Category Archives: jewelry
Silver Spoons and Solder
Good Morning,
The middle of the week brings me to my studio and what’s been going on at the workbench.
This week we have a couple of in process up-cycled pieces to share. They still require a little refinement and several hours in a tumbler, but we can show off a little bit of what’s new.
I am sure many of you have owned or currently own a spoon ring. This is a simple ring made from a spoon handle. Taking a twist on the battered utensils for other uses, I tried my hand at making pendants. Sawing the handles from the bowl, the bowl is put aside and the handle is then heated, hammered and harangued into submission.
I would like to mention the utensils I used were gifted to be by my Mom, and they come from her various trips to the “Junk Shops” or “Antiquing” as she likes to call it. They are well used items that is for sure.
These are very simply pendants. This handle was severely damaged, using a hammer the damage was incorporated into a hammered surface texture. The “stone” is from an other jeweler’s “junk bag”, also gifted to me. A handwritten note read “Assrtd Real Gems”. These were pre-set and meant to be used in leather or a belt buckle. Also terribly damaged and tarnished, the prongs were cut from the setting, the setting was cleaned, filed and then soldered to the spoon handle.
I really like the primitive look this has. It reminds me of something one might find at an archeological excavation or perhaps unearthed by accident. I think this stone is a deep green Tourmaline.
An other example, and this one I am not sure about. The stone is either a dyed quartz or apatite. There is a little seed or inclusion in the stone which leads to me think it is either a dyed crystal or a man-made (imitation) stone with an imperfection. It is a pretty light blue color. The camera tends to make things darker than they really are.
Here there are marks and imperfections across the surface of the spoon handle. Tumbling the piece will polish and remove the small surface scratches creating a uniform surface and shiny finish.
Up-cycled means just that, pieces and items are reused and re-purposed to create something new. It also means that surfaces do not meet exactly due to curvatures and other factors of the materials being used, giving each one a unique character and style all it’s own. These are meant to look like they have been made long ago and far away and to appear handmade, as a Blacksmith may have made them.
Thank you for stopping in and having a look.
The Alchemists Vessel would like to wish you a pleasant day.
Five Great Gifts To Give List 17
Good Morning,
Today we are just going to jump right in there with listings.
We have some returning participants as well as new shops, let’s have a look.
From: Sue’s Arts
Beautiful, charming, elegant and one of a kind Hamsa charm necklaces to choose from.
Since Hamsas are considered a gift of love they make the perfect gift idea.
The Hamsa Hand is believed to protect and shield against the evil eye, generate positive energy, provide good fortune, health, prosperity and happiness.
Approx length about 18″ long and can be adjusted per request at no extra charge.
DELIVERED IN A GIFT BAG
CUSTOM ORDERS WELCOME
Combinations can be mixed and played with per request at no extra charge… feel free to contact me
Suzan ♥
From: zlala959
If you want to make jewelry yourself, this item is a very good accessory.
material: geode
size: 20mm x 50mm x 50mm
color and pattern: please see the picture.
condition: new and never been used.
If you have any questions about shipping, payment and return policy, please check my shop policies.
From: The Alchemists Vessel
Paramour Chainmaille Bracelet
Feminine, and super cute. Pretty in pink, this fun, flirtatious and colorful piece is just right for any occasion, a pop of color at the office, or for a casual weekend get away accessory. From the Captured Color Collection, this lovely piece would make an excellent alternative for a Breast Cancer Awareness lapel pin ribbon. Light weight and comfortable for extended wear.
8″ long including clasp. Silver plated wire and enameled aluminum jump rings are woven in an Inverted Round Maille pattern and finished with a strong magnetic clasp that holds well during everyday activities and movements.
Arrives boxed, ready for gift giving.
*Customizable, may be made to desired length or in color of choice. Check the shop to see if one isn’t already available in your favorite color. Multicolor requests, please add $5.00
Currently available in: Dark Blue, Purple, Olive Green, Pink, Teal, Red, Black and Copper (enameled aluminum or natural)
Free Shipping on this item.
