tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-68591778340801616002024-03-12T20:53:50.163-07:00Amy Nicole Artisan JewelryMusings of a metalsmith...Amy Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11998584496439026031noreply@blogger.comBlogger782125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6859177834080161600.post-88937451521146761622015-09-02T09:46:00.002-07:002015-09-02T09:46:55.297-07:00Newest works...<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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My poor sad, neglected blog...I thought I should update my blog before it gets hacked by spammers. I rarely look at blogs anymore, but I have noticed a couple of blogs I used to follow have been hacked by international spammers. I really don't want that to happen to my blog!<br />
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Here are some of my latest and greatest works. I am making new pieces here and there and gearing up for the Holiday season. <br />
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I unfortunately don't have as much time as I used to to create, but when I do I thoroughly enjoy it. Currently I am dreaming of making it to Tucson in February. (I've had that dream for about 5 years now) I just might make it happen this time! <br />
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I am also resisting the urge to follow the trend in making nothing but old pawn style Turquoise and Silver jewelry. Don't get me wrong, I love the look. It just seems like everyone and their sister is making this style of jewelry now and I've always tried to resist trends. I aim more for a classic look. <br />
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My latest work can be found in my <a href="http://amynicolejewelry.etsy.com/">Etsy shop.</a> </div>
Amy Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11998584496439026031noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6859177834080161600.post-44391975452232623232015-02-10T18:43:00.001-08:002015-02-10T18:43:46.129-08:00New work<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/02/10/493.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/02/10/s_493.jpg' border='0' width='1600' height='1600' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/02/10/494.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/02/10/s_494.jpg' border='0' width='1600' height='1600' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/02/10/495.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/02/10/s_495.jpg' border='0' width='1600' height='1600' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Every year for the past 5 years I have really wanted to make a large collection for Valentine's Day. I love hearts, and I love pinks and reds. <br />And for the 5th year straight I have only managed to make a couple of pieces. <br /><br />The bright, dark pink stones in two of the pieces are Pink Tourmaline. I love this shade so much. I've been hoarding these stones for some time. Years actually. <br /><br />I've been reading The Game of Thrones series while I'm on the elliptical for some time now. I do find it an inspiration for the last pair of earrings. I named them Heart Tree Earrings ~ Weirwood<br /><br />The bird earrings are playful, and again I use pink Tourmaline. Birds of a Feather<br /><br />The first pair I named Heart Tree Earrings ~ Turquoise Daggers SOLD (Thank you to M!)<br /><br />I have a pink stoned piece coming soon. Very spring like. :)<br /><br />Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone<br />Amy Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11998584496439026031noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6859177834080161600.post-87355072656967138792015-01-31T19:54:00.001-08:002015-01-31T19:54:25.707-08:00One new piece <br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=15/01/31/537.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/15/01/31/s_537.jpg' border='0' width='1600' height='1600' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /> Heart Tree Earrings ~<br /> Turquoise Daggers<br /><br />I have been making non stop since I got back from Thanksgiving break. Some jewelry, but mainly ornaments. (Thank you to those that chose my work...you keep the dream alive) <br /><br />I finally made something new! It felt so good. Actually a new twist on an old design. I always come up short on time when it comes to Valentine's day. I love having an excuse to make hearts. And to use pink stones. I have another pair of Heart Tree earrings finish and then I hope to have some time to make more hearts :) I'm seriously contemplating some designs using some of my most treasured stones. They happen to be pink ;)<br />Amy Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11998584496439026031noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6859177834080161600.post-8799555195753368792014-10-14T18:45:00.001-07:002014-10-14T18:47:18.780-07:00Bone Earrings<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/10/14/647.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/10/14/s_647.jpg' border='0' width='548' height='548' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br />I made a cute little pair of bone post earrings out of sterling silver wire. I have a bone bracelet in the works and then I think that will be it as far as Halloween and Day of the Dead designs go. I prob should have made some sugar skull designs. Come to think of it, I have a sterling sugar skull already stamped that's been floating around my bench for months. I think the bone bracelet may have just turned into a bone necklace to accompany the sugar skull!! :)<br /><br />These beauties can be found in my Etsy shop. <br /><br /><br /><br />Amy Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11998584496439026031noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6859177834080161600.post-51719783279816181262014-10-10T20:20:00.001-07:002014-10-10T20:56:44.930-07:00It started with...this custom order:<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/10/10/752.