIC BALI STERLING SILVER BEADS: Bali is a small island located in southeast Asia. Bali, Indonesia is known around the world for its silver jewelry made by master metal smiths. Each and every bead is made by hand by craftsmen exceptionally skilled in the trade. The attention to detail is apparent when you look at these beads close up. I have become addicted to Bali silver, and I'm sure you will too!

NATURE'S BEAUTY Aventurine and Silver Earrings

Sun, 04 Oct 2009 11:50:21 -0400

$19.50
NATURE'S BEAUTY Aventurine and Silver Earrings

Aventurine is a form of quartz, characterized by its translucency and the presence of mineral inclusions that give a shimmering, glistening effect to the semi-precious stone.

These aventurine stones are briolettes, wrapped with sterling silver wire by hand to create a bead cap that looks rather cage like. Getting them to look like this takes practice, and sometimes I still have to wrap several briolettes before I can get one that looks decent!

Atop the wire wrapped briolette is a smaller, round, aventurine bead, sandwiched by Bali silver spacer beads.

These are great earrings for everyday wear. They hang just about 1.5 inches, not including the ear wires.

I have been doing wire work for over ten years, and I hope that shows in the quality of my work. I stand behind everything I make, and I hope you will enjoy wearing my original creations as much as I enjoy making them.

I work to keep the prices as low as possible, to encourage sales and to allow everyone to be able to enjoy high-quality artisan creations. Compare the quality and price of the artisan creations on this site to those available at Nordstroms or Macys and you will never buy department store jewelry again!

Additionally, by buying artisan, you are supporting an artist who makes each and every piece him- or herself. Nothing is mass produced, and you can wear your art with pride.

If you like this piece but are looking for something slightly different, please let me know. I welcome all custom orders with enthusiasm for the challenge of pleasing the unique, artsy jewelry lovers out there!

ABOUT THE COMPONENTS OF MESHEL DESIGNS PIECES:

I use SEMI-PRECIOUS & PRECIOUS GEMSTONES and PEARLS most frequently in my pieces, though sometimes I incorporate swarovski crystal and cubic zirconia.

SILVER: All metal components in my pieces are either fine or sterling silver, and I incorporate many, many Bali sterling beads into my work, as I appreciate the great attention to detail and the handmade beauty of these beads. The ear wires are also sterling silver. Please let me know if you need them replaced with hypoallergenic stainless steel.

About Bali Silver Beads: Bali is a small island located in southeast Asia. Bali, Indonesia is known around the world for its silver jewelry made by master metal smiths. Each and every bead is made by hand by craftsmen exceptionally skilled in the trade. The attention to detail is apparent when you look at these beads close up. I have become addicted to Bali silver, and I'm sure you will too!

GARNET ROSE PENDANT woven AAA gemstones on hand forged swirl of hammered sterling

Wed, 02 Sep 2009 05:31:13 -0400

$34.00
GARNET ROSE PENDANT woven AAA gemstones on hand forged swirl of hammered sterling

This is an outrageously gorgeous piece! Absolutely stunning and eye catching.

Comes with a beautiful sterling silver snake chain of 16, 18 or 20 inches, your choice!

SWIRLS OF PINK PASSION Rose Quartz and Sterling Silver Artisan Earrings

Wed, 02 Sep 2009 00:23:54 -0400

$24.00
SWIRLS OF PINK PASSION Rose Quartz and Sterling Silver Artisan Earrings

These earrings are FUN, like the feeling of being in love in springtime. Elation, flirtiness, infatuation, rolling your head back to soak up the sun.

About the stone: Rose Quartz is an amazing and versatile stone to work with. It's one of the most desirable varieties of the silica mineral quartz. Rose Quartz ranges in color from soft pink to rose red. Such coloration is entirely unique and unlike any other pink mineral species. The color is caused by iron and titanium. Rose quartz is used both as an ornamental stone and as a gemstone. It can be found in Madagascar, Brazil, the USA, Germany and India.

These are great earrings for everyday wear. They hang just about 2 inches, not including the ear wires. They are light and they will glimmer in the sunshine.

I have been doing wire work for over ten years, and I hope that shows in the quality of my work. I stand behind everything I make, and I hope you will enjoy wearing my original creations as much as I enjoy making them.

I work to keep the prices as low as possible, to encourage sales and to allow everyone to be able to enjoy high-quality artisan creations. Compare the quality and price of the artisan creations on this site to those available at Nordstroms or Macys and you will never buy department store jewelry again!

Additionally, by buying artisan, you are supporting an artist who makes each and every piece him- or herself. Nothing is mass produced, and you can wear your art with pride.

If you like this piece but are looking for something slightly different, please let me know. I welcome all custom orders with enthusiasm for the challenge of pleasing the unique, artsy jewelry lovers out there!

ABOUT THE COMPONENTS OF MESHEL DESIGNS PIECES:

I use SEMI-PRECIOUS & PRECIOUS GEMSTONES and PEARLS most frequently in my pieces, though sometimes I incorporate swarovski crystal and cubic zirconia.

SILVER: All metal components in my pieces are either fine or sterling silver, and I incorporate many, many Bali sterling beads into my work, as I appreciate the great attention to detail and the handmade beauty of these beads. The ear wires are also sterling silver. Please let me know if you need them replaced with hypoallergenic stainless steel.

