The Midas Touch

Good Morning,

You have heard the story of King Midas, the unfortunate man that could turn everything he touched in to gold, including his food, his clothes, his daughter.  That’s right, anything he touched instantly became gold.

Here at The Alchemists Vessel we aren’t blessed with such a curse, but as our namesakes once attempted, we like to turn things in to gold, or perhaps more appropriately turn gold into things.

Monday we had a brief showcase of some of the new materials now available through the shop.  Anxious and excited to try the wire and rings out, I sat down for a bit of weaving, and I must admit the fun of playing with new items had me a bit distracted.

 

A small sampling of yesterday’s play.  

Due to skipping from one weave to the next, I neglected to notice and correct a couple of migrating rings here and there and will of course take the time to fix the errant part before continuing with the piece.

5.0mm 18g 14kt Gold Plated Rings – European 4-in-1 pattern

8mm 18g Gold over 6mm 18g Silver – Dragonscale Pattern

8mm 18g Silver over 6mm 18g Gold – Dragonscale

6mm 20g Gold and Silver – Spiral

Look for our new items coming soon, or contact us and ask about Custom Work or a piece especially designed for you.

Find Us at these easy to use sites and links

e-mail direct: alchemistsvessel@gmail.com
Like Us on Facebook
Follow Us On Twitter
Shop with Us On the following sites:
The Alchemists Vessel – Etsy
The CraftStar – The Alchemists Vessel
Handmade Artists – The Alchemists Vessel

Bookmark our Official Website or Little Shop of Artists store site, soon to be re-opening to the public.

Thank you for stopping in and having a look.  We hope we have encouraged or inspired you to come back and see us again, or to shop with us when you’d like a unique and one of a kind gift.

The Alchemists Vessel would like to wish you a pleasant day.

What’s New in The Studio – Wire / Jump Ring Selections

Good Morning, 

This weekend I spent time with the supply catalogs and would like to share some of the new materials that will be available for custom work and favorite designs.

Silver, Sterling Silver and Copper are my preferred metals of choice, but gold is requested more often than not.  We have added several sizes of manufactured rings and new wires to our inventory.

Gold (14K) Jump Rings

Now available in several sizes, these pretty rings will be used in a variety of items, including but not limited to our Chainmaille Selection of jewelry.  Look for new items soon, or ask us about a custom design order made especially for you.

Aluminum Rings:

These lovely rings also come in a variety of sizes and have been purchased specifically for Dragonscale Maille pattern bracelets.  Currently available in three colors Red, Black and Gold (Yellow), we will be adding more colors to our selection soon.  Shown here in Red.

 

Stainless Steel Rings:

We have also added Stainless Steel to our selection of wire / jump rings.  Silver in color, stainless steel is great for those that may have metal sensitivities or want a piece that can stand up to heavier wear and tear than the precious metals.  They also make great masculine designs.


A word about Gold:

Gold: All gold jewelry is plated, usually over copper or brass.  Gold is too soft to use for much of anything unless it is mixed or layered over another base metal.  “Rose Gold” is a blend of Gold and Copper, adding the copper creates that pretty red tone in the gold.  Most Gold jewelry is plated at 18K or 14K.  This means that the piece of jewelry is 75 to 58.5% Gold and 25 to 41.5% base metal.  Our jump rings are listed as 14K over brass.  Our gold wire is filled over brass.

Filled vs. Plated:  What does this mean?

Filled wire in gold or silver is simply a denser plate of gold over the base metal.  Plated wire is usually about .15mm of precious metal over a base metal wire (like a sheath),  Filled is usually .25mm of precious metal over a base metal core.

(Picture taken from the internet).

Thank you for stopping by and having a look.  We hope you will stop by again and see what we have made with these new supply items.

The Alchemists Vessel would like to wish you a pleasant day.

Studio News – Two New Rings

Good Morning,

Today I would like to share two new items available from the Blackbird Metalworks division of the Studio.

“Princess Bride” – Pink Zircon and 10K Fine White Gold Ring.

“As you wish.”  The farm boy said.

Simple, elegant, feminine and very pretty.  US Size 6.5 fits most ring fingers and would make a fabulous alternative for an October Birthday or that special question one might like to ask.

Zircon is a natural mineral, it is usually found in a crystalline form and comes in a variety of colors, the most common being hyacinth (yellow), but ranges from yellows to reds.  Not to be confused with Cubic Zirconia (CZ) a synthetic material

The vintage 10K Fine White Gold band has a pretty little spiral pattern along the shank and carries up to the prongs for an attractive accent and a lovely setting.

