Janina Grigore Jewellery

Hearts and flowers ...

2012-02-14T14:54:00.000Z

Happy Valentine's Day,
Geanina :)

Sweet Dreams

2012-02-12T16:30:00.002Z

I am certainly a dreamer, by day and by night ... but if daydreams can be easily directed , the night ones aren't always what you wish for ... and only sometimes they are so beautiful, peaceful and light that you just don't want to wake up ... :

Images found here, here, here, here,here,here and here .

Geanina :)

Amsterdam in January

2012-02-05T14:15:00.000Z

The end of January found me in Amsterdam. I only spent two days there and , despite the low temperatures and a very cold wind, I enjoyed it very much - loved the charming canals criss-crossing the city , the gorgeous Dutch buildings and the museums.

Singel Canal - view from the hotel window.

Brower Hotel , medieval building dating from 1652, on the Singel Canal

Along Spuistraat

Graffiti wall on Spuistraat

Rijksmuseum

... and just a few of the beauties that I admired inside :

Portrait of Maria van Strijp by Johannes Verspronck - 1652

Still life with gilt goblet by William Claesz Heda 1635 . He painted still lifes for 40 years.

The Prophetess Anna by Rembrandt van Rijn

Mother's duty by Pieter de Hooch

A mother examining her child for lice ; Dutch interior with box bed , 'potty chair' to the right and keyhole view of the back room and garden .

The Little Street - an unique outdoor scene by Johannes Vermeer.

The Kitchen Maid by Johannes Vermeer .

The Night Watch by Rembrandt van Rijn 1642 - one of the most famous paintings in the world .

Geanina :)

Spring/Summer 2012 : Floral Prints

2012-01-27T12:51:00.000Z

All images collected via Style.com .

Geanina :)

From the Studio ~ Interview and new pieces

2012-01-26T18:06:00.001Z

Hello!

I am so thrilled to see this interview published on Boticca.com !! It is an article about myself, my creations and how I started making jewellery, the things that inspire me, future plans and more :) If you'd like to read it you can find it here .

Boticca is a great marketplace where you can find gorgeous jewellery and other fashion accesories, all handmade by emerging designers from around the world .

I've also finished many new pieces , some of them already available for sale online and others waiting to be listed . I have spent a lot of time recently looking for new suppliers online, trying to find some nice gemstone cabochons which I'd like to include more often in my work and I also came across these malleable brass cuffs which are ideal as a base for bead embroidery. They're fun , flexible and easy to wear - I love them!

Lidia & Elena ~ cuffs

Lidia ~ cuff

Elena ~ cuff

Boadicea ~ necklace

Moroccan Spice ~ earrings

Tangier ~ earrings

Friends Forever & Meknes ~ cuffs

Geanina :)

IHeart ~ Dragons & Lanterns

2012-01-22T12:28:00.000Z

1. Earrings with red yarn tassel - Peppery * 2. Chinese Dragon Wall Decal - DecorDesigns * 3. Oriental Dragon Mouse Pad - ImpressionsExpress * 4. Pair of Chiang Mai Dragon pillow covers - PopOColor * 5. Swarovski Crystal Friendship Bracelet - DolorisPetunia * 6. Chinatown San Francisco photography fine art print - Raceytay .

Geanina :)

Saturday routine

2012-01-16T16:38:00.001Z

Saturday turned out to be the perfect day to spend outside : frosty and cold but just so beautifully sunny and refreshing! And the morning found me again in the local farmers'market, sipping my warm spiced chai latte while walking around and enjoying the blue sky, the smell of all those tempting foods and the sound of the music played by a local band !

Have a lovely week,
Geanina :)

Spring/Summer 2012 : Peplums

2012-01-12T14:34:00.000Z

All images collected via Style.com.

1. Blue gathered peplum dress- Dorothy Perkins * 2. Peplum blouse - Labour of Love * 3. Closet Peplum split neck dress - House of Fraser.

Geanina :)

IHeart ~ Bugs

2012-01-10T23:31:00.000Z

1. Two Bee Rings - mentalembellisher * 2. Ant Ring - LOOKAjewelry * 3. Honey Bee Ring - HappyGoLicky * 4. Beetle Wing Earrings - VeryEnchanting * 5. Caterpillar Necklace - megjroberts * 6. Dragonfly Cuff - ArmedWithStyle * 7. Lady Bug Post Earrings - beesandbuttercups * 8. Spider Pendant - ParadiseFindings * 9. Cicada Brooch - MySelvagedLife * 10. Enamel Bug Wings Earrings - BuffaloGypsy * 11. Citrine Butterfly Earrings - FirebirdJewellery * 12. Lucite Cufflinks with Real Bug - KolosStudio.

Geanina :)

Quick tour

2012-01-06T11:30:00.002Z

I have spent so much time indoors in the last two weeks , 'thanks' to some unpleasant guests: Mr. Flu and Mrs.Laryngitis { thank God they've gone now } , that I decided to take a couple of photos of my living room and my little studio space...

Have a wonderful week,

Geanina :)

Hello 2012 !

2012-01-02T17:03:00.000Z

Hello and HAPPY NEW YEAR! I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas and New Years and I wish 2012 brings lots of love ♥ , happiness, good health and peace to all of you!

I would love to say that my Holidays were merry and fun but unfortunately it wasn't quite like that, in fact all I managed to do, just before Christmas , was

decorate the Christmas tree ...

and bake these delicious cardamom cookies ...

That was it!

The rest ...

was sudden flu with laryngitis, the worst one I have ever had ; frustrating loss of voice, fever, sleepless nights due to annoying cough and painful throat, enormous amounts of lemon and honey tea, antibiotics and of course ... cancelled plans and holidays! :(

Hehe - one thing I never miss though, even if attacked by all the flu germs in the world, is opening the Christmas presents :-)

Then, before New Years, the postman delivered these sweet clay birds, made and sent by lovely Erin of Elysian Studio Art, which I won in the Artists Helping Artist auction ! They're so cute, I love them !!

I am so looking forward to a wonderful 2012 !

Geanina.

Janina's Christmas Wish List

2011-12-17T11:08:00.000Z

Poor Santa, he's in for a shock when he checks out my extensive Christmas wish list ... but, all right , I'll be reasonable ... I'd be happy with at least one of these items ... :-)

1. Jardin de Paradis Cuffs from Ziio ( I actually love all the wonderful pieces Elisabeth Paradon designs! )
2. Watercolor Fashion Illustration - silverridgestudio
3. Red Peacock Feather Print Chaise Longue - ZEDHEAD ( ahh, it would look fabulous in the living room )
4. Canon EOS 400D Camera ( I have been dreaming of a new camera for a while! )
5. Tailor's Mannequin ( it would be so useful for my sewing projects )
6. Hand painted leather bag - BajtBags
7. 'Decorate' book by Holly Becker and Joanna Copestick
8. Emilio Pucci Wool and Cashemere Sweater ( one of my favourite designers )
9. The American Collection - Pillows by Poppy ( too cute ! )
10. Emma Peel Boots by Meher Kakalia ( love these ♥ )
11. Flower Vase - GlazedOver
12. A winter break at the Ice Hotel in Swedish Lapland ( ideally in one of the Art Suites, which look magical ! ) .