About Bali Silver Beads: Bali is a small island located in southeast Asia. Bali, Indonesia is known around the world for its silver jewelry made by master metal smiths. Each and every bead is made by hand by craftsmen exceptionally skilled in the trade. The attention to detail is apparent when you look at these beads close up. I have become addicted to Bali silver, and I'm sure you will too!

SALE SERENITY pink amethyst, lavendar chalcedony and sterling silver artisan dangle earrings

Wed, 02 Sep 2009 00:23:54 -0400

$34.00
Reduced from $47!!

May you find serenity in your day, in the little indulgences and moments you take for YOU.

These lovely serene earrings are formed around a hand forged frame that I created and hammered out, adding double coils of sterling silver wire for a very cool, artsy look. Then I added some absolutely fabulous light colored amethyst, aka pink amethyst, and hung these on gorgeous flower Bali head pins from the centers of the earrings. To give the earrings just a little something more, I added a faceted lavendar chalcedony briolette, capped by more gorgeous Bali silver beads, to the top of each earring.

These are truly gorgeous dangles that I know you will absolutely love. I am very pleased with how they came out. If you like the design or style but would like to have a similar pair made with your favorite stone, please let me know. I love custom orders and welcome them with enthusiasm! I appreciate everyone who values the handcrafted, artisan constructed over the mass produced, and I will do everything I can to make sure your piece is exactly as you see it in your minds eye.

These delectable earring are composed of gorgeous light purple chalcedony faceted roundels (6x8mm), 8mm faceted light amethyst rounds, a plethora of Bali silver bead caps, spacers and connectors and sterling silver wire. The frame of the earrings is hand-formed and hand-hammered. These hand-forged elements give an extra little something to these earrings to make them stand out as 100% artisan creations.

The semi-precious gemstones used in these earrings are aesthetically stunning, and the combination of the chalcedony and light amethyst is fantastic.

I have been doing wire work for over ten years, and I hope that shows in the quality of my work. I stand behind everything I make, and I hope you will enjoy wearing my original creations as much as I enjoy making them.

I work to keep the prices as low as possible, to encourage sales and to allow everyone to be able to enjoy high-quality artisan creations. Compare the quality and price of the artisan creations on this site to those available at Nordstroms or Macys and you will never buy department store jewelry again!

Additionally, by buying artisan, you are supporting an artist who makes each and every piece him- or herself. Nothing is mass produced, and you can wear your art with pride.

These gorgeous dangles would make a great gift for you or for someone special on your holiday shopping list. They are beautiful and will certainly be enjoyed for years to come with proper silver care.

Not wearing them in the shower or during your workouts will go a long way. Storing them in a drawer or a jewelry box when you're not wearing them will help even more. The inevitable tarnish can be easily wiped away to make your jewelry look brand new with a simple jewelry cleaning cloth. I use sunshine brand cleaning cloths, but I'm sure that other brands work well too. They are saturated with cleaners so you just have to rub them on your jewelry and the tarnish comes off on the rag. When the rag is black, you toss it. You never wash it. I don't think I've ever actually thrown one away. They just keep cleaning forever.

Anyway, thanks, peace, love! Let me know if you have any questions or special requests! ciao!

About the materials used to make these earrings and other
Meshel Designs originals:

SILVER: All metal components in my pieces are either fine or sterling silver, and I incorporate many, many Bali sterling beads into my work, as I appreciate the great attention to detail and the handmade beauty of these beads.

CHALCEDONY: Chalcedony, also spelled Calcedony, is a very fine-grained (cryptocrystalline) variety of the silica mineral quartz. It has a waxy luster and appears in a great variety of colors. Chalcedony is said to augment emotional balance, vitality, stamina, endurance, kindness, charity and friendliness. It supposedly alleviates hostilities, irritability and melancholy. Chalcedony is an important ornamental stone. There are many varieties of chalcedony. It is a large family of gemstones that includes Agate, Chrysoprase, Carnelian, Sard, Tiger's Eye, Bloodstone, Jasper, and Moss Agate, among others.

AMETHYST: Amethyst is an amazing stone to work with. It's lovely purple color, ranging from deep dark purple to very light pink or lavendar, makes any piece look amazing. There are many positive metaphysical properties associated with wearing amethyst. Among many others, it is said to bring stability, peace, calm, balance, courage and inner strength.

About BALI SILVER beads: Bali is a small island located in southeast Asia. Bali, Indonesia is known around the world for its silver jewelry made by master metal smiths. Each and every bead is made by hand by craftsmen exceptionally skilled in the trade. The attention to detail is apparent when you look at these beads close up. I have become addicted to Bali silver.

NATURAL BEAUTY Botswana agate, rhodolite garnet and sterling silver artisan necklace

Wed, 02 Sep 2009 00:23:54 -0400

$39.00
This necklace is a celebration of all of our natural beauty. The gorgeous Botswana agate gemstones are absolutely BEAUTIFUL and a true gift of God and nature and I'm just amazed that they are completely natural. I'm just fascinated, looking at them, at the patterns and coloration in them, different in every bead. Just like us. All unique. All beautiful.

