Color Inspiration - Gems of the Earth

by Nancy Chase

Looking back at last summers garden photos, this pepper, tomato, and tomatillo, flag of colors made me long for spring planting season.

Brightly textured, the veggies tumbled into the basket, mixing a little of this and that. Hot, sweet, refreshing hues and flavors of the summer to come. Whether grown on vines, or mined from under the ground, our earth reveals gems to us. Fresh vegetables, and freshly cut gemstones - they may be tasty to the tongue, or tasty to the sight. Rich earthy color gives us appetite, and joy.

This African bead ensemble is drenched in color and texture. The African continent holds many different gemstone beads. Handmade, often recycled glass trade beads, rice shaped jade beads from South Africa, natural creamy jasper, possibly from Madagascar, and translucent African opal beads mined in Ethiopia. These beads show just a bit of the range and style of possibilities to create from natural elements.

Nancy Chase's Color Inspiration - Gems of the Earth - , Wire Jewelry Design, Design, color inspiration gems of the earth

Bracelet memory wire fashioned this multi-colored circle of true earth tones. In sizes both large and small, each has a smooth African jasper stone at its end. The opal drop earrings are fashioned with a wrapped loop bail technique. Jade beads, and glass accent beads are wire wrapped with double end links to attach to both the earring wire and the opal drop. This exercise reminds us that gems coming from the earth, whether stone, or vegetable, can inspire the eye.

Nancy Chase's Color Inspiration - Gems of the Earth - , Wire Jewelry Design, Design, memory wire bead bracelet

Materials

20 Gauge Round Stainless Steel Craft Wire - 30 ft

H18-F20-30FT

Lesson Quantity: 1.00 pieces
Purchase Quantity: 1.00 each
Price: $6.80
Gold Club Price: $5.10

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Tools

Memory Wire Cutters - Pack of 1

G2-36

G2-36
Lesson Quantity: 1.00 pieces
Purchase Quantity: 1.00 each
Price: $10.38
Gold Club Price: $7.78

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Category: Design
Technique(s): Design

Reviews

Nancy Chase

Creating, gifting, selling my original jewelry designs to friends, and clients over the years, I know how timeless a well made piece of jewelry becomes. There are always trends, innovations, novel materials to work with - curiosity about new tools and supplies. Inspiration comes from my love of the outdoors, practicing yoga, gardening and cooking. It is wonderful to share techniques and make connections with other people who appreciate handmade crafts.