What's on your wish list this Christmas?

Geanina :)

Top 8 and Etsy Finds

2011-12-10T17:38:00.001Z

This week I am so delighted to see that two of my hand embroidered necklaces have been featured, among other gorgeous items, in Boticca's Top 8 This Week and in the Etsy Finds Newsletter!

Under the Tree Necklace on Boticca

Under the Tree is a one of a kind piece specially made for a fun blog hop organised by Lori Anderson of Pretty Things blog with beads from lovely and talented Erin Fickert Rowland owner of Elysian Studios.

Galaxy Necklace on Etsy

Galaxy is another one of a kind bib necklace inspired by images of galaxies and fascinating far away worlds, found while surfing the internet and looking for material for my Geography lessons:

The Galaxy Messier 101 , a swirling spiral of stars, gas and dust, located at 27 million light years away .

Andromeda Galaxy , our nearest large neighbor galaxy.

***

To view more of my pieces and to choose a unique statement jewel which will bring your everyday / party outfit to life, please visit Janina Grigore Jewellery .

Geanina :)

IHeart ~ Snowflakes

2011-12-07T10:14:00.001Z

1. Snowflake Trinket Box - FruitionJewelry * 2. Wool Knitted Reindeer Dress - Minus40 * 3. Deer Necklace - dreamyvintage * 4. As Winter Set In Fine Art Photograph - HumboldtStreet * 5. Snowflake Earrings in Sterling Silver and White Sapphire - michellechangjewelry * 6. Wood Snowflake Candle Holder - Timber Green Woods * 7. Swedish Traditional Sami Bracelet - surton31 * Snowflake Leather Coin Bag - EightSeasons.

Geanina :)

Art Bead Scene Ornament Blog Hop

2011-12-05T23:39:00.001Z

Today I am participating in the second Art Bead Scene Ornament Blog Hop hosted by Heather Powers. So I have been making different ornaments, experimenting with FIMOair { totally unhappy with the results though :-( } and craft foam, but the one below is the only one I am satisfied with.
While making my Cross Stitch Ornament I took a few shots to show you how I assembled it all together .

If you want to see what the other participants have made, check out these links:

1.Humblebeads 2. Suburban Girl Studio 3.Spirited Earth 4. Garden Path Beads 5. Life in the Lyon's Den 6. Blog by Salla 7.It's Been a While 8. Sue Beads 9. Artist At Work 10. Modern Nature Studio 11.WireWorked 12. Too Aquarius 13. Artfully Ornamental 14. Gem Rose Designs 15. Jewels by Ine 16. BeeTree by M.E. 17. Islandgirl's Insights 18. Angela Lund-Logan 19. Gem's PC Corner 20. Summers Studio 21. Sandy Volpe 22. The Next Bend 23. Skye Jewels 24. Janina Grigore 25. Elysian Studios 26. Art Bead Scene 27. Jeannie's Blog .

Geanina :)

Season's Jewels

2011-11-30T17:22:00.001Z

I just spent a few hours taking photos of all the latest jewels . Posing and holding the camera at the same time proved to be a tricky business ... I must find a lovely model for my next photo shoot!

Here are just a few of the items I have finished recently , there many more unfinished pieces waiting on my desk plus a few clutches with beaded details which I haven't had time to complete yet.

They will be listed in my Etsy shop by tomorrow evening !

Dream Bubbles Necklace

Rustic Flower Necklace

Eudocia Necklace

Neon Pink Earrings

Neon Yellow / Green Earrings

Winter Garden Cuff

Lilium Pendant

Kotys Choker to match the Kotys Cuff

Geanina :)

November Sale

2011-11-22T20:54:00.001Z

The Holidays are coming!Yay! I am already making shopping lists and thinking of presents for the loved ones.

If you would like to own a Janina Grigore jewel , this week there is a great opportunity : all my items are on SALE - 20% off any product and this offer is only available in my Etsy store, until Sunday the 27th. To get the discount just use the coupon code JGNOV2011 at checkout.

Have a great week everyone,
Geanina :)

IHeart - Animal Hats

2011-11-20T18:18:00.001Z

1. Pheasant Tale Fascinator - ArturoRios * 2. Lion or Lioness Hat - sweetpeatoadtots 3. Leopard Print Hat - EllaGajewska * 4. One Man Wolfpack Hoodie Scarf - ToppedHats * 5. Faux Fur Wolf Hat - kellylynne * 6. Macabre Ball Hat with Old World Deer Skull - Peccatus.

Geanina :)

Handmade Christmas Ornaments

2011-11-16T11:22:00.001Z

Thinking of making your own Christmas ornaments? Here's a selection of fun projects and kits for those cosy winter evenings before Christmas :

1. Star Ornaments * 2. Sweet Home Holiday Ornaments Craft Kits * 3. Sweet Pendants for Christmas * 4. Tinsel Snowflake * 5. Felt Ogee Ornament * 6. Felt Vintage Style Christmas Baubles * 7. Snowflake Christmas Tree Ornament * 8. Geodisic Paper Ornament.

Geanina :)

Step x Step ~ Arietta . Wire Wrapped Earrings

2011-11-13T22:45:00.000Z

I recently came across a long forgotten folder on my computer where I had stored all these pictures over year ago. At the time I was making a different kind of jewellery, using sterling silver wire and gemstones, inspired by wonderfully talented artists like Emily Gray and Eni Oken . I really enjoyed making those silver beauties and I wanted to write a tutorial but then the project was abandoned when I discovered bead embroidery :-) Although most of the detailed instructions I had written on paper are lost now, this is what has survived - 24 images showing how I made an elegant pair of wire wrapped earrings, which I called Arietta ( arietta = Italian word for a short relatively uncomplicated aria in classical music ) :

Cut the 18 ga wire into two pieces , 10 cm each (1). Create loops at each end using the round nose pliers (2,3). Bend wire using round nose plier so you have one side slightly longer than the other (4,5).

Hammer the wire frame (6). Take the very thin 28 ga silver wire and wrap it around the frame starting above the end loop ( 7,8,9 ). Cut the 22 ga wire into two pieces, 20 cm each (10) .

Take thin 28 ga wire again and start wrapping around the 20 cm long wire (11,12). When finished wrap it around the frame starting from above the end loop (13,14,15,16). Create downwards loop for attaching the briolette , as seen in image 15.

Slip one briolette onto thin 28 ga wire , create loop with round nose plier, attach to earring loop and wrap the wire closed as seen in images 19 to 21. Repeat steps 17 to 21 for two more more briolettes (22) and attach ear wire.

Optionally you can dip the earring in liver of sulphur solution to oxidize them (23), take them out and use fine steel wool and polishing cloth to remove excess oxide and create this beautiful 'highs ans lows' effect.

Repeat all steps for the other earring.

And voila! A lovely pair of wire wrapped earrings!