The botswana agate I've chosen for this necklace has been faceted, which I believe adds to the beauty of the stones. The stones in the front are briolettes. I used faceted ovals in the other parts of the necklace, including the charm at the end of the adjustable clasp's chain.

To contrast with the botswana agate I chose one of my favorite gemstones, garnet, whose velvetly red loveliness is rich and delicious and adds to the beauty of any piece. I love how the red contrasts with the mainly black and white coloration of the agate.

The clasp is hand formed and hammered for strength and durabiility. It attaches to beautiful heavy gauge sterling silver textured chain, also very durable and strong, to create an adjustable clasp that will accomodate a large variety of different necklines as well as a range of different neck sizes. The necklace is adjustable to lengths between 16 and 19 inches.

The silver beads are, as always, my favorite Bali silver handcrafted beads. If you don't know anything about Bali sterling, please read my little blurb below.

ABOUT THE COMPONENTS USED TO MAKE THIS & OTHER MESHEL DESIGNS PIECES:

SILVER: All metal components in my pieces are either fine or sterling silver, and I incorporate many, many Bali sterling beads into my work, as I appreciate the great attention to detail and the handmade beauty of these beads.

About BALI SILVER beads: Bali is a small island located in southeast Asia. Bali, Indonesia is known around the world for its silver jewelry made by master metal smiths. Each and every bead is made by hand by craftsmen exceptionally skilled in the trade. The attention to detail is apparent when you look at these beads close up. I have become addicted to Bali silver.

GARNET: Garnets are very popular and sought after gemstones. Due to their high refractive index, garnets display great brilliance and luminosity. The rich color of the red garnet used in this necklace reminds me of the seeds of a ripe pomegranate. There are two types of red garnet. The first is pyrope, a spirited red stone, often with a slight brownish nuance. The second is rhodolite, a mixed crystal of almandine and pyrope. This popular garnet is a magnificent velvety red color with subtle violet or raspberry undertones. I believe the garnet in these earrings is rhodolite garnet due to its velvety appearance.

BOTSWANA AGATE: Agate is a variety of chalcedony that comes in most colors. Botswana agate has subtle shifts of color and design to each bead that are simply mesmerizing! Rhythmic striped patterns enrich the striking appeal of these quality gemstones. Chosen for hardness and contrasting patterns, they are as durable as they are beautiful. Metaphysically they are thought to help with attentiveness to detail, energizing bodies and stimulating exploration of the unknown.

CHERISH sterling wrapped aqua blue quartz faceted briolettes with Bali silver beads

Thu, 27 Aug 2009 20:39:49 -0400

$24.00
CHERISH sterling wrapped aqua blue quartz briolettes with Bali silver beads.

These are great earrings for everyday wear. They hang just about 1.5 inches, not including the ear wires. CHERISH every day.

I have been doing wire work for over ten years, and I hope that shows in the quality of my work. I stand behind everything I make, and I hope you will enjoy wearing my original creations as much as I enjoy making them.

I work to keep the prices as low as possible, to encourage sales and to allow everyone to be able to enjoy high-quality artisan creations. Compare the quality and price of the artisan creations on this site to those available at Nordstroms or Macys and you will never buy department store jewelry again!

Additionally, by buying artisan, you are supporting an artist who makes each and every piece him- or herself. Nothing is mass produced, and you can wear your art with pride.

If you like this piece but are looking for something slightly different, please let me know. I welcome all custom orders with enthusiasm for the challenge of pleasing the unique, artsy jewelry lovers out there!

ABOUT THE COMPONENTS OF MESHEL DESIGNS PIECES:

I use SEMI-PRECIOUS & PRECIOUS GEMSTONES and PEARLS most frequently in my pieces, though sometimes I incorporate swarovski crystal and cubic zirconia.

SILVER: All metal components in my pieces are either fine or sterling silver, and I incorporate many, many Bali sterling beads into my work, as I appreciate the great attention to detail and the handmade beauty of these beads. The ear wires are also sterling silver. Please let me know if you need them replaced with hypoallergenic stainless steel.

About Bali Silver Beads: Bali is a small island located in southeast Asia. Bali, Indonesia is known around the world for its silver jewelry made by master metal smiths. Each and every bead is made by hand by craftsmen exceptionally skilled in the trade. The attention to detail is apparent when you look at these beads close up. I have become addicted to Bali silver, and I'm sure you will too!

DROPS OF JUPITER earrings, Garnet and Smoky Quartz Dangles of Deliciousness

Thu, 27 Aug 2009 10:16:07 -0400

$44.00
DROPS OF JUPITER earrings, Garnet and Smoky Quartz Dangles of Deliciousness

Nearly 30 luscious, faceted garnet gemstones hang suspended from these regal dangle earrings. Each is carefully hand-wrapped with sterling silver wire by a skilled and practiced hand. Take note of the close-up pictures to observe the quality of the wrap technique.

Perfectly faceted smoky quartz, smooth garnet rounds and handcrafted Bali sterling silver daisy spacers and square spacers are used cap the ends and to accentuate the design of these beautiful earrings.

These earrings hang just over 2" long, not including the french ear wires.