Custom orders, please allow 2 – 3 Day shipping, we need time to make your item.
From: Fable and Fury
Original-design seahorse specimen silhouette pendant is intricately cut in stainless steel with black powder coat finish, measures just over 2.25″ (59mm) tall and includes the following components: 18″ black enameled chain, black findings and sturdy black lobster clasp.
✒ 15% DISCOUNT on orders of $50 or more (excluding shipping). Enter coupon code 15OFF50 during checkout to receive your discount. ✒
Fable & Fury silhouettes depict nature-inspired designs that you’ll adore. Modern techniques enable us to design intricately-detailed pendants that are still extraordinarily durable. We are committed to creating unconventional jewelry using materials of the utmost quality and strength, providing you with necklaces that are ageless, enduring, and uniquely… Fable & Fury.
✒ If you prefer a stainless steel (silver color) chain or a length other than 18″, please include your request in the “message to seller” box during checkout.
From Dark Djinn Design
Not only is this the shop where you can find my favorite macabre monster miniature sculptures but there are some other really beautiful things in the shop as well.
Not only will you find these little guys
Biter Zombie Head
1/6 Scale solid cast resin zombie head
Sold individually
but you can also find lovely things like this pretty wooden box.
Burned, dyed, stained, aged, and flog.. I mean flocked. Box has been tortured into submission.
Stained Glass look with a tie-dye sensibility and the flaws left in for a wabi-sabi – this has been around awhile – feel. One of a kind, signed on bottom.
Box is 11 x 7 cm hexagon (approx. 4.5 x 2.75 inches)
Have any questions? Contact the shop owner.
Stained Glass look with a tie-dye sensibility and the flaws left in for a wabi-sabi – this has been around awhile – feel. One of a kind, signed on bottom.
Box is 11 x 7 cm hexagon (approx. 4.5 x 2.75 inches)
Have any questions? Contact the shop owner.
Thank you for stopping in and having a look.
The Alchemists Vessel would like to wish you a pleasant day.
Friday Fun and Mother’s Day – Events and Misc.
Good Morning,
Yes, I am a little late in getting started today.
There will be no blog post Monday, May 13th, 2013. I am taking the day off. We will return on Tuesday, May 14th with “Five Great Gifts To Give.”
So what’s happening around Boise, this weekend, besides those overbooked and loud restaurants on Sunday?
Saturday is Boise’s Race for the Cure
This is the 15th Annual Race for this event. 75% of the proceeds stay in Idaho and the other 25% nationally.
Race starts at the Albertson’s Headquarters.
Phone(208) 384-0013
PriceOnline – $25 for adults and $10 for youth (12 and under)
Age SuitabilityAll Ages
Also Downtown this weekend is the 8th Street and Capital City Markets. Julia Davis Park has several things going on as well, so get on out there and see the sites. It is supposed to be a beautiful weekend.
Sunday is Mothers’ Day. Call your Mom. If you can’t call your Mom, pick a woman in your life and let her know how much you appreciate her, she will appreciate it.
Still awaiting materials to finish up that Super Secret Project I am working on, I can post it after the 18th. Other than that it is Metal and Gemstone as usual.
Thank you for stopping in and having a look.
The Alchemists Vessel would like to wish you a pleasant day.
Featured Artist – No One In Particular
Thursday is here and so is blog.
Usually we feature one artist from the Rings. The Ring powers that be have decided that it now needs to be a mishmash of stuff, so I’m going to give it a try. I would love comments from others if you like this new feature or if you prefer the one stop shop at a time feature.
I did not pick a theme, I have no idea what to choose. So instead I followed the instructions minus the “theme, instead we chose items, rings from the Ring. Here we go.
