Lovers Eye Portraits

In Victorian and Edwardian times, wealthy European lovers would commission eye miniatures, later called "Lovers Eyes" to exchange as love tokens. It is said that these affairs  would cause scandal and worse if these lovers were found out so the idea of just an eye would effectively conceal the identity of the person and then the love tokens could be worn publicly, safely. It is similar to the idea of a locket with a picture or painting of a loved one and I love the idea and I think it would be sweet to wear pieces with your child's eye, a spouse, or as a memorial to someone lost.
These are some I'm working on and will post photos when they're a finished piece.

It's been far too long since I've posted anything here. Many things in my life have changed and after having to start working outside of home, I wasn't able to make time to create jewelry. With encouragement from friends and family I've started to slowly pick up where I left off. This is a piece I recently made with some fabulous finds: an antique gold and diamond locket, an antique French metallic bullion tassel, and a vintage steel cut buckle. I hope to be able to develop an online presence here and I hope you'll follow along.

Charming.

A few requests for more charm necklaces has me busy digging through my treasures. I love the stories each little bit and bob tells and all together they are rich with history. Stay tuned for more as I prepare for the Spring Makers Arcade!

Welcoming in the New Year, late, as usual.

Makers Arcade Holiday Fair

Makers Arcade Holiday Fair was a smashing success thanks to the hard work of co-founders Jen and Rebecca. Moniker Warehouse was packed and everyone had a great time. I think I'm still on a natural high from all the love shared between the familiar faces and new friends too.

I'm always honored when my loyal customers show up proudly wearing a treasured piece they own. It's like having my own cheering section! Thank you to everyone who came by to show your support, it means so much!

Motivation Starvation.

After all the holiday shows I was beyond motivated, inspired to keep creating and keep the ball rolling...then my holiday let down kicked in. I know I'm not alone, we get so caught up in the business of the sparkly season and then it's over, we're forced to admit that or everyday life is a little less festive than we'd like. My only recourse is to try to stay thankful, grateful for so many things, and keep the creative fire lit. Easier said than done. 

So, today I'll start with gratitude, once again, and hope for motivation to be productive!

Hope you're staying creatively inspired too!!

Connected at the Heart.

Well, last weeks Makers Arcade was a great event, lots of new faces and familiar ones too, a good time was had by all. 

One of my first customers was a couple who heard our radio spot on KPBS. They grabbed this piece and it seemed it was love at first sight. 

After the formalities, they paused and she asked if there was a story behind this piece.

There is always a story which is why I love this job, but in this case, there was a sentimental attachment and their request for me to share that story, caused me to reveal my very vulnerable side and instantly, I was in tears. 

Oh, man, I couldn't help myself, the plane was a pin my dad used to wear on his jacket and until that moment I had detached from any emotional ties to that piece. It was a very poignant moment, followed by hugs from them and some friends who happened to be nearby. 

They wandered away and later, fully composed, I approached them to apologize for falling apart as I did. They were so gracious as I shared a bit more of the story of my dad, who's been gone 8 years, and told them how I love the connections that come with this work. 

I don't know if I'll ever see them again but I feel like we bonded a little over this necklace. So, if you're reading this and you're the ones I'm speaking of, just know that your spirits left an impression on my heart that day.