All metal in these earrings is sterling silver. There is no base metal whatsoever. However, if you are allergic to silver and you need hypoallergenic surgical steel ear wires, I will happily replace these for you.

I hope you like these earrings. I think they're absolutely fantastic!

The semi-precious gemstones used in these earrings are aesthetically stunning, and the combination of the garnet and smoky quartz is gorgeous.

I have been doing wire work for over ten years, and I hope that shows in the quality of my work. I stand behind everything I make, and I hope you will enjoy wearing my original creations as much as I enjoy making them. I work to keep the prices as low as possible, to encourage sales and to allow everyone to be able to enjoy high-quality artisan creations.

Compare the quality and price of the artisan creations on this site to those available at Nordstroms or Macys and you will never buy department store jewelry again! Additionally, by buying artisan, you are supporting an artist who makes each and every piece him- or herself. Nothing is mass produced, and you can wear your art with pride.

About the components of this piece:

SILVER: All metal components in my pieces are either fine or sterling silver, and I incorporate many, many Bali sterling beads into my work, as I appreciate the great attention to detail and the handmade beauty of these beads.

About BALI SILVER BEADS: Bali is a small island located in southeast Asia. Bali, Indonesia is known around the world for its silver jewelry made by master metal smiths. Each and every bead is made by hand by craftsmen exceptionally skilled in the trade. The attention to detail is apparent when you look at these beads close up. I have become addicted to Bali silver.

SMOKY QUARTZ: Smoky (or smokey) quartz, as its name implies, is a lovely smoky-grayish black variety of quartz. There are few gemstones of this color, so smokey quartz is easily recognized, well known and very popular. Natural smoky quartz is mined from granitic rocks in locations around the world. The most notable sources are Brazil, the Pikes Peak area of Colorado, and the Swiss Alps. Many people believe that wearing quartz crystals benefits their health and spiritual well-being.

GARNET: Garnets are very popular and sought after gemstones. Due to their high refractive index, garnets display great brilliance and luminosity. The rich color of the red garnet used in these earrings reminds me of the seeds of a ripe pomegranate. There are two types of red garnet. The first is pyrope, a spirited red stone, often with a slight brownish nuance. The second is rhodolite, a mixed crystal of almandine and pyrope. This popular garnet is a magnificent velvety red color with subtle violet or raspberry undertones. I believe the garnet in these earrings is rhodolite garnet due to its velvety appearance

IVY Peridot and Silver Artisan Earrings

Wed, 26 Aug 2009 12:58:47 -0400

$44.00
IVY Peridot and Silver Artisan Earrings.

These earrings have 2 varieties of peridot, faceted rounds and faceted roundels. They are woven around hand forged sterling silver frames, in a way that reminded me of ivy climbing up a trellis.

These earrings absolutely dance in the light. They are gorgeous! I'm really happy with how they turned out, and I know you'll be really happy to wear them or give them as a gift. They are the kind of earrings you will not want to take off. Seriously beautiful!

The frame is sterling silver and is hand-formed and hand-hammered. Authentic Bali Sterling Silver head pins are used to make the center pieces of these hoops, which use round, smooth peridot gemstones, as well as some delicious faceted AAA grade peridot rondels.

I hope you will love these earrings as much as I enjoyed making them!

Making earrings is my favorite pastime! If you see these and like them and would like something similar made with your favorite stone or crystal, please let me know. I welcome all custom orders with enthusiasm for the challenge of pleasing the unique, artsy jewelry lovers out there!

These earrings are gorgeous, but I had more trouble taking decent photographs of them than any I've ever created. Perhaps it's due to the 3D nature of the earrings. The faceted peridot roundels jut out from the side of the earring frame (along the x and y axes), the centerpiece just hangs down from the middle (simply along the y axis), but the faceted round peridot gemstones are standing up from the frame (coming out of the xy plane into the z plane) and making everything so much more difficult.

I don't know if that's what the trouble was or not. I'm no photographer. I just snap and snap until I'm satisfied that I must have a few good ones. But this time.... ugh! the good ones were hard to come by, and I still feel like they don't really show you how pretty these earrings really are.

I may end up putting one of them on and trying to photograph them on myself, so that maybe you'll be able to see just how cute they are on. Maybe that's what I should try. For now, I'll put up what I've got and we'll see what you think, ok?

Oh, and these earrings are 1.5" long, not including the sterling ear wires. The ear wires add less than half an inch, but slightly more than a third.

If you are interested in exchanging the ear wires for sterling lever backs, please just let me know. They are $3.

About the components of this piece:

PERIDOT: Peridot is a stone known by three names: peridot, chrysolite and olivine. Chrysolite is named from the Greek for 'gold stone', since greenish gold is the color of peridot. Olive is the mineral from which the gemstone peridot is derived. 'Peridot" comes from the Greek word 'peridona', which means 'to give richness'. " Peridot is absolutely my favorite stone, though it is challenging to work with, because it is so often drilled with teeny tiny holes and it is easily broken if care is not taken when working with it.

SILVER: All metal components in my pieces are either fine or sterling silver, and I incorporate many, many Bali sterling beads into my work, as I appreciate the great attention to detail and the handmade beauty of these beads.