From Handmade Artists
A Bead Thing
Black Diamond Swarovski Ring
Product Details:
This ring done with black diamond swarovski crystals in 6mm and 4mm sizes with a silver-toned 11/0 seed bead surround and band will be a ring you will wear often and desire in many color variations. Rings are made to order. Be sure to note your size.
Custom orders are encouraged, so choose your crystal colors and sizes.
From: Etsy
The Alchemists Vessel
Princess Bride Pink Zircon and White Gold Ring
“As you wish.” The Farm boy said.
Pink, perky, pretty. This adorable ring is just right for the Princess in your life. Would make an excellent alternative for October Birthdays or a unique and different ring for that special question one might like to ask.
The lovely ring is fashioned from a vintage 10K White Gold ring shank with a delicate spiral along the sides that carries to the four prong setting adding a lovely twist on a traditional design. Genuine pink Zircon gemstone is hand set. Zircon is a mineral that comes in a crystalline form, it ranges in colors from yellows to reds, the most common being Hyacinth (yellow), not to be confused with Cubic Zirconia (CZ),a synthetic material also called synthetic gems.
White Gold is Gold. It is an alloy of yellow gold usually combined with a white metal like palladium to achieve the white color. 10K refers the the amount of pure gold in a piece. 10K is about 41.7% pure gold.
Arrives in a ring box, ready for gift giving.
From Boss Studio Jewelry
Wide Sterling Silver Band 14k Gold Heart Ring
Product Details:
~ Wide Sterling Silver Band, 14k Gold Heart Ring ~
Featuring an organic feel with a sweet message of love ~ with a cool style…!
The band is 8mm wide and has a brushed finish. The 14k gold heart (not plated, filled or vermeil) is given a high polish for contrast.
Please state your size on paypal’s checkout page and kindly allow a week or two (depending on any orders in front of yours) to ship.
Free shipping, insurance included.
Thanks for looking.
The Alchemists Vessel would like to wish you a pleasant day.
Wednesday Information
Good Morning,
There isn’t much to see on the blog today.
Brief updates and a news item or two.
The blog may become intermittent, it seems as if my iMac is almost obsolete, there is nothing more that can be done to upgrade or install newer OSXs or memory. The Rainbow Wheel of Doom is rampant and constant, so it looks as if I may have to replace this sooner than later.
Yesterday my Android phone decided it no longer wished to function. The screen did a Fade To Black with a little white dot and then it just kind of went ffffzzzzzttttt and that was that. Must replace that today as well. Radio shack here I come.
I am still sitting on pins and needles waiting for news of the Brick and Mortar building I have been offered for Little Shop of Artists. I am in hope that move in will begin as early as next week or the week after.
Thank you for stopping in and having a look.
The Alchemists Vessel would like to wish you a pleasant day.
Monday Miscellany: Classes, News and a Link or Two
Good Morning,
The work week begins, I hope all had a relaxing weekend.
New classes begin at Jo-Ann’s for May and June, don’t forget parents, this is a great way to entertain the kids and teach them a fun skill. There are classes geared for teens, as well as kids the projects are simple and require no prior knowledge or skill to attend. Check out your local Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores. If you’re in Boise, classes are held at the 1085 N. Milwaukee, across the street from Home Depot.
There is always Jewelry 101, $35.00 2-1/2 session
Hone your skills, learn a new one, or come on in and talk to an expert about the piece you’re working on or would like to create.
Projects for May and June
Jewelry 102 – Leather Crystal Knotted Necklace – $30.00, 2 hours.
Learn to Knot Cord, Braid leather cords, Make and Attach dangles.
Jewelry 201 – Crimp and Ribbon Necklace – $30.00, 2 hours.
Learn to use End Crimps, Attach dangles to a chain.
Jewelry 202 - Crystal Weave Bracelet – $30.00, 2 hours
Learn to Weave a design, Follow a pattern, how to use Rondelles (A bead shape).
