Karen Sugarman Designs

Perfect For The Head Shot

2012-01-22T10:36:00.000-08:00

This has absolutely NOTHING to do with interior design OR jewelry - and I’m actually terrified of guns - but, this was just too funny to pass up! I just hope my hairdresser doesn’t pull this out to style my hair next week!

Paris in Spring

2012-01-18T09:18:00.000-08:00

Source Unknown

Palmer Weiss

Designers, interior or otherwise, get their inspirations from many places. The nexus of my blog has been how my background as an interior designer for 25+ years, has influenced my jewelry designs.

Source Unknown

I have had some gorgeous natural pink sapphire slices for quite some time, but just recently decided with Valentine’s Day and Spring on the horizon - it might be a good time to put them to good use. I went to my ideas file and found a folder entitled “Pink”. Within that folder were some stunning rooms that incorporated raspberry pink, frequently married to some type of green.

Paris au Printemps Necklace
Garden Photo via Flickr

Although these rooms were all very pretty and would have made a great jumping off point for the necklace design, there was something missing. On a whim, I went to Flickr and typed in Paris gardens, and immediately found the perfect match.

Notice the cute little carved Peridot leaves

The Paris au Printemps Necklace is composed of beautiful natural pink sapphire slices nestled within little frills of carved peridot leaves, black spinel rondelles, onyx buttons, rock crystal briolette pears and rubellite garnet rondelles. Two hexagon vermeil beads separate the center focal area and segue to the smaller pink sapphires alternating with rock crystal rondelles that lead to the complimenting rectangular vermeil clasp.

Paris au Printemps Necklace

The perfect little “Pop of Color” for spring and summer.

January’s Elegant Birthstone - Garnet

2012-01-13T18:25:00.000-08:00

Desiree Bracelet

Garnets come in a variety of colors including the beautiful pink/merlot rhodolite garnet. Rhodolite garnet has a blue/pink undertone and a gorgeous sparkle and translucency that is very different from regular garnet with its brownish red undertones. This Desiree Bracelet was just completed and photographed today and is a thoughtful gift idea for someone with a January birthday or perhaps saving it for someone special for Valentine’s Day!

The generous step cut nuggets bring out the beautiful rich merlot color - especially in the daylight. The translucent characteristic of the rhodolite garnets are married to creamy white freshwater briolette pearls to form a bracelet infused with elegance. 24k gold vermeil (gold plated silver) accent beads add to the richness of the design. This bracelet extends from 7.5” to 9” long and culminates with a unique button pearl detail that gives the bracelet a slight Moorish influence.

Kelley Proxmire via Coco+Kelley

via How Joyful

via Cote de Texas

With today’s interior design trends influencing this bracelet of red & white, you can easily see that the balance of colors leans toward more white with just an touch of red providing a very dramatic accent. Red in interior design is a concept that is very much based on emotion - love it or hate it! Personally, I love the warmth and drama of a red infused room, but have found that it has more longevity when used merely as an accent.

Valentino

Although in interior design, red as an accent color is more comfortable for most - nothing can compare to the arresting beauty of a woman dressed in red!

The Look Of Love

2012-01-09T15:58:00.000-08:00

I have been collecting antique silver lockets and mourning lockets for quite some time for their unique beauty and charming history. Because so many of them originated in Europe during the 1800’s, they are not as abundantly found here in the US.

Additionally, I have recently been very enamored by what is commonly know as “Lover’s Eye” or miniature eye portraits. My fascination began when I found a slide bracelet that integrated several of the “Lover’s Eyes” into the design. As much as I loved the bracelet, the cost was truly astronomical and I passed on the opportunity to be the new owner. Antique “Lover’s Eye” lockets are quite expensive, ranging in the thousands of dollars for one. The history of how these came to be fashionable is not only very interesting, but endearing.

Still I have a serious confession. Even though I'm in new quarters, all refurnished with new posters and a brand-new bed, and friends more often say, "You're looking good, old buddy," there is something that I've kept of Jenny, who was once my wife.

In the bottom drawer of the desk at home are Jenny's glasses. Yes. Both pairs of Jenny's glasses. Because a glance at them reminds me of of the lovely eyes that looked through them to look through me. - Eric Segal, Oliver's Story

“There's a reason the poets remind us the eyes are the window to the soul. Because they are. Eyes are the finest feature a man or woman can possess. And wield.

The invention of "A Lover's Eye" is credited to Mrs. Fitzherbert. Due to all the secrecy surrounding her we can never be quite sure, but it is believed that sometime around 1785 Mrs. Fitzherbert commissioned Richard A. Cosway, one of London's most accomplished miniaturists, to paint one of her lovely eyes. Not her entire face. The portrait was done on ivory, placed behind glass and set within a locket. She gave it as a present to her third husband. The reason for all the secrecy between Mrs. Fitzherbert and her husband is that their marriage was an illicit one. In the eyes of the British courts and Church which were one and the same, it was invalid. Though, in the eyes of Mrs. Fitzherbert's own Church, the Catholic Church, it was completely valid.

Mrs. Fitzherbert, a twice-widowed Catholic, had married the Prince of Wales, the future George IV. The Marriage Act of 1772 prevented descendants of George II from marrying Catholics. If the marriage of Mrs. Fitzherbert and the Prince had become known, he would not have succeeded to the throne. So the marriage, contracted in secret, remained in secret. The Prince of Wales, caught firmly between love and duty, could not be found wearing a portrait of his beloved wife. But he could wear a portrait of her eye. If anyone, political friend or foe, chanced to see the eye, they could not say with complete authority it was Mrs. Fitzherbert.

Due to the pressing demands of his father, the King, and his even more pressing gambling debts, the Prince of Wales did commit bigamy by marrying the rich Protestant princess, Caroline of Brunswick. That marriage was a disaster. He was drunk during the ceremony and they only had marital relations 3 times. Twice on their wedding night and once the next day. Fortunately three times was enough as it brought forth the much required heir, Charlotte. After Charlotte's birth, the Prince made out a new will in which he left all his property to "Maria Fitzherbert, my wife". To Princess Caroline, the wife his Church recognized as well as mother of his child, he gallantly gave one shilling. The Prince returned to the arms of his real wife as well as the arms of all his countless mistresses. Caroline found herself in the arms of so many men she was soon called "The Immoral Queen". They never lived together. George even forbade her from attending his coronation but she was his Queen.

The Prince of Wales continued to live off and on with Mrs. Fitzherbert until their relationship ended in about 1811. When George IV died in 1830, it was discovered he was not only wearing her "Lover's Eye" locket around his neck, he had kept all of her letters. His brother, the new King, offered to make her a duchess for all of her suffering. She refused. She died as Mrs. Fitzherbert, well-respected among those whose respect was worthy of having, in 1837.

This is the romantic history behind "A Lover's Eye". Lover's Eyes set in lockets, brooches and even rings became quite the token of love among illicit lovers. Perhaps even among licit lovers who enjoyed romance. Both men and women sat for them. They continued in popularity well into the 1850's. Or until the camera's invention.

Women in my day still understood the power of the eyes as the Eric Segal excerpt above most firmly attests. But it appears the women of today do not. Something has seriously gone missing.”

The above article is from A Lover’s Eye by Mrs. Peperium, November 18, 2009

Rather serendipitously, I came across a very talented artist who was willing to collaborate with me on incorporating new “Lover’s Eye” paintings into some of my antique lockets. The Annabelle Necklace is the first result of that collaboration.

Annabelle Necklace

As you can see, the beautiful eye is painted in a style to resemble the antiquity of its older counterparts. The stunning locket, unique in the fact it has paste stones on both sides in addition to a paste stone encrusted bow, is the perfect frame to showcase the very talented beauty of the eye art. However, there is a very unique surprise on the other side - a diminutive Napoleonic bee in 24k gold vermeil, floating in a sea of 4 carats of stunning blue sapphires. From the back side, you can also see the artist’s signature and date.

