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

Black Friday Savings Coupons

And so it begins. The official start of the holiday shopping season is Black Friday, which seems to have undergone a transition over recent years. No longer is Black Friday people literally camping out in front of their favorite retailer, waiting for the latest tech gadget or the toy that every kid wants, only to find that their prize is gone by the time they can get inside the store. Common sense and self preservation are winning out. Rather than risk trampling by a crowd of crazed bargain hunters, reasonable people are choosing to let their laptops and smart phones do the walking. They can get a good start on their shopping in the comfort of home, without the risk of a trip to the emergency room, and still have the time to spare.

If handmade jewelry is on your list for gift giving this year, or if you want to reward yourself for outgrowing the high risk habit of Black Friday shopping in person, check out my online shops! You can save by using my holiday coupons in either of my shops, Chrysalis Too on Etsy or Chrysalis Tribal Jewelry.


HOLIDAY10 - for 10% off purchases of $50 or more

HOLIDAY15 - for 15% off purchases of $100 or more


Prices have already been reduced on many items in both shops, so shop early for the best selection. If you missed out on Black Friday, don't worry, coupons will be active until December 20th.

Happy Holidays, everyone !!!

Handmade for the Holidays!!!

I know. It begins earlier and earlier every year. Try to think of it this way. If you are invigorated by the thought of gift shopping for loved ones, then you can stretch out the euphoria a little longer. And if you don't get a high from holiday shopping, you can start and finish earlier. Then you can relax and enjoy the season stress free.

Another advantage to starting early with your gift shopping is that you have time to order something customized for someone special in your life. From my own experience, I do more and more customized pieces of jewelry each year. It is manageable from January through October, with enough time for me to design pieces carefully and not ask my clients to wait for too long. Buuuuut . . . . come November, I will still get requests from my clients hoping to squeak in while there is still time. Sometimes I can and that makes us both very happy, especially if it is in early November. Later on, well, that's not a sure thing.

It's still early! So if you are looking for a custom boho or tribal jewelry design for yourself or someone close to you, please send me an email: Bohobeader@comcast.net

I have seasonal promotions going on right now in my Etsy shop, Chrysalis Too, Use coupon code HOLIDAY10 for 10% off on your purchase of $50 or more, and HOLIDAY15 for 15% off on $100 or more. Gift wrapping is included. Even more boho tribal jewelry with the same coupon saving promotion in my web store, Chrysalis Tribal Jewelry.




Happy Holidays!

Gloria

Custom Multi-Strand Boho Bracelets

You choose the colors! You choose the number of strands! You choose the metal! What could be better for fall and for holiday gift giving? I have an ample supply of African trade beads, Indonesian tribal seed beads, and premium Czech glass seed beads from which to choose. I have silver plated, antique copper and antique brass metal findings, accents and charms to add just the right finishing touches to your customized bracelet.

I have a huge variety of African trade beads, premium Czech glass seed beads, and Indonesian tribal seed beads from which to choose. You can select silver/pewter, antique copper, or antique brass for the clasp, accent beads, and charms that finish these bracelets so perfectly. The beads are strung onto waxed Irish linen cord and attached to a multi-strand slider clasp. Optional charms and dangles are also available for your design.

Pricing is dependent on the number of strands to your bracelet, and somewhat on the type of beads used in them i.e. Magatama beads are more expensive to use than Indonesian beads. But just to give you a range of pricing, a 4 strand bracelet could be designed for as little as $48 - a 12 strand bracelet could go as high as $139.

After the color, metal and size selections are made, I require about 6-8 business days to complete your customized bracelet. I already have an abundance of materials, but if your special request involves ordering something, you should add an additional 5 days to the completion time.

I hope this post has your mind whirling with ideas of bead and color combos that would complement your look!!! I have endless ideas for this concept, so if you would like to collaborate, just send me an email at bohobeader@comcast.net. Bracelets pictured above are available in two of my online shops. Updates will be posted between now and December 1st regarding already made, and the last day for placing custom orders.


Chrysalis Too on Etsy
Chrysalis Tribal Jewelry