tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-69700525744237639432024-03-13T12:41:46.022-04:00Simply Wired Custom JewelrySimply Wired Custom Jewelryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15650179180324828061noreply@blogger.comBlogger150125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6970052574423763943.post-87410194391549387122010-02-13T11:32:00.002-05:002010-02-13T11:33:53.247-05:00Padma (Lotus) Necklace - Copper and Sterling Silver<div style="float: right; margin-left: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;"> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/simply_wired/4353265429/" title="photo sharing"><img src="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4058/4353265429_3b36a728bb_m.jpg" alt="" style="border: solid 2px #000000;" /></a> <br /> <span style="font-size: 0.9em; margin-top: 0px;"> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/simply_wired/4353265429/">Padma (Lotus) Necklace - Copper and Sterling Silver</a> <br /> Originally uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/simply_wired/">Simply Wired Custom Jewelry</a> </span></div>Back in the metal studio, finally. This one I made for personal wear, as I haven't done any soldering for a while!<br /><br />I stamped two discs, and then fused them together. A bail is attached to the back to suspend it from the rollo chain; the clasp is also handmade.<br /><br />Pendant size is about 5/8in wide.<br clear="all" />Simply Wired Custom Jewelryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15650179180324828061noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6970052574423763943.post-22181244501579371992009-12-01T22:53:00.004-05:002009-12-01T23:00:23.009-05:00All the fuss about white backgrounds...<div style="float: right; margin-left: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;"> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/simply_wired/4151371029/" title="photo sharing"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2613/4151371029_2c89cc5f10_m.jpg" alt="" style="border: 2px solid rgb(0, 0, 0);" /></a><br /><span style="margin-top: 0px;font-size:0;" > <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/simply_wired/4151371029/">yellowturquoise_copper</a> <br /> Originally uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/simply_wired/">Simply Wired Custom Jewelry</a> </span></div>...and the time spent, and the adjusting, and the re-shooting--bleh! I had to do some quick shots tonight because I finished some custom pieces for a friend (wanna see 'em all? Go to the <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Simply-Wired-Custom-Jewelry/119495409186" target="_blank">Simply Wired Custom Jewelry Fan Page</a> on Facebook, or <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/simply_wired/" target="_blank">my Flickr page</a>), and by using a solid background and a prop, I cut my time by AT LEAST HALF. Shoot, adjust, crop, save. No levels, no brightness, no layers. I love it!<br /><br />The camera? A Canon Powershot A720IS that does just fine with the "Auto" setting, especially when a color background is involved. I think my photos are going to take on a new style, IMMEDIATELY.Simply Wired Custom Jewelryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15650179180324828061noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6970052574423763943.post-36957893372890044252009-10-23T17:05:00.006-04:002009-10-23T17:28:47.187-04:00Fall HappeningsWow. It's been way too long since I posted on here. Since July! Really??!! Well, there's been so much going on it's been difficult. Shortly after my last post, vacations started. And work happened. Work that involved (and still involves) many business trips, so things don't get done in the shop. That makes me sad, but I don't want to push myself too much, for fear I get myself overworked and into a mode of illness again like last year. Not fun!<br /><br />I've been working on a few things, but on the down-low. Much of it is created solely for the purpose of matching something that I wear, and won't be sold. I have a number of ideas swimming around in my head, but I have to get them on to paper, on to wire, into a photograph, and then into <a href="http://www.etsy.com/" target="_blank">Etsy</a>. Sometimes, that's a big chore--especially when what you'd like to do is come up with a whole new photography strategy! But that will have to wait and I need to be patient.<br /><br />One of my biggest endeavors is some more elaborate wrapping strategies, which obviously take time and practice. So I'm saving my postings for those items, and maybe some in-progress works will be posted here. We shall see. Another endeavor of mine is to USE IN STOCK MATERIALS. I have so much STUFF laying around I just need to start being creative with it. So in the future, you might see chunky necklaces or beaded chains with standard links. So many beautiful beads are available, but I certainly do not need to keep them all here beside me. I need to share them with some of my favorite people and make them available to <a href="http://simplywired.etsy.com/" target="_blank">Simply Wired Custom Jewelry</a> shoppers.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/simply_wired/2059938948/"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 168px;" src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2231/2059938948_8300fcaa53_m.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Finally, on another note -- I'm going to be in <a href="http://scrapbooktrendsmag.com/beadtrends_current.html" target="_blank">Bead Trends</a> again (November issue), where <a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_transaction.php?transaction_id=12373150" target="_blank">Beneath the Moon</a> will be featured. Soon, I'll have a couple of them for sale at my site.<br /><br />Until then, stay tuned. I have lots of work to do!Simply Wired Custom Jewelryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15650179180324828061noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6970052574423763943.post-68940775881695978862009-07-27T07:30:00.002-04:002009-07-27T14:06:48.281-04:00Rest in Peace, Dearest Shammer Cat 8/19/04-7/25/09It took me a while to write this, as it does not come with a happy story. Nope, it comes with a tragedy, one that sickens me to my bones and makes me question so many things.