For this first necklace, I truly wanted the beauty of the artistry and antiquity to be the focal point of the design. Generous moonstone rondelles with their “blue flash” are juxtaposed with grey freshwater pearls and hand-coiled accents of silver pyrite to enhance the antique beauty of the locket. As most of these lockets are a combination of silver and gold, that combination also extends to the hand linked chain to allow the owners to wear it with either preference.

2011-12-25T21:31:00.000-08:00

www.karensugarmandesigns.com

The Fantasy of Winter White & Saltwater Pearls

2011-12-04T18:50:00.000-08:00

Emily Necklace

When I came across these very generous Japanese saltwater keshi pearls at the last Tucson Gem Show, I simply fell in love. The creamy white/ivory pearls with their thick nacre and lustrous silky finish deliver such a luxe experience - it will spoil you for any other lesser pearls forever! I added an offset oval antique-style reticulated diamond-encrusted bead in rhodium silver, and accented with just a touch of 24k gold vermeil to allow this necklace to easily be worn by lovers of either yellow gold, silver, white gold or platinum. This lady-like design is meant to be worn nestled in the nape of the neck. Wouldn’t this be a most special necklace for a groom to bestow on his bride on their wedding day?

Sherri Conley Photography

Speaking of winter brides - wouldn’t this be the most romantic backdrop for a winter wedding photo?

via This Photographer's Life

The lattice infused winter white room with it’s sparkling crystal chandelier, was the inspiration for the Emily Necklace.

Source Unknown

This all white bathroom also caught my eye before the construction of the Emily Necklace. It contains all the elements that I have used in other parts of my house - Calcutta Oro Marble, hardwood floors, crystal chandeliers and a mirror, very similar to my beloved French gold gilt mirror, with it’s darling little cherubs (found at Karina Gentinetta Disegno at 1st Dibs). I would love to re-do my master bath like this if I could just talk my hubby down from the ledge! You would think that after 28 years of wedded bliss - he would figure out this WILL probably happen!

Don’t forget to stop by Art by Karena for her

Twelve Days of Holiday Giveaways Event.

Enter for a chance to win these classic Maddie Earrings.

Step Away From The Mall - Small Business Saturday Designs

2011-11-26T10:03:00.000-08:00

Loretta Bracelet - Blue Sapphires & Creamy Button Pearls

JK Capri Hotel - This stunning hotel in Italy
was the inspiration for the Loretta Bracelet

I love the idea of this event since small businesses constitute such an important part of the US economy. Small businesses not only contribute to their local economy, but also add a level of cachet and personality to their communities.

Four “Just Listed” bracelet designs that celebrate Small Business Saturday - all part of the Black Friday / Cyber Monday Sale - Yippee!

Elise Bracelet - Charcoal Gray Moonstone Nuggets & Multicolored Moonstone Hearts

Christi Halcombe - This popular design color combination was the inspiration for the
Elise Bracelet

Bonnie Bracelet - 67 Carats of Emerald Nuggets & Creamy Petal Pearls

Tobi Fairley Interior Design - This jaw-dropping room
was the inspiration for the Bonnnie Bracelet

Analise Bracelet - Eight Strands of Tanzanite, Pink Sapphire Ovals
& Antique Pinchbeck Clasp

via Comfort & Luxury - The gorgeous periwinkle & pink colors with detailed
Moorish influence was the inspiration for the Analise bracelet

Don't forget to stop by the web site this week-end. Shopping in your jammies and saving 20% - what could be better?

Shopping In Your Jammies??? Black Friday / Cyber Monday Sale Weekend

2011-11-24T22:32:00.000-08:00

After the perfect Thanksgiving Meal. . .

With mountains of dishes to clean. . .

While the guys are watching football. . .

Perhaps a chance to dream. . .

A nap is really all I need,

To wake up ready and refreshed.

i’m going to Karen’s Black Friday / Cyber Monday Sale,

It’s certain to be the best!

www.karensugarmandesigns.com

The Tableau Collection - Keepsake Lockets

2011-10-14T19:22:00.000-07:00

Too precious! How many of us kept a lock of hair from our children's first haircuts?

Once I get and idea in my head, I can become a little OCD. Such has been the case this past summer and early fall in my quest to find antique lockets, brooches and clasps that can be used to create little “Tableaus” or pictures. Historically, these lockets were used to house not only photos of family members and sweethearts, but a lock of their hair. The hair was often plaited, woven or styled to create a “Prince of Wales” plume. An interesting fact I discovered - when men/boys went off to fight during the Civil War, they often left behind a lock of hair for their wives and sweethearts in the event they did not come home. Someone recently said to me, “That’s creepy!”. Personally, I disagree - as humans we have been collecting hair from our children (first curl/haircut), family, sweethearts and pets as little mementos since the dawn of man.

Many of these gorgeous lockets and brooches have not survived with the original hair intact, so I think it is only fair to try and preserve the unique workmanship of these gorgeous lockets by incorporating them into little “pictures”. I have filled the recesses of these lockets with very small gemstones and sometimes, if there is room, a vermeil charm that can tell a story.

via Project Style

Ava Necklace - French Paste Reliquary Brooch with rubies and carved labradorite leaves.

The Ava Necklace was once a reliquary brooch. The brooch was filled with little rubies, a carved labradorite leaf and a Byzantine cross. Most antique brooches have a pin that extends outside the diameter of the brooch. Rather than snip the pin, thus devaluing the piece - a small round bead has been added for comfort.

Palmer-Weiss

Morgaine Necklace - 14k gold Cannetille turquoise locket with 1ct. white topaz. How cute is this French Napoleonic Bee?

The Morgaine Necklace has a delicate chain of the most minuscule turquoise is interspersed with beautiful blue kyanite faceted beads and flanked by smooth spring-green chrysoprase rondelles. The dainty chain is the perfect accent to highlight the gorgeous and complex 14K gold cannetille and turquoise locket (ca.1830). The tiny glass compartment of the locket has been filled with 1ct. of white topaz while a grouping of kyanite, chrysoprase and sleeping beauty turquoise briolette amulets acts as the background for a regal little vermeil Napoleonic bee. The locket can be easily removed and worn as a brooch.

Katie Stassi

via Design Fabulous

Siren's Song Necklace - Step-faceted aquamarine nuggets & mermaid riding a seahorse on a frothy wave of aquamarine bubbles.

Keeping pace with the recent New York Fashion Week’s Spring 2012 haute couture influence of the mermaid silhouette, the exquisite Siren’s Song Necklace is certain to make a splash. The gorgeous and highly desirable color-saturated aquamarine faceted nuggets, only serve to enhance the diaphanous antique French silver paste locket (ca. 1900) filled with a 24k gold vermeil mermaid riding a seahorse in a frothy wave of aquamarine bubbles.

Now for the truth - I still have several of these lockets waiting to be made up - it seems as though I can’t resist the gorgeous designs. If you are interested in having one made up with keepsake elements that represent your life, leave me a little comment or email me at karensugarmanitr@aol.com.

Put A Ring On It!

2011-09-14T21:27:00.000-07:00

I came into jewelry designing rather late in the game after a very fulfilling career as an interior designer on Boston’s posh Newbury Street. I love creating new designs with gorgeous colored stones and the transition to jewelry design has been (for the most part) a natural fit. However, I have drawn the line (so far) at working with metals. I am pretty much convinced that my use of a torch would result in either a mass of singed hair or homelessness due to an unfortunate incident involving a flame!!!