Geanina :)

IHeart ~ Poppies

2011-11-11T12:41:00.000Z

1. Big Poppy Peasant Dress - MrsLaura30 * 2. Red Poppy Necklace - WoodlandHoney * 3. Golden Poppies Ring - jennykim * 4. Felted Bag - Renefelt * 5. Poppy Hair Piece - bethanylorelle * 6. Hand Felted Brooch - albado * 7. Field of Red Poppies Art Print - Raceytay.

Geanina :)

Artist Spotlight : Jonathan January

2011-11-10T20:54:00.000Z

Today I am so excited to share another interview with a talented craftsman and designer - Jonathan January . He makes beautiful furniture and home decor products using reclaimed materials. Rustic and contemporary at the same time, many of his creations are one of a kind pieces of art !

***

Jonathan, tell us a bit about your shop and the idea behind it.

I specialize in reclaimed materials, healthy and environmentally friendly finishes, and run a full custom furniture and fabrication shop. I have a brick and mortar retail store in Oregon. I have been designing and fabricating for seven years, but I formally started this brand about three years ago.
I am a strong advocate of recycling in its many forms, and I am proud to offer historic lumber products a second life as a work of art or furniture.
Much of my reclaimed lumber was milled over 100 years ago, and once it has been re purposed into furniture, the products are truly modern-antique. I am very hands-on and highly personalized from the earliest stages of design, through fabrication and delivery. Due to the age, color, grain, and source of the materials, each piece is unique and one of a kind, and is customizable to the smallest detail. I pride myself in offering sustainable, responsible, and healthful solutions for my customers' design needs.

1. Natural Edge Maple Burl Bowl Centrepiece
2. Natural Bamboo and Soy Candle Set
3. Salvaged Myrtle wood Balanced Wine Bottle Display
4. Maple Burl Bowl Centerpiece

Do you have any formal training ?

I have a library card!

What inspires you?

I love design challenges, and improving on themes where others have failed or have taken shortcuts. I try to design with a view towards being as timeless and pan-genre as I can, and to best show the character already present in the materials through intelligent and responsible design.

What are your favourite materials to work with?

Very old reclaimed architectural salvage has a great visual and surface quality, and though we work with a very wide variety of materials, I believe this is where we excel.

How would you describe your work in five words?

We can make practically anything.

What has been your most popular item so far?

Our Reclaimed Timber Desk Caddy is a popular web sale item. It has been featured on Uncrate.com, Dagens Nyheter ( Sweden's largest daily newspaper) and will be in Icon Magazine ( UK) and OnOffice Magazine ( UK ) this winter. I would say our large Trestle tables are the most popular item, but the Caddy is also very popular and affordable.

Who are your favourite artists/designers/craftsmen ?

Tom Waits is on in the workshop an awful lot. I really like the Chinese artist Liu Bolin right now as well.

via

What have been the biggest challenges faced so far in this career ?

Since we work on such a wide variety of items and projects, logistics and scheduling is one of the biggest challenges we face.......and lots of smashed and nicked fingers.

What are your best marketing tips?

Stay very active with your clientele, communicate; stay up late and get up early.

What are you working on right now? Do you have any upcoming projects?

We are pretty much booked out about 3-4 months in advance right now. We just finished a massive trestle table and bench dining set, and we are doing an even larger conference table made from a single Redwood slab at the moment. We stock a lot of smaller items as well, so they are a constant to stay on top of.

Where do you see yourself in five years?

Someone asked me that 2 years ago, and I predicted the brand would be where it is now 5 years from that point.....so we are well ahead of schedule......5 years from now, I can only hope things will continue to grow and allow us to continue to produce the items we do.

***

Check out more of Jonathan's work :

www.jonathanjanuary.com

www.facebook.com/JonathanJanuary

www.etsy.com/shop/JonathanJanuary

Ecaterina, Ella & Eva

2011-11-09T18:08:00.000Z

Apart from unique necklaces, earrings and cuffs , I have recently started adding beautiful accessories for hair to my online range of jewels. Here are my first three - Ella, Ecaterina and Eva .

Ecaterina ~ bold, colourful and rustic .

Ella ~ elegant art deco .

Eva - romantic, feminine and classy .

Geanina :)

IHeart ~ Airplanes

2011-11-07T00:07:00.000Z

1. The Vintage Plane Collection Custom Cupcake Toppers - maryhadalittleparty, $8.40
2. The Braveheart She Is Hat - HeliDesigns, 77EUR
3. Sky Captain Cufflinks - SteampunkSweetShoppe, $45
4. Aviator Map Cushion - Atelier688, $295
5. Family Day Out Print - robgreenwood, $60
6. Jumbo Jet Wall Decal - DecalLab, $39.95
7. Cute sheep in a plane Mug - MoutonsKallou, $12.

Geanina :)

Vegetarian Pledge

2011-11-01T19:10:00.000Z

That's it , it's been decided! I am going vegetarian !! It's not my first attempt though - my previous veggie trial lasted for almost one year. Eating vegetarian is never easy but it felt really healthy !

So, today I have been searching the Internet for yummy looking recipes and here's just a glimpse of what I found online:

1. Butternut Squash, Sweet Potato and Chickpea Tagine

2. Lentil and Walnut Burgers with Yogurt Sauce

3. Chilaquiles - Mexican Dish.

I am off to make my lentil and walnut burgers now !

Geanina :)

Beautiful Words

2011-11-01T12:43:00.000Z

The Halloween Giveaway is over now , the winner has been announced and a beautiful brooch is on its way to a lovely lady somewhere in Europe :)
But what did I do with all your wonderful words you sent me ? Well, here is how you described my jewellery :
{ Thank You ! I am so happy most of you consider what I make to be unique and colorful :)) }

I created this heart shaped word cloud on Tagul.com .

Wish you a fabulous week,
Geanina.

Halloween Giveaway Winner!

2011-10-31T18:32:00.000Z

Thank you so much everyone for all your wonderful comments ♥ ♥ ♥

I can reveal now that the winner of the Halloween Giveaway is Birgit ! Congratulations, Birgit! I will contact you at the email address provided :)

Happy Halloween everyone !!

IHeart ~ Trick or Treat ?

2011-10-31T16:11:00.002Z

1. Boo Halloween Sign Cut Out - mrcwoodproducts , $15

2. Cinderella Halloween Dress - KMKostumes, $495

3. Barn Owl Original Oil Painting bu Claudia Hahn - heliocyan , $1800

4. Halloween Pumpkin Cut Outs Set - 42things, $3

5. Halloween Ghost Cupcake Toppers - mimicafeunion, $28

6. Blue Ruffled Skirt and Hoop Petticoat - PeriodCorsets, $855

7. About the Autumn Art Doll - TatianaGurina, $700

8. 12 Edible Decorative Acorns - andiespecialtysweets, $42

9. Wicked Halloween Tags - SweetlyScrappedArt, $3.25

Happy Halloween !!