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_97IrxD1M6wg/Sm3czc8KAcI/AAAAAAAAAlg/onCJ4Yg9iqc/s1600-h/DCP_0387.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_97IrxD1M6wg/Sm3czc8KAcI/AAAAAAAAAlg/onCJ4Yg9iqc/s320/DCP_0387.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5363185507768074690" border="0" /></a>My cat, Shammer, was shot to death Saturday night by someone who lives near me. And when I say near me, I mean within the 1 mile of road that I live on. I didn't find out until 1 a.m. Sunday morning, as my husband witnessed the worst of it. Shammer was shot, made it home to our yard, and died there. My husband discovered him at approximately 7:30 p.m., which means IT WAS STILL DAYLIGHT OUT WHEN SOMEONE SHOT HIM, which also means that HIS COLLAR WAS CLEARLY VISIBLE IN THE DAYLIGHT, which then in turns means that someone performed this heinous act knowing full well that this particular cat WAS OWNED AND LOVE BY SOMEONE. That final part hurts the most. And enrages me at the same time.<br /><br />Shammer was a young cat; he was only on this earth for about five years. He was a favorite because I never had a black cat, and I always wanted one. He was a fierce hunter, but became somewhat lazy after Ernest died (which also makes me question if this recent incident is tied to the "unknown cause of injuries" to <a href="http://simplywiredcustomjewelry.blogspot.com/2008/07/rest-in-peace-ernest-p-bigcat-030100.html">Ernest last year</a>, almost a year to the date). His favorite place to hang out was on top of the couch; however, if you covered yourself with a blanket he liked to lay on top of it with you, purr, meow in your face, and nudge you for kisses. Many mornings he liked to show off his hunting skill by leaving remnants of the mice he caught on our porch--kinda gross, but he was proud. He liked to chase Gus's and Betza's tails as they wagged, and his own tail was a bit crooked, as he accidentally got his caught in a door when he was a young and playful kitten. He taught Dexter how to be tough and how to growl, and he taught us what it's like to raise a kitten. We'd never had one before him.<br /><br />Like his brother Ernest, Shammer made it home to tell us something was wrong, but this time, we were too late. At least we know what happened, and that he didn't reach his end alone in the woods. My husband was there with him, and my husband had to bury him. Now, he'll rest with our other pets who have passed on...and we will remember everything he gave us. Rest in peace, Dear Shammer. May you find an endless field of catnip, warm garden dirt to lay upon and scratch your back, and may you and Ernest cuddle up and take daytime naps on a bed with an over-fluffy comforter. You are missed, and one day, we will find out who did this.<br /><br />Love,<br />ChelseaSimply Wired Custom Jewelryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15650179180324828061noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6970052574423763943.post-64180618470102260272009-07-23T21:01:00.004-04:002009-07-23T21:12:21.305-04:00Thinking of Photos and StrategiesI need to do a major overhaul on my shop. Soon. But these things take time. A "photo shoot" on one item alone could take almost an hour...so I don't think I'll be having an immediate turnaround. I have big ideas and elements that I'd like to incorporate, but they're labor intensive.<br /><br />I love how <a href="http://scrapbooktrendsmag.com/beadtrends.html" target="_blank">Bead Trends</a> sets up a background for their photo...I need to study their techniques. Of course, I also need new things to photograph, which will also be my focus moving forward. Made to order items are going to be kept to a minimum, as I don't have enough time to be creative and fill orders and maintain sanity with my day job! So, something's gotta give. Once I feel like I have enough new items in stock, I may go back to some made to order pieces, but for right now I need to put that on hold.<br /><br />Another reason for the push for more "on hand" items--a craft booth. Next July (2010), I'm thinking of having one at a local show...which will also incorporate some beautiful stuff from my sister in law (and if I'm lucky, some things from my husband, too! I promise to post some pics of his latest creation soon).<br /><br />Anyway, that's all for tonight, dear readers. I also need to go and think about an ad for <a href="http://www.facebook.com/home.php?ref=logo#/pages/Simply-Wired-Custom-Jewelry/119495409186"target="_blank">Simply Wired Custom Jewelry's Facebook page</a> and figure out how to get some fans, as I have no desire to spam my poor friends. Once I do some more research, I'll probably launch the ad sometime in September. The gathering of 100 fans also enables me to get a normal looking URL address, which would be quite nice. :oDSimply Wired Custom Jewelryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11477171859546330285noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6970052574423763943.post-79604297097145722782009-07-15T23:51:00.002-04:002009-07-15T23:57:09.226-04:00Last November, Bead Trends Magazine - In the Mist...<div style="float: right; margin-left: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;"> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/simply_wired/3725740422/" title="photo sharing"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3517/3725740422_0bb49369ed_m.jpg" alt="" style="border: 2px solid rgb(0, 0, 0);" /></a><br /><span style="margin-top: 0px;font-size:0;" > <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/simply_wired/3725740422/">Bead Trends - In the Mist</a> <br /> Originally uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/simply_wired/">Simply Wired Custom Jewelry</a> </span></div>...this November, <a href="http://scrapbooktrendsmag.com/beadtrends.html" target="_blank">Bead Trends Magazine</a> - Beneath the Moon. I'm excited! They do such lovely work with their photos, and the magazine is just thick and beautiful and inspiring.