Jewelry Trends: Upcycling

Upcycling Defined:

"The practice of taking something that is disposable

and transforming it into something of greater use and value.

This process allows for the reduction of waste and use of virgin materials."

Upcycling is NOT recycling. When we recycle stuff, we get rid of it. 

Upcycling items means it's something that would have been thrown away,

but someone has found another use for it.

Someone has seen the beauty in it and given it a new life...

so I suppose the saying "one man's trash is another man's treasure"

in this instance would be very appropriate!

How does this relate to jewelry?
You know those old broaches, hat pins & clip-on earrings in the drawer
from your Great-grandmother? Those items can be upcycled
into unique and fabulous pieces of jewelry to be worn
rather than stored in a box never to see the light of day!  

Azure Waters Necklace

Your only limitation is your imagination.

Chanel Diva Necklace

Want to know more about upcycling your pieces? 

Email or call us to see how we can help!

 

Reference: Cradle to Cradle: Remaking the Way We Make Things by William McDonough and Michael Braungart

Whats Old is New...Again.

Vintage...You hear the word thrown around all the time.  What does it really mean?  What does it have to do with my style?  What's the big deal?


The Webster Dictionary definition of vintage is:

• of wine : of, relating to, or produced in a particular vintage
• of old: recognized, and enduring interest, importance, or quality : classic
• dating from the past : old b : outmoded, old-fashioned
•  of the best and most characteristic 



Gibson Girl Necklace from Couture Collection

With regards to how it may apply to you and your style, it really on what you're drawn to and personal preferences.  Ten years ago, I thought vintage was completely irrelevant to my style.  Today, it has become and integral part of my overall style choices and a medium I love to work with in jewelry. 

The Big Deal: Vintage jewelry pieces that are high quality and remarkable allow me to create pieces that are not only unique, but that have a history.  As a designer, the ability to create distinct, unique pieces is like Christmas morning as a kid.  To wear a one-of-a-kind piece is to acknowledge that you are precious and a force with which to be reckoned. 

I encourage you to add a little vintage to your life whether your medium is wine,

accessories or furniture.  You may be surprised what happens.

Already incorporate vintage into your life?  Let us know how YOU do vintage!

Source: http://www.merriam-webster.com/

Much Ado About Matte

Wherever you go these days, you're bound to see at least one piece of jewelry that is made from metals that have a matte finish.  Whether you shop at vintage clothing stores, Target or Bergdorf Goodman, matte jewelry has staked out a place in their accessory collections.

A matte finish on jewelry does not mean the metal lacks sheen or is  visually "flat". Typically, the jewelry has a more modest shine.  I've heard it described as the difference between a satin finish and high gloss lipstick. 

Matte drop with sterling earwire (high shine)
www.GryphonJewelryDesigns.com

Necklaces are a wonderful way to experiment with mixing your current accessories with matte pieces.  Try pairing a shiny silver chain with a matte gold necklace for an eye-catching yet classic look. 

Overall, the matte trend in jewelry is  fun one to try as the risk is minimal and the rewards can be immediate.