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/10/10/s_752.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='270' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br />The design belongs to my client, I was just the monkey that made it. <br />This piece has a long and dramatic history and I don't go for drama. I love this necklace who was very nearly rejected, but had a happy ending after all. <br /><br />The same time I started the custom orders I took a length of sterling sheet and sawed out three more crescent moons. <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/10/10/753.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/10/10/s_753.jpg' border='0' width='273' height='280' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Sterling silver and Rainbowmoonstone <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/10/10/754.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/10/10/s_754.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='251' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Sterling silver and labradorite <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/10/10/755.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/10/10/s_755.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='242' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Rainbowmoonstone and lapis<br /><br />I really enjoyed creating this little series! All these necklaces can be found in my Etsy shop. Http://amynicolejewelry.etsy.com<br /><br />Amy Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11998584496439026031noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6859177834080161600.post-83261953059600841192014-10-04T18:14:00.001-07:002014-10-04T18:14:52.990-07:00Elephant ornamentMy handstamped ornaments were a hit last year! This year I am creating new designs. This one is an Elephant. The design has been stamped by hand and can be personalized with any name or phrase. This one is made in brass but I also offer it in copper and Nickel silver. You can find this listed in my Etsy shop!<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/10/04/758.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/10/04/s_758.jpg' border='0' width='1464' height='1464' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br />Amy Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11998584496439026031noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6859177834080161600.post-54181668141130897732014-10-04T18:05:00.001-07:002014-10-04T18:09:32.739-07:00BonesI've been wanting to fabricate some bones for ages now and finally got around to giving it a go. <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/10/04/752.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/10/04/s_752.jpg' border='0' width='472' height='472' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br />Sterling silver bones handmade from heavy gauge round wire. You can find these bone necklaces in my Etsy shop!<br /><br />Amy Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11998584496439026031noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6859177834080161600.post-79089644396798153022014-04-18T07:48:00.001-07:002014-04-18T07:48:37.034-07:00Under the Sea....<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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I made a ring a few years ago that I kept for myself, and is on of my favorite rings. I call it my Barnacle ring. It inspired this bracelet made of sterling silver and gems. Iolite, lab Sapphire, Lapis, London Blue Topaz and Aquamarine have been added to this bracelet along with sterling balls. <br />
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Just listed in my <a href="http://amynicolejewelry.etsy.com/">Etsy shop!</a> </div>
Amy Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11998584496439026031noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6859177834080161600.post-37137164421600691702014-04-09T18:09:00.001-07:002014-04-09T18:09:28.591-07:00The trekkiestA few months ago I discovered that Netflix had all the Star Trek episodes on watch instantly. <br /><br />I've seen them all before several years ago, but it's been nice seeing them all again. <br /><br />I started with Enterprise, the last televised series in the franchise. This show went off air way too soon IMHO...<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/04/09/995.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/04/09/s_995.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='201' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />A lot of the time I don't actually watch the episodes, I'm mainly listening to whatever is going on. <br /><br />After Enterprise I moved on to Deep Space Nine. I think this might be my favorite of all the series. The characters are diverse and complex. Lots of different alien species involved. <br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/04/09/996.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/04/09/s_996.