It’s almost February and that means Valentine’s Day is just around the corner! I got a jump start on designing with this holiday in mind, thanks to being a part of the Artbeads blogging community.
When I thought about what I could make for Valentine’s Day, my first thought was something classic. Charm bracelets are traditional favorites, and I decided to create one that included classic, well-loved components: sterling silver, sparkly crystal and creamy white pearls. All of the sweet sterling silver charms you see here can be found in the charms section at Artbeads. It’s hard for me to pick a favorite, but I do love the little lock and key you see in the center of this picture. I chose 10mm Swarovski round crytals to add a little glam to this piece. This jingly braclet can be an accessory staple, worn long after February 14th has passed!
Simply stated, “Loved” features Swarovski crystals in Ruby…a color perfect for Valentine’s Day or year ’round. I decided to pick a crystal shape that I had never worked with before, and found this little 16x11mm Baroque pendant. I really like the Baroque shape – reminds me of a vintage chandelier crystal. I forged and stamped the “Loved” tag from sterling silver sheet. I went to town wire wrapping the 5mm Ruby crystals with patterned chain. The combination of rustic and sparkle is a favorite of mine, so I oxidized the necklace in liver of sulfur.
When Artbeads announced they would launch new Valentine’s Day-themed Stoneware pendants in January, I just knew I wanted to add those to my list! I chose an assortment of handmade stoneware clay beads in round and tube shapes…and my favorite is the heart with flowers. Rather than design a piece using the heart as a pendant, I decided to use it as a charm at the clasp of this steel wire-wrapped bracelet.
Sold, thank you
I cut and hammered nickel sheet, riveted some tiny flowers, and textured the metal with my trusty chasing hammer. And did you notice that upside-down “e”? It blended in so well but I caught that pesky mistake before I assembled the bracelet. It added a little whimsy, so I decided to let it sneak past me.
There’s still time to create something special for the big day, so stop by Artbeads to see their Valentine’s Day selection of beads and components… you’ll be inspired!
Please note: The beads and components reviewed were received free of charge by Artbeads as part of their Blogging for Beaders program. I have not received compensation for my endorsement of these products.
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{ 34 comments… read them below or add one }
Oooooh, swooning over this Red bracelet you created. I love that red
and white heart too!
Nice work, as usual!
for me…..it HAS to be the charm bracelet….it just shouts charm….I’m not talking about dangly charm but the sweet kinda charm, plus it feels full of romance! LOVE IT!! ;o)
hugs
hello gorgeous xxx
Oh my! I’m in love with them all!!
These are FABULOUS!!! I love each one!! 🙂 Of course, I love the classic stunning silver charm bracelet…now, it grabbed my heart right away! But, goodness, the other beautiful treats are just as amazing! Cindy, these new designs are so SWEET…you did a beautiful job with these creations! I owe you an email…been just a bit behind in that department but will email in a day or two and catch up. Hope you and the boys are having a fun weekend! Stay warm…I hear it’s snowing up there again! It’s freezing here, too! 🙂
I can’t pick a favourite. They all fantastic. It’s like you’ve created something for every possible mood you might have.
Wow, lovely work, Cindy! My favorite is the “loved” necklace – and I am not even particularly fond of red!!!
Hope you are having a good weekend. Hugs
Cindy – these bracelets are so beautiful! I especially love the one with the stoneware beads – so whimsical! Great job!
🙂 Molly
they are all great for different reasons… but i really love the last one – and the ‘e’ that is upside down … i think i have some of those beads in different colors and i love them… really nice work – reds and grey is so pretty …
Great bracelets. I like how you put them all together, but especially like the one with the red & white heart.
Cindy,
These are all so beautiful, but I do have to say that “loved” is my favorite. Your ideas are fabulous! An early “HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY” to you!
Very nice! I see you are having fun riveting to!
The red bracelet is my favorite. I had to really look hard for the upside down e!
cindy! I love the “lock and key” charm! Frank always says “we are like a lock and key that finally found each other!” Keep making beautiful things. Need some boy pictures soon on your blog!
cheers my dear!! beautiful work!! love the red one with riveted flowers!! well .; i love all!! cause all you touch become “love” messages!! STUNNING
Those are all gorgeous!! And definitely right on time for the coming holiday 🙂
I really need to start getting my butt in gear when it comes to my jewelry! I always seem to be late when it comes to producing products for holidays and special occasions. Lol
Hi Cindy…..A great collection of pieces! I really really love the red stone bracelet, all components are beautiful…especially the upside down ‘e’..lol…..I also love that you used steel wire, it’s fabulous!
I loved the last bracelet a lot its a real beauty.
Cindy, I just love everything! The red pieces are my favorite!
They are all beautiful Cindy, but I looooove the “be true ” bracelet!! I love what you did with the metal….texture, and the rivets….it’s just gorgeous!
I love that charm bracelet…I wants it, precious!
Thank you for all of your kind comments…it’s been fun hearing which piece is your favorite out of the three! 🙂
Gosh Cindy, how I wish I lived closer, I’d be at one of your classes faster than you could say ‘textured metal’! 🙂 I love the uniqueness of your designs, they are made with such love. Have a happy, creative week.
Oh Cindy, these are beautiful, absolutely gorgeous :o)
p.s. thanks for your lovely comment on my blog, loving your work too x
Cindy, I agree with so many of the comments – all three of these are yummy. My special favorite is be true with the red beads and steel wire. Very different! Like the riveted flowers too.
These are GREAT Cindy! Such happy jewelry. You are entered in the contest, thanks for stopping by, and good luck!! Take care, Riki
Oooh, I love them all Cindy! My fav is the red and steel bracelet with the riveted focal…very yummy! I have been working on some Valentine themed pieces as well…have to take some photos.
They are all so pretty! Love the silver charms on the first bracelet…I have used some of those in my designs.
Oooo…All your pieces are just gorgeous but I especially Love the Be True bracelet, didn’t even notice the “e”. You really choose some great components.
Hey Little Mama,
You have been a very busy little girl!!!! I think like Renate I favor the Love piece the red cyrstals are such a lovely dark color.
Are the boys tired of the snow yet??? I think of you everytime I hear the weather report on the internet PPS station in the DC area I listen to!! 🙂
Pattie 😉
Mazatlan Mx.
Sweet! I like the last one the best!
Cindy, that last bracelet is fabulous. What a talented jewelry designer you are. I’m always impressed when I pay you a much needed visit. Your blog always warms my heart :o)
Happy February, and Happy Valentine’s Day!
I LOVE them all too Cindy! I am a huge fan of red… and the stamped jewelry. I like the upside down e. Gives it character! 🙂 I’m glad you left it in. All of them have a really nice, romantic look & feel. Very pretty!
Love the dark red beads with the dark colored wire. Gorgeous!
I totally love that, and you have to tell me what font stamp you have!