All Jewelry classes are lead by Alixandra Browning of The Alchemists Vessel. You may sign up by visiting or calling Jo-Ann’s. Material List will be available at time of sign up. Jo-Ann’s requires that all classes be attended by at least three people. This would be great fun for a group, team or troop.
Everything at The Alchemists Vessel or Blackbird Metalworks is handcrafted from start to finish. I would like to share with you a portion of a Super Secret Project. This is called Moss or Mossy Agate. This cabochon was hand cut, and processed by John Rasmussen of Rasmussen Gems and Jewellery, LLC. It will be mounted in a ring shank and sent back across the US for a very special present. He did an excellent job bringing out the lovely mossy inclusions on the surface of the stone, I think it looks like a tree and a bird or butterfly. Then again I have a very active imagination.
ANNOUNCEMENT:
I am excited and happy to announce that the building for Little Shop of Artists is available once again! Watch this blog for more details. The artists and myself are looking forward to moving in and setting up the wares. As soon as we are in and organized all will be invited to the Grand Opening Event.
Thank you for stopping in and having a look.
The Alchemists Vessel would like to wish you a pleasant day.
Friday Fun ~ Let’s Talk Taurus
Good Morning,
Happy Friday! Welcome to the weekend. I think it’s time to have a little fun on the blog.
As many of you know when I first began the on line portion of the business, it was devoted to all things Birthday-ish, including zodiac signs, birthstones, charms, T-shirts. Well I am disappointed to say that went over like a ton of bricks. However many years later, and a lot wiser, we still offer those items, but have moved the focus of the business to jewelry that everybody can associate with, feel comfortable and beautiful in and wear with pride.
Let’s Talk Taurus
Taurus ~ April 19 ~ May 20 or April 21 to May 22 all depending on which book, Newspaper astrologist or other source you may read. However the constants remain the same:
Taurus is the Celestial Winged Bull, and the second sign of the Zodiac.
Element is Earth
Planet is Venus
Stone is Emerald
Plant is Lily
Lucky Number is 6
Special Day – Friday
Taurus’ are ~ Artistic, loyal, loving, sensual, steadfast, determined, practical, patient and reliable.
The Glyph ~
The glyph represents the head and horns of a bull or the chin and the Adam’s apple (Throat) of a human. Symbolically it is a half-moon forming a cup that rests on the circle of the Sun. It represents material power and wealth derived through the force of will.
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| Original Taurus Glyph, by Alixandra of The Alchemists Vessel |
Birthstone Fun Facts
May – Emerald, a beryl stone.
The Stone of Success and Love
Physical Description: A deep to light green translucent stone,
Metaphysical Properties: Traditionally used to enhance memory
Alternatives:
Malachite: A Deep Forest Green Color
 |
| Malachite Earrings |
Its bright green color mimics the moors and reminds one of outdoors, hills, trees, and grass.
Metaphysical Properties: Promotes harmony and emotional balance, and reduces stress.
Interesting Fact: Used as a pigment for paint until about 1800. Malachite has been mined for about 3,000 years at Timna in Israel, also called “King Solomon’s Mines”.
Mythology:
Zeus, the father of the Greek gods fell in love with Europa, the Phoenician princess. She was always guarded by her father’s soldiers. Zeus transformed himself into a beautiful white bull with a pair of golden horns and wandered towards her while she was plucking flowers in her garden. (The cad!)
Europa was mesmerized by the beauty of the white bull and made him her pet. They became instant friends. One day, Europa climbed onto the back of the white bull, who making use of the opportunity, carried her away to Crete. After reaching Crete, Zeus revealed himself and later married her. According to Greek mythology, Zeus as a white bull represents the constellation Taurus.
Aventurine (Green), A Crystal.
Often miss-pronounced or miss-spelled “Adventurine”, this beautiful crystal ranges in colors from yellow to deep green and maybe transparent or opaque.