Diamond Baratta

Ophelia Ring

As a result of my “Fear of Flame”, I have never featured rings on my website. Luckily, at my most recent gem show, I did locate a vendor that had some lovely cocktail rings and even had a chance to meet the designer. I fell in love with the style and details of the designs and purchased a few to try them out. Knuckle-grazing cocktail rings are on everyone’s mind - especially for holiday soirees.

Martyn Lawrence-Bullard

Laurel Ring

I love rings and have collected many cocktail rings over the years that were antique/estate pieces. Unfortunately, the style of these rings fell out of favor and I decided if I was not going to wear them, they should be placed in the safe deposit box for safekeeping.

Porterhouse Designs

Iliana Ring

I’m curious.....Are you on board with the chunky cocktail rings that are so popular again for 2011?

I learned a long time ago - if you hang onto something long enough - it will be resuscitated! Now...where is that safe deposit key anyway?

Is It Pink? Is It Salmon? No, It’s Honeysuckle!

2011-09-03T15:07:00.000-07:00

My hubby and I have a long running tête-à-tête (25+ years) about anything in his closet which even remotely resembles what I consider the pink family. He refers to these shirts, ties, etc. as “salmon” (as in salmon pink - even when they are not). The fact that he will actually wear these “salmon” (a.k.a. - pink) polo shirts and ties is a 180 degree change from our conversations early in our marriage. I guess I finally wore him down, but now he thinks it was all his idea!

The color gods (Panatone) have deemed this fall’s color darling as “Honeysuckle”. I am personally one happy gal - since it is one of my favorite colors. Although I grew up with wild bushes of honeysuckle that were a pale yellow - I don’t even question where these color gods are from. I’m just happy this is the color du jour!

Angela Necklace

Some time ago, I fell in love with these Missoni-striped rhodochrosite slices. They have been sitting in my stash of gemstones just waiting to be made into something gorgeous. No time like the present - they encompass four of the Panatone color forecast colors for Fall 2011 with their raw Herkimer diamond, andalucite, rhodochrosite and champagne citrine frills. Gorgeous with chocolate brown suede and camel cashmere - these are perfect for autumn!

Excessive Heat Warnings Today - I’m Swooning!

2011-08-03T14:09:00.000-07:00

I know, I know - It’s hot where ever you are! You’re right - tank tops and Daisy Dukes should never be worn by anyone over 15 - but at least they’re cool! For those of you that have suffered intolerable heat this summer (and who has not) - just remember, 110 - 115 degrees is NOT uncommon for Arizona!

In the midst of all this excessive heat, I got a phone call last week from Maryanne at Beadboard UpCountry that she was sending me a batch of images from her upcoming knits trunk show. Maryanne knows I am a big fan of the line and wanted to get my opinion. When the images arrived, I swooned - not from the heat, but from the gorgeous designs and colors. We decided that it would be nice to coordinate some of my jewelry designs with these chic ruanas, capes and scarves. I spent several hours Saturday pairing up the images and having the absolute best time doing so. This wonderful line of couture knits is simply perfect for our temperate winter climate in Arizona.

If you are now swooning from fashion fever, click here to go to Beadboard UpCountry. Now is the time to place your orders for some of these gorgeous knits. When you’re all snuggled up and looking like you just stepped out of Vogue this fall - you’ll be so glad you did!

P.S. - If your favorite jewelry designs have already sold - send me an email (karensugarmanitr@aol.com). Although the jewelry is one-of-a-kind and limited editions - sometimes, I can reproduce the designs.

July 4th Fun!

2011-07-04T14:24:00.000-07:00

Steve Maciejewski via Flickr

I live on a golf course - but this is the best July 4th idea I’ve seen so far!

Eileen Ludwig via Flickr

Lounging by the pool - when it’s 105+ degrees!

Source Unknown

Watermelon - yum!

Maxxbass via Flickr

Maybe next year!?!

KTB83 via Flickr

I miss the Boston Pops on the Esplanade with the fabulous

fireworks displays!

Source Unknown

Angel Art Photography

One last thing - Don’t forget to attend the Summer Soiree Sale!

www.karensugarmandesigns.com

After Christmas Sale - Save 25% to Over 50%

2010-12-25T17:59:00.000-08:00

www.karensugarmandesigns.com

Aaah! - The Perfect Thanksgiving

2010-11-22T20:36:00.000-08:00

Okay, Missy - Thanksgiving is all about the food! Yes, we all know you will be planning, grocery shopping and preparing for days - but, the deliciousness of the turkey is directly proportionate to whether you actually wake up to the 5:00 AM turkey buzzer on Thanksgiving morning after pulling an all-nighter!

On the other hand, it’s a great chance to amaze relatives with your tablescaping design abilities!

It’s one of those times when the entire family gets together.

A chance to see how cute and “creative” your cousin’s two youngest boys are. . .

And to see how all the other adorable children have grown in to “delightful” teenagers.

A chance for some male bonding over football. . .

And some “girl talk” over coffee and desserts.

But. . .the best part of Thanksgiving is knowing that you do not need to wake up at the crack of dawn on Friday to hit the malls for Holiday Savings. Nope. . . no tug-of-war over bargains, standing in long lines for checkout or searching for your car by clicking the remote key.

Instead - sleep until 9:00 AM, slip on your fuzzy robe - grab a cup of coffee, your laptop and head over to www.karensugarmandesigns.com

Join us for the Black Friday/Cyber Monday Sale to feast your eyes on some amazing jewelry for every gal on your holiday list. . . or maybe even a little something for yourself!

Sale begins on Thanksgiving Day and runs through Midnight (EST) Monday, November 29th.

From Room Jewelry to Real Jewelry - Gray and Gold

2010-11-06T09:12:00.000-07:00

Via Fauxology

Carolina Herrera Dress - My Favorite Designer

I have always been enamored with all the little details that make a room take on a distinct personality. Space planning is fun, but really just a necessity to keep us from bumping into objects - selecting gorgeous sofas, rugs and tables are inspiring and a delightful exercise too. However, for me, nothing could surpass the delight of spending hours selecting beautiful lighting, mirrors and the just perfect passementerie for draperies - the details are what give a room it’s persona. I always associated the selection of these minute details like adding just the perfect jewelry for a room.

Elle Decor

My Chippy Antique Italian Chandelier - I recently added new candle sleeves and shades. Arizona heat/sun really damages the fabric on lampshades.

In between bouts of creating new jewelry designs for the holidays, I have also been very focused on finding the larger decorative accessories for my now 18 month Kitchen/Family Room renovation. Recently, I became very fixated on one of my favorite antiques acquired long ago - a gray and gold-gilded Italian chandelier that sits over the Breakfast table. There is something so soothing and elegant about the dusty gray color combined with the 24K gold-leaf accents in this chippy painted chandelier.

Devon Bracelet - Rough Cut Rutilated Quartz Nuggets and Luxe Gray Moonstone Briolettes

My first attempt at combining the elements of gray and gold resulted in the Devon Bracelet. I loved the juxtaposition of the chunky golden needle-embedded beads mixed with the oversized gray moonstone briolettes and deliciously detailed 24k gold vermeil feature beads. Oddly enough, this bracelet sold about four days after listing to an interior designer from Boston.

Darla Bracelet - Round Rutilated Quartz Beads and Gray Moonstone Briolettes

Darla Bracelet - Gold Needle-Embedded Rutilated Quartz

Staring at this chandelier combination - I was reminded of the gorgeous but smaller round rutilated quartz beads still left and waiting from a previous project as well as the recently acquired luxe gray moonstone briolettes. The combination of the more delicate golden needle-embedded beads mixed with the oversized gray moonstone and gorgeous detailed 24k gold vermeil feature beads have a more traditional and formal persona when compared to the earlier Devon Bracelet. Who knows. . .maybe the Darla Bracelet will also find a home with an interior designer.