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='209' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Now I'm on the 2nd season of Voyager...<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/04/09/997.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/04/09/s_997.jpg' border='0' width='280' height='185' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />I'm finding myself missing the Deep Space Nine characters. <br /><br />My family thinks I'm crazy, but I really do love Star Trek. I've tried to get into Dr. Who, but I just don't get it. You'd think a person who finds Star Trek believable could enjoy Dr. Who, but I just don't find it at all believable. Oh well. Different science fiction strokes for different science fiction folks. ;)<br /><br />I was surprised to read that Dr. Who is the longest running sci fi series. I'll never give up on my Trek though. <br /><br />Also, in case there is any confusion...<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/04/09/998.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/04/09/s_998.jpg' border='0' width='640' height='640' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/04/09/999.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/04/09/s_999.jpg' border='0' width='640' height='640' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/04/09/1000.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/04/09/s_1000.jpg' border='0' width='640' height='640' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br />Amy Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11998584496439026031noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6859177834080161600.post-40055337679891191562014-03-31T19:14:00.001-07:002014-03-31T19:14:28.924-07:00Ever learning....<br />I estimate that I am still about 5,000 hours short on the reported 10,000 hours of work one must put into their craft to be considered a master. <br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/03/31/1371.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/03/31/s_1371.jpg' border='0' width='268' height='280' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />I sometimes think that by about half way in I shouldn't be making the mistakes I do. <br /><br />My worst enemy has always been lack of patience. I had to replace a stone in the above earrings, and I should have annealed the bezel before resetting. It has taken me making that mistake twice to finally get it. <br /><br />I read recently a comment by another smith that gave me permission in my own mind to embrace the way I work as "acceptable". I guess being self taught does that to you. Doubt. <br /><br />The comment was: I spend as much time finishing as I do fabricating. <br /><br />I am always learning. I'll "try" ;) to stop myself from periodically wondering if I wasn't spending too much time trying to get something finished. I feel like I am just now beginning to fully understand how important finishing is. The filing, sanding, polishing.....and that leads me to another comment I saw a few years ago that I still remember. <br /><br />That comment was by a fine jeweler who was appalled at the finishing he sees. Lots of great new designers, but terrible craftsmanship. Ouch! <br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/03/31/1372.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/03/31/s_1372.jpg' border='0' width='1600' height='1600' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />I'm happier with these. No weird bezels ;)<br /><br />I look forward to continuing to learn. I guess one day it will just all come together and I'll remember to do it all just right. At least I hope! <br /><br /><br />Amy Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11998584496439026031noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6859177834080161600.post-52196069208785990612014-03-21T19:53:00.001-07:002014-03-21T19:53:05.027-07:00It felt good...<br />...to make something. Just a little something. <br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/03/21/993.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/03/21/s_993.jpg' border='0' width='1600' height='1600' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />It's been so long since I've been in the studio. I say that. Really it's only been like 4 or 5 days. But it seems longer. <br /><br />My days are filled with life matters. Paperwork, tax offices, auctions. Getting our personal taxes done after finishing the business taxes last week. Ugh. Being a grown up sucks. <br /><br />Funny thing about being a grown up. I just noticed I was one after I turned 40. That kinda sucked. I need to get myself out of a funk! 40 isn't 60, or 80. 40 is just the beginning of middle age right? Gads, even admitting that depresses me! Do women have mid life crises? Ugh... All I know is after I wade through the muck and come out on the side of acceptance it will be really awesome. <br /><br />I can almost see the spot where I can stand not giving a fig about what anyone thinks. I might just surprise you one of these days and tell you what I really think! About any and everything. It will be controversial, it will be fun (for me!), it will make us laugh, and it will make us cry. I'm in the middle of the mire but I can see the shore and I am rallying my strength to complete the journey. <br /><br />Isn't life interesting?<br />Amy Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11998584496439026031noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6859177834080161600.post-11660536270215885512014-02-20T16:29:00.002-08:002014-02-20T16:29:39.570-08:00New Earrings!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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I began this series of earrings last year in December. They have grown slowly. All the while I have had a vision of what I wanted these earrings to be. I wanted the craftsmanship to be perfect. I must say that I am very pleased with the way they turned out. <br />
