One year ago yesterday - I bought these beads from Donna Millard - and they are so special! I have kept them on my desk, in a handmade ceramic bowl for a year now, where I smile every time I look at them! The colors of these beads emanate from the inside out. Soft pastels, with specs of color, in a chunky nugget shape, with a soft, matte finish. Ahhh....
It was time I did something with these beads. I have a dress that has all of these colors. So, I made myself a necklace. Something I NEVER do, as my jewelry box is stuffed with jewelry from more talented artists!
Anyway, I soldered a few rings from heavy silver wire and added texture. Some of these beads have actual gold leaf on the outside.
I am not normally drawn to pastels - I am more an earth tone, blue jean kinda girl. But these beads...
Made a simple pair of earrings with the purple beads, too.
I would normally add patina to the silver, and throw the whole thing in my tumbler. But, I had concerns that the finish on the beads could not handle the buff and tumble. So, I kept it shiny. I made a toggle clasp from one of Cindy Wimmer's design from her book - The Missing Link. This will be worn with the clasp to the side, as opposed to the back of the neck.
I believe Donna has outdone herself on these beads. My only sorrow is that now I have to visit my jewelry box to look at them, instead of my ceramic bowl on my bench! I think I can handle that!
On a side note, I am running a special sale in my shop - hay prices in Nevada have gone sky high. So, all proceeds from my shop will be donated to Miracle Horse Rescue so they can feed these special, rescued furbabies.
Thanks for stopping by - hoping your last weekend of Spring is wonderful!
xo
Patti
