Setting stones is not easy and it requires practice and patience. Start with a prong setting, often referred to as a claw setting, and use hard stones like quartz or jasper… they are less prone to break when you make a mistake. Prongs are nothing more than thin, tiny strips of metal that extend upward from the band creating a sort of cone able to hold the stone. Once the stone sits well on the prong, bend the ends of the prongs inwards to hold the gem securely in place. Try, and try again!
A sustainable and handmade jewelry dish
Keep your rings ready to use by placing them in this one-of-a-kind, sustainable dish. Blue reflections on the surface of the sea inspired the design of the small “riflessi blu” plate, great for your jewelry, but also as a distinctive object to adorn your home.
Why is this piece sustainable? The “riflessi blu” dish is made using recycled copper and the patina is created with household ingredients such as sea salt, vinegar, and more. Can you buy one before they sell out? Of course, you can! Just click here.
Interview with Maddalena Bearzi
I was recently interviewed by the magazine Bold Journey. They asked me about my life as a jewelry maker - as well as a marine biologist and a published author - where I get my “resilience” from, and much more. You can read the full interview (and look at some cool pics) here!
Five easy jewelry tips for everyday
1. CREATE LAYERS WITH YOUR JEWELRY
Remember to choose your pieces carefully to create an elegant look
2. MAKE A STATEMENT
Yes, be bold but wear only one (handmade) statement piece at a time so you don’t over-due it
3. MIX AND MATCH
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different metals: silver, gold, bronze, and more can be worn together
4. COMPLEMENT YOUR OUTFIT
Always remember to “match” your outfit; be stylish
5. DON’T FOLLOW TRENDS
Avoid following trends by creating your own unique style with handcrafted pieces
Do you see double?
Of course, you do! This is a two-finger ring and one of the many original pieces that have been added to the 2023-2024 Fall-Winter collection. It’s easy to wear, one of a kind, unisex, and totally ready to make a statement on your hand! It’s handcrafted in bronze but a silver version is coming soon. Its name is “ondoso” and its design takes inspiration from a large wave. The ring is available in our online shop and selected stores!
How do I forge silver to make jewelry?
It doesn’t look like an easy metal to work with, but silver is actually malleable and offers the opportunity to create unique pieces. “Forging” is an ancient metalsmithing method that allows controlling the shape of silver and other nonferrous metals by hitting the material with a special hammer. The metal needs to be heated with a torch beforehand.
In the image, this one-of-a-kind pendant (for sale online) is forged using the technique described above.