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Ornate and elegant. Sophisticated and beautiful. Everything I was hoping they would be. <br />
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I do have one problem though. I envy artists who are able to put into words their exact inspiration. Inspiration often comes for me as a thought that continues to grow and evolve. Feelings and emotion all tangled in there as well. I have trouble defining and communicating my inspirations. <br />
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I began this series while deep in the throes of A Game of Thrones. I have read all the books, and am currently watching the TV series on DVD. I've always been fascinated with Kings and Queens, Ladies and Lords. The court and the finery. Gowns and jewelry. Swords, plate, crowns etc....<br />
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One of the reasons I have been so slow to put these up for sale, is that a name for the series escapes me. I feel that the perfect descriptive name is just beyond my reach and I can't quite put my finger on it. It's not Victorian, or Renaissance. It's not Edwardian. It still eludes me. Maybe it will come to me and maybe it won't. In the meantime my work must speak for itself. Earrings fit for a Lady.<br />
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All these earrings have been listed in my <a href="http://amynicolejewelry.etsy.com/">Etsy Shop</a> I hope you'll get a chance to stop by and check out the other photos. </div>
Amy Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11998584496439026031noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6859177834080161600.post-13564648509724861312014-02-17T19:24:00.001-08:002014-02-17T19:24:28.508-08:00Coming soon...<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/02/17/1380.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/02/17/s_1380.jpg' border='0' width='640' height='640' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />I made a good luck charm. Sterling and lab Emerald. I have a few other green stones and plan on another necklace and maybe a pair of earrings. :)<br /><br />I have three pairs of really lovely sterling and gemstone earrings that I need to photograph. I've been working on these off and on for the past couple of months. <br /><br />I'm also currently obsessed with: Game of Thrones. The books and the TV series. <br />Alaska The Last Frontier.<br /><br />I'm also avoiding: watching the last several episodes of Downton Abbey. <br /><br />Doing the taxes. <br /><br />Have a great week everyone. <br /><br />Amy Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11998584496439026031noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6859177834080161600.post-38145976261469300502014-02-05T08:02:00.003-08:002014-02-05T08:02:53.357-08:00Love Necklace <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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*Sold*</div>
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Oh my poor sad, neglected blog! I'm not sure what my deal is with blogs and blogging lately. It seems that I have just lost interest. Pooh! I only read blogs once in a while now, and as you all know I blog myself even less. </div>
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I've not really been making much since the Christmas rush. I guess I'm in a bit of a funk. I did make this necklace with sterling silver and fresh water pearl. I love the combination of oxidized silver and fresh water pearl. It is rustic and elegant all at once. </div>
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I am having a Valentine's Day sale in my <a href="http://amynicolejewelry.etsy.com/">Etsy shop</a>. 20% off all ready to ship items. </div>
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The social media place I am most active is on Instagram if you want to follow me there. My account name is AmyNicoleJewelry. </div>
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Have a great day all! </div>
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Amy Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11998584496439026031noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6859177834080161600.post-89819929556664106402014-01-08T18:58:00.001-08:002014-01-08T18:58:08.207-08:00Tomorrow....<br />I create! I hope. I've been filling orders, and have been fooling with some Amy style pet tags. <br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/01/08/1227.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/01/08/s_1227.jpg' border='0' width='640' height='640' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/01/08/1228.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/01/08/s_1228.jpg' border='0' width='640' height='640' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/01/08/1229.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/01/08/s_1229.jpg' border='0' width='640' height='640' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=14/01/08/1230.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/14/01/08/s_1230.