Spooky Birthday Sale

2010-10-24T12:43:00.000-07:00

Peggy Porschen

I’m not quite there yet. . . but in a few days, I will be celebrating one of those Spooky Birthdays! It’s very apropos that this Spooky Birthday falls just before Halloween.

Peggy Porschen

Peggy porschen

Source Unknown

Sadly, my sweet hubby had a business trip scheduled, so I will be celebrating alone this year - no fancy cake like these delectable confections by Peggy Porschen Designs!

Olivia (L) and Asher (R) - My Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Design Assistants

However, wonderful hubby that he is - he did take care of this birthday business before leaving. He asked me to come into the Family room with our little “fur babies”, Asher & Olivia and sit on the sofa (seriously, I thought I was about to get a lecture that I had spent too much money at the gem show this week-end!). Then the usual - “close your eyes and hold out your hands”.

Tiffany & Company - The Famous Blue Box!

When I opened my eyes, there was a wonderful surprise! Let’s just say it involved that much coveted Tiffany blue box!

In honor of my Spooky Birthday (and NO. . . I am not telling you which spooky one it is!) - I decided I should share the birthday festivities! Go to my web site here and see what special little birthday favor is yours!

Now, back to that cake. . .I think I had better celebrate with a tiny cake pop!

What An Ego - My Own Design Project Inspires the Maggie Bracelet!

2010-10-13T22:38:00.000-07:00

Bliss Design

I’ve spent the last eighteen months in an on again/off again interior design mode. When I finally convinced my hubby it was really time to renovate the kitchen/family room - I agreed to play by his rules! We would do the project in phases in order to keep a positive cash flow. We are almost there. . .in the final stretch - but not quite ready for prime time!

Bliss Design

From the beginning, I had to establish a color scheme that would be something we both liked, but also a projected guess of what might be in the upcoming color forecast. Thankfully, my forte and strength was always my fearless use of color and I am thrilled that my choice of aqua and charcoal/grey was spot on! I find that combination of colors very restful and comforting - particularly when infused with a generous dose of white and natural sunlight!

Well after the fact, I have found other beautiful rooms and vignettes that confirmed what an elegant combination charcoal/grey and aqua can be.

Maggie Bracelet - Notice the "blue flash" of the grey Labradorite

Strangely enough, my own design project became the inspiration for my newest jewelry design - the Maggie Bracelet. It’s funny that we all seem to associate a name with a particular person and such is the case with the Maggie Bracelet. The Maggie I know is a very attractive gal that is tastefully modern and impeccably stylish. She would, of course, inherently know that this beautiful blue flash Labradorite bracelet would be a great addition to her wardrobe of currently fashionable gray, black and neutrals. Maggie would love the beautiful Peruvian Blue Opal Briolettes - not only for their dash of color, but for their asymmetrical texture and design.

After seeing the outcome of this lovely bracelet - I am sooo ready to see the final reveal of my own interior design handiwork!

Lavender Love - The Iliana Necklace

2010-10-07T19:17:00.000-07:00

Lavender & Honey Ice Cream

via Flickr

When two things happen simultaneously, you know it has some hidden meaning. Several weeks ago, I was reading about lavender ice cream and thought it sounded very interesting. Lavender happens to be one of my favorite fragrances, so it made sense to me that I should at least give it a try even though I am not much of an ice cream connoisseur.

Southern Accents

House Beautiful - Coleman/Green

1teriordesign.com

As an interior designer, I do find lavender rooms to be very restful and based on the popularity of that color used in bedrooms - it must have some universal appeal.

Veranda - Kay O'Toole

Robin Karp

thedecorologist.com

On the other hand, it fairly rare to see public rooms (living rooms, dining rooms, etc.) with more than a mere whisper of lavender.

Just after the lavender ice cream idea, I came across a totally new stone (for me) that was called (of all things) - lavender opal. It seems to be available in fairly limited amounts, but its slight opalescent beauty and soft coloring made me even more determined to seek it out. I ordered a very small quantity of stones and was instantly smitten!

The Iliana Necklace - A Truly HUGE Baroque Pearl !

A "Frill" of Lavender Opal, Chalcedony, Moonstone, Pink Amethyst & Tanzanite Create A Stunning Detail. Notice The Minuscule Hand-Linked Seed Pearls in the Chain.

A Little Surprise Garnish is Placed Asymmetrically on the Seed Pearl Chain

The Iliana Necklace pays homage to that lavender ice cream confection with a generous dollop of a creamy and luxe baroque pearl topped with a medley of lavender opal faceted briolettes, rondelles and adorable little hear shaped briolettes; lavender chalcedony onion briolettes; pink amethyst rondelles; minuscule tanzanite rondelles; sweet little faceted moonstone briolettes; pear shaped moonstones and deliciously delicate little center-drilled keshi pearls. Just like a scrumptious dessert served in your favorite restaurant, the necklace is garnished with sprigs of lavender opal, dainty keshi pearl and light amethyst rondelle on the side. The 30” chain is hand-linked with the most minuscule seed pearls ever - so delicate!

Guess it’s time for me to take a trip to Whole Foods and try out the ice cream now that the necklace is completed! Um, Yummy!

Okay, Okay - I Just Couldn’t Wait Any Longer!

2010-09-19T12:00:00.000-07:00

Campania Necklace with Hessonite Garnet, Kyanite, Copper Rutilated Quartz and Dyed Freshwater Pearls Featuring an Italian Glass Fob

Beautiful Rich Autumn Colors - Notice The Generous Kyanite Wrapped Briolette Charm and Byzantine Gold Cross Flanking the Gorgeous Blue Italian Intaglio Fob With It's Birdcage Shank/Bale Design

You know, there are people that get a few extra dollars and it burns a hole in their pocket - then their are those like my hubby who like to squirrel it away! I won’t mention which of those two categories I really fall into - but, suffice to say those Italian intaglio fobs were like $$$ burning a hole in my pocket! They kept calling my name every day and my resolve to wait for someone to inquire about them just evaporated like rainwater on the sidewalk in 105 degree weather!

In This View, You Can See The Roman Mythological Figure Holding a Lyre With Cupid in The Lower Right

Campagia Necklace - 31 Inches of Classic Beauty

Since camel is this Autumn’s hot color, it inspired a design that I thought would be fabulous for Fall. Waiting for cool weather in Arizona is a bit like waiting for maple trees to fill a bucket with sap! For those lucky souls that will have crisp, cool Autumn days in the next few weeks, the Campania Necklace would be perfect with your camel suede skirts, jackets or cashmere sweaters. Lucky, lucky you!

A Fascination - Intaglios

2010-09-16T13:52:00.000-07:00

Boxed Sets of Antique Plaster Intaglios from Grand Tour Holidays

I first came across intaglios (pronounced: in-tal-yos) while vacationing in Europe one summer. I was immediately entranced by the chalky white plaster images of classical mythological stories. Although I could not convince my hubby to let me purchase some reproductions to bring back (he is always the practical one - “they will be broken before we get home!”) - over the years, my fascination remained and I finally scored a boxed set of antique plaster intaglios during an antiquing trip to Maine. Plaster intaglios were marketed in Italy during the 18th and 19th centuries as souvenirs for wealthy American and English tourist as keepsakes of their European Grand Tour holidays. The small plaster medallions were mounted into books and each medallion was documented with beautiful handwritten notations.

via Swedishdekor

Plaster intaglios are technically not intaglios at all, but rather considered cameos as the relief is carved outward rather than into the plaster. They make gorgeous accents for interior design as their chalky white designs are so classical in nature. Antique intaglios are rather expensive and difficult to find, but reproductions are abundantly available today and go with most any decor. As part of my kitchen family room renovation, I am planning to finally frame a grouping of my antique intaglios to go over some boxwood topiaries that flank a biblioteque in the family room.

