Pearls and crystals bracelet

Pearls define elegance.  Crystals add sparkle to jewelry.  What if I combine both? 

And so I did.

This bracelet measures 7.5 inches and is made up of white freshwater pearls and crystals in 3 colors:  violet, topaz and jet black.  There are 2 rows bound by rhodium plated bead spacers and attached with a rhodium plated box clasp.  It would definitely go well with your classy days at the mall capped by an elegant dinner and night out.

Pearls and Crystals Bracelet

Filipino Clayers Part 1 [Philippine's polymer clay Divas]

I am a Filipino and a fan of polymer clay.  It wasn't until my recent vacation in Manila that I realized that polymer clay craft is fast becoming a favorite among local artisans.  I am proud of being a Filipino and I am proud at the artistry of fellow kababayans (countrymen).

One of my favorites is Angeli Sobrepena-del Rosario.  She is The Beadlady of Manila and is one, if not the frontliner of polymer clay in the Philippines.  Her clay designs are so pretty and delicious!

She is famous for her mini cupcakes and roses among others.  Thanks to her dedication to the craft and to teaching, more of my kababayans are learning more about it.  I took lessons from her shop and although I wasn't able to meet her, I was taught well by one of her students, Donna.

 

Donna Cruz of Crazy Notions was one of Angeli's students and prize winner during the Clayfest 2011 held last February.  Her  locket designs, particularly her new steampunk lockets are so beautiful!

 I have mentioned in my previous blogs that I love floral designs and one of those whose works I adore is Rocky Antonio of The Clayin' Mommy.  Oh, I love her floral necklaces and heart pendants!  I've been wanting to attend her workshop but we were both called to 2 different countries for wife and family duties.

Hooray for these three ladies.  I will be sharing more works from my kababayans soon.  This is enough eye candy for now.

Photo credits:  

The Beadlady Manila 

Crazy Notions 

The Clayin' Mommy 

Garden of Roses [Clay Roses]

My husband and I visited The Chicago Botanic Garden yesterday.  It was my third time to go there and it never ceases to amaze me.  During this time of the year, the roses were in full bloom.  I love strolling along their rose garden where you can see many variety of roses in different colors. 

This inspired me to make roses from polymer clay (I was able to practice what I learned during my workshop in Manila at the same time).  It was my first time to  use Kato polyclay and I found it easy to work with - the roses look 'fresh.'

This red rose is ready to be set on a filigree and be made into a pretty necklace.

 What inspires you, my friend?

Flowers in bloom [Cloisonne bracelet]

It was almost spring when I left Chicago to visit family and friends abroad and after 3 months, I am back home.  It is very refreshing to see green grass, lush trees and flowers in bloom.  During my trip to Hongkong and Manila, I was able to buy cloisonne beads in different colors, shapes and sizes.  For info on what these beads are, read THIS.

 I made this bracelet using 10mm round and heart cloisonne beads, czch glass beads, rondelle crystals,

gold-filled bead caps, eyepins, headpin, chain and lobster clasp.

I love the beautiful floral design, rich color and texture of the beads.  The addition of the chain in this asymmetrical bracelet allows it to drape the wrist, giving a perfect fit.  I think this bracelet gives a dainty, feminine and chic feeling.  What do you think?