About BALI SILVER BEADS: All metal beads used to make these earrings are authentic Bali silver beads. All the bead caps and the gorgeous headpins used in the centerpieces of each hoop are Bali silver beads, as are the silver beads used at the top of each earring. Bali is a small island located in southeast Asia. Bali, Indonesia is known around the world for its silver jewelry made by master metal smiths. Each and every bead is made by hand by craftsmen exceptionally skilled in the trade. The attention to detail is apparent when you look at these beads close up. I have become addicted to Bali silver.

LOVE SPIRAL Amethyst and Garnet Artisan Earrings on Hand forged Sterling Silver Frame

Mon, 17 Aug 2009 15:47:24 -0400

$19.00
'Love spiral' earrings are lovely little dangles that incorporate two of my favorite stones, amethyst and garnet. The pairing of the rich, deep reds and purples is reminiscent of royalty and is indeed a lovely combination.

These earrings hang about 0.75 inches, not including the ear wire, and about 1 inch including the ear wire. They are perfect for wear every day. Simple but very stylish and artsty, they will add that certain something to your outfit that will make you stand out from the crowd.

These gorgeous dangles would make a great gift for you or for someone special on your holiday shopping list. They are beautiful and will certainly be enjoyed for years to come with proper silver care.

Not wearing them in the shower or during your workouts will go a long way. Storing them in a drawer or a jewelry box when you're not wearing them will help even more. The inevitable tarnish can be easily wiped away to make your jewelry look brand new with a simple jewelry cleaning cloth. I use sunshine brand cleaning cloths, but I'm sure that other brands work well too. They are saturated with cleaners so you just have to rub them on your jewelry and the tarnish comes off on the rag. When the rag is black, you toss it. You never wash it. I don't think I've ever actually thrown one away. They just keep cleaning forever.

Anyway, thanks, peace, love! Let me know if you have any questions or special requests! ciao!

About the materials used to make these earrings and other
Meshel Designs originals:

SILVER: All metal components in my pieces are either fine or sterling silver, and I incorporate many, many Bali sterling beads into my work, as I appreciate the great attention to detail and the handmade beauty of these beads.

GARNET: Garnets are very popular and sought after gemstones. Due to their high refractive index, garnets display great brilliance and luminosity. The rich color of the red garnet used in these earrings reminds me of the seeds of a ripe pomegranate. There are two types of red garnet. The first is pyrope, a spirited red stone, often with a slight brownish nuance. The second is rhodolite, a mixed crystal of almandine and pyrope. This popular garnet is a magnificent velvety red color with subtle violet or raspberry undertones. I believe the garnet in these earrings is rhodolite garnet due to its velvety appearance.

Amethyst is an amazing stone to work with. It's lovely deep purple color makes any piece look amazing. There are many positive metaphysical properties associated with wearing amethyst. Among many others, it is said to bring stability, peace, calm, balance, courage and inner strength.

SPRING BOUQUET artisan earrings

Mon, 17 Aug 2009 15:47:24 -0400

$29.00
SPRING BOUQUET artisan earrings

These earrings combine a delectable cascade of freshwater cultured pearls, swarovski crystals, faceted pink amethyst gemstones, and authentic Bali sterling silver bead caps and headpins. They remind me of the colors of spring, like fat, bursting bouquets at mother's day.

These were fun earrings to make, and I hope you will enjoy wearing them!

Thanks so much for visiting my little shop!

Peace, love and blessings to you.

VINES peridot and green quartz dangle chandelier earrings on hand forged sterling silver frame

Mon, 17 Aug 2009 15:47:24 -0400

$39.00
VINES peridot and green quartz dangle chandelier earrings on hand forged sterling silver frame

These earrings remind me of spring, when the trees start to form new buds and sprouts shoot out of the ground everywhere. New leaves start to form from tiny little leaflets.

This is where the earrings ended, but as with most of my projects, I didn't know that when I began. I knew I wanted to make something lovely with peridot. I added the green quartz (the larger faceted stones), which is often called synthetic peridot, because I wanted something that would look lovely and dramatic and the peridot I had was all small and delicate. As you probably know, peridot costs a fortune, whereas quartz is white affordable! I wove the two green stones together, creating this design as I went onto the ear frames I had completed earlier.

I hope you like these earrings! I loved the process of making them! Making earrings is my favorite pastime! If you see these and like them and would like something similar made with your favorite stone or crystal, please let me know. I welcome all custom orders with enthusiasm for the challenge of pleasing the unique, artsy jewelry lovers out there!

If you are interested in exchanging the ear wires for sterling lever backs, please just let me know. They are $3.

About the components of this piece:

PERIDOT: Peridot is a stone known by three names: peridot, chrysolite and olivine. Chrysolite is named from the Greek for 'gold stone', since greenish gold is the color of peridot. Olive is the mineral from which the gemstone peridot is derived. 'Peridot" comes from the Greek word 'peridona', which means 'to give richness'. " Peridot is absolutely my favorite stone, though it is challenging to work with, because it is so often drilled with teeny tiny holes and it is easily broken if care is not taken when working with it.