<br /><br />Last year, <a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_transaction.php?transaction_id=14583096" target="_blank">In the Mist</a> and <a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=11619113" target="_blank">Warmth</a> were featured...and as for this year's, well, I have to keep the photos a secret until release. I've been meaning to take photographs of the magazine pics for a while, but kept forgetting. My apologies, dear readers.Simply Wired Custom Jewelryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15650179180324828061noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6970052574423763943.post-1894161560871825772009-07-12T16:40:00.001-04:002009-07-12T16:40:11.258-04:00Water Follows Water 4<div style="float: right; margin-left: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;"> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/simply_wired/3713536971/" title="photo sharing"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3472/3713536971_5a5ab5c0d1_m.jpg" alt="" style="border: solid 2px #000000;" /></a> <br /> <span style="font-size: 0.9em; margin-top: 0px;"> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/simply_wired/3713536971/">Water Follows Water 4</a> <br /> Originally uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/simply_wired/">Simply Wired Custom Jewelry</a> </span></div>A custom order, finally complete! This one has been a long, long time in progress. I knew how to make the coils, but wasn't sure how to wrap the focal piece. Then, once I had that figured out, I had to set aside hours upon hours to coil, coil, coil and bend, bend, bend. Finally finished as of today. I hope my friend likes it (I'm lucky she's patient with me)!<br clear="all" />Simply Wired Custom Jewelryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15650179180324828061noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6970052574423763943.post-57833433701840417552009-07-06T21:32:00.003-04:002009-07-06T21:39:10.973-04:00Learning Facebook - Become a Simply Wired Custom Jewelry Fan!I got a new ad up on the blog and everything.<br /><br /><--Check it out, over there, right below my Etsy Mini. <br /><br />Wanna become a fan? I think you can go there by going directly to the <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Simply-Wired-Custom-Jewelry/119495409186" target="_blank">Simply Wired Custom Jewelry page</a>. I'm sure you have to be a FB user in order to get to the page. Regardless, let me know if it works...Simply Wired Custom Jewelryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11477171859546330285noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6970052574423763943.post-31366645822809085442009-07-04T10:06:00.001-04:002009-07-04T10:06:14.955-04:00Best Yard Ornament, Ever<div style="float: right; margin-left: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;"> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/simply_wired/3686524509/" title="photo sharing"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2443/3686524509_c835ed3ef2_m.jpg" alt="" style="border: solid 2px #000000;" /></a> <br /> <span style="font-size: 0.9em; margin-top: 0px;"> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/simply_wired/3686524509/">Best Yard Ornament, Ever</a> <br /> Originally uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/simply_wired/">Simply Wired Custom Jewelry</a> </span></div>I love, love, LOVE this one. I need to find a new home in my yard, though, as I don't have the fountain working yet. I'm hoping to find a solar piece for it; however, until then, I'll do the standard set up. He's about three feet tall and oh-so-cute...a definite tribute to my puppies!<br clear="all" />Simply Wired Custom Jewelryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15650179180324828061noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6970052574423763943.post-43353066044583193342009-06-28T13:21:00.003-04:002009-06-28T13:24:44.804-04:00Camping Trip 1 2009: Our Green Monster Tent<div style="float: right; margin-left: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;"> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/simply_wired/3668039741/" title="photo sharing"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3648/3668039741_7ec3e9e864_m.jpg" alt="" style="border: 2px solid rgb(0, 0, 0);" /></a><br /><span style="margin-top: 0px;font-size:0;" > <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/simply_wired/3668039741/">Camping Trip 1 2009: Our Green Monster Tent</a> <br /> Originally uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/simply_wired/">Simply Wired Custom Jewelry</a> </span></div>Dig this tent. Dig it more because I put it up all by my lonesome as a storm was rolling in. Don't worry, I'm quick and everything stayed dry!<br /><br />We went to the Clarion River a few weeks ago...needless to say, my mini-vacation was too short. For a few more pics of that fantastic weekend, see <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/simply_wired/" target="_blank">my Flickr page</a>.<br /><br />In about a month, I hope to fill the site with pictures from Maine, as that is going to be our big trip this year. I'm excited, as we haven't done an extended road trip since 2000!Simply Wired Custom Jewelryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15650179180324828061noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6970052574423763943.post-67021507112581353832009-05-29T18:48:00.002-04:002009-05-29T18:52:08.550-04:00True Blood...mmm Tasty<div>It's coming...soooooon. And the encore of <a href="http://www.hbo.com/trueblood/season1/index.html" target="_blank">Season 1</a> begins <a href="http://www.hbo.com/apps/schedule/ScheduleServlet?ACTION_DATE=UpdateCalendar&DATE=6/4/2009"target="_blank">June 4</a>! Eeeeeep!</div><br /><center><script type="text/javascript" src="http://widgets.clearspring.com/o/49fb65426e766f5f/4a20662bb5f57d98/4a09c0fcbf6943bf/a946df89/widget.js"></script></center>Simply Wired Custom Jewelryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15650179180324828061noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6970052574423763943.post-73015188010491549852009-05-26T20:53:00.015-04:002009-05-27T22:15:12.558-04:00Wild Azaleas Bow Out<div style="float: right; margin-left: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;"> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/simply_wired/3568730548/" title="photo sharing"><img src="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2467/3568730548_6731186e7a_m.jpg" alt="" style="border: 2px solid rgb(0, 0, 0);" /></a><br /><span style="margin-top: 0px;font-size:0;" > <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/simply_wired/3568730548/">Wild Azaleas Bow Out</a><br />Originally uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/simply_wired/">Simply Wired Custom Jewelry</a> </span></div>Oh, flowers. I love them and I can't get enough. This year's spring planting did not happen yet (next weekend!), but our wild azaleas (sometimes referred to as <a href="http://www.hiltonpond.org/ThisWeek020408.html" target="_blank">pinxter-flowers</a> and officially named <a href="http://plants.usda.gov/java/profile?symbol=rhpe4" target="_blank">Rhododendron periclymenoides</a>) showed up right on time. Their exit will mark my responsibility to add more color and beauty to the yard, and I will do so with a smile on my face and dirt beneath my fingernails.