Italian Glass Intaglio Fobs

The shanks/bales of these reproduction glass intaglio fobs are taken from Italian antique fobs

Since I have always been enamored with intaglios, it will come as no surprise that I also love intaglio fobs. Intaglio fobs were worn as little charms when men wore pocket watches and were also frequently used to individualize wax seals on letters and documents. Although many antique fobs are made of carved stone, glass intaglios were also a very popular item. The subject of the intaglio carvings included monograms, family crests, little verses, animals, flowers and mythological images.

As part of my recent trip to Boston, I arranged a meeting with the US rep for an Italian line of antique reproduction glass fobs. Our meeting was like being in a candy store - and it was VERY difficult to limit myself to just a handful to get started. These intaglio fobs will become part of a new jewelry group called the Grand Tour Collection. Although I have not had a chance to make them up just yet, I thought you might like to see a preview of what will be coming in the near future. If there is something that catches your eye - shoot me an email - I will be happy to work with you to create a custom design for a necklace or bracelet.

Autumn Preview - Make A Statement This Fall!

2010-08-25T18:05:00.000-07:00

www.karensugarmandesigns.com

In Good Company - Etsy Treasuries

2010-07-23T19:32:00.000-07:00

July in Arizona is not a month that inspires anyone to do anything but sit quietly in an air conditioned room. Yes, you have all heard the little saying about the unbelievably hot temperatures of an Arizona summer - “Yeah, but it’s a dry heat!”. I have somewhat deduced that there is about a 10 degree temperature differential from the rest of the universe. When it is 90 degrees in Arizona - it feels like 80 degrees in Boston / when it is 115 degrees in Arizona - it feels like. . .well - REALLY HOT! It is the kind of weather that inspires me to do absolutely nothing - and so I did!

Although I was doing nothing - the rest of the universe was doing something! My jewelry designs are also on several sites in addition to my own web site - one of which is called, Etsy. Etsy is a site that focuses on handmade designs of all kinds and the supplies that go into those designs as well as vintage items and antiques from all over the world. It is a great way to amuse yourself on a blazing hot summer day!

Part of the Etsy culture is individuals that troll through the mountains of items (seriously, there are gazillions) looking for just the perfect styles and colors to create little themed “Treasuries”. I suspect the curators are hoping that their treasury will end up on Etsy’s front page. Although I have never tried to curate a treasury, I have been featured in several and July was a very busy month for the rest of the universe - my jewelry designs were featured in ~~eight~~ 13 14 treasuries! I was also featured in Etsy’s “Storque” which is like an emailed newsletter that goes out to thousands. Sadly, I did not get a snapshot of the Storque feature to archive.

If it is blazing hot where you are this summer, and you need some quiet internet trolling time - check out Etsy. You will find everything from kitsch to couture and may just wish you had not thrown out your daughter’s Strawberry Shortcake Lunchbox!

Charmed, I’m Sure

2010-07-13T20:41:00.000-07:00

Source Unknown

Mary Drysdale

Branwen Bed by Ironies

I recently took out my little stash of Tanzanite gemstones and decided it was time to make up a new necklace design. Usually, my next obvious step is to see what scrumptious interiors images include that color as a spring board for the design of the jewelry. Trouble is. . .exactly what do you call the color of the tanzanite stone - periwinkle, blue, violet, lavender?

James Merrell

Phoebe Howard via Brook Gianette

Southern Accents via Porterhouse Designs

In the end, I decided that tanzanite crosses such a wide range of colors that it could be classified as almost any of the mentioned colors. Based on the inspiring interior designs I came up with - I further decided it would be lovely mixed with a whisper blush pearl stationed along the chain to enhance the unique color. Since I had all differing values of the above mentioned colors already out on the tray for comparison, I then decided that I should use them all to some degree in the design.

The first item that came to mind was the unique slice of amethyst stalactite with it’s Alexandrite colored “eye” and the soft violet colored spiny crystals. This unique textural explosion would became the focal point of the necklace. The plump pink amethyst “kiss” dangling just above the prickly stalactite would repeat the violet colors of the outer crystals while a deeper amethyst briolette could add the deeper dimension that was needed for contrast. Throw in an amulet of the Alexandrite green colored prasiolite to accent the eye of the stalactite and a whisper blush baroque pearl to marry the accent colors of the hand linked chain and we seem to have covered all the possible choices of the defining names that could be used to describe the color of Tanzanite.

Charmed, I'm Sure Necklace

After everything was placed on the tray, the key to all of this (no pun intended) was a happy marriage of unique shapes, texture and colors that all play nicely together in a meaningful way. And. . .there you have it - the idea for Charmed, I’m Sure was conceived.

You're Invited. . . But Oprah's Not! - Carte Blanche Summer Sale

2010-06-25T19:02:00.000-07:00

Click here to go to the Carte Blanche Summer Sale!

The Modest Nudist

2010-06-08T18:42:00.000-07:00

My dream closet belongs to Miriah Carey

Most designers (hopefully) have an epiphany early in their careers when dealing with a client that has no idea (or simply cannot communicate) what color scheme they would like for a project. A smart designer will quickly realize that all clients want their room designs to become the perfect backdrop for their sense of style, but very importantly, complimentary to their own coloring. If I’ve said it once, I‘ve said it a thousand times. . .”go look in your clients’s closet to get a better understanding of what colors will appeal to them.” Design clients (almost without exception) tend to like the colors that look best on their complexions.

If that theory is true (and after 25+ years - it has never failed me!), I wonder what I would have done if a nudist had been a client! Obviously, a few rules would have to be put into place before that scenario played out - starting with Rule #1: Clothing must be worn to all meetings with the designer and assistant! Seriously, I guess my theory would have been a perfect test this year with all the neutral/nude colors that are so abundant.

Neutrals have long been a favorite of the American public because , quite frankly, you really cannot screw-up an all-neutral color scheme if you are a DIY “Decorette”. Moving to AZ was like moving to a sea of beige and brown - not exactly a design challenge for a seasoned designer!

Here is a little mental design exercise for all you closet nudists!

via Apartment Therapy

via Martha Stewart

via A Gift Wrapped Life

via Southern Accents

The new neutrals are a bit more to my liking since they have less to do with the Mediterranean neutral undertones of gold and green (I live in a world where the popularity of “Tuscan” has turned the Arizona design community into “theme park facilitators”). The new neutrals/nudes focus more toward a pink/peach undertone which is a more friendly color for all skin tones. This new and subtle shift in the neutrals palette has taken a cue directly from this spring’s fashion trend - and I, for one, am thrilled.

Since the nexus of this blog was to show you exquisite jewelry designs inspired by breathtaking room decor - I find myself twirling in a vicious circle. Did the current fashion trend inspire the interior design industry or the jewelry first?

A Mermaid's Bouquet Necklace

Shell of an Idea Earrings

Les Roses Roses de la Mer

Les Trésors Délicats de la Mer

Elle Necklace

Oh well, I suppose all three design categories can live together side by side - happily influencing one another. Clearly, the strength of the neutral/nudes trend has already influenced both the jewelry market as well as the interior design market. Suffice to say that the fashion industry will probably scamper off on a new course by next spring while the interior design industry will quietly morph this years trend into a more durable entity.

“I Told You It Was A Left At The Border”!

2010-05-21T20:19:00.000-07:00

San Juan Capistrano via Flickr (3 images)

Every day is a new adventure in Arizona! My first week I was here, I spotted a 40 pound bobcat about 10 feet away from me. Looking back, my conversation with the wildlife agent about said bobcat was really funny!

KS - I’l like to report a bobcat sighting

Official Wildlife Agent (OWA) - How do you know it was a bobcat?

