Small Business Saturday

Thanks to American Express for raising awareness about how important small business is to our economy.  If you are near Hopewell, New Jersey, I'd like you to stop and visit my friends, Beth and Will.
Will opened the Brothers Moon in 2000, and it's been going strong ever since. Beautiful gourmet dining plus lunches.  Will is one of NJ's top chefs and features local farms as much as he can.  So when you dine there, your money is spread throughout the local community.
You can find them on Facebook too.

I actually met his wife Beth first in jewelry design class.  She has her studio around the corner.  I can't tell you enough about her jewelry.  She uses fascinating combinations of gemstones, enamel, sterling silver and gold.
Here is just one necklace I snapped last time I went for a visit.  The large focal piece is enamel with a garnet gemstone accent. A one of a kind statement!  You can visit her online but you will have much more fun if you go in person.  Don't forget to stay for dinner at the Brothers Moon!

Black Friday Shopping

The day has arrived and deals abound! I'm sure you realize not all Black Friday deals are really deals.  You know my passion for handmade and in particular jewelry.  A tip: know your source. There is a pirate's ship full of jewelry out there which claims to be "handmade" but it's not.

Here's a great black Friday offer that I know for a fact is genuinely "handmade in USA".  Madelynn Cassin Designs is a super workshop in New Hampshire run by one incredible woman.  Here is her super black Friday special, a beautiful tourmalated quartz gemstone ring in sterling silver.
Of course there are many more wonderful rings and other jewelry in Madelynn's shop.  I've bought several pieces from her, the quality and craftsmanship is alway top notch.

You can learn more about this interesting variation of quartz here.

If you really like this gemstone, I made some cool sterling silver earrings that you might like too.

Happy shopping!

Sensational art jewelry

You should meet one of my favorite jewelry artists, Laura Stamper.  Incredibly creative one of a kind jewelry, I could own each and every piece that she makes.  Here is the newest ring in her online shop.
I hope you will take some time to explore her creations, they are truly remarkable.