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />I'm using my brother's and sister's pets as testers on designs. <br /><br />Except the yikes! one. Turns out that one was actually supposed to be Yipes! Thankfully it was for my brother and not a real customer. That would have been horrifying! And I've learned design ideas that I'll keep, and ones that I won't. I am being mindful of function. I'm taking my time developing pet tags I really love before I put them up for sale. :)<br /><br />But really I haven't been feeling creative lately. I've been likening it to the times when farmers let the fields lay fallow. You know? Letting myself rest so I can be more fruitful.....At least that's what you hope it is. The other nagging voice is that you'll never have another good design again. <br /><br />Happily I have a couple ideas floating around that I'd like to work on. First a Valentine. Next a belt buckle. Wanna know why? Because I want to see if I can. And ...my oldest needs to dress western :) Perfect reason to give it a go. <br /><br />I am looking forward to spending some time making something tomorrow. I'll be back soon to share :)<br /><br /><br /><br />Amy Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11998584496439026031noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6859177834080161600.post-45733922616433215322013-12-06T10:13:00.002-08:002013-12-12T04:20:14.483-08:00Handmade Ornaments<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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I have a love for ornaments. I always have. Every year I take my girls to buy a new ornament, and every year when we decorate our tree it is so wonderful to see all those memories. I played around last year at the last minute with a couple of ornament designs in metal. This year I started a little earlier and was able to offer these ornaments for sale in my shop!<br />
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The Dala Horse in copper was my first. I was thrilled with the way it turned out and shared it on my Facebook page. My Brother-in-Law asked if I could make an owl, and that's how this next one came to be:<br />
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Each ornament begins as a piece of sheet metal. I saw the shape, file the edges. Stamp the entire design by hand. Each impression you see is a single stamp. Laid down one at a time. I finish by sanding, oxidizing, polishing, soldering on a ring for hanging and sealing the metal to help maintain the color. Last I put on a Sari Silk hanger.<br />
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A friend asked me to make two right away, and I honestly thought that would be the extent of my ornament making for this season. Other than the ones I had planned to make for gifts....... Fortunately Etsy shoppers have found my little ornaments and have been keeping me very busy for the last week. :)<br />
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Now I wish I had started earlier in the season, and had taken the time to develop more design choices. That's ok! I'll get a jump on next year after the busy season is over. :)<br />
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These ornaments can be found in my <a href="http://amynicole.bigcartel.com/">online shop</a> and in my <a href="http://amynicolejewelry.etsy.com/">Etsy shop</a>.<br />
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Merry Christmas everyone!!! :)<br />
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This blog post is a part of <a href="http://artbeadscene.blogspot.com/2013/12/ornamentbloghop2013.html">Art Bead Scene's Blog Hop</a> featuring handmade ornaments! Hop on over to view other handmade ornaments. <br />
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Also, my Dala Horse ornament has been featured in an article on <a href="http://www.babble.com/baby/10-adorable-modern-babys-1st-christmas-ornaments/how-about-a-metal-dala-horse-ornament/">Babble.com</a> which I was pretty excited about!</div>
Amy Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11998584496439026031noreply@blogger.com25tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6859177834080161600.post-3284285082239106172013-11-30T18:13:00.001-08:002013-11-30T18:13:57.264-08:00New!<br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/11/30/1476.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/11/30/s_1476.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='101' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Hello friends! I'm sorry I haven't been updating my blog lately. I am officially in the midst of the Holiday shopping season. It has been nice to be busy :)<br /><br />Speaking of shopping, I am having a sale in my Etsy shop. 20% off all ready to ship items, and free shipping on all the made to order items. <br /><br />I added several pairs of affordable earrings earlier in the week, and there are lots of other great goodies as well. <br /><br />I hope you all had a nice Thanksgiving. I enjoyed the holiday with my husband and girls. Lots of good food, and plenty of family time. :)<br /><br />We went to the movies twice this past week to see Catching Fire and Frozen. Both good shows. <br /><br />I leave you with a drawing by my oldest....<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/11/30/1477.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/11/30/s_1477.jpg' border='0' width='640' height='640' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />If you follow me on Instagram (amynicolejewelry) or on Facebook, you'll have seen my handstamped ornaments. I will do a blog post on them soon. Happily I've had some interest in them. I've been an ornament making machine! I hope to add new ornaments to choose from each year from now on. :)<br />Amy Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11998584496439026031noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6859177834080161600.post-63511994497136685842013-11-14T10:40:00.000-08:002013-11-14T10:40:50.635-08:00New!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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All these pieces just listed in my <a href="http://amynicolejewelry.etsy.com/">Etsy Shop</a>. I've been concentrating on making earrings this week with a bracelet and a necklace thrown in for good measure! I want to get the shop stocked with plenty of earrings before the Holiday shopping season begins. They make the perfect gifts! <br />