<br /><br />This particular photo was taken today, about an hour or so ago, and you can see their posture beginning to fail them, their edges slightly withered and brown. Today's rain knocked many of them off of the bush, leaving a scattering of petals along the dirt and the grass. Until next year, my pretties!Simply Wired Custom Jewelryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15650179180324828061noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6970052574423763943.post-30516061419472091242009-05-23T11:30:00.007-04:002009-05-23T12:02:21.440-04:00Pink Lemonade<div style="float: right; margin-left: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;"> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/simply_wired/3556954134/" title="photo sharing"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3371/3556954134_f91ce88323_m.jpg" alt="" style="border: 2px solid rgb(0, 0, 0);" /></a><br /><span style="margin-top: 0px;font-size:0;" > <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/simply_wired/3556954134/">Pink Lemonade</a><br />Originally uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/simply_wired/">Simply Wired Custom Jewelry</a> </span></div>How 'bout this lovely moth? It's the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dryocampa_rubicunda" target="_blank">rosy maple moth</a>, (Dryocampa rubicunda), as I just found out today. I think it's a female, because the antennae seem not-so-bushy.<br /><br />Aren't the colors just great? They do remind me of pink lemonade...and summer. Below are some items that represent these beautiful colors, all available at Etsy!<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?ref=sr_list_8&listing_id=7171631" target="_blank"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 156px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_97IrxD1M6wg/ShgZSC6GsbI/AAAAAAAAAjs/Z9Aw_Wnszao/s200/elleabelle.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5339045156056641970" border="0" /></a>This is one of the pieces by <a href="http://elleabelle.etsy.com/" target="_blank">elleabelle</a>. I love how she uses bright, bold colors of chalcedony in her designs. The photos pop, and her jewelry is sassy! <a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?ref=sr_list_8&listing_id=7171631" target="_blank">These earrings</a> are summery and juicy--perfect for the season.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?ref=sr_list_2&listing_id=14744761" target="_blank"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 200px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_97IrxD1M6wg/ShgZWIR-8LI/AAAAAAAAAj0/J4igrKH_p2Q/s200/aliciabock.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5339045226218451122" border="0" /></a>Oh, <a href="http://aliciabock.etsy.com/" target="_blank">AliciaBock</a>, your photos make my heart swoon. She captures the "natural" of everything, and the final product is nothing short of beautiful. <a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?ref=sr_list_2&listing_id=14744761" target="_blank">Pink Sugar</a> reminds me of warm days filled with the sweet smell of flowers.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?ref=sr_list_1&listing_id=25243708" target="_blank"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 156px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_97IrxD1M6wg/ShgZdY_4ZKI/AAAAAAAAAj8/dfvLrTQ-FH4/s200/theferriswheels.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5339045350965011618" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="http://theferriswheels.etsy.com/" target="_blank">theferriswheels</a> has been a personal favorite of mine since back in December. I have one of her masks, and also bought one as a gift for a friend! While I was sick, I had a severe sinus infection. If you happen to get one...<a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?ref=sr_list_1&listing_id=25243708" target="_blank">take one of these</a>, heat it up, and lay it on your eyes. Such calming, comforting relief.Simply Wired Custom Jewelryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15650179180324828061noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6970052574423763943.post-10988905124482181422009-05-21T18:24:00.002-04:002009-05-21T18:25:24.232-04:00You Should be Dancing Necklace<div style="float: right; margin-left: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;"> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/simply_wired/3551972117/" title="photo sharing"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3596/3551972117_21b65fef02_m.jpg" alt="" style="border: solid 2px #000000;" /></a> <br /> <span style="font-size: 0.9em; margin-top: 0px;"> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/simply_wired/3551972117/">You Should be Dancing Necklace</a> <br /> Originally uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/simply_wired/">Simply Wired Custom Jewelry</a> </span></div>I've waited a long, long time to post this one! But I'm glad I finally did. <a href="http://simplywired.etsy.com" target="_blank">You know where to get it!</a><br clear="all" />Simply Wired Custom Jewelryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15650179180324828061noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6970052574423763943.post-43442146223311638232009-05-20T21:58:00.007-04:002009-05-21T18:26:57.778-04:00Oh, So Long<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_97IrxD1M6wg/ShS8c2c1vgI/AAAAAAAAAjc/YZPEk2bCjq0/s1600-h/wordle.