A to Z Challenge: “J”ewelry

For more than 10 years, I’ve been making jewelry. It started out as a stress reliever from a corporate job in Denver. It has become a relaxing respite that I pick up time and again when I need a creative outlet, or I find some interesting beads.

Early on, I made everyone on my Christmas list a necklace or pair of earrings. My hairstylist in Denver let me sell them in her shop which resulted in extra spending money that enabled me to purchase more interesting beads. At one time I even had a wholesale license so I could purchase beads at a discount, which allowed me to buy higher-end, semi-precious stones, which made more nice gifts.

I enjoyed having the money to continue buying supplies but I really don’t like selling my jewelry. I feel that each one is unique and although I use high-quality stones and materials, I don’t feel right selling them for what they are really worth. I’ve seen similar jewelry on sale at boutiques and even high-end jewelers for a hundred or sometimes several hundred dollars, depending on the stones. My joy is in creating the pieces and then seeing what other people like and are drawn to. It still amazes me that people like my jewelry.

I like pairing pretty colored stones together in unusual ways, like lime-green peridot and deep purple amethyst or golden yellow citrine and sky-blue turquoise. Another favorite of mine is deep blue iolite and sea-green chalcedony – what a nice pairing!

One year for my birthday, my mom bought me a string of heart-shaped, faceted, watermelon tourmaline and I made a necklace and earrings with them. The necklace is still one of my favorite pieces.

I’ve also bought medium-purple tanzanite and natural rubies and sapphires, when I had my discount – they are too pricey without. I also like agate and jasper, especially if they include interesting striations. Cherry (almost pink) quartz and garnet are also beautiful together.

I don’t think I’ve ever made two of the same thing. That’s part of the fun.

Do you have a hobby or craft that you enjoy? That helps you relax? That could almost be considered prayer or reflection as you do it?