Costume Jewelry Projects

IMG_0647
Original design; photo provided by author

So some of you may know that I used to make costume jewelry, as opposed to fine jewelry (read: Tiffany’s), but quit around 2014. It was probably because after some ECT treatments, I forgot how to create a certain type of bracelet and didn’t feel like re-learning. Also, the depression I was going through may have contributed to my completely losing interest.

I started making jewelry shortly after I was diagnosed in ’95, and it was a great outlet for my creativity. I even used to make my own beads with polymer clay, which was popular in the ’90s. I made jewelry on and off, depending on whether I had time or could afford the materials.

Semi-precious stones, different types of beads, and Swarovski crystals were my materials of choice. I also used copper wire, and brass when I got into metalsmithing, where I cut, shaped, and pounded texture into sheets of metal.

IMG_0648
Original design; photo provided by author

Today I thought I’d share with you a couple of pieces I designed myself. The first is a necklace made of copper wire, the beads and pendant of which are made from a semi-precious stone (I can’t remember which). The second is a pair of earrings that I also designed, cut from copper sheets on which I used a special hammer to pound textured shapes. I then attached crystals.

Ironically, I rarely wear jewelry except for my wedding band, and maybe a pair of earrings. Sometimes I’ll wear one of the bracelets I made, if I remember that they exist. Same with my rings (though I didn’t make those). I have a few pieces of fine jewelry that my husband gave me as gifts, but I only wear those on special occasions that call for a night out. Those, of course, are few and far between because of my depression.

Do you wear jewelry?

via Daily Prompt: Costume

24 thoughts on “Costume Jewelry Projects”

      1. I’m not great with classes. Anxiety in groups. There are lots of tutorials on line, maybe I can check out some of those when I’m motivated again. Some people are naturally talented though, like you. Thank you Barb

        Liked by 1 person

  10. For some reason I am missing your post. It is pissing me off. Ggrrr. .
    Back to your question… yes I wear jewelry. I prefer dainty pieces made of gold or white gold, and sterling silver. I wear 2 necklaces, 3rings, two bracelets, an anklet and watch everyday. Not gaudy pieces. Simple one’s. Oh and a toe ring. Lol. I’d be lost without it.

    Liked by 1 person

Comments are closed.