Fall/Winter : Sparkle

2011-10-27T18:39:00.000+01:00

Geanina :)

A-Z Gems ~ Black Onyx

2011-10-25T11:55:00.001+01:00

1. Lotus - Black Onyx and Fine Silver Necklace - sarahndippity , $ 350
2. Selene Long Black Onyx Earrings - EderaJewelry, $248
3. Art Siver Gold inlaid Onyx Ring - jewela , $98
4. Ultar Wire Wrapped Necklace with Black Onyx - MadeBySunflower, $160
5. Black Onyx and Freshwater Pearls Flower Earrings - fussjewelry, $89
6. Black Onyx Crochet Necklace - orithadad, $210.

***

* The word 'onyx' comes from Greek and it means 'claw' or 'fingernail'.
* Onyx is a form of chalcedony ; its multi-layering is similar to that of agates.
* The Romans associated the stone with courage and thought it defends against unfair criticism and negativity
* In the Middle East is was associated with the lives and ways of the sorcerers.
* The Black Onyx is found in Madagascar, India and Brazil.

***
Oh, don't forget to enter my Halloween Giveaway ! I am giving away a $50 GIFT CERTIFICATE!
Check out my previous post for more details :)

***

Next week - Bloodstone !
Geanina.

Halloween Giveaway !

2011-10-24T12:55:00.000+01:00

Woohoo! It's Halloween week and I couldn't wait to start my giveaway ...

This time I thought it would be nice if the lucky winner could choose a favourite piece from my Etsy shop , priced at $50 or less.

So I decided to give away a $50 GIFT CERTIFICATE :)

♥

Entering is easy peasy :

1. visit my Etsy store and leave a comment here, just below this post : how would you describe the items in three words?

Don't forget to include your email !

You can gain extra entries for :

2. being a follower of my blog ,

3. being a fan of my Facebook page.

Please leave a separate comment for each entry !

Last day to enter is Sunday, October 30th at 11:00 pm GMT.

The winner will be chosen by Random Number Generator on Halloween Day, October 31st.

There are no restrictions, anyone can enter.

Good luck ☺

IHeart ~ Happy Birthday, Boticca !

2011-10-23T20:20:00.000+01:00

Happy Birthday Boticca by janinagrigore

If you are looking for beautiful high quality jewellery and accessories, one of a kind quirky pieces and great craftsmanship , look no more, Boticca - which is an online marketplace for talented independent designers from around the world - is the perfect place . Searching for that special Christmas present ? I am sure you will find something on Boticca that will wow you !

This week, the London based Boticca team celebrated their first year anniversary ! Happy Birthday, Boticca!

Geanina :)

Fall/Winter : Jewel Colours

2011-10-18T15:27:00.000+01:00

All photos collected via Style.com

Wish you a Happy Tuesday :)

Geanina.

IHeart ~ Chandeliers

2011-10-15T21:29:00.000+01:00

1. Round shells pendant design chandelier - exomod, $189.99

2. Tribeca Bar Chandelier - chandelierical, $529

3. Recycled Wine Bottle Chandelier - glow828, $120

4. Glass glowing lighting Anna model - LightingDesign, $750

Geanina :)

Out of service!

2011-10-14T18:36:00.002+01:00

Oh boy, what a week I've had ! I have always been a workaholic , but lately I have been really pushing my luck ! The long long working hours, the very late nights that see me busy until 2 -3 am , the strain on my eyes while making intricate jewellery or staring at the computer screen, have finally caught up with me and my body collapsed :( . The first half of the week felt like being in a coma : not being able to even open my eyes or stand up for three full days; adding migraines and fever on top of a terrible fatigue.

Anyway, I am slowly getting better now, but this has been a signal that I must slow down and relax more !

Have you had similar experiences? How do you protect your eyes in this online era when so much work needs to be done in front of the screen ?

Wish you a happy weekend :)

Geanina.

October Sunday

2011-10-09T19:42:00.000+01:00

Another relaxing Sunday afternoon in the park and a new boho / gypsy Yula Tote Bag which is now available in my store .

Wish you all a happy Sunday :)

IHeart ~ Bamboo

2011-10-08T14:13:00.000+01:00

1. Wool Turtleneck Dress - gaiaconceptions, $245

2. Bamboo Wall Decal - OldBranRescueCompany, $69.95

3. Sterling Silver Bamboo Stack Ring - jorgensenstudio, $52

4. Birds and a Tree iPhone Case - bamxoo, $44.99

5. Spring Fresh Green - Bokeh of the Bamboo leaves Print - mingtaphotography, $30

6. Bamboo Tree Tote Bag - idiopix, $12.95

7. Natural Bamboo and Soy Candle Set - JonathanJanuary, $33

8. Silver Bamboo Earrings - KUKLAstudio, $67.

Geanina :)

The Brooch

2011-10-05T14:32:00.000+01:00

Brooches are fun and versatile!

I love clipping them onto a clutch, a scarf, the lapel of a jacket and sometimes I use them to fasten a cardigan . You can also pin them onto a hat, a belt or even straight onto a necklace chain.

They just add a bit of sophistication and draw the attention to a certain part of your body .

I have created this collage on Polyvore to share a few ideas on ways to wear brooches :

The Brooch by janinagrigore

I have been filling my store recently with more beauties and amongst them you'll also find a collection of brooches :

And you ? How do you wear your brooches?

Geanina :)

London Rediscovered ~ Goodbye, Summer !

2011-10-03T20:29:00.000+01:00

We just had a glorious weekend here in London!

Temperatures hit record highs for this time of the year

... and I tried to make the most of it :

The initial plan was to visit Kew Botanic Gardens but due to a series of transport mishaps I ended up in Kensington Gardens - Hyde Park ... which was super hot ( that's great ) but over crowded and with horribly long ice-cream queues :(

The Royal Parks are however beautiful places, great for picnics, sunbathing , walking and jogging.

In the 16th century King Henry VIII and his court were riding across Hyde Park hunting for deer and wild boar; and in the 17th century William III , an asthma sufferer, found the Kensington Gradens a quiet refreshing location and comissioned an architect to build Kensington Palace , where in 1819 Queen Victoria was born . More recently, the palace was home to Diana, Princess of Wales.

Kensington Palace

Old Hyde Park

***

Kensington Gardens nowadays :

And this is me basking in the sun in Kensington Gardens and showing off a few of my most recent creations: a woven necklace, a linen top and a colourful belt :

The Serpentine Lake which is the boundary between Kensington Gardens and Hyde Park:

Goodbye, Summer !

IHeart: The Good Witch

2011-10-02T18:44:00.001+01:00

Well, Halloween is not far away now...

1. Kitty Cat Ring - GlamRockEmporium, $450

2. La Femme Rouge Black Mini Top Hat - lacocorouge , $65

3. Red Glitter Necklace - thestudio8, $28

4. Are you a good witch ... or a bad witch Double Sided Necklace - maureenmae, $48.

Geanina :)

Spring/Summer : Dolce & Gabbana

2011-09-27T18:56:00.000+01:00

I recently started looking at the Summer/Spring 2012 trends and yesterday this collection from Dolce & Gabbana caught my interest . I LOVE the vegetable prints, the pasta earrings , the wicker handbags and the crystal encrusted dresses!