Metaphysical Properties: Inspires joy, a positive attitude and mental clarity.
Interesting Fact: The name Aventurine is derived from the Italian ‘ventura’, meaning “a mistake”. In the 18th a speckled glass was created by accident in Venice. The stone was named for this glass due to its appearance. Sometimes mistakenly referred to as “Indian Jade”.
Famous Taurus:
Anne-Margret
Fred Astaire
Johannes Brahams
Catherine the Great
Charolette Bronte
Cher
George Clooney
Sigmund Freud
Ulysses S. Grant
Adolf Hitler
Jim Jones
Liberace
George Lucas
Karl Marx
Meatwad
Golda Meir
Ho Chi Mihn
Vladmir Nabokov
Willie Nelson
Al Pacino
Eva Peron
Robespierre
William Shakespeare
Harry S. Truman
Rudolph Valentino
Jim Jones
Liberace
George Lucas
Karl Marx
Meatwad
Golda Meir
Ho Chi Mihn
Vladmir Nabokov
Willie Nelson
Al Pacino
Eva Peron
Robespierre
William Shakespeare
Harry S. Truman
Rudolph Valentino
Orson Wells
We have items in the shops geared toward the Taurus, like these:
We have items in the shops geared toward the Taurus, like these:
Genuine Malachite with gorgeous Azurite inclusions. Azurite is a beautiful blue stone, although too soft for jewelery-making on its own, it does appear on occasion in malachite, creating a lovely speckled appearance across the stones surface. Used here to created these absolutely stunning and unique pair of Sterling Silver Gemstone Earrings.
Beautiful deep green genuine Malachite beads hang in a lovely chevron pattern from Sterling Silver Hoops. Perfect for Boho fashions, hipster, rockers and a terrific accent for Office attire. About 2″ long.
Sterling Silver fully soldered hoops and genuine Malachite with Azurite inclusions beads with Sterling silver findings and accents beads. Suspended from Sterling Silver Fish Hook ear wires.
Arrives boxed ready for gift giving.
*Limited availability! Once these beauties are gone, they are gone!
Perfect for May Birthdays!
Gorgeous green, fresh and fun to wear. The stunning chainmaille bracelet is a colorful piece and just right for any occasion, a pop of color at the office, or for a casual weekend get away accessory. From the Captured Color Collection, this lovely piece is made in this year’s must have fashion color. Light weight and comfortable for extended wear.
8″ long including clasp. Silver plated wire and enameled aluminum jump rings are woven in an Inverted Round Maille pattern and finished with a strong magnetic clasp that holds well during everyday activities and movements.
Arrives boxed, ready for gift giving.
These charms were purchased at Silver Enchantments of Arizona, and are used in a number of jewelry pieces from earrings to charm bracelets they may be sold in sets or individually to add to your already existing pieces. They are tiny! Sterling Silver, and the back is even stamped 925. Custom creations are available.
We have all twelve Zodiac signs available. The original graphic (and 11others) was available on Cafe Press, but having no store views and little interest, I have closed that shop. Customized items are available. Please contact the shop with your requests. All questions are answered and quotes are free.
You can find our shop at either of the sites below, or find the fan page on face book. Did you know you can shop directly from the fan page? You can.
The Alchemists Vessel on
Etsy
Handmade Artists
Facebook, just click on the Etsy Showcase or Alchemists Vessel buttons under the cover photo on the page.
Official Site
Thank you for stopping in and having a look.
The Alchemists Vessel would like to wish you a pleasant day.
*Various sources and books were used in the creation of this post. No one source was found to be more accurate than an other, please keep in mind that the Zodiac is different for different cultures all over the world, and that information not only varies from culture to culture, but from author to author or whatever material one may use as resource or research.
Chainmaille Tutorial Key Chain Kit on Handmade Artists’ Shop
Chainmaille Tutorial Key Chain Kit on Handmade Artists’ Shop.