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I'm going to continue concentrating on making earrings. I'm even planning on giving myself the challenge of coming up with some earrings that are in the $ 25 price range. I find it hard to limit myself. ;) Once I start making I keep adding this and adding that, and before I know it I've used more time and silver than I'd intended! I want to try to offer some really affordable options that are still beautiful.<br />
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Have a great day my friends, I hope you get a chance to check out my new work! :)</div>
Amy Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11998584496439026031noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6859177834080161600.post-85616825961700277642013-11-02T18:07:00.001-07:002013-11-02T18:07:03.355-07:00New!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/11/02/1804.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/11/02/s_1804.jpg' border='0' width='640' height='640' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/11/02/1805.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/11/02/s_1805.jpg' border='0' width='640' height='640' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/11/02/1806.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/11/02/s_1806.jpg' border='0' width='511' height='511' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />I went on a bit of a mushroom kick recently. I have big plans to make some pieces with some mushroom shaped stones I have too, but not sure I will get around to it. Do you know how that goes? I do it all the time, have plans to make stuff that never gets made. I've actually been thinking of the mushroom pieces with stones off and on for years now! Maybe someday ;)<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/11/02/1807.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/11/02/s_1807.jpg' border='0' width='640' height='640' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/11/02/1808.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/11/02/s_1808.jpg' border='0' width='543' height='543' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />I also made a couple of new skinny cuffs in sterling. I love these, especially in a stack of 4-6 of them. But just one is nice too. ;) I'd like to add a couple of personalized designs before the Holiday shopping season but I am still mulling around design ideas. <br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/11/02/1809.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/11/02/s_1809.jpg' border='0' width='551' height='551' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/11/02/1810.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/11/02/s_1810.jpg' border='0' width='523' height='523' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Two new rings in the Celestial collection. Made to order in your size. <br /><br />All these pieces are listed in my Etsy shop. Speaking of Etsy shop, did I tell you I changed my shop name to AmyNicoleJewelry? Well, I did. I like it better than the AmyNicoles I had to use when I first opened shop because AmyNicole was already taken. <br /><br />Also, I want to offer a few hand stamped ornament designs. <br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/11/02/1811.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/11/02/s_1811.jpg' border='0' width='640' height='640' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />This one is a prototype in Nickel. Also known as German Silver, Nickel Silver, Alpaca, and other names I can't think of off the top of my head. It has a bit of a southwestern vibe to it, and the hanger is repurposed sari silk. <br /><br />Well, I think that is all in Amy Nicole news. Sorry I've not been posting here much. Life always gets busy at this time of year :)<br /><br />I leave you with a photo of my girls dressed up for Halloween:<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/11/02/1813.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/11/02/s_1813.jpg' border='0' width='640' height='640' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Amy Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11998584496439026031noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6859177834080161600.post-84261890637269150002013-10-15T08:41:00.000-07:002013-10-15T08:41:08.236-07:00New work!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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I went on a bit of a bracelet bender. I've been having fun wire wrapping beads and putting them together to form bracelets. I read somewhere that this Fall and Winter that bracelets are the thing, no wrist will go unadorned! Ha! I don't really follow trends. I've made all the toggles in these pieces, and wire wrapped all the beady goodness by hand. Now my hands have calluses, my nails are a mess and the skin around my first finger and thumb don't look so hot. <br />