All photos collected via Style.com

Geanina :)

Collections ~ Serengeti

2011-09-26T15:58:00.000+01:00

I love travelling ...
both in real life and with my mind .
One of my many imaginary travels took me to the scorched African savanna {which seems to be a recurrent theme in my jewellery making - I adore the sun and heat }
This time I am in the Serengeti which lies to the north of Tanzania and south west of Kenya , an 'Endless Plain' as named by the Maasai people and well known for the largest mammal migration in the world; it is a vast mostly treeless plain with millions of animals constantly searching for fresh grasslands...

Serengeti National Park, Tanzania, Africa Vimeo.

***
And here are the results of my travel - a two piece urban safari chic collection, a brooch and a necklace { the necklace has been sold already :) }, both embroidered by hand :

Just a few of the images that inspired me:

All images via Pinterest .

***

And here is what I would like to wear these pieces with :

Safari Chic by janinagrigore

Have a great week,

Geanina.

Fall/Winter : Checks & Plaids

2011-09-23T09:33:00.000+01:00

All photos collected via Style.com .

It's A Party !

2011-09-17T02:02:00.000+01:00

It's party time !!! Yay!

What party !? The Bead Soup Blog Party ! There are over 350 people taking part in this fun event organised by Lori Anderson, author of the Pretty Things blog . Check out the list of people here .

Remember how it works?

We are paired up with another blogger , we send each other some lovely beads, a clasp and a focal , make one or more items with them and finally we share our creations on the day of the Blog Hop which is today !!

My Bead Soup partner is lovely Erin Fickert-Rowland owner of Elysian Studios { you can check out her wonderful works of art here or read the interview I published recently }

***

Now, here is my 'crowd ' of jewels and let me introduce them to you :

First , my Under the Tree Necklace which incorporates these lovely turquoise glass beads and golden tree pendant, sent by Erin, plus other things from my own stash :

Next comes a colourful ethnic crossbody Alpine Bag . I used the fibers to make those flowers you see on the front of the bag :

With the yellow glass leaves I made these funky bohemian Hunter's Treasure Earrings :

The carnelian rounds were used to make a Choker { along with many other components: cords, leatherette, rhinestone chains, dog clips and more chains }

And last but not the least is my Golden Shield Necklace which had been waiting in my studio for the perfect clasp . It took me a couple of days to finish this piece; I covered the velvety surface of black corduroy fabric with seed beads, shimmery golden sequins and bugles, a few Czech glass accents and five gorgeous Swarovski sew-on crystals.

This beautiful hammered clasp matches the rest of the piece so well , doesn't it?

***

Well, it's been a busy couple of days for me , trying to finish all these pieces, but, like always, I thoroughly enjoyed the making process .
Thank you, Erin, for sending me these beautiful beads and for being such a friendly Bead Soup Partner!

***

You are welcome to join the party , meet the people , visit their blogs and see what they have made with their bead soup !

Have a fun Saturday :)
Geanina.

Friendship Bracelets

2011-09-12T16:57:00.000+01:00

Hello!

I finally made myself a few of these fun and colourful friendship and wrap bracelets . They seem to be very popular these days and I have wanted for a while to learn how to make them . I did a bit of research online and I found some great tutorials here and here ; also lots of video tutorials for different patterns and levels , from beginners to advanced - you can watch them here .

After many hours of knotting and sewing I finished three friendship bracelets and two wrap bracelets :

I initially made the friendship bracelets like this :

... but I wanted something neater ( instead of tying them with a knot around my wrist)

....so I decided to stitch/glue the bracelets onto strips of suedette and to attach snap closures:

I am quite happy with the final result and I have been wearing them almost every day :)

Wish you all a great week,

Geanina.

IHeart - Ethno Chic

2011-09-11T10:50:00.000+01:00

1. tinytoadstool beret - dadaya, $330

2. Fridita Tehuana Mexican embroidered dress - AidaCoronado, $210

3. Vintage Suzani Pillow - MaterialRecovery, $152

4. Art Deco feather earrings - Stilltreejewellery, 43EUR

5. Happy Matryoshka Doll - bunikaart, $24

6. Bohemian hippie vintage trim and swarovski bracelet - sayagdis, $125.

Wish you all a Happy Sunday,

Geanina :)

Escape to the country ~ Cotswolds

2011-09-10T18:34:00.000+01:00

Oh, how I love the countryside !

Last week I went on a short break ... deep into the 'Heart of England' ... into the Cotswolds.

The chosen destination was a pretty village, Bourton-on-the-Water, a very popular tourist spot.

The river Windrush runs right through the centre of Bourton and the combination of elegant low bridges, sparkling water and grassy banks creates a very charming scene. This is the reason why it is often described as the 'Little Venice' of the Cotswolds.

It was a very busy, active break - there is so much to see and enjoy in the Cotswolds :

walking in the hills ( the weather was superb!)

plenty of wildlife, animals and birds

the lakes and rivers

the Model Village , an excellent miniature of Bourton using authentic building miniature depicting Bourton-on-the-Water as it was in the 1930s at 1/9th scale.

{me , showing off my handmade cape and my Meher Kakalia fold-ups}

remote villages with gorgeous fairytale gardens, honey coloured stone houses and sweet little craft shop

old churches and the picturesque Broadway Tower

the Falconry near Moreton-in-Marsh

Moreton-in-Marsh Show , one of the largest one-day agricultural shows in the UK:

***

Have a lovely weekend,
Geanina :)

What's in my Soup?

2011-09-08T12:47:00.005+01:00

At the beginning of August I came across the Bead Soup Blog Party which is an online event hosted and organised by the jewellery designer and author Lori Anderson ( owner of Pretty Things blog ). After reading the details and rules of the party I decided to join in ( along with over 300 people!)

So, how does it all work ? First you sign up ( and the next party is probably in 2012 ) , then you are paired up with another beader/artist/blogger , you send you partner a selection of lovely beads and your partner does the same; once you receive your stash you make one or more items and on September the 17th , the day of the Party, you share your creations on your blog.

It just sounds like a lot of fun, doesn't it ? :)

My party partner is lovely Erin Fickert-Rowland, owner of Elysian Studios , and you can read more about her and her beautiful work here .

And here are my bead soup ingredients carefully selected by Erin .

Oh, must mention that my goodie pack also contained an assortment of delicious lollies which ... unfortunately didn't survive long enough to see the camera :D

Thank you , Erin !!

Want to see what I sent Erin ? Have a look here .

Want to see what I make with my beads ? Come back on September 17th, the day of the Bead Soup Blog Hop !

Happy Thursday :)

Geanina.

Fall/Winter : Fur & Shearling

2011-09-06T11:43:00.002+01:00

All photos collected via Style.com

Artist Spotlight : Erin Fickert-Rowland

2011-09-05T09:51:00.001+01:00

Today I am so thrilled to share an interview with a lovely lady and a fellow artist , Erin Fickert-Rowland !

Erin is a talented painter, jewellery designer, textile artist , owner of Elysian Studios and also ... my Bead Soup Blog Party Partner. { You might be asking What does that mean? Well, I will write more on that in a different post :) }

1. 'Charred Peppers' oil on canvas

2. 'Stormy ' Irreverent Couture necklace of silk/cotton fibers

3. Bracelet made for the 7000 Bracelets for Hope Campaign

4. Apilco No. 2 oil on canvas

How long have you been creating ?