KS - Well, my ex-brother-in-law was an avid hunter and he had one mounted above my nephew’s bunk beds.

OWA - Where did you see the bobcat?

KS - I was on the little patio making some phone calls and he just came out from behind a bush about 10 feet away. When I first saw his head come out from behind the bush, I thought it was a kitty cat . . .until he walked a little further!

OWA - Is the bobcat threatening you or you pets?

KS - Not really, but I thought you should know he is in a residential neighborhood where there are small children and pets!

OWA - M’am, where are you from?

KS - I just moved here from Boston about a week ago.

OWA - Well. . .now you live in the desert and unless the bobcat is threatening you or your pets - we don’t come out. These animals were here long before all the buildings went up in your neighborhood. I’m sure you will see other animals during your stay here - but like I said, unless they are threatening - we don’t come out!

I hung up the phone, but it always stuck in my head that the entire episode sounded like a madcap Lucille Ball episode of I Love Lucy or a clip from City Slickers!

One of 4+ nests on my front porch alcove

Look closely - the little swallow is peeping out of the nest!

To date, we have dealt with 3 swarms of bees (one swarm necessitated moving out of the house for 2 days while they removed part of our house to treat the hive); rabbit proofing our yard so the little bunnies would not be eaten by our fiercely interested Cavalier King Charles Spaniels; an ongoing battle with “roof rats” who find our orange trees a gourmet delicacy and now the latest. . .a flock of swallows! This is all a bit much for someone that is not exactly a “nature girl”!

Don’t get me wrong. . .I love birds - especially the sweet little hummingbirds that are so abundant in AZ, but this latest adventure is not only extremely messy, but a little scary - much like Tippi Hedren in Alfred Hitchcock’s, “The Birds”! These swallows are very fast and they swoop in under the soffit of the front entrance alcove with a mission. If something is not done soon to stop their nest building - I’m afraid our guests won’t be able to come in through the front door! I spent the day trying to get some help in relocating them to no avail. Of course, it is the week-end so nothing can be done until Monday (isn’t that always the way things go?)! By Monday, they will probably have a full subdivision of swallow condo’s built and a HOA in place! Anyone have any ideas???

As always, the creative mind keeps spinning (especially because there is nothing more I can do about the swallow problem), so I might as well be constructive with something! I’ve been working on the completion of my Kitchen/Family Room where soft dove-grays have intersected with powdery aquamarine blue. There is just something about this combination of colors that is very soothing to me.

Gigi Necklace

Gigi Earrings

I just completed this Gigi Necklace made up of soft dove-gray freshwater pearls, petal pearls and organic aquamarine nuggets. I especially like the fact it has an elegant presence, but is not overwhelmingly dramatic - a wonderful and flattering spring/summer choice.

I can just hear Mrs. Swallow to her husband - “I Told You It Was A Left At The Border”! San Juan Capistrano - you are missing some swallows and I think I have found them!

Phoebe’s Devotion and the Mother’s Day Necklace Winner!

2010-05-03T15:45:00.000-07:00

Theoro via Flickr

Thank you all for your touching and sometimes humorous tributes to your Mothers. As I read each comment, I also traced back to your own blogs.

via 2 Bags Full

One in particular has held my attention for days. Vicki from 2 Bags Full has a posting and link on her blog about a beautiful little hummingbird named Phoebe. Phoebe is in the process of hatching her tiny little eggs that will become her new family. Phoebe’s efforts are being broadcast live (via a webcam) so you can see her devotion to her little babies in live time. Click here to go to the website and watch the miracle of new life.

Without further adieu – the winner of the Mother’s Day Necklace Giveaway is:

ღஐƸ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒஐღ Michelle ღஐƸ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒஐღ

Congratulations, Michelle – I’ll be in touch to find out the gemstones for your special gift.

Happy Mother’s Day – not only to the Mothers amongst us, but kudos to the wonderful children that these loving mothers have raised!

Forget Me Not Necklace (Flora Collection) – Chalcedony, Pearls and Blue Lace Agate

2010-04-25T17:36:00.000-07:00

Forget Me Not flowers have been a favorite of mine for many years. These delicate little flowers grow wild in some locales and they were a favorite of Victorians - probably as much for their sweet color and form, as for their adorable and nostalgic name.

They appear in my collection of antique Elfinware as well as a smaller collection of antique postcards that were sadly misplaced at some point during my move across country.

There is just something about the slightly lavender-blue hue that keeps me entranced. It is a complicated color – too much red and it becomes lavender – too much blue and it becomes. . .well, blue! I have always had a theory that this particular shade of blue is very becoming to most people. It makes us look cool on the most brutal summer day and tan on even the most pallid complexion!

Diamond Baratta

via Cococozy

It is a very significant color for me as it was this lavender-blue hue that I chose for my first ever showhouse years ago. I think it is a favorite of many interior designers for its freshness and universal appeal.

Forget Me Not Necklace (Flora Collection)

Forget Me Not Earrings

The sweet little Forget Me Not flower was clearly an apt moniker for my most recent necklace design made for the Flora Collection. Beautiful shades of lavender-blue chalcedony and blue lace agate were juxtaposed with an abundance of creamy freshwater pearls in assorted shapes from simple rounds to egg shapes and petal pearls, and were combined to create a profusion of delicate flower-like elements. With a name like this – how could you forget this sweet bijoux frippery!

Don't Forget the Mopther's Day Necklace Giveaway

in the April 20th Posting!

Mother’s Day Necklace Giveaway – Octo-Mom Here’s Your Chance!

2010-04-20T20:24:00.000-07:00

I just bet that everyone thinks while I am making up jewelry designs I am listening to something elegant like classical music (on occasion) or at the least, watching something of importance - like the news. I am chagrined to admit that is not necessarily the case.

Most often the TV is tuned in to absurd programs like repeats of The Housewives of ________ (you fill in the city) or Millionaire Matchmaker. Today was an exception – I happened to turn on Oprah who was interviewing none other than, Octo-Mom Nadia. As I worked on a new necklace design, I became transfixed with her reality check of Motherhood. In the end, I came away feeling a bit sorry not only for her children, but for herself. I’m sure in the midst of her emotional decision to have all these children; she was, shall we say - rather clueless, as to the day-to-day demands of being a single parent of 14.

Thankfully, I did not own that problem! I was raised as an only child and had a beautiful mother as well as a fabulous step-mother. My mother imparted a sense of style to me from a very young age and I was also very blessed to have such a warm and caring step-mom after her death. I was brought up in an environment that fostered my creative side while simultaneously teaching me to think independently. I can still hear my step-mother’s words – “Just because everyone else is doing it (you choose the folly), does not mean you have to follow along! Great life-lessons!

Mother's Day/New Mommy Necklace

Last year I wrote about my niece and her long awaited new baby that inspired a Mother’s Day/New Mommy Necklace design in this post. This year I decided I should do a little give-away to all my wonderful readers.

Leave me a comment about some poignant memory or bit of wisdom from your mother and you will be automatically entered to win a custom designed Mother’s Day necklace like the ones in the photo. You get to choose the metal (sterling silver or 24K gold vermeil) and the birthstones that suit your family. This thoughtful necklace can either be a gift for yourself or a gift for your own wonderful mother or mother-in-law.

The drawing will be on Monday, May 3rd. Nadia – are you out there?!

“A Delectable Confection”

2010-04-02T22:55:00.000-07:00

The first time I heard these words was from my DH not long after we were married. It was to me (and still is), the cutest term of endearment I had ever heard. My hubby has an adorable sense of humor and this little phrase has been passed back and forth for many years.

Literally, Laduree has the “Delectable Confection” issue all sewn up with their mind-boggling pastel macaroons and their much envied pastel packaging. I think people are almost as much in love with the Easter-colored packages as the delicious contents!