QUARTZ: Quartz is important in the gem trade. Many varieties are faceted as gems, and some are well known. Amethyst is the most popular quartz gem, and citrine is the most valuable. Rose quartz, smoky quartz, rock crystal, and aventurine are also cut into gems. Clear quartz crystals are worn by some as pendants for good luck.
The transparent, colorless variety of quartz is known as rock crystal or rock quartz, and this is often dyed to create a rainbow of different and beautiful colored quartz gemstones for use in the gem and jewelry trade. The quartz used in these earrings is dyed green quartz.

SILVER: All metal components in my pieces are either fine or sterling silver, and I incorporate many, many Bali sterling beads into my work, as I appreciate the great attention to detail and the handmade beauty of these beads.

About BALI SILVER BEADS: All metal beads used to make these earrings are authentic Bali silver beads. All the bead caps and the gorgeous headpins used in the centerpieces of each hoop are Bali silver beads, as are the silver beads used at the top of each earring. Bali is a small island located in southeast Asia. Bali, Indonesia is known around the world for its silver jewelry made by master metal smiths. Each and every bead is made by hand by craftsmen exceptionally skilled in the trade. The attention to detail is apparent when you look at these beads close up. I have become addicted to Bali silver.

LUMINOUS Freshwater Pearl Necklace, adjustable

Sun, 16 Aug 2009 12:38:01 -0400

$32.00
These freshwater cultured pearls are gorgeous, with a light lavendar hint to the creamy pearlescence.

LUMINOUS is adjustable to accomodate various sized necklines in your waredrobe.

It's finished with heavy gauge textured sterling silver chain and a sterling lobster clasp, for a secure closure.

The sterling chain is finished with a large, intricate, handmade Bali bead charm.

About the components of this piece:

SILVER: All metal components in my pieces are either fine or sterling silver, and I incorporate many, many Bali sterling beads into my work, as I appreciate the great attention to detail and the handmade beauty of these beads.

About BALI SILVER BEADS: Bali is a small island located in southeast Asia. Bali, Indonesia is known around the world for its silver jewelry made by master metal smiths. Each and every bead is made by hand by craftsmen exceptionally skilled in the trade. The attention to detail is apparent when you look at these beads close up. I have become addicted to Bali silver.

CULTURED PEARLS: Pearls are created when small particles inadvertently or purposely become embedded in the tissue of an oyster or clam. In response, the animal secretes nacre. Nacre is a combination of crystalline and organic substances. As the nacre builds up, it surrounds the trapped matter and eventually forms a pearl.

Natural pearls are those formed in nature by chance. In contrast, cultured pearls are created when people implant an object in a mollusk or oyster, thereby inducing the creation of a pearl. The same natural process of pearl creation takes place. Only in the case of cultured pearls, humans lent a helping hand.

PEARLY PASSION freshwater pearl artisan necklace, one of a kind

Fri, 14 Aug 2009 23:37:56 -0400

$58.00
Cultured Freshwater Pearls in glimmering creamy white are the exclusive component of this necklace, excluding the wire and clasp. These pearls are gorgeous.

The centerpiece took me hours and hours to create, and I'll be honest, at the beginning I didn't really know where I was going with it. I made it up as I went along, so it's not precise in its design. But I love it. And I hope you will too.

I think this would be an amazing bridal piece, and if you are a bride looking for your jewelry, I'd be happy to customize earrings and/or a bracelet to complement the necklace. Or if you'd like a similar necklace with modifications in size or design, I'd love to take on the challenge!

This necklace is finished with a heavy, fancy, textured chain that allows for adjustment in length over several inches. The clasp is a lobster clasp. All metal components are, as usual, sterling silver.

Thank you for looking at Meshel Designs. They are my heart and soul expressed in beads.

PEARLY GIRLY ivory freshwater pearl and sterling silver artisan earrings for bridal or formal occasion

Thu, 13 Aug 2009 01:24:34 -0400

$39.00
PEARLY GIRLY ivory freshwater pearl and sterling silver artisan earrings for bridal or formal occasion.

PEARLY GIRL is an absolutely gorgeous pair of earrings that can be worn as bridal jewelry or simply to make yourself look fabulous on any given day.

These freshwater cultured pearls are gorgeous, with a shimmery ivory creamy pearlescence.

All other components including the chain, earwires and headpins are .925 sterling silver.

About the components of this piece:

SILVER: All metal components in my pieces are either fine or sterling silver, and I incorporate many, many Bali sterling beads into my work, as I appreciate the great attention to detail and the handmade beauty of these beads. The head pins used in these earrings are Bali silver.

About BALI SILVER BEADS: Bali is a small island located in southeast Asia. Bali, Indonesia is known around the world for its silver jewelry made by master metal smiths. Each and every bead is made by hand by craftsmen exceptionally skilled in the trade. The attention to detail is apparent when you look at these beads close up. I have become addicted to Bali silver.

CULTURED PEARLS: Pearls are created when small particles inadvertently or purposely become embedded in the tissue of an oyster or clam. In response, the animal secretes nacre. Nacre is a combination of crystalline and organic substances. As the nacre builds up, it surrounds the trapped matter and eventually forms a pearl.

Natural pearls are those formed in nature by chance. In contrast, cultured pearls are created when people implant an object in a mollusk or oyster, thereby inducing the creation of a pearl. The same natural process of pearl creation takes place. Only in the case of cultured pearls, humans lent a helping hand.

