Ancient Treasures=Modern Inspiration

On my last day in NYC I had about 2 hours to take in the MET, which is virtually impossible as i'm sure some of you know.  I did, however, take time to peruse one of my favorite sources of creative stimulation: ancient adornment.  I especially get lost in the rich, high-carat gold and mythical references.

This egyptian snake bangle bracelet rocked my world.  

C'mon now....doesn't get much better than this!

The amazing, surprisingly large