I came across a wonderful blog this week with the most inspiring crafting techniques for the Easter/Spring holidays called Such Pretty Things. Jessica writes a very fun posting called Target Tuesdays where she really could put Martha’s crafting skills on notice. Above are some of her gorgeous Easter/Spring images all displaying not only beautiful craft ideas, but a gelato profusion of pastel colors.

Karen Sugarman Interiors

Junior League of Boston Showhouse - Breakfast Room - Westwood, MA

Better Homes and Gardens Window and Wall Ideas

Mary Drysdale

Karen Sugarman Interiors

Drawing Room

Commandant's House - Charlestown Navy Yard

Jeffrey Bilhuber via Cote de Texas

Karen Sugarman Interiors

Princess and The Pea Bedroom

Junior League of Boston Showhouse - Dedham, MA

Pastel colors have long been a favorite of mine when designing interiors. There is a serene and comforting quality to the whisper of the diffused colors. Dramatic and dark rooms are always sophisticated, but much like a “diva friend”, they can be exhausting and numbing after too much drama.

Marie's Folly Bracelet - Pastel Tourmaline, Aquamarine and Beryl

With all these beautiful Easter/Spring colors in my head, I just completed a new bracelet design called Marie’s Folly. It is a magnificent combination of pastel tourmaline briolettes flanked by gorgeously organic aquamarine/beryl pastel slices. Pastel tourmaline is actually in short supply as it is found in Afghanistan in remote and very dangerous regions.

Knowing that Marie Antoinette had a great fondness for all things pastel, I feel certain that she would have approved of this “delectable confection”.

Online Flea Market Round-Up - Preparedness Course

2010-03-19T19:08:00.000-07:00

Make sure to put your flashlight by the bed tonight – just in case. . .

a.) The baby needs a four o’clock bottle.

b.) “Conchita” decides to get up at 4 AM.

c.) Your 16 year old daughter decides to sneak out the window - again!

Check the bottom of the closet for that little stash of cash you’ve been hiding for emergencies.

Make sure your fuzzy bathrobe and slippers are handy (yes, this is the acceptable dress code for this event – would I lie to you?!).

Pour yourself a nice cup of coffee (no - it’s probably not worth driving to Starbucks at 4 AM!).

Log on to Designing DNA for the first ever online Flea Market Round-Up and get ready to snatch-up some of the best flea market finds you have ever seen! Proceeds from this event will benefit Samaritan’s Purse for Disaster Relief Rebuilding.

See you bright and early tomorrow morning!

They’re Baaaack! Orange Blossoms, Romance and Brides

2010-03-18T21:43:00.000-07:00

I know that many of you have been faced with an unusual amount of snow, ice and flood-producing rains this past winter and I certainly feel your pain! Arizona is the one state that is usually out-of-step with the rest of the nation regarding both weather and Daylight Savings Time. While everyone else is slogging through nature’s fury - our weather is fairly mild during the harshest of winter months. And then, there is the issue of Daylight Savings Time – we are the only state that does not “Spring Forward” nor “Fall Back” with everyone else. Don’t ask me why because I have no idea. I can only imagine some “rogue cowboy” legislator suggesting that we do not need to be in step with everyone else. After all, this is probably one of a few states that you might encounter a sign on an antique store door requiring that all firearms must be checked at the desk (somehow a snake slithering out from behind a Chippendale table does seem rather remote)! Yikes!!

Our weather the past week has pushed up to the low 80’s and this is my favorite time of the year – not too cold – not too hot – just right. Part of my delight in the Arizona March weather is the citrus trees. Yes. . . they’re baaaack! That profoundly intoxicating aroma of the orange blossoms has just started to waft through the back yard. I posted about that delicious time of year two years ago in this posting.

Pearly white orange blossoms have long been associated with brides and for good reasons. According to Cornelia Powell, “Incorporating orange blossoms into the bride's costume originated in ancient China where they were emblems of purity, chastity and innocence. There are few trees so prolific as the orange; it is one of the rare plants that blooms and bears fruit at the same time, thus becoming symbolic of fruitfulness. During the time of the Crusades, the custom was brought from the East first to Spain, then to France , then to England in the early 1800's. By then, many enchanting legends had spread throughout the continent of maidens entwining fresh orange blossoms into a bridal wreath for their hair. The influence became so indoctrinated into the culture that the phrase "to gather orange blossoms" took the meaning “to seek a wife”.

via Whimsical Whites

When real orange blossoms were in short supply or in northern climates where citrus fruits did not flourish, wax replicas were used instead. However, reports in society newspapers of some extravagant Victorian weddings would specify "real orange blossoms" were used and the effusive accounts of the nuptials told of lush scents wafting through the air! These exquisite folkloric flowers, either genuine fresh blossoms or wax replicas, continued to be used to "fulfill the demands of tradition" well into the 1950s. The wax reproductions so prized during the Victorian era have become extremely precious today. Whether it is an entire vintage wax flower wreath that has been restored to wear again or some individual flowers saved to nestle into a newly made headpiece, these charming wax replica orange blossoms are being treasured again, and being used for their uniqueness, beauty and sentiment.”

As a jewelry designer, this is also the time of year when I begin to get requests from brides for new wedding jewelry designs for both themselves and their bridesmaids. It is always such a delight to work with brides to develop a design that will compliment their dresses and those of their wedding party. So far. . .no Bridezillas – just lovely young women looking for something unique and tasteful. I think I enjoy the design process with them so much because I only had one son – so, no weddings to plan.

Orange Blossom Necklace (Flora Collection)

Orange Blossom Earrings

My most recent bridal designs were inspired by the perfumed fragrance of those orange trees in the back yard and are aptly named Orange Blossom Necklace (Flora Collection) and Orange Blossom Earrings. Both designs consist of creamy ivory freshwater pearls coupled with very generous and crystal-clear rock crystal briolettes.

via Theodore and Company

via The Lennox Zimichost

via Modern Interior Design Decoration

via Whimsey by Victoria

via Tim Walker

In keeping with the romance of white orange blossoms and brides I am including some of my favorite white rooms. Perhaps not too practical, but certainly romantic and dreamy.

Pastels for Spring – No Shrinking Violets

2010-03-12T12:58:00.000-08:00

Mariana Hardwick

Elie Saab - Spring 2010

J. Crew

Ferretti

One of the biggest trends this spring season is the nude/pastel colors that are popping up in all the stores. I, for one, could not be more delighted. However, just as with any color trend, there are certain aspects I simply cannot wear. Soft pastel colors exemplify all that is feminine and girly, but often this year they are shown with a bit of edge.

via House and Home

via Decor Pad

via House and Home

One of my favorite combinations is pastel violet or lavender mixed with ballet pinks and/or peach. For most of my career as an interior designer, I shied away from anything that was in the lavender/violet family – considering it too juvenile. It has been only over the past few years that I have come to terms with that family of colors and they have recently piqued my interest.

via Flickr

Flowers however, are a completely different story. I have always been smitten by wisteria with its gnarly vines and stunning display of showy pink/lavender flowers. I always dreamed of a beautiful English terraced garden – complete with gorgeous limestone urns and architectural details such as an arbor replete with a canopy of wisteria. The delicate fragrance and colors belie their sturdiness. Even in the fall and winter, their gnarled and twisted vines create an eerie beauty against a palette of snow.

Wisteria Necklace from the Flora Collection

The fragile colors of the wisteria vine were the inspiration for this gorgeous Wisteria Necklace from the Flora Collection. A soft and beautiful mix of violet, purple and pink represent the colors we most often associate with this stunning floral vine. The explosion of delicate colored amethyst, pink amethyst and rose quartz gemstones culminates with a magnificent 45 carat faceted pink amethyst briolette. 21” long with 24K gold vermeil toggle clasp and accents. A perfect touch of shimmer for a summer garden party.