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My ode to Autumn, my favorite season. I was going through my stones and pulled these three together. Together they gave me a fiery appearance. I knew just what I wanted to do with them.... the leaves are from a tree in our yard pressed into sterling clay then fired to 1500 degrees emerging as solid sterling silver. I really love this piece :)<br />
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More stars and moons! I am continually adding new pieces with the stars and the moons. It has become a collection really, and a collection needs a name! Celestial. Original right? ;)<br />
I'm still debating on giving them their own section. I think they might deserve it. Especially since I have several more pieces on the bench I hope to be able to list this week.<br />
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All these pieces are listed in my <a href="http://amynicolejewelry.etsy.com/">Etsy Shop</a> I already have a trio of new earrings to share with you this week and I hope to have a few other things too! </div>
Amy Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11998584496439026031noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6859177834080161600.post-3188301438331529852013-10-01T19:54:00.001-07:002013-10-01T19:54:12.968-07:00Coming soon...<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/10/01/1854.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/10/01/s_1854.jpg' border='0' width='187' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />I've had this picture as the wallpaper on my phone for awhile now. Every time I looked at it, it was a stabbing reminder to get back to my stars and moons. <br />I am in full production on 5 necklaces, 3 skinny cuffs, 2 rings, and 3 pairs of earrings. Whoa!<br />It's time to start getting my shop ready for Holiday shoppers. <br /><br />I did have someone ask me if I ever did this design less oxidized or GASP not oxidized at all. Nope. Not really. ;)<br /><br />Be back soon. Have a good week! <br /><br /><br /><br />Amy Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11998584496439026031noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6859177834080161600.post-23371722618388403522013-09-27T07:29:00.003-07:002013-09-27T07:29:54.639-07:00New work!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Star seed pod necklaces in Nacozari Turquoise, Agua Nueva Agate, Yellow Opal and Nacozari Turquoise. All sterling silver. <br />
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I am still continuing with the sugar skulls! This time a bracelet in sterling and coral and turquoise. This beauty has already been reserved. I see more skulls in my future as I have had several custom requests. :) I do love hand stamping!<br />
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I have always been uncomfortable with self promotion, and rarely go on and on about something I've made, but I want to go on and on about these. The sterling filigree hollow forms really make me happy. Even though they look like that drawing by Leonardo da Vinci of his invention of a tank for warfare. ;) Really they kinda look like space ships. <br />
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But seriously. There is something about this time of year. The second I feel Fall coming on I pull out the Garnets. I love the deep rich red in these faceted garnet beads. These earrings are so sexy and elegant. When I put them on I feel like a million bucks. I'd keep them if I had somewhere to wear them besides the car line to pick up the kiddos. :)<br />
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Have a great weekend all! Next week I return to stars and moons and more sugar skulls. </div>
Amy Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11998584496439026031noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6859177834080161600.post-17183249964610093882013-09-17T16:42:00.001-07:002013-09-17T16:42:23.366-07:00Star & Moon Dangles<br />The star and moon obsession continues. I just listed these three designs in my shop:<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/09/17/1624.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/09/17/s_1624.jpg' border='0' width='611' height='611' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/09/17/1625.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/09/17/s_1625.jpg' border='0' width='587' height='587' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/09/17/1626.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/09/17/s_1626.jpg' border='0' width='540' height='540' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br />Also, I found this quote on Pinterest. I think I'm in love. :)<br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/09/17/1627.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/09/17/s_1627.jpg' border='0' width='387' height='387' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Amy Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11998584496439026031noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6859177834080161600.post-35477329810729389252013-09-13T20:47:00.001-07:002013-09-13T20:47:24.085-07:00SetbackI grossly underestimated how long it would take me to get the star seed pods finished. That, and I lost a lot of time with this:<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/09/13/1888.