BALI BEAUTY Sterling Silver Artisan Necklace to accompany SIMPLE EVERYDAY ELEGANCE earrings

Wed, 12 Aug 2009 00:11:41 -0400

$94.00
BALI BEAUTY is a gorgeous, adjustable necklace made from the finest Bali sterling silver cube beads, handcrafted by exceptionally skilled artisans in Bali, Indonesia. These beads are hand wire wrapped on sterling silver wire and joined to gorgeously detailed and textured sterling silver chain.

I made the necklace adjustable by adding a length of sturdy, heavy gauge sterling silver cable chain to the end of this piece. On the other end is a hand forged clasp of hammered sterling silver.

This necklace is adjustable to lengths between 16 inches and 20 inches long.

I hope you like this necklace! All Meshel Designs pieces are made with love and attention to detail.

SIMPLE EVERYDAY ELEGANCE, Sterling Silver Earrings with Bali Silver Cube Beads

Wed, 12 Aug 2009 00:11:41 -0400

$32.00
SIMPLE EVERYDAY ELEGANCE, Sterling Silver Earrings with Bali Silver Cube Beads

So simple, but so dramatically beautiful.

Awesome individually handcrafted Bali sterling silver cube-shaped beads, covered with little dots of silver, made by master craftsman in Bali, Indonesia, are the stars of these stunning earrings. These beads are remarkable in their detail and to know they were made one at a time, by hand, makes them even more extraordinary.

These Bali cubes are attached via a Bali head pin, which I handwrapped onto some remarkable silver chain, alternating in pattern between ovals and circles and hammered to achieve a dramatic effect.

These earrings are 2.0 inches, not including the ear wire. The ear wire adds another 0.5 inches to the length from the lobe.

About the materials used to make these earrings and other
Meshel Designs originals:

SILVER: All metal components in my pieces are either fine or sterling silver, and I incorporate many, many Bali sterling beads into my work, as I appreciate the great attention to detail and the handmade beauty of these beads.

About BALI SILVER beads: Bali is a small island located in southeast Asia. Bali, Indonesia is known around the world for its silver jewelry made by master metal smiths. Each and every bead is made by hand by craftsmen exceptionally skilled in the trade. The attention to detail is apparent when you look at these beads close up. I have become addicted to Bali silver.

PINK LOTUS mother of pearl, rose quartz, pink jade and sterling silver artisan earrings

Tue, 11 Aug 2009 02:16:57 -0400

$17.00
Gorgeous mother of pearl frames house fabulously faceted rose quartz briolettes and large pink jade rounds that dangle from its center. Above them is another rose quartz briolette, swaddled in authentic Bali sterling silver bead caps...my favorite!

NATURAL OREGON, Picture Jasper earrings wrapped with sterling silver onto a hand forged frame, accented with Bali silver beads

Mon, 10 Aug 2009 05:55:31 -0400

$29.00
Picture Jasper and Bali Sterling Silver Earrings: Handmade Artisan Earrings with Hand-formed and -Hammered Hoops

This pair of earrings incorporates round and briolette Picture Jasper stones with Bali silver beads. Together these elements are handwrapped in sterling silver and mounted on a hand formed and hammered sterling silver frame in a circular hoop shape. The Briolettes are faceted and hand wrapped with sterling silver to form a cap for the beads. I've been working with sterling for years and I still love the way it shines and shimmers.

These earrings are 2.25" long, not including the ear wires.
If you like this piece but are looking for something slightly different, please let me know. I welcome all custom orders with enthusiasm for the challenge of pleasing the unique, artsy jewelry lovers out there!

About the materials used to make these earrings and other
Meshel Designs originals:

PICTURE JASPER: Picture jasper is a type of Agate that has great bands of different colors. It's typically found in the mountains of Eastern Oregon. And the 'pictures' that show up in the picture jasper stones look strikingly similar to the landscape they came out of.

SILVER: All metal components in my pieces are either fine or sterling silver, and I incorporate many, many Bali sterling beads into my work, as I appreciate the great attention to detail and the handmade beauty of these beads.

About BALI SILVER beads: Bali is a small island located in southeast Asia. Bali, Indonesia is known around the world for its silver jewelry made by master metal smiths. Each and every bead is made by hand by craftsmen exceptionally skilled in the trade. The attention to detail is apparent when you look at these beads close up. I have become addicted to Bali silver.

OH BLACK BETTY, SHAMALAM, black onyx and bali silver necklace

Mon, 10 Aug 2009 05:54:15 -0400

$39.00
OH BLACK BETTY, SHAMALAM, black onyx and bali silver necklace

Gorgeous 6mm and 10mm black onyx rounds are capped by the most deliciously detailed Bali sterling silver bead caps (for more info about Bali silver, see caption below). Each onyx stone is then professionally wire wrapped with sterling silver wire, one to the next, for a simple yet dramatic and all around G O R G E O U S necklace. This look is timeless and one that will go will anything and everything you own.

This necklace is adjustable to lengths between 17 and 21.5 inches. However, if you wanted a length shorter or longer, it could easily be adjusted by adding or removing links. Please let me know if you are interested by sending me a note.