There’s No Place Like Home

2010-03-08T17:48:00.000-08:00

Photo via Flickr

A few weeks ago, when my hubby informed me he had to go to Bermuda on business, I thought it would be a nice little mini-vacation for me since I had never been. Of course it dawned on me much later that I had never bothered to renew my passport and now I had less than 3 weeks to do so – yikes! I happened to be speaking with a new blogging buddy – Colleen of Designing DNA – and she recommended that I use a passport service to expedite the new passport. I am happy to report that I did use one and the mission went exceedingly well. I had my new passport in my possession about a week before I departed.

Photo via Flickr

Our trip to Nassau was very smooth and uneventful (even though my new passport photo makes me look like an escapee from an asylum!). The water surrounding the Bahamas is a beautiful midnight blue color in the deeper water that quickly changes to a magnificent aqua blue shroud around the land masses. Just gorgeous!

Photo via Flickr

Unfortunately, the weather was unseasonably cold, stormy and blustery for the duration of our trip. It was a good opportunity for me to get caught up on some much needed rest since the only tourists brave enough to venture out to the water/pools were children and college students. The hot tub was occasionally populated with the more “mature guests” (who must have been from the northeast) and seemed to be oblivious to the wind chill that comes with 65 degrees and 35-40 MPH winds when stepping out of a heated pool! Brrrrr!

Straw Market - Photo via Flickr

During some of our free time, we ventured into town for shopping and a visit to the Straw Market. Shopping in Nassau really goes from the sublime to the ridiculous. There are tons of luxury shops that sell everything from perfume to watches and jewelry is a very popular item in many of these stores. If you are someone that likes to buy “brands” – this is you Mecca!

The Straw Market however, is another story! Apparently, there was a fire and it is currently housed under a huge tent while the locals create a more permanent home for the vendors. It is enormous – row after row of 10’tall stalls completely stuffed with all the flotsam and jetsam of a tourist shopper or a fashionista wannabe’s dreams! Isles are about 2’ – 3’ wide and every vendor is trying to engage the tourists into buying a memento or braiding their hair! Most of the articles are strangely enough made in China. One interesting observation – the older island inhabitants do embellish the straw baskets and fans with some type of decorative handiwork – but, the younger generation is simply trying to sell the tourists designer knock-off handbags. Ten minutes of this claustrophobic insanity is just about all I could endure.

Photo via Flickr

Our drives along the island on the way into town were very interesting to me as I had a chance to study some of the local architecture. Buildings and homes ranged from Palladian to Victorian to French – and everything in between! Quite a cacophony of colors and styles - sometimes all under one roof!

It was a lovely opportunity to get a quick education of the island, but I was certainly ready to get home to my own comfortable bed, my two darling Cavalier King Charles Spaniels and a heated home (apparently the hotel does not seem to think they need to have a heating system in the hotel – how bizarre!). As we walked in the front door, my reoccurring grateful feeling of all the familiar comforts returned. It is always exciting to take small journeys to discover exotic places but, there is truly no place like home!

Peacock Flower Necklace

Crosses of Stone Necklace

Watermelon Slices Tourmaline Bracelet

Back to my conversation with Colleen of Designing DNA. Most of us have never suffered the loss of our homes, but sadly there are still families that have lost all the comforts of their homes. I am delighted to be involved in Colleen’s project - Flea Market Round Up - to help raise funds for Samaritan’s Purse for families that are still recovering from the loss of their homes as a result of disasters. Some of the stories are heart-wrenching. I will be donating 100% of the proceeds of my Peacock Flower Necklace in addition to 20% of all sales during the week-end of March 20-21.

Colleen has gathered up an astonishing line up of vendors and items from the generous blogging community and this event should be more fun than a girl’s shopping weekend with the Housewives of New York and a Black AmEx! Please plan to join us and remember. . . flannel PJ’s and fuzzy slippers are acceptable dress code for this event!

For more information on this fun week-end - click here.

My Sweet Valentine Winner!

2010-02-10T22:18:00.000-08:00

♥*¨)

¸.•´¸.•*´¨) ¸.•*´¨)

(¸.•´ (¸*´¨(♥ Congratulations!

(¸.•´ (¸.•´ ♥

The Winner of the Valentine’s Day

Bien-Aimé Earrings

Karena

Art by Karena

Please be sure to stop by her blog to view her gorgeous paintings and say "Hello!"

Proud As a Peacock – Blue For Spring 2010

2010-02-08T18:42:00.000-08:00

via Metropolitan Home

via Little Green Notebook

via House of Turquoise

Several months ago after reading some fashion and color reports, I realized that blue (in any shade) would be the color du jour for Spring 2010. As a result, blue gemstones were given a higher priority on my forays in the gem shows. One particular shade of blue became much more interesting for me – peacock blue.

via House of Turquoise

I have been enamored with this color- in any shade or tint - since I was a child. When I was around 10-11 years old, I was completely besotted with a bottle of Peacock Blue ink that I carefully (or so I thought) used to refill an ink pen while I practiced writing in swirly-girly script. For unknown reasons, one day I decided to refill the pen on top of my mother’s pristine white bedspread. Much to my horror, several drops of the beautiful peacock blue ink landed right at the foot of the bed!

I was in tears by the time I reached our housekeeper to admit my horrible mistake. Thank goodness she took mercy on me and adeptly stripped the crisp white bedspread off the bed. After a few hours in the Louisiana sun with lemon juice followed by a soaking in bleach, she was able to take care of my transgression. Years later (when I was a young mother myself), I mentioned this story to my mother and much to my surprise – she was completely (thankfully) unaware that this little episode had ever happened.

Dione Earrings
There are very few gemstones that fall into the peacock blue category but one of my favorites is London Blue Topaz. Because of the expense of this particular stone, I tend to use it sparingly. Last week, I attended the Tucson Gem Show and discovered yet another stone that falls into the peacock blue family – Royal Blue Kyanite.

Peacock Flower

Peacock Flower Necklace

I decided that it would make a very nice addition to my Flora Collection but quickly realized that there are no flowers that are peacock blue (with the exception of those awful dyed flowers that florists insist on trotting out every season). An hour or so of research resulted in some rather interesting results. Apparently, there is an actual flower called the Peacock Flower that is grown in India which looks very similar to a flowering bush that we have near the little putting green on the side of our house. With poetic license, I think you can see the similarities in the architecture of the Peacock Flower and that of the Flora Collection necklace design. Thank goodness the Flora Collection is not a literal translation from flowers to jewelry!

For those of you that are still following the progress of my kitchen renovation – I must admit I am a little behind in posting. However, I want to keep the progress in order and will get this updated shortly. The images above/below were taken in early December and illustrate the steps in adding the ornamentation to the island.

For those of you that are unfamiliar with J.P. Weaver products used as ornamentation – these are the steps we used.

• A wood graining tool was used to add texture to the flat panels before the ornamentation was secured.

• Since the ornamentation product has some flexibility, it is necessary to place it using not only measurements, but your eye. Screws were used to hold the ornaments in place because of the weight and the fact they are positioned vertically.

• Once the ornaments were in position, Tim used a quick-setting glue that was appropriate for the ornamentation. Carvings were left to cure for about 12-18 hours.

• Tim has begun the faux painting process by using a very bright turquoise over the wood grained effect. All of these textures/colors will become more subdued, but still visible when the light sanding and antiquing glaze are in place.

Bien-Aimé Earrings - Valentine's Give-Away

Last but not least – don’t forget – the drawing for the “Bien-Aimé” Valentine’s earrings is Wednesday! Leave a little comment on the January 23rd posting to be entered for the earrings give-away. I will announce the winner on Wednesday evening. Good luck and thank you all for your sweet comments.