Like you, I’ve been creating ever since I can remember. I was often left with pens,pencils, crayons and paper to entertain myself while my parents were working. I’ve also always been obsessed with books. I love to read them and look at their beautiful pictures. Since I was a child I’ve always made some sort of book- whether it was drawings in a sketch book, or my own fashion illustrations! Being an artist is just who I am at this point- I am constantly taking in information, putting my own spin on it, and creating new things.

How did you choose the name Elysian Studios?

Where I live, just outside of Denver, Colorado in the U.S., we have these beautiful ornamental grasses that develop this gorgeous wheat plumage every late summer/fall. They come up to your waist and you can just run your fingers over the tops of them. I absolutely love them and never grow tired of looking at them. They reminded me of a scene from the movie “Gladiator,” where Russell Crowe thinks fondly of his home and the similar grasses in the field. In the movie his character refers to “Elysium”, which originally the Greek term for the afterlife, but later became “Elysian Fields”, and is associated with the concept of “Paradise.” For me, Creativity is Paradise, and it comes in many forms. I want “Elysian Studios” to reflect that feeling of bliss.

Do you have any formal training in jewelry or art?

I do! I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Fine Art, with an emphasis on painting. I obtained minors in both Philosophy and Art History. I have also worked as the coordinator for an art gallery in California, and as the assistant manager of a framing shop.

What inspires you?

So many things! Nature, music, literature, art (both historical and contemporary), fashion and the work of contemporary jewelry artists

What are your favorite materials to work with?

Paint, fabric and gemstones! Though I sometimes blur the lines between them, I just can’t be a “mixed media” artist. I have to make paintings, and I have to make jewelry- The textile work is where I start to get to play with mixing concepts from both (you can see a piece here ). It’s a lot of fun, but the most time consuming! My favorite part about all of these materials is their tactility. I work with thick oil paint and love to feel it “smoosh” around. I love hearing gemstones clink and roll around in my palm, and feeling their different textures. Fabric is also so thrilling because of all of the forms it can take, and I love the raw, fraying edges the most!

How would you describe your creations in five words?

Colorful. Textural. Experimental. Thoughtful. Sincere.

What have been the biggest challenges faced so far as a designer ?

1. I put my career on hold for 10 years while I started a family and began to raise two boys ( they are now 11 and 7 ). I returned to my art full time about a year ago, and getting back into it has been extremely challenging ( but I’m loving it! )

2. Because I work in three mediums, it has been hard to develop a serious body of work in any one of them. I have been bouncing back and forth a bit, but am now taking the time to stop and work in each medium. One always informs the other, so I just can’t give any of them up!

3. Finding the balance between what I want to do and what I think my audience will like. My home (and most of my extended family’s) is filled with my art- now it’s time to share this work with others! Figuring out what type of work resonates with my audience, that is authentically mine, is quite a challenge!

Who are your favourite artists?

Picasso, Matisse, Van Gogh, O’Keefe, Henry Moore, Walt Disney, Wassily Kandinsky, Michelangelo

I know most people would probably rattle off the same names, but each one of these artists has affected my artistic career in very powerful ways. All of them were passionate about color and made such important contributions to Art as we know it. Most of them also worked in multiple mediums, and I find such comfort in that!

What are you working on right now? Do you have any upcoming projects?

I have one more line of jewelry that I am going to make (some of the pieces will be in the bead soup reveal!)- I will have then completed six collections of jewelry, and will have a nice inventory of pieces.

After that, I’m going to finish a series of twelve paintings I am working on, which are still lives of Apilco porcelain (you can see one of them here ).

I am using this white porcelain as a way to intensely study color, and to start to really develop my “style” in painting.

If you had to design jewellery for a celebrity who would she be?

Zoey Deschanel… no question. I love her! She always looks amazing, and has a quirky, artsy vibe. I am so excited to see her in her new sitcom this fall - and she is married to the lead singer of one of my favorite bands: “Death Cab for Cutie”!

What 5 accessories do you believe every woman should have?

1. good lingerie…. If the base of your outfit everyday doesn’t fit properly it just ruins the whole thing!

2. boots (in all heights and colors!) I am obsessed with boots….

3. a beautiful big, slouchy handbag in tan leather (it goes with almost everything!)… buy the best you can afford (even if it’s fake leather)

4. at least one statement necklace- they make a simple, mundane outfit look like a million bucks!

5. a snowboard and a rockin’ snow outfit (haha! I am a snowboader and I love, love, love it!)- but really, every woman should have at least one physical activity that makes her feel amazing, and a great outfit to do it in!

***

Check out more of Erin's work :

Elysian Studios

or visit her blog where you will find many tutorials, food recipes, style and shopping advice, fabulous inspiration collages, beautiful photography and lots more;

and say 'Hi' on her Facebook page or Twitter.

***

Want to find out more about my work, what inspires me and future projects? Check out Erin's interview !

***

Have a great week everyone :)

Geanina .

A Passion for Purses

2011-08-28T20:41:00.001+01:00

This week I went on an intensive course in Handbag Design at the London College of Fashion ( more on that in a different post :)) ) and while in the college library I came across a book called 'A Passion for Purses: 1600-2005' by Paula Higgins and Lori Blaser, which presents a selection of hundreds of high quality purses chosen from private collections . I fell in love with these cute little purses, so beautifully crafted , with gorgeous bejeweled frames :

A-Z Gems ~ Azurite

2011-08-27T16:24:00.001+01:00

Azurite is such a beautiful deep blue stone, I had to show you these images which I found via Pinterest :

The pictures were found here, here, here and the last one here .

***

1. Deep Blue Sea Urchin Ring - jamauerer, $108.50

2. Bluebird Azurite Necklace - joykruse, $365

3. Double Druzy Pendant - RedPaw, $169

4. Gold and Azurite Briolette Earrings - Perriello5, $36.50

* Azurite is a soft copper mineral which has been used as a blue pigment for centuries.
* Different sources claim the modern name is derived from the Persian word lazhward which means azure/blue.
* It is also known as Chessylite from a famous azurite locality in Chessy , France .
* The gem has been carved into ornaments and worn as jewellery for thousands of years.
* Azurite was sacred to the Egyptians who believed it improved communication with the spiritual world.
* During the Middle Ages and Renaissance it was ground into pigment and used in paint and eye shadow by the wealthy !
* Today azurite is found in Australia, Chile , France , Mexico , Morocco , USA and Zaire.

Have a Happy Weekend :)
Geanina.

