THE YEAR IN PICTURES ... at jQ jewelry designs

Looking back over the past year, I've both purchased and created some wonderful items in my little corner of Etsy World! I'd like to share some of my favorite purchases created by very talented Artisans, as well as several of the jewelry designs I'm most proud of.



Felted Wool Crocheted Scarf



                    

I haven't made a lot of purchases on Etsy, or anywhere else this year, but I fell in love with the jewel-tone colors and unusual shape of this scarf from blackcatboutique.  She called it the Medusa, and it's a great layering piece that goes with so many things. Is is a scarf or is it a necklace?  Both ... depending on my mood!



Felted Wool Brooch



I've been looking for just the right felted wool brooch for a couple of years now. I even tried to felt one myself. Abysmal!  When I ran across this beauty in a Shop participating in one of the Promotional Frenzy BNRs, it was love at first sight.  This flower circle design created by SensoryFelted is whimsical and the colors amazing.



Pippit's Christmas Gift

This is also one of my favorite purchases in 2010, but must remain a secret until my dear friend opens it Christmas morning. I'll post the real thing then ...



Fabulous Electroformed Lampwork Bead


I'm slightly obsessed with Electroformed lampwork, and I'm sure you can see why from the beautiful hand-torched glass bead I found on Etsy not so song ago.  No link to the artist, though. There are some secrets I cannot divulge and sources that I'm too selfish to share!

                                                                               

Beautiful Oregon Sunstone Nuggets

And now ... on to my Favorite Creations designed by Me!





 Pagoda by jQ jewelry designs

Inspired by Japanese architecture, where pagodas are often made with five levels, the result is a piece of Art to be cherished always!  You may see this design here.

The Neutrals by jQ jewelry designs

This finest quality gemstone and silver bracelet is designed with meticulously faceted Fire Opals, Champagne Citrine, Bi-Color Quartz, Whiskey Quartz and Cognac Quartz. These beautiful transparent gemstones are all sparkle and shine in a harmonious mix of finely faceted cuts. Additional photographs are available here. 



Stormy Waters by jQ jewelry designs



Displaying amazing flash, this Labradorite is among the most beautiful it has been my pleasure to work with. This clasp is certainly focal-worthy, and I wouldn't hesitate for a second showing it off by wearing it on the side or top of my writst! See more pictures of this design here.



Glitterati ... Rare Schiller Oregon Sunstone

                                                                                                      

This year I started creating double strand bracelets and have loved using the highest quality gemstones in these luxe designs.  This particular bracelet is designed with gem quality pink, red and green examples of this ethereal gemstone. This gem is very special to me and I currently have four pieces using variations of this glittering stone.

2010 also brought about a very big change in the way I used photographs of my jewelry designs. I began to use split-screen photographs that depict a second photo that compliments the colors and most importantly, the mood  of each piece. I have enjoyed the process, even though time consuming, and love the results.  Four favorites are pictured below ...



Forest Floor features Grossular Garnet in warm, earthy tones and includes a stunning Labradorite Box Clasp

 

 Imperial Rosé - Sumptuous gemstones sparkle with the subtle, alluring colours of Dom Pérignon and Moët



Industrial Revolution is a bold, urban design



The Chihuly in sterling silver and vibrant dichroic glass

 

 

All designs may be found at jQ jewelry designs in the Currently Available or Sold sections.