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 272px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_97IrxD1M6wg/ShS8c2c1vgI/AAAAAAAAAjc/YZPEk2bCjq0/s400/wordle.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5338098662179716610" border="0" /></a>Dear readers, I apologize. Dear blog, I apologize. Dear onlookers, I apologize. It's been oh so long since my last post. I do have my reasons, however. Holidays combined with an illness, plus continued illness that has only recently let up (in April, actually). I don't need to get into details and I don't need to spell it all out here, but let's just say it was quite exhausting and made me not have the time or energy to do anything outside of work and sleep. No worries though, it is NOT serious.<br /><br />Spring is upon us; everything is beginning its own renewal. And so am I. New starts, new approaches, new ideas. I finally opened <a href="http://simplywired.etsy.com/" target="_blank">the shop</a> back up today after a long hiatus, and it felt good to keep on checking in with <a href="http://www.etsy.com/" target="_blank">Etsy</a> to see how many views I've accumulated. A couple of changes you'll see--more of a focus on the "wire" of "<a href="http://simplywired.etsy.com/" target="_blank">Simply Wired Custom Jewelry</a>." I'm trying to do some branding and I need it to focus on my strengths. New products will be coming; I have a ton of things photographed, but now I have to edit them and it takes a little bit of effort. Some of the others I'll probably have to re-shoot. I'm considering new backgrounds and new textures, so this will take some time. I'm also going to stop the "made to order" offering on most of my pieces...the reason is because my day job is very demanding, and I just don't have time to keep up. This will be a good thing, though...forcing me to "create" rather than "fill." We shall see what comes along.<br /><br />Moving along, I promise to keep you updated on things in general, and share cool stuff and point you in all different kinds of fun directions. For one, I urge you to check out <a href="http://www.wordle.net/" target="_blank">Wordle</a>; that site is responsible for that lovely little graphic I have sitting up there ^.<br /><br />Secondly, if you're a music fan like I am, and you haven't checked out <a href="http://www.pandora.com/">Pandora</a> yet, I urge you to do so. Right now, my favorite channel that I created is <a href="http://www.gillianwelch.com/" target="_blank">Gillian Welch</a>, which provides me with a nice mixture of her, <a href="http://www.begoodtanyas.com/" target="_blank">The Be Good Tanyas</a>, <a href="http://www.thewaifs.com/" target="_blank">The Waifs</a>, and <a href="http://www.theweepies.com/" target="_blank"> The Weepies</a>.<br /><br />I'll be back soon, I promise.Simply Wired Custom Jewelryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15650179180324828061noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6970052574423763943.post-78211899451658607192008-11-29T15:39:00.004-05:002008-11-29T15:48:56.909-05:00Finally!Some new items coming to <a href="http://simplywired.etsy.com" target="_blank">my Etsy shop</a> this weekend...it's been a while, huh? Well, life has taken over these past few months...including a new kitten (see below), a bad bout of sickness, a big change in my day job responsibilities (for the good...yay!!) and finally, the holidays. But now it seems I'm finally catching up, and the creative wheels are spinning again.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=17963629"target="_blank"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_97IrxD1M6wg/STGqRsA8BbI/AAAAAAAAAiw/gObeL9u-M04/s320/incloudsnklc5.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5274183859477153202" border="0" /></a>This piece here is my first new one posted today, titled "<a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=17963629"target="_blank">In Clouds</a>." The earrings will come later, along with a discount if you buy the set.<br /><br />During this lovely little kickoff to the holiday season, I'm also offering free First Class shipping on all U.S. and international orders through Monday 12/1, so get your goodies while they're here!<br /><br />I hope your Thanksgiving was bountiful and you have much to be thankful for.<br /><br />Blessings,<br />ChelseaSimply Wired Custom Jewelryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15650179180324828061noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6970052574423763943.post-25902464962179678912008-10-23T16:32:00.004-04:002008-10-23T20:25:15.185-04:00A Sale and a New Family MemberHello all! In case you haven't been to my shop lately, I'm having a rockin' sale to commemorate the one-year anniversary of <a href="http://simplywired.etsy.com/" target="_blank">Simply Wired Custom Jewelry</a>. Discounts range from 15-50%, so get 'em while they're going on!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_97IrxD1M6wg/SQDhzRo2OGI/AAAAAAAAAXk/euZp1KuHVwE/s1600-h/dexter100808.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_97IrxD1M6wg/SQDhzRo2OGI/AAAAAAAAAXk/euZp1KuHVwE/s400/dexter100808.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5260452635793045602" border="0" /></a>In other news, we have acquired a new family member, as shown here. Ain't he just the cutest thing? His name is Dexter and he is a <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manx_cat" target="_blank">Manx</a>--meaning he has no tail. I had not heard of this type of cat before, until my mom told me about them when I told her I was going to get the little guy. My girlfriend actually showed up with him at my house; his previous home was a farm and they didn't mind if a few of the kittens could be taken to official homes. Of course I decided to adopt him ASAP! He's a little fragile...only 1.5 lbs, and he had some young kitty health problems, including round worms and a bad cold. But, we got him all fixed up, tested for everything, and he seems to be in good health. My big dogs, as well as my other kitty, seem to be adapting. Dexter likes to crawl on top of the dogs and sleep on them; sometimes, they let him. The size difference is really a site; I'll post more pics soon!Simply Wired Custom Jewelryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15650179180324828061noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6970052574423763943.post-60859918269045321212008-10-05T14:41:00.007-04:002008-10-05T15:06:27.212-04:00Not Slacking, I Swear!Nope, I've just been a really, really busy girl. My day job keeps me occupied and sometimes it exercises my brain so much that I run out of creativity (not to mention, energy)!