Monday, March 26, 2012

Cameo Appearance


I've been in a cameo kinda mood this week, although if truth be known, I'm always partial to cameos.


They are so classic, come in so many varieties, yet always remain in good taste. And my customers seem to like them too! ;)


This simple necklace is elegant by itself, or would be fun to layer with a rosary or long pearls.



While not exactly cameos, I thought these Virgin Mary medals qualify for this week's collection.




Another of my signature cameo cuff bracelets, this one features a trio of shell cameos (all formerly clip-on earrings). The aqua blue amazonite stones remind me of the clear blue waters of the French Riviera.





Dainty black and white cameos in a goldtone scalloped setting from the 1940s are enhanced by vintage rhinestones and garnets.





Finally, this softly stunning necklace features two fleur de lis pendants and is accented by old shell cameos on each side. A vintage French mother of pearl rosary and light blue 'satin' rosary make for a perfect springtime treat.





All of these pieces are currently available at The French Circus. And please stay tuned for more cameo confections coming soon... :)

Monday, March 19, 2012

Welcome to My Studio


Bonjour, mes amis! I've been doing a bit of reorganizing in my studio this week, and thought I'd take some photos to give you a little look around.


I always find seeing the homes (and art studios!) of others is like a glimpse into their soul. Somehow I always understand people better when I've seen where and how they live. Perhaps this will help you understand me and my aesthetic better too. :)


The Paris Carousel photo on this bookshelf was a recent birthday gift from my good friend Sharon, and was taken by one of my favourite photographers, Georgianna Lane. She has wonderful images of the city of light, flower gardens and macaroons to tempt every romantic.



I found this Louis XVI lamp last month at the flea market! His partner, Marie, now lives in the bedroom. ;)




I love this IKEA cabinet for its stylish storage possibilities. Do you see all those white bubble envelopes on the bottom shelf? This was part of my weekend re-do. Much better than the cardboard box they came in!


Ah, there's Marie! She snuck off to try on some earrings...


I also love this flea market cubby I bought a few years ago. I originally got it to store my handmade greeting cards and other paper-crafting supplies.




Now for my desk. Yes, I cleaned it up before you came over. :)


I like having all my jewelry supplies in plain view for inspiration.


Another source of inspiration for me is this board I made by covering an old wooden frame with batting, muslin, and string tied horizontally. I stash favourite cards and artwork created by me, friends, and others whose work I admire.




And now for some of what I actually use my studio for... jewelry assemblage!


These carved glass rose earrings are so elegant.



And this black glass cameo locket on rhinestone chain is sure to be an instant classic in any wardrobe.




Always, there will be French-inspired pieces. Eiffel towers for the lobe...



And a pretty Marie Antoinette necklace with gold bows and pink accents.




These new pieces are currently available in The French Circus. Please stop by next time to see what else is coming out of the studio...


Have a beautiful week! :)