Amber in African Jewelry

Amber Tribal Jewelry


Along the trans Saharan route, the indigenous Berber tribes of the Mahgreb in Northern Africa, were known for their production of the semi-precious resin know as amber. It was passed down in families as they believed it contained the spirits of those who had gone before. Natural amber resin is one of many materials used in designing my African jewelry. Using a variety of materials is a major factor in making pieces that are interesting, representative of the culture, and have the character of a native designed article of jewelry. Of course, since I am not native African, my designs are strictly my own interpretation of African art jewelry.

Moroccan Amber African Necklace



The above necklace illustrates the combining of different textures and different source materials. The Moroccan amber beads on the lower portion with brass spacers in between, more brass as a central accent, blue green Hebron spun glass beads from Palestine in the 1900s, and Venetian striped barrels that appear more like ceramic than glass. It is this blend of rich colors and the aged appearance of the beads that is captivating and that spurs my imagination as to the endless possibilities. I find new elements constantly, some are very old and circulated in Africa over 2 or more centuries, some escavated along the Silk Road, and some that are still being made my artisans in Africa and elsewhere, but fit the ethnic character of my work.

African Trade Bead Bracelet



Again a mix, this bracelet design has our amber focal bead in a very bright and colorful mix, of hand painted vintage Venetian beads with glass snake beads, Prosser heishi beads, and a green Hebron bead. Whenever possible, I try to use authentic African brass components and accents, but occasionally other brass is substituted that is fitting to the arrangement. Usually these brass elements are artisan made, and have that definite  tribal aesthetic so important to the composition. 

Blue Hebron Amber Necklace



As in the bracelet example, the amber need not be the main element of a composition, it serves extremely well as an accent with the color of these deep blue green Hebron beads in the above necklace. One amber accent bead in front, and two metal embellished amber rondelles on either side of the design. You can feel the aged quality, and the history behind these beads. Resin from gum trees taking many years to form into the hardened amber, that is then rolled against a flat wet stone or other primitive tools, giving the beads their shape. 


As you might imagine, I have aquired a sizeable treasure trove of African beads over the years, and I am always on the quest for more. If you are looking for a piece that is designed just for you, please feel free to contact me with your idea. 

Gloria

Chrysalis Tribal Jewelry

Banana Fana Fo Fellow - Yellow

Yellow Ceramic Glazed Drop Earrings

Yellow, with a little diddy from the song "The Name Game".

It's was once a color that we either loved, or loathed; definitely not your middle of the road color. Those in the "love" camp have gold tones in their hair, and warm tones in their skin color that make yellow rock! Alas, not all of us have the olive and warm or brown skin that yellow loves.

I've made jewelry for many years now, and have my favorite color palettes. BUT, something exciting happens when you (or I) discover a new color! Well, an overlooked color might be a better term. I've discovered what an excellent accent color yellow really is. Opposite on the color wheel from blue and orange, it adds just the bit of color that will make a design pop. Mind you, a little yellow can go a long way. If you are one of those people who doesn't wear the color yellow well, a little bit here and there in your jewelry or accessories is doable, and adds so much!

Polymer Clay Wedge Drop Earrings

Here is a perfect example of the opposites on the color wheel coming together for a splash bang contrast that can make a so-so ensemble into a big hit. The secret is to add the yellow, or other accent color, where it will have the most powerful effect, near your face or around your neck. Or maybe a belt or handbag?

Tribal Geometric Drop Earrings

If you like yellow, but can't wear the brighter tones well, fear not! You can tweak it a bit, tone it down to a color that better matches your hair and skin tones. Consider a softer pale version of the color, or a smokey or earthy shade. Finding the right shade of yellow can add so much richness to a jewelry design, or to an outfit. Yellow blends well with any of the warmer metals, especially copper and brass.

Southwest Horse Charm Earrings

Here, because we have pewter metal in the charms with it's silver color, a bright yellow would be less desirable than it's cousin, yellow ochre. The ochre is a better contrast with the other desert colors chosen for this southwest earring design. While kind of muddy on its own, yellow ochre has become one of my "go to" colors. Its earthiness and warmth are perfect with these soft colors, but also with strong turquoise, chartreuse, or even very bright magenta.

I think of yellow like a spice. Start with just a pinch, and then add more if necessary to taste. Open up your mind to yellow! The possibilities are endless.



Gloria

September Savings Sale!!!

Tribal jewelry at end of summer prices! Catch up on new items in my Etsy shop, all the gorgeous pieces I've added over the summer. While you have been outside enjoying the sun, I've been working my little fingers to the bone designing unusual tribal and ethnic pieces for my shop. This keeps me extremely busy since I have 3 online shops to stock with goodies.

Chrysalis Too on Etsy
Chrysalis Tribal Jewelry (website & store)
Chrysalis Tribal Jewelry on Amazon Handmade

So now that the kids (or grandkids) are back in school, it's time to take a little time to indulge yourself. Sit back and put your feet up, and take a look at what I've been up to these past few months, with no little elves to help me.

I have found some new artists who make wonderful components that fit the character of my designs, and some of my tried and true collaborators are still in the mix as well. I have pieces with vintage African beads, lots of artisan lampwork glass earrings, and handcrafted pewter and ceramic pieces too.

And you might be one of those incredible people who completes all of their holiday shopping before the huddled masses are out shopping and competing for unique gift ideas. This is a perfect time for you to browse at your leisure. Keep in mind I won't be doing any holiday sales this year, as I am a particularly contrary person and go out of my way not to conform with the "norms" of other artists and internet entrepreneurs. I prefer the path less traveled, as so does my typical customer.

So now is the time to score big on distinctive handmade jewelry, using artisan and vintage components. 20% Off your entire purchase of 2 or more items in my Etsy shop. Find these items (pictured) and so much more while the selection is best!!!

Summer Earring Sale Going On Now!

It's too hot to miss! My summer earring sale at Chrysalis Tribal Jewelry on Amazon Handmade is just 4 days, and the summer stock that I have left is sure to move fast, so don't wait if you have had your eye on a pair. Amazon Handmade is now in its third year, and growing exponentially as an online platform for individual artists to sell their work. You can purchase the earrings you see pictured, or request a quote on something to be designed specifically for you!

I need to clear out stock that has been in the shop for a few months to make room for new earrings designed for the fall and winter months. Many are bargain prices that will not be seen again for some time, or ever! There is still a variety of styles (of course mine will have a basic tribal theme), and colors from which to choose.

Distinctive designs using artisan components and unusual materials that I take considerable time finding from all over the world. Ethnic character is the common thread you will see throughout my work. It is a passion of mine to highlight the work of talented artisans and also use vintage beads and metal components that have survived through decades and sometimes centuries to create earrings and other jewelry that tells a story of many cultures.

As you may already know, I don't do frequent sales. Once or twice a year is my limit. I would much rather be in my studio making new things than writing blog posts about sales. But it is a good opportunity if you have haven't purchased previously. You can snag a bargain and feel good about treating yourself to something new and unusual! Now back to the workbench for me.

The earring sale is in my Amazon shop - Chrysalis Tribal Jewelry

My web store by the same name - Chrysalis Tribal Jewelry

My Etsy shop is still alive and well - Chrysalis Too