Hephaestus - God of Fire and Metalworking

I've been making jewelry for over 20 years now. My tastes and interests have changed many times over those 20 years. I've went back to basics recently. I'm currently on a copper, wire and the use of limited tools, kick. Well, at least that is this week.
I'd told my friends Ann and Jeanette of Infinite Designs (see link below) that I would do line of copper jewelry for them. Well here it is, earrings, rings, bracelets and necklaces completely made with copper wire of varied gauges. The only things I'm using in these new collection is copper, copper wire and various bead or bead like items. I'm really liking the way the copper acts and how fun these pieces are to make. I just purchased some vintage crystals and such to work with too. I'll keep you posted. I'm calling this collection Hephaestus after the Greek God of fire and metalworking.

Here is a sneak-peek.Infinite Designs: http://id-laser.com/
My Etsy site: www.ceruleangypsy@etsy.com

Trials and Tribulations, Heartaches and Pains

Trials and tribulations, heartaches and pains is a line sang by Mavis Staples in the movie Graffiti Bridge starring Prince. They may have visited me this week but have been shooed away by perseverance and long hours.

Of inspiration one percent, of perspiration, ninety nine. Thomas A. Edison

I've been working on a new idea. I have tons of filigree like sketches that I've been trying to turn into jewelry. Well, I think I've finally figured it out.

I began with copper wire shaped it using a template. I then flattened each piece with a hammer and anvil. I soldiered each piece together and then soldiered the entire piece for a uneven and more organic feel added the "globes". The globes are made with flat back glass beads, vintage illustrations from various books and sheets of copper tape. I added a patina and finished them by embellishing them with beads and creating a neck piece. I re-patina the entire piece for an overall look that is cohesive.

They'll be on Etsy soon enough but I wanted to share.
ceruleangypsy.etsy.com

Thanks Troy - Cerulean Gypsy