White Gold is an alloy, it consists of yellow gold and a white metal such as palladium, zinc or nickle.  The Karat weight refers to the purity of the yellow gold.  Fine Gold can range from 900 Fine to almost pure gold, which is much too soft to make jewelry with.

Love Honor Cherish Mans Wedding Band

Strong, sturdy, individual and one of a kind.  This solid Sterling Silver ring is made with the Ceremonial Vows in mind.  The three stacked rings characterize the phrase to “Love, Honor, and Cherish” each other, and reminds the wearer to do so every day.

Cut from a single piece of Sterling Silver half-round stock, each ring is individually hand forged, crafted and shaped on a steel mandrel, soldered and polished before being stacked and connected.

Appropriate for men or women the ring stands about 1/2″ tall, but is lightweight enough to wear comfortably.

The center ring is stamped Sterling. Some surface tool marks are visible in the photos but not to the naked eye, these are not imperfections, but are the sign of a quality hand-crafted item.

Thank you for stopping by and having a look.  We hope we have inspired you to take a look at what else we have in the shop.

The Alchemists Vessel would like to wish you a pleasant day.

Find us on Facebook – Blackbird Metalworks

Announcements Feb 01, 2013

Good Morning,


Pleased to announce that I have completed the written portion of my course for Certified Jewelry Design and Repair Technician.  I currently hold a 95 average. Waiting for homework projects to be marked as completed and returned along with my Certification papers.  I am thrilled to be through the course and now the waiting begins. I will not see an actual Certificate until June or July, when all the processes have been gone through, including and not limited to skill assessment with one of the larger Retailer Jewelers.

The Alchemists Vessel and Blackbird Metalworks will be closed from February 7th to 11th, and returning on the 12th.  Entrepreneurs need rest and relaxation as well.  Although it isn’t all rest and relaxation, work will be done as well.  The blog will have scheduled posts, but I am unsure if they will actually post when scheduled to do so.

Those of you that may be looking for me at February’s Flea Market, I am not sure if I have a space this month or not, I have not received the form from Spectra Productions, the “hosts” of the Market, for booth space or payment. I apologize in advance if you attend and I am not there.

Thank you for stopping by and having a read.

The Alchemists Vessel would like to wish you a pleasant weekend.

Featured Artist Diane Shye on Etsy

 

Good Morning,

This morning we have a featured Artist from Etsy, Diane Shye, of Diane Shye Jewelry.

From: Diane Shye Jewelry

Engraved Sterling Silver Star Pendant 3D Abstract

Description:  This one-of-a-kind handmade 3-dimensional engraved sterling silver abstract star artisan pendant is handmade by DianaShyeJewelry on Etsy.

I engraved the base of the abstract star pendant with a dramatic oval circle design. The upper layer of the pendant is an outline of the base star that I riveted to the base with copper wire rivets enclosed in thin sterling silver tubing.

The pendant is 3” (7.6 cm) long and just over 1 ½” (3.8 cm) at its widest points. It comes strung on a black leather cord that measures 20 ½” (52 cm) including the handmade sterling silver clasp. The leather cord could be removed and replaced with different chain or cord of your choice.

Gold Egyptian Coil Necklace Amertine Beads Handmade Ethnic

 

Description:   This 14 karat gold filled wire Egyptian coil and ametrine bead ethnic style necklace is handmade with ancient Egyptian techniques by DianaShyeJewelry on Etsy.The spiral components are 14 karat gold filled wire, about 11/16″ (7.5 mm) wide; each coil is 5/16″ in diameter. The beads are ametrine 9 x 11 mm puff coins.

Ametrine takes both a light amethyst and a light citrine color, so these colors alternate in the necklace. These are high quality beads with a beautiful transparency, so the necklace has a regal look.

The design is finished off at each end with a short lengths of handmade 2 in 2 chain plus a 1 3/3″ extender chain and a lobster claw clasp (all 14 karat gold-filled wire). You can wear the necklace at variable lengths from 16 1/2″ to 18 1/4″ (42 cm to 46 cm). The ametrine bead dangles hand 1″ (2.5 cm) from the line of the necklace.

This necklace is an eye catcher with a lot of presence, but it’s comfortable to wear and lightweight (1.5 oz. or 42 g.).