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/09/13/s_1888.jpg' border='0' width='640' height='640' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />I had this piece finished and ready to be oxidized when I decided to see what it was going to look like with the stone. That's when I realized I built the whole setting backward. <br /><br /><br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/09/13/1889.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/09/13/s_1889.jpg' border='0' width='640' height='640' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Hoping to save the setting I dug through my cabs and found this yellow opal! What were the odds I'd have a free form stone that would work. It took some sanding to get that bezel in but I did it!<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=13/09/13/1890.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/13/09/13/s_1890.jpg' border='0' width='640' height='640' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br /><br />I'm back on track though, but I still won't have new work to share until prob Thursday. I hope! :)<br />Amy Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11998584496439026031noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6859177834080161600.post-75096831577498193312013-09-12T06:53:00.001-07:002013-09-12T06:53:21.079-07:00I'm a bad blogger...<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
I really can't say what's up with me and blogging. I used to love to blog and to read others blogs as well. It used to be one of the first things I did in the morning. Now I do check out Feedly or Bloglovin once in awhile to see if anyone has anything of interest to share. But it's more of an afterthought. Or when I'm waiting for the kids at school. Kinda like, I don't have anything else to do, I may as well read some blogs.<br />
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I think it all started around the time google reader went bye bye. I don't know, it could be a lot of different things. Truth be told I'm not feeling really pumped up about anything just now. I think I'm going through a little bout of depression. <br />
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I'm trying really hard not to just dump into the world all the negativity that I'm feeling. I think it's just me, although I think most makers can relate. There is one issue that keeps constantly circling around in my thoughts, and that is the perceived value of my work.<br />
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Now, I know not everyone really realizes what it is I do and the amount of work it takes to do it. I guess I'm a little frustrated at being seen as a hobbyist rather than as a professional. The "hobbyist" feeling I get is from my acquaintances who ask me how much something I make is. Some people are smoother than others about telling you what you are asking is too much for them. Sometimes they don't respond at all. Then they go tell mutual acquaintances that what you make is nice, "but it's soooo expensive!". The worst is when they tell you that they've decided to just go ahead and get something at charming charlie's. I'm certain they don't realized that telling a maker such as myself something like that is like taking a knife and driving it straight into my gut. <br />
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My work is made with quality recycled silver and gemstones. I use natural stones cut by lapidary artists in the US. My work is not mass produced, plated crap made by workers being paid a low wage from overseas. But, I get it. Not everyone wants a piece of jewelry that will last a lifetime. They'd rather go with trends that might be worn for a season and that's it. That's fine. I get it. Just please don't compare my work to crap.<br />
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The huge conundrum, and the real slap in the face, is that I am constantly struggling with pricing my work so that it will sell. Charging enough not to piss off the other makers who know I should be asking more for it, yet still trying to cover my costs, labor and profit that will allow me to keep creating. It is a constant struggle and I know I'm not the only one in that boat, but it doesn't make it any less frustrating.<br />
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I had someone contact me about doing a local show. In my early days of doing this I would have jumped at the chance. But, I have a little experience behind me now. I asked how many other jewelry vendors there were going to be, and if any of them were franchises like Stella & Dot or Origami Owl. Sure enough, Stella and the owl were going to be there. I declined by politely stating I make it a personal policy not to vend at locales that don't offer a 100% handmade show. I just can't compete with mass produced plated jewelry that is manufactured overseas. When people see the prices and realize they could get one small necklace from me, or three from Origami Owl what do you think they'll get? I just wasn't willing to pay a $ 150 booth fee to see people look at my work and then go buy from the mass producers. ugh.<br />
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So, if you love one of a kind jewelry. Stuff that not everyone and their mother is wearing, hand crafted with loving care using quality heirloom materials, then you are in the right place. I love my customers, they make all this frustration worth while. </div>
Amy Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11998584496439026031noreply@blogger.com4