<br /><br />Over the past month or so, I've been slowly building up some stock, working on some new pieces, and fulfilling custom orders. Earlier this week I also got sick and had to shut down the shop for a few days, but I think I really made some progress this weekend. It's a relief, I tell you.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_97IrxD1M6wg/SOkNDkFi1ZI/AAAAAAAAAXc/34KFM4g3seo/s1600-h/inprogress100508.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_97IrxD1M6wg/SOkNDkFi1ZI/AAAAAAAAAXc/34KFM4g3seo/s400/inprogress100508.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5253744795182093714" border="0" /></a>To prove I'm not lying, here's a little peak at what I've been working on...freshly oxidized and laid out to dry, but not yet tumbled or polished. Some you'll see in <a href="http://simplywired.etsy.com" target="_blank">my Etsy shop</a>, and some you'll just see on my <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/simply_wired"target="_blank">Flickr</a> when they're done, since they're based on orders (especially that super-sweet piece with the Egyptian Coils at the top left!). I plan to get them photographed and listed over the next month, so stay tuned. A couple pieces will also be listed at a really awesome price because they just didn't come out how I wanted them. LOL.<br /><br />For all of you wondering about the pieces and the types of stones in the pic...I'll describe as best I can...here goes:<br /><ul><li>Top left: As mentioned, Egyptian Coils and turquoise nuggets.</li><li>Top right: Some lavender chalcedony faceted briolettes.</li><li>To the left of the lavender chalcedony: All of those ear wires contain a different bead, wrapped or with a bead cap. Includes sterling silver with prehnite, smoky quartz, or a spiral design. Some copper ones are included as well, and feature prehnite as well as carnelian wrapped teardrop beads. </li><li>Below the lavender chalcedony: A new piece that incorporates labradorite and garnet, as well as another new piece that includes vintage lucite beads (purchased from <a href="http://blacksheepbeads.etsy.com"target="_blank">blacksheepbeads</a>; awesome shop!).</li><li>Right: Wire wrapped focal pendants.</li><li>Bottom: A peak at a remake of my <a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_transaction.php?transaction_id=6669301"target="_blank">Egyptian Goddess necklace</a>, a custom order from a customer.</li></ul>So...keep your eye on the shop and you'll see most of these pretty soon. Thanks for looking!Simply Wired Custom Jewelryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15650179180324828061noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6970052574423763943.post-66684937801372939052008-09-08T07:02:00.001-04:002008-09-08T09:16:51.392-04:00Computer WoesOver the past few weeks, my computer has not liked me. My CD-ROM player decided to not let me open it up anymore (even when I use the <a href="http://www.pcguide.com/vb/archive/index.php/t-9792.html" target="_blank">"paper clip in the hole" magic trick</a>), and <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Photoshop"target="_blank">Photoshop</a> decided not to run due to insufficient RAM. <br /><br />Both of these issues were mind-boggling to me, as my computer is only about a year old. So, since it is still under warranty, I was able to score a new CD-ROM drive at no cost to me. I also upgraded my RAM and bought 2GB extra from <a href="http://www.crucial.com/"target="_blank">Crucial</a>. I installed both of them over the last two weeks.<br /><br />The CD-ROM drive was fine. Photoshop? Not so much. I'm running version 7, and after I installed the new RAM, it still wouldn't work. So, on a whim, I decided to Google the error, and sure enough, I found <a href="http://www.computing.net/answers/windows-xp/adobe-photoshop-70/142235.html"target="_blank">the solution: A teensy, weensy, tiny bit of code found in my settings for Photoshop</a> (see Response Number 8). And that was all it took. I couldn't believe it. On a lighter note, my computer is now, as my friend calls it, "Wicked Fast!"<br /><br />Anyway, now everything is up and running again, I have my camera back from my husband (who had it on a kayak trip on the <a href="http://www.state.me.us/cgi-bin/doc/parks/find_one_name.pl?park_id=2"target="_blank">Allagash Wilderness Waterway</a> in Maine for about 15 days), and I'm slowly but surely creating some new pieces for fall. I'll keep you posted on new creations, dear readers. Thank you for your patience.Simply Wired Custom Jewelryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15650179180324828061noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6970052574423763943.post-49922154916858114142008-08-12T07:00:00.003-04:002008-08-12T10:24:11.389-04:00Endicia: Do I Love It? MaybeSo, about a week or so ago, I signed up for a free trial of <a href="http://www.endicia.com" target="_blank">Endicia</a>. What is it, you ask? It's a service that enables you to perform just about any and all mail services from your home/business...from printing postage to ordering supplies. The reason I was attracted to it is because it allows you to print postage for First Class International directly from your home (customs forms and all!), which saves me a trip to the <a href="http://www.usps.com"target="_blank">Post Office</a>. Given that I've had a recent influx of international orders, I decided to give it a try. Here's a summary of what I've learned so far:<br /><br /><ul><li>Once you learn to use it, it's quite easy; however, it's definitely not an intuitive program. You have to muddle your way through how to set up a label; once you learn it, it becomes second nature. I like how you can copy/paste an address directly from <a href="http://www.etsy.com"target="_blank">Etsy</a>, without having to enter items in separate fields like you do with <a href="http://www.paypal.com"target="_blank">PayPal</a>. In case you're considering giving it a try, here's the general steps I follow:</li></ul><blockquote><ol><li>Create a new address</li><li>Choose the layout (you can skip this step once you create your first label of the session [and you don't switch to international mail])</li><li>Print postage</li><li>Print customs forms (if international)</li></ol></blockquote><ul><li>Apparently not compatible with <a href="http://www.microsoft.com/windows/windows-vista/default.aspx"target="_blank">Vista</a> (which is what I [unfortunately] have). I have not witnessed these incompatibilities yet; however, one thing that irked me was that you don't know about them until after you sign up. Given that I'm fairly astute at doing my own research in troubleshooting compatibility issues, this didn't bother me so much. However, someone who is not very tech-savvy may have problems. Also, since Vista has been around for at least a year now, I think it's bad form for software companies and services to ignore the fact that they need to perform an upgrade. That's just my opinion. I'm dealing with it, though. Take it for what it's worth.