 Beads From Nature
Blue Topaz
by Rhea Rhaghaven
The Icing on Every Romance
 From the deepest blues of the ocean to the light hues of the skies, blue topaz is the icing on every romance. Its magnificent hues mesmerize its owner and bearer and promise longevity and happiness. A royal delight, a woman’s dream and a jewelers pride the colors of topaz are varied and fantastic.
The name of the stone is derived from the Greek word ‘topazes’ and is rightfully even said to have been derived from the Sanskrit word- tapas that means fire. A stone that can light the fire in any relationship. Continued
Polymer Clay
 
New Products, New Ideas
By Karen Mitchell and Ann Mitchell, AnKara Designs
 The new year brings fun new products and exciting changes. Okay, so it’s March, and not January. We are finally back in our studio after a trade show, a conference, several arts and craft shows, a lecture, and some classes (teaching mixed media polymer clay), with lots of information to share with you. In February, we attended the winter Craft and Hobby Association (CHA) show in Anaheim, California, and spent most of the time at the three and a half day show either demonstrating or teaching about a wide assortment of craft materials.
Let’s rewind a bit. Back in October 2007, Staedtler took over distribution of Fimo polymer clay in the United States from the American Art Clay Company (AMACO). AMACO continues to carry a nice array of clay tools, bead rollers, and other great products such as foil, mesh and wire that combine well with polymer clay. Staedtler is well established as an international company with high quality art supplies, especially pens, pencils, and technical drawing tools. This year at CHA, Staedtler showcased their drawing and art materials alongside their new selection of clays, including Fimo polymer clays (soft, classic, effect, decorating gel), and Efaplast air-dry and microwave clays. We had the pleasure of demonstrating in their booth, as well as making quite a few samples for display (http://www.staedtler-usa.com/Cha_2008_us.Staedtler?ActiveID=113102). We would like to share with you information on the clay products, even though they are not all polymer based.Continued
Polymer Clay
 Polymer Clay Angel Pin
by Trish Hodgens
The Perfect Gift to Rewards Acts of Kindness
 Angels are probably the most made single symbol. I am sure we have all seen retail stores dedicated to the single item of “Angels”. The sentiments behind the Angel means many things to many people, but most of all it says “I care and I love you”. Send an Angel to someone who you care about or some that has done something good for you.Continued
 Wire Working
Double Spiral Chainmaille Bracelet
Designer: Marilyn Gardiner
This amazing bracelet is an excellent addition to your jewelry collection. When sterling silver is used the bracelet shimmers, shines and reflects the ambient light in ways you can’t imagine. Marilyn did an excellent job with this pattern in making it very simple yet sophisticated enough to be worn with anything in your wardrobe.Continued|
 Bora Bora Necklace
By Bridgette Rallo
Combine a Dramatic Blister Pearl with PMC Seashells
For Summertime Glamour
 When I think of summer, I think of the sea. And when I think of the sea, I think of pearls!
I don’t mean just any pearls – I love big, lustrous, Tahitian-style pearls, preferably peacock gray or black, bursting with shimmer and tropical style. Natural South Sea pearls are expensive and good ones are relatively rare. Fortunately for art jewelers, good quality freshwater pearls in larger sizes, unusual shapes and great, boutique colors are easily obtainable these days.
The pearl that set my imagination racing for this project is one of Nature’s most glamorous creations: a gorgeous, iridescent gray, 52mm, freshwater blister pearl. Blister pearls are truly unique in that they are still attached to their shells, which are also covered with nacre. It’s as if the mollusk’s layering mechanism went wild, covering it’s entire inside surface with pearly luster. They are sold as one-of-a-kind cabochons and come in a variety of colors, sizes and shapes. Continued
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