Complete Kits or Instructions, both are available and ready for delivery or download.
Jewelry Sets, Tutorial Kits and Wholesale at The Alchemists Vessel
Good Morning,
Happy Friday to one and all, the weekend is almost here and I for one could use a little down time, not like that is going to happen, but I can give it a go. Today is Shameless Self Promotion Day on the blog, but I do that a lot any way. That’s what the blog for, besides showing off neat items and cool artists, some of whom are personal friends, and others just because their work amazes me.
What’s happening at The Alchemists Vessel? Let’s find out.
We are currently offering a variety of sets of jewelry, bracelets, earrings, and combination sets, soon to be listed. First up is this fun set of four (4) Chainmaille Bracelets, all four are a generous 8-1/4″ to 8-1/2″ in length, with a magnetic clasp and enameled aluminum jump rings. Available in Gunmetal tone or Silver-plated outer rings, with more accent colors on the way.
Available now at Raven’s Nook
These fabulous bracelets come in a set of four (4). They are dark, dreamy, striking, yet subtle, just right to match your mood, attire or lipstick. A collection of pretty ribbons for the wrist, these are an excellent choice for the tailored grey Professional suit, a sleek and sensuous bauble for Date Night, a surprise under the black lights at the club, or a cool element to go with your favorite pair of jeans and t-shirt on that weekend get away. Terrific for Rocker, Biker, Goth, and Metal fashions, a superior accessory for velvet or leather. Would make a unique ensemble for Film, Stage or Event attire or costuming. The mystery, how do the rings just float there like that?
Each bracelet measures 8-1/4″ to 8-1/2″ long, including clasp. Gunmetal tone (over copper) and enameled aluminum jump rings in Teal, Purple, Olive Green, and Red, are woven in the Inverted Round Maille pattern and finished with a strong magnetic clasp that holds well during everyday activities and movements.
Arrives boxed, ready for gift giving.
This item is not customizable.
Items are 20% Off the individual sale price.
Free Shipping this item.
Also available in silver-plated outer rings.
Ask us about Wholesale and multi-item order discounts.
*Sold individually as well.
We are always happy to take custom requests. Like what you see, but don’t see what you like? Drop us a line and let us design and create something especially for you. We have a wide selection of in-stock materials to choose from. Consultations, questions and quotes for custom orders are always free.
Coming Soon:
Want to try your hand at making Chainmaille? Don’t want to spend all that money on a book and supplies? If you have a couple of pairs of pliers and Adobe Reader, you too can try your hand at these fun and beautiful projects.
As part of a promotional campaign for In Chains, The Alchemists Vessel will be offering Instructions and Kits for Stand-Alone-Projects from Key Chains to Jewelry, and more, if it can be managed.
Kits will include Printed Instructions and enough material to make two (2) of the Weave Project you choose, plus extra rings just in case you make a mistake. That’s one for you and one to give away to your best friend, co-worker, or child.
Look for these project listings next month!
Wholesale Orders? Yes we do.
Everything you see in the shop is available for Wholesale Order. We ask that all Wholesale Orders equal $200.00 or more. Discount is taken at time of completed transaction and can be as much as 30% off the listed retail price of your entire order. We negotiate as well!
We also provide bulk or multi-item discounts for teams, groups, clubs, organizations, wedding parties, events and are willing to work with other designers to fulfill your jewelry or costume piece needs.
Friendly, knowledgeable, over ten years experience and a Certified Jewelry Design and Repair Technician, you can’t go wrong with merchandise from The Alchemists Vessel.
We guarantee our work.
We would also like to mention at this time that the official Alchemists Vessel website will be undergoing some changes and under construction once again. We appreciate your patience as we attempt to provide the finest quality goods and services via our website. The site is still accessible and orders, e-mails and other items of interest will still be available while the changes are being made.
Thank you for stopping in and having a look.
The Alchemists Vessel would like to wish you a pleasant day.