</li><br /><li>The management of previous orders is a plus. Endicia saves a postage log for you, which I like. If someone needs to know where their order is, or you need to track something for yourself, all orders are available within the postage log. If you included Delivery Confirmation, that information is available as well. </li><br /><li>First Class International is a time-saver. I love not having to go to the Post Office. This is by far my favorite feature, and is probably the main reason why I'll stick with Endicia and pay the monthly access fee.</li></ul><br />So there you have it. I'm not going to start a <a href="http://www.etsy.com/forums_main.php"target="_blank">Forum</a> thread claiming "I Love Endicia!" or put their banner on my blog, but for now I appreciate the convenience and availability of Endicia's services. Who knows? Maybe sometime in the near future, they'll make the software Vista-friendly, and incorporate the use of "wizards" (to us Instructional Design nerds -- "Electronic Performance Support") to guide us through the process of making labels. Until something better comes along, I think I'll stick with it for a while. If nothing else, I assure you that I'm saving fuel costs.Simply Wired Custom Jewelryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15650179180324828061noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6970052574423763943.post-29135750614221183482008-08-05T08:44:00.003-04:002008-08-05T08:56:49.807-04:00Playing Catch UpGood morning dear readers. This week's post brings a general update on the <a href="http://simplywired.etsy.com"target="_blank">shopfront</a>. I'm staying in the background a bit when it comes to promoting, as I have a number of custom orders to catch up with (at least six of them, to be exact). I hope to get back on track with those this week. I'm also in the process of making new creations for the fall, and reorganizing my store a little bit. <br /><br />Look out for many a necklace coming your way, as well as matching earrings. Colors will include the soft, translucent shades of chalcedony -- greens and blues and pinks and lavenders -- plus bright, rich contrasting colors to set them off. I'll also be offering sets at discounted prices; when you buy items that coordinate, you can save some extra cash!<br /><br />I plan to continue my exploration of metalsmithing, with hopes to have some more items by September; probably pendants. Finally come October, expect a rockin' sale to coordinate with my one-year anniversary as a seller on <a href="http://www.etsy.com" target="_blank">Etsy</a>.<br /><br />Have a great week, dear readers. I hope to post progress updates as I move along in completing these custom orders.<br /><br />Smooches,<br />ChelseaSimply Wired Custom Jewelryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15650179180324828061noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6970052574423763943.post-45947744523266528692008-07-28T11:12:00.004-04:002008-07-28T11:22:03.788-04:00Bare Feet and Wet GrassHello readers, I made it back from my trip, safe and sound. Displayed below is my latest Treasury, scored earlier today. Yay! I happened across Treasury West and there were about 200+ lists open, so I made one. Since summertime is one of my favorite times, I put this collection together. You can see it live and leave a comment at:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.etsy.com/treasury_list_west.php?room_id=20019" target=_blank>http://www.etsy.com/treasury_list_west.php?room_id=20019</a><br /><br />The link will be active for the next few days. Enjoy!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://bp0.blogger.com/_97IrxD1M6wg/SI3jyNFhyVI/AAAAAAAAAXU/aGCyz6Y_xg0/s1600-h/barefeetwetgrass.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="http://bp0.blogger.com/_97IrxD1M6wg/SI3jyNFhyVI/AAAAAAAAAXU/aGCyz6Y_xg0/s400/barefeetwetgrass.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5228085194092824914" border="0" /></a>Simply Wired Custom Jewelryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15650179180324828061noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6970052574423763943.post-9584391853044576182008-07-18T13:51:00.009-04:002008-07-18T14:56:43.725-04:00Rest in Peace, Ernest P. Bigcat (03/01/00 - 07/18/08)<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://bp1.blogger.com/_97IrxD1M6wg/SIDf2a2a8jI/AAAAAAAAAXM/j_A5xgHIFZc/s1600-h/DCP_0267.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer;" src="http://bp1.blogger.com/_97IrxD1M6wg/SIDf2a2a8jI/AAAAAAAAAXM/j_A5xgHIFZc/s400/DCP_0267.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5224421693763285554" border="0" /></a><br />Baddest news today, dear readers, as I just recently received word from our vet that our 8-year old cat has passed away.<br /><br />We adopted Ernest from my Uncle; he's put in a long shift with us. He's been through three different dogs (Knute [also no longer with us]), Betza, and Gus, and one cat who he was especially fond of, Shammer.<br /><br />As you're aware from previous posts, all of my pets live in harmony together, and I couldn't have asked for a cooler cat. He was a tough dude...he would get very big in the winter and then skinny in the summer. He had some missing teeth because they went bad. He also only had a half of an ear because it got ripped off in a fight.