Fall/Winter : Black & Grey

2011-08-19T12:26:00.003+01:00

All photos collected via Style.com

IHeart - Corals

2011-08-16T22:24:00.000+01:00

1. Hand Painted Silk Scarf with Seahorses and Coral Reef - LigaKandele, $45

2. Reef Sterling Silver Big Ring - arosha, $105

3. Orange and Red Sea Coral Beaded Headband - bethanylorelle, $25.

4. Pillow set. Corals of the Turquoise Sea Collection - ChloeandOliveDotCom , $46

5. Sea Coral in Ruby Print - driftwoodinteriors, $25

6. Coral Reef Custom Cotton Tote - PamelaFugateDesigns , $25

7. Ceramic Dish. Onion glaze - seaurchin , $20.

Geanina :)

Last minute entry

2011-08-09T02:34:00.002+01:00

Delight Hoop Earrings

Last Friday, I managed to submit my entry for the Etsy Beadweavers Team challenge, just a couple of hours before deadline.The theme for the month of August is Summer's Juicy Fruit. I initially started working on a strawberry themed neckpiece , but by Friday afternoon I decided I didn't like that particular design anymore , abandoned it and settled on this encrusted hoop design .
Voting starts tomorrow . Anyone can vote for a favourite piece between the 9th and 15th on the team blog.

And what inspired me?

Probably this :)

(berries tartelettes)

and this :

(Double Chocolate and Raspberry Pavlova)

and this:

(biscuits and berries)

All photos were collected via Pinterest.

Geanina :)

London Rediscovered : Japanese Garden

2011-08-09T01:55:00.001+01:00

I have been living in London for five years and although I am not a city girl ( and I complain much about the crowds and the traffic , the gray sky and the rain ) , I really believe London is a fantastic city which has so much to offer . There are hundreds of things you can do and places you can visit . Last week when the temperature finally went up, reaching 30Celsius, I decided to take a break ( I have started working on giving my long forgotten website a make-over ) and visit a spot in London that I had never been to . Where to though ? I remembered this friend of mine talking about a lovely Japanese garden in Holland Park ... so, off I went , armed with my camera .

I love the houses near Holland Park ; such a beautiful location.

1. Statue of Lord Holland, English politician in the early 19th century.

2. A tranquil walk in the park .

3. Arcade and murals painted by Chinese artist Mao Wen Biao , illustrating a garden party in the 1870s.

4. Peacocks' lawn.

Mural painted in the 1990s.

The beautiful Kyoto garden, an oasis of calm, has been created in the traditional Japanese tour garden style with features like : pond, waterfall, stones, bridge over water and stone lanterns .

Water basin, bamboo fountain and stone lantern .

More Japanese garden photos, all via Flickr :

Japanese garden

Osaka

Kyoto Garden in Holland Park

Kyoto, Japan

Via iheartjapan .

***

Have a great week,

Geanina : )

A-Z Gems ~ Aventurine

2011-08-04T14:43:00.001+01:00

1. Rainforest aventurine earrings - PRADMAN, $49.99

2. Aventurine Hammered Gold & Brass Earrings - WhitneyOliverDesigns, $54

3. Sterling Silver Ring with Green Aventurine and Pearl Flower - YaraJewelryDesign, $140

4. Aventurine Ruffle Torsade Twist - bettinas7, $370.

* The name aventurine comes from Italian : per avventura which means by chance

* The stone belongs to the Quartz family and contains inclusions of small crystals that reflect light and give a range of colours.

* The most common colour of aventurine is green , but it may also be blue, gray , yellow, orange or brown.

* Aventurine is a charming inexpensive stone which has long been considered a lucky talisman. It is said it helps with preserving a joyful mood and increasing creativity.

* The majority of the green and blue-green aventurine comes from India.

Next week : the last of the A gems, Azurite .

Geanina :)

IHeart - Green and Tan

2011-07-31T20:46:00.001+01:00

1. Leather iPad 2 Case - JepsenLeatherGoods, $195

2. Green apple of my eye dress - vrreis, $595

3. Light green leather collar necklace - EmilydeMolly, $45

4. Saidia - Embellished tan leather sandal - LoveArtWearArt, £215

5. Leather iPhone/iTouch/HTC Case - tovicorrie, $50

6. Wool Silk Felted Art Scarf Nest - Rudman, $199

Geanina :)

An urban feel

2011-07-29T12:25:00.003+01:00

A couple of months ago I had the opportunity to learn how to use this great tool which is the 2D CAD/CAM software ( computer aided design and manufacture ) to create laser cut jewelry in wood or acrylic. I really enjoyed the whole process; learning how to use the machine proved to be quite easy , whereas the design bit ... well, takes a bit of practice! :)

I wanted to create a small collection with a more casual, urban feel, pieces that you can wear almost every day ( as I have been doing !) .

I chose two materials : wood ( I love the raw look of the wood ) and black acrylic . When finished cutting the pieces I wanted to add a bit of sparkle :) , so I got my Hot Fix applicator out of my tool box and glued some Swarovski and glass crystals on the surfaces, then attached a few goldfilled / gold plated chains and findings and ... here they are:

Honey I'm Home Necklace

Medusa Necklace

The Sea Sponge Earrings / black acrylic

The Sea Sponge Earrings / wood : I made a pair of these for myself ( I love big earrings! ) and I have been wearing them every day .

... then I got carried away and applied a few more crystals and metal studs on a strip of leather and made myself a bracelet :

Have a happy weekend ,

Geanina :)

A-Z Gems ~ Aquamarine

2011-07-28T20:22:00.000+01:00

1. Chunky Aquamarine and Recycled 14k Gold Ring - ChristineMighion, $420

2. Gilda Earrings - moss aquamarine,fluorite,copper and silver - Kande, $72

3. Trade Winds Necklace - PoleStar, $62

4. Libby Earrings with aquamarine and 14k goldfill - Calliehulslander, $60.

* The Aquamarine is one of the most popular gems and it is related to the Emerald , both belonging to the Beryl family of stones.

* The word Aquamarine comes from Latin and it means 'sea water'.

* The most desired colour is the deeper shade of blue .

* Aquamarine is a symbol of safety at sea : sailors in ancient Greece used to wear amulets of aquamarine engraved with Poseidon on a chariot. It was said to protect them from adversaries and give them courage.

* The majority of the Aquamarine stones comes from Brazil and Africa .

Next week: Aventurine .

***

Geanina :)

IHeart - Polka Dots

2011-07-23T00:46:00.000+01:00

1. Iconic - Fine Art Print - SpookyAction, $24

2. Licorice Stripe Polka Dot Chiffon Headband - TutusChic, $35

3. The Julie Black and White Belt Buckle - JoanLaBue, $22

4. Polka Dot Glam print .Watercolor Fashion Illustration - JessicaIllustration, $30.

Geanina :)

A-Z Gems ~ Apatite

2011-07-21T16:29:00.001+01:00

Hello! This week I am continuing my A-Z Gems series with a very beautiful but relatively unknown stone :

1. Blue Ice- Sterling Silver and Apatite Specimen Ring - Scrollworkdesigns, $89

2. A Crazy Appetite Red CZ and Natural Apatite Pendant - littlecherryhill, $125

3. Deep Water - MaryzAigredou, $265

4. Rounded Gold Fill Teardrop Earrings with Apatite Clusters - fussjewelry, $98 .

* The word 'apatite' comes from Greek : 'apate' means 'to deceive', 'deceit' . The reason is its similarity to other more valuable stones like olivine, peridot , topaz and beryl.

