How this necklace came to be

Hello sweet bead studio friends!

Remember the colorful bracelet that I featured just the other day?  It was inspired by this necklace.  And what inspired this necklace?  About a month ago I saw a friend/neighbor that I had not seen in a long time.  She was wearing a long, simple necklace.  And very colorful.  I thought…..hmmm, I wonder how I could put a real spin on the concept of using mixed, colorful beads.  I knew I wanted to add as much wirework as I could throw in.  I found carved stone beads, wood, Thai silver and of course a bit of lampwork.  I had the most eclectic mix laid out and went to town figuring out ways to lay out this crazy mix of beads that I had selected. 

Once I finished the necklace (and I tell you it was really a labor of love because it took me so long), I put it in the tumbler and it was polished to a high shine.  When I looked at the finished piece I knew something just wasn’t right.  I couldn’t figure out if it was just the variety of bead styles and color that was too much or what.   I decided to rely on a trusty trick.  I oxidized the piece and brought it to a super dark gray state.   I then polished it link by link with fine gauge steel wool.  Then back in the tumbler it went….and when it came out I was very happy.   That my friends, is how this necklace came to be.  And I have a confession:  I made two so that I could keep one for myself!  I have worn it already with so many things….it’s my favorite accessory of the moment. 🙂