<br /><br />Yesterday morning as I was standing out on my deck, Ernest emerged from the woods crying very loudly. He walked up slowly to my husband's truck and hid underneath it. Upon trying to pull him out, I noticed that his stomach was covered in blood. We rushed him to the vet's office, and they found two puncture wounds, though they do not know what from. It didn't look like teeth marks (they weren't close enough), and there was no bullet to be found. X-ray results showed five broken ribs and no damaged organs; however, his blood pressure and temperature were low, he was anemic, and he was in shock. They kept him overnight and tried to get his temperature to come up, but it did not improve. When I checked in this afternoon, he was still anemic and with low blood pressure. They also said he was breathing through his mouth, which apparently isn't very good. Shortly after that my vet called personally to let me know that Ernest had passed.<br /><br />So now I'm sad. It just wasn't Ernest's time, given all that he's been through with us. He was young, and had many cat lives ahead of him. But I am glad, however, that he made it home. Some way, some how, with broken ribs and a bleeding belly, he got back here to let me know that he wasn't OK. And we were able to get him to a place where he could be given proper care, and upon moving on, he was made as comfortable as he could possibly be.<br /><br />Rest in peace, Ernest. May you find an ever-stretching land full of green grass, catnip, and many animals to chase. May you find other cuddly cats to comfort you and clean your 1.5 ears, and may you find other giant dogs to rub up against and then run from as soon as they bark. May you be fed as soon as you start talking in your ErnieCat voice, and may you be pet as soon as you demand it. You deserve all of these things. You were a wonderful friend. I will miss you.<br /><br />Love,<br />ChelseaSimply Wired Custom Jewelryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15650179180324828061noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6970052574423763943.post-46337445113031114252008-07-15T22:12:00.001-04:002008-07-16T10:27:45.487-04:00Back from Vacation, Off Again for Another Work TripHello readers! Long time, no hear from me. My apologies. I've been swamped! Much work to do in the studio, plus very busy with my job, creating online learning courseware.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=13249679" target="_blank"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px;" src="http://ny-image3.etsy.com/il_fullxfull.31577839.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>I've been trying to stock up as necessary on some of my items; it's a slow process. August will be tremendously busy, as I plan to get ready for the holidays. My supplier once again ran out of the beads I use for my <a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=12093354"target="_blank">Santa Fe Teardrops</a> earrings and all of their different variations in <a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=12183883"target="_blank">Red</a> and in <a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=13249679"target="_blank">Copper</a> (available at <a href="http://simplywired.etsy.com/"target="_blank">Simply Wired Custom Jewelry</a> on <a href="http://www.etsy.com/"target="_blank">Etsy</a>!), so I'll be making more and re-photographing with different beads, yet again. Why not give up? Because they are some of my best sellers. So, I don't want to ruin a good thing.<br /><br />Amongst all of this activity, I have a show with the band next Saturday. You can see details on <a href="http://www.thesimplegroove.com/"target="_blank">The Simple Groove</a> web site. Or, you can certainly be our friend on <a href="http://www.myspace.com/thesimplegroove"target="_blank">The Simple Groove MySpace page</a>. We welcome all of you!<br /><br />Finally, as mentioned in the title of this post, I have another trip for work coming up...this time to Kansas City, MO. I'll be posting an announcement in my shop, and I'll be filling orders when I return on 7/26 (oh, how I wish Etsy would establish Vacation Mode for us!).<br /><br />As promised in my previous post, I do have some pictures from vacation, but I still need to get the large amount of them off of my camera. That will come soon, but not tonight, as I have many things to get done over the next few days. You may not hear from me until I get back from Kansas City, so have a great 1.5 weeks!Simply Wired Custom Jewelryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15650179180324828061noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6970052574423763943.post-89986890149071432292008-06-24T07:13:00.000-04:002008-06-24T09:15:09.021-04:00Found Moss Pendant<div style="float: right; margin-left: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;"> <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/simply_wired/2606799215/" title="photo sharing"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3084/2606799215_765f090338_m.jpg" alt="" style="border: 2px solid rgb(0, 0, 0);" /></a><br /><span style="margin-top: 0px;font-size:0;" > <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/simply_wired/2606799215/">Found Moss 1</a> <br /> Originally uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/simply_wired/">Simply Wired Custom Jewelry</a> </span></div>Hello readers...a quick post and a photo to let you know of what's to come...<br /><br />I'm getting ready for a much needed vacation. A much, MUCH needed vacation, so <a href="http://simplywired.etsy.com"target="_blank">my shop</a> will be closed for the rest of the week through Sunday. Orders will be completed/fulfilled upon my return on June 30th.<br /><br />This beauty here is called "Found Moss," named after all things earthy that I hope to uncover during my upcoming stay in the woods. I hope to get it listed today before I leave. The pendant is a type of gemstone called "Chinese 'Chrysoprase'" (at least that's what I think it is based upon my research). The blend of colors is quite lovely, and it coordinates nicely with the oxidized sterling silver wire that's wrapped around it.<br /><br />I'll share some vacation photos upon my return...scenes from campsites and canoes. Cheers!Simply Wired Custom Jewelryhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15650179180324828061noreply@blogger.com0