Silver Wire Chrysanthemum Stone Cuff Bracelet 

Description:  This handmade modern minimalist sterling silver wire cuff bracelet by DianaShyeJewelry on Etsy features a warm brown chrysanthemum stone with flowery patterns.I put recycled sterling silver through a rolling mill to make the long sturdy square wire that forms the cuff of the bracelet. I then created a classically simple sterling silver bezel setting for the 30 x 40 mm chrysanthemum cabochon and soldered it to the cuff. In the final step, I enclosed the cabochon in its setting and formed the cuff to its oval shape.

The cuff is 7” (17.8 cm) in length with a 1” (2.5 cm) gap between its two ends. It has a slight spring to it and can be adjusted to comfortably fit wrists from 6” – 7” (15.3 – 17.8 cm).

Thank you for stopping by and having a look.

The Alchemists Vessel would like to wish you a pleasant day. 

 

Six Great Gifts For Giving 8/28/12

 

Tuesday is here and so are six neat items for giving.  An eclectic collection of items for the home and a vintage piece of jewelry or two!

 

From: I Paint It Pretty

 

Autumn Colors Tote Bag

Description: This is a hand painted tote bag with Autumn colored flowers. The seasonal red, orange and yellow flowers make this bag a cool Fall accessory. There are bright green and white leaves to compliment the flowers. A pretty silver butterfly charm adds its own sparkle. This is a fun bag that you’ll find yourself going back to again and again.
13.5 in x 13.5 in x 3.5 in

Painted Ceramic Trivet with Purple Flowers 

Description:  This is a OOAK hand painted tile trivet with purple and white flowers. It has bright green and white vines swirling around the flowers. This gives it a nice sense of depth and movement. It can be used to hold something hot or just for a decorative accent. It’s a great way to add a splash of color to your kitchen.

From: Repurposed Treasure 

 

1950’s Vintage Golden Ballerina Brooch Pin

Description: The graceful movement of a ballerina is perfectly captured in this lovely pin, circa 1950.

It is 2″ long by 1 3/4″ wide .
Non magnetic golden material.
Clasp is a little tight, but works properly.
There is some slight wear to the finish at the tip of the toes and very top of the head. Noticable only very close up in proper light.

Overall very good vintage/used condition.

1960’s Kenneth Jay Lane KJL Vintage Brooch and Pendant Large Rhinestone Star

Description: 1960’s KENNETH JAY LANE KJL STAR BROOCH PENDANT LARGE

Kenneth Jay Lane Signed (K.J.L.) Brooch / Pin Pendant from the 1960’s

This rare Kenneth Jay Lane Brooch/Pendant is a stunning statement piece. It is in excellent condition, and is signed K.J.L. This is an early Lane mark, from the 1960’s.
The center of the star is nicely cut pave rhinestones, and is lifted a bit from the frame, giving dimension. The additional smaller points of the star are just at bottom of the frame level and also pave rhinestones. The piece is framed in a gold tone. Pin closure operates properly, and there is a hook to enable use as a pendant as well.

A truly beautiful piece which will undoubtedly continue to increase in value.

 

 

From: From Jackie Guttuso Designs

 

Jungle Animal Art 8 x 10 Canvas Giclee, Gallery Wrap Kids Art, Nursery Art

 

 

Description:  This professionally printed 8 x 10 canvas giclee print of two giraffes is a reproduction of my original paper sculpture collage titled “Under the Sun”. Giclee prints are produced from a large format, high-resolution ink-jet printer and printed with archival inks.This jungle animal print would look great in a baby’s nursery or a child’s room.
It would also make a unique baby shower gift.

 

Zebra Art Print 11 x 14 Canvas Giclee, Gallery Wrap, Kids Art 

 

Description:  This professionally printed 8 x 10 canvas giclee print of two zebras is a reproduction of my original paper sculpture collage. The original was created by handpainting watercolor paper using acrylic paint and then cutting, bending and layering the paper to create depth.

Giclee prints are produced from a large format, high-resolution ink-jet printer and printed with archival inks.

A mama zebra gently nuzzles her baby under a brilliant orange sun in “Eskimo Kiss”.

This print would look great with “Dandy Lions” or “Giraffes” hanging in a jungle themed nursery or playroom.

Thank you for stopping in and having a look.

The Alchemists Vessel would like to wish you a pleasant day.

 

Glass Beads and Charm Bracelets – In My Studio

Good Morning,

Wednesday is here, half way through the work week!