This necklace is finished with a hand formed, hand forged and hand hammered sterling silver clasp created from heavy gauge sterling silver wire.

Connecting the clasp to the other end is heavy gauge sterling silver chain, sturdy enough to handle year after year of wear, of on and off, on and off.

It's beautiful textured chain too, and like the rest of the silver, can easily be kept clean and shiny with simple care. Not wearing it in the shower or during your workouts will go a long way. Storing it in a drawer or a jewelry box when you're not wearing it will help even more. The inevitable tarnish can be easily wiped away to make your jewelry look brand new with a simple jewelry cleaning cloth. I use sunshine brand cleaning cloths, but I'm sure that other brands work well too. They are saturated with cleaners so you just have to rub them on your jewelry and the tarnish comes off on the rag. When the rag is black, you toss it. You never wash it. I don't think I've ever actually thrown one away. They just keep cleaning forever.

Anyway, thanks, peace, love! Let me know if you have any questions or special requests! ciao!

About the materials used to make these earrings and other
Meshel Designs originals:

SILVER: All metal components in my pieces are either fine or sterling silver, and I incorporate many, many Bali sterling beads into my work, as I appreciate the great attention to detail and the handmade beauty of these beads.

About BALI SILVER beads: Bali is a small island located in southeast Asia. Bali, Indonesia is known around the world for its silver jewelry made by master metal smiths. Each and every bead is made by hand by craftsmen exceptionally skilled in the trade. The attention to detail is apparent when you look at these beads close up. I have become addicted to Bali silver.

About ONYX: Onyx is a rich-looking and relatively affordable gemstone which can be used to create elegant jewelry. Onyx, like sard and sardonyx, are forms of chalcedony (microcrystaline quartz). According to some, Black Onyx is used to help one change habits. It can be used to banish grief, to enhance self control, to stimulate the powers of wise decision making and to encourage happiness and good fortune. Onyx is the anniversary gemstone for the 7th year of marriage. Black Onyx is the anniversary gemstone for the 10th year of marriage.

OH BLACK BETTY, SHAMALAM, black onyx and bali silver earrings

Mon, 10 Aug 2009 05:52:40 -0400

$15.00
Gorgeous 10mm black onyx rounds capped by the most deliciously detailed bali sterling silver. Each of these is professionally wire wrapped to a heavy gauge link of sterling silver chain for a simple yet dramatic look that will go will anything and everything you own.

These earrings are just shy of 1.5", not including the ear wires. With the ear wires, which are sterling silver french ear wires (a commercial addition), they hang just shy of 2".

Thanks, peace, love!

About the materials used to make these earrings and other
Meshel Designs originals:

SILVER: All metal components in my pieces are either fine or sterling silver, and I incorporate many, many Bali sterling beads into my work, as I appreciate the great attention to detail and the handmade beauty of these beads.

About BALI SILVER beads: Bali is a small island located in southeast Asia. Bali, Indonesia is known around the world for its silver jewelry made by master metal smiths. Each and every bead is made by hand by craftsmen exceptionally skilled in the trade. The attention to detail is apparent when you look at these beads close up. I have become addicted to Bali silver.

OH BLACK BETTY, SHAMALAM, black onyx and bali silver wirewrap bracelet

Mon, 10 Aug 2009 05:49:54 -0400

$33.00
Gorgeous 10mm black onyx rounds capped by the most deliciously detailed Bali sterling silver bead caps (for more info about Bali silver, see caption below). Each onyx stone is then professionally wire wrapped with sterling silver wire, one to the next, for a simple yet dramatic and all around F A N T A S T I C bracelet. This look is timeless and one that will go will anything and everything you own.

This bracelet is finished with a sterling silver lobster clasp; I like to use these for bracelets because when you move your hands about (Wave your hand in the Air!) there is still NO chance these are coming undone.

Connected to the lobster clasp is heavy gauge sterling silver chain, sturdy enough to handle year after year of wear, of on and off, on and off.

It's beautiful textured chain too, and like the rest of the silver, can easily be kept clean and shiny with simple care. Not wearing it in the shower or during your workouts will go a long way. Storing it in a drawer or a jewelry box when you're not wearing it will help even more. The inevitable tarnish can be easily wiped away to make your jewelry look brand new with a simple jewelry cleaning cloth. I use sunshine brand cleaning cloths, but I'm sure that other brands work well too. They are saturated with cleaners so you just have to rub them on your jewelry and the tarnish comes off on the rag. When the rag is black, you toss it. You never wash it. I don't think I've ever actually thrown one away. They just keep cleaning forever.

Anyway, thanks, peace, love! Let me know if you have any questions or special requests! ciao!

About the materials used to make these earrings and other
Meshel Designs originals:

SILVER: All metal components in my pieces are either fine or sterling silver, and I incorporate many, many Bali sterling beads into my work, as I appreciate the great attention to detail and the handmade beauty of these beads.

About BALI SILVER beads: Bali is a small island located in southeast Asia. Bali, Indonesia is known around the world for its silver jewelry made by master metal smiths. Each and every bead is made by hand by craftsmen exceptionally skilled in the trade. The attention to detail is apparent when you look at these beads close up. I have become addicted to Bali silver.