* The main use of apatite is in the manufacture of fertilizers ( it is a source of phosphorus which is required by plants )

* The Apollo astronauts collected Moon rocks which contain traces of apatite.

* Apatite has been associated with appetite suppression for centuries ( it is known as the weight loss stone )

* Apatite deposits are found in Burma,Brazil,India,Kenya , Madagascar, Norway, Sri Lanka,Spain,Russia, Canada and United States.

***

Next week : Aquamarine !

Geanina :)

A small treat

2011-07-19T14:57:00.000+01:00

This week I am decorating my little office space and the living room : I have been organizing piles and piles of books , papers , mail , documents , magazines ; decluttering and throwing away things I no longer use; I have also been making assorted cushion covers for sofas and a small wall collage .

This morning, before staring work , I decided to treat myself with ...

and ...

Geanina :)

IHeart - Summer's Juicy Fruit

2011-07-17T08:49:00.000+01:00

Earlier this morning I was reading about the Etsy Beadweavers Team Challenge for the month of August which is all about summer fruit ( ... I LOOOVE fruit :)....) and I am thinking of making a piece to enter the contest .

I don't know what I am going to make yet but I found these delicious images from Etsy artists

...just to get my creative juices flowing:

1. Cherries.Decorative Photography Print - HeyZee, $40

2. Girl with watermelon . Acrylics on canvas - artflat5, $85

3. Sexy Pleated Mini Skirt - yystudio, $159.60

4. Nostalgic for a Slice. Fine Art Print - giantpeachdesign, $35

5. Farmers Market Strawberries Photograph - VitaNostra, $45

6. Mason jar gift labels - mudandtwig, $9

7. Gift Box of Assorted French Nougats - KettleConfections, $20

8. Slice of Watermelon Toddler Dress - peapodray, $38.

Geanina :)

Bead Shopping in London

2011-07-17T00:04:00.000+01:00

I went shopping in central London yesterday (...yeah - more beads,chains,fabric, findings...) and since it was such a lovely warm late afternoon I thought I would take some photos to share on my blog:

Geanina :)

Time to create

2011-07-14T21:00:00.000+01:00

I am really enjoying my break from teaching so far: just me and many many beads and buttons, colour and paint , fabric and ribbons, lace and sequins... plus lots of ideas and projects !

Geanina :)

July Photoshoot

2011-07-12T17:14:00.001+01:00

Anastasia Necklace

Rock Chic Chick Necklace

Madame Butterfly Brooch

Oasis Earrings

***

Tomorrow is my first day of the summer holiday!!! Yipeee! School has kept me quite busy especially in the last couple of months.

I am really looking forward to spending my days doing what I love most : creating !

Geanina :)

IHeart - Watermelon

2011-07-11T20:53:00.000+01:00

1. Watermelon necklace - lulubugjewelry, $62

2. Sweet Watermelon Pettitutu - atutudes, $31.95

3. Watermelon and Roses Photography Print - joystclaire, $28

4. Rose Cut Pink Sapphire Ring - kyleannemetals , $500

Geanina :)

IHeart - Butterflies

2011-07-02T18:33:00.001+01:00

1. Place Cards. Set of 50 - MamaTita, $75

2. Butterfly Bib Necklace - lovisetto, $67

3. Butterflies Dress - studioarturo, 40EUR

4. Scarlet Purse - PurseWorks, $150

***

I recently finished a colourful bead embroidered brooch inspired by these beautiful dainty creatures . It simply comes to life when paired up with a light coloured top or jacket. Model shots coming soon.

Madame Butterfly Brooch

***

Have a lovely weekend,

Geanina.

My Urban Space

2011-06-30T11:14:00.002+01:00

IHeart - Summer Romance

2011-06-26T15:23:00.000+01:00

1. Parisian Romance. Fabric rosette necklace - StudioElenus , $19.50

2. Romantic day sash - LittleWhiteDresser , $62

3. Don't go away, I'll be back Print - VivienneWard, $15

4. Linen pincushion with crochet motif - namolio, $14.75.

***

Have a Happy Sunday,

Geanina.

A-Z Gems ~ Andalusite

2011-06-21T19:47:00.000+01:00

1. Earthy Andalusite Marquise Briolettes - jNicLoft, $29.99

2. Toast Andalusite Wire Wrapped Bracelet - GlitzGlitter, $65

3. Andalusite Dangle Earrings - aubepine, $39

4. Andalusite Vine Earrings - JulieEllynDesigns, $85

* Andalusite is a gem named after Andalucia , a province of Spain, where it was first discovered.

* Andalusite is a strongly pleiochroic gem , which means that it gives a play of red,green and yellow colours when viewed from different directions. For this reason it was sometimes called 'Poor Man's Alexandrite'

( it offers colour changes at a low price)

* It is mined in Brazil, Sri Lanka, Russia and USA.

***

Wishing you a happy Tuesday,

Geanina.

IHeart - Salmon, Sand and Topaz

2011-05-07T16:36:00.000+01:00

1. Daisy Dress - CALABASHdesigns , $75

2. High Maple Handmade Shoes - mohop, $462

3. Jaquelyn O Earrings - ZBlack , $290

4. Georgia silver/ peach clutch bag - EmmaGordonLondon, $69

5. Pesonalized Name Bracelet - pacificessentials , $170.

Have a happy weekend,

Geanina :)

A-Z Gems ~ Amethyst

2011-05-04T11:54:00.000+01:00

1. Spring Rush Earrings - mgypsy, $110

2. Queen - fertility necklace - AnnaMroczek, $175

3. God of Wine Ring - laralewis , $178

4. Green Amethyst Teardrop Pendant - snowjeweler, $99

* Amethyst is a violet variety of quartz.

* The name of the stone comes from Greek and means 'intoxicated' , a reference to the ancient belief that amethyst protected its owner from drunkenness.

* Green quartz is often named green amethyst, prasiolite or lime citrine.

* Amethyst is found in abundance in Brazil, also in Uruguay, Austria ( the largest opencast amethyst vein in the world ), Russia , India, Zambia,Canada and United States.

Geanina :)

May Sale

2011-05-03T22:10:00.001+01:00

Big MAY SALE in my Etsy shop: 20% off ALL items from now until 8/05/11:

www.etsy.com/shop/AmaryllisBoutique

To get the discount just type the coupon code MAYSALE11 when you check out .

Wish you a Happy May !! :)

Geanina.

Summer Mood

2011-04-28T13:28:00.001+01:00

This spring/summer I am very drawn to blues and greens with a touch of tan and yellow . These colours exude serenity and harmony, they are so calming and refreshing.

1. Blue Lagoon Cocktail

2. Standing Tall Fine Art Print - Lori411, $10

3. The stunning Umm-al-Maa Oasis in Libyan Sahara

4. Ithaa Undersea Restaurant in the Maldives

5. Decorating with airy blue and green .

... and on this note ... here is what I created this week :

* A petite pair of earrings - custom order for a lovely lady - to match a beautiful summer dress

* Oasis Earring - these will be in my Etsy shop very soon .

* The Blue Lagoon Earrings:

Have a great week,

Geanina.