This morning, I would like to show a selection of available bead colors, and styles.  I would also like to introduce a new item as well.  I suppose I could save them for Monday, but I am excited about these.

These are new, customizable, and sizable.  I have a selection of Sterling Silver Plated Charms from which I have created two Charm bracelets.   When I was a girl, everyone I knew had a charm bracelet or one of the those Charm Hanger necklaces that were so popular.  They are making a comeback this year, and I hope for years to come.  Below, one in a Rockabilly theme, that I just think is absolutely adorable, and one for myself.  More charms are always being added to the stock selection.  Drop us an e-mail and see if we have your favorites, or stop by the shop and select a pre-made beauty with room enough to add your own collection of charms later.

7-1/4″ in length is “Rockabilly Betty”, a theme bracelet with Chinese Coin, Dice (they move individually), Skull and Crossbones, Motorcycle and a Humming Bird or Sparrow charm.

Created for me, rarely do I make things for myself, but I just could not resist making a fun piece to wear when I go out.  Also to show more of the charms that are currently in stock.

Counterclockwise: Leaping Frog, Chinese Coin, Dinosaur, Seahorse, Initial K, Western Style Gecko, Initial A, Cow Skull, Airplane, Violin and a Penguin.

We also have earrings that have Dragons, Pegasus, Drum Kits, Frog Princes, Swans, and more that are also in stock and available for bracelets. 

Frog Prince, one of my favorites!

Sterling Silver Plated, highly detailed charms are available in a variety of things.

CZECH GLASS SEED BEAD SELECTION

All beads shown have been used in the creation of Chain Maille Bracelets and Necklaces that are currently in the shop. Still don’t see your favorite color?  Special orders are welcome.  Many of these are available in Birthstone colors or would make a fun alternative in, Amethyst, Aquamarine, Silver Lined Crystal, Emerald, Gold (Topaz), Pearl (White), Ruby, January or July Birthdays, Sapphire,

Clockwise:  Czech Glass in Cyrstal Blue Lined, Aqua, Crystal, Amethyst Aurora Borealis finish beads.  These prism in the light, blues, purples, greens, appear and disappear across the surface of the beads.

Clockwise: Czech Glass in Sapphire (mix), Black and Pearl Luster finish beads.  These are opaque with a lustrous sheen.

Clockwise: Silver Lined Czech Glass in Black Diamond, Emerald, Crystal, Sapphire, Amethyst, and Ruby.

Clockwise: Gold, Red, Green, Pink, Blue.  These are translucent, unlined colored class beads.  Very pretty, solid colors.

Clockwise: Czech Glass in, Orange, Red, Copper, Bronze, Silver and green in the middle.  These are opaque, solid colors.

Sterling Silver and Silver Plated items are available to build that special piece just for you.

E-mail us for a complete list of materials, including metal and semi-precious gemstone stock.  If we don’t have it, we can order it.

Thank you so much for stopping by.  The Alchemists Vessel would like to wish you a pleasant day.

New Items in the Shop

Two new items are up for sales this morning.

Unisex Necklace:  Antiqued Bronze jump rings are spun into a version of a Half Persian Chain Maille weave pattern, are connected by a larger ring at the center and a stylized Stag pendant drops from the larger ring.  About 20″ in total length including pendant.  This would be great for theme or cos-playing.  Aspiring “King Arthur’s” or “Guinevere‘s”,  this is for you!

These are cute, fun, really simple, and will add a splash of bright color to your outfits, and absolutely a must have fashion accessory this Spring and Summer season.  Department stores carry these for $12.99 to $15.99 a pair, we carry our hand made beauties for $5.00!  Natural Shell (surface-dyed) buttons are re-purposed into these adorable, native-chic, and colorful earrings, available in Blue (shown), Pink, Green and Gold (Sunshine Yellow), these are a limited selection item and once they are gone, they are gone.  The wire is wrapped around a mandrel, the button is then positioned and the wire allowed to “relax”, the wire is then manipulated by hand to form an organic spiral shape as decoration and to secure the button.  A Fish Hook ear wire is added to complete the pair.  Simple, uncluttered, and a fabulous accent for any Spring or Summer outfit.

Sterling Silver Plated Copper Jewelry Wire and Natural Shell (Blue) Earrings.

Natural Shell Buttons surface dyed in Pink, Light Green, Gold (Sunshine Yellow), the back of the shell is shown in comparison to the dyed surface face.

 

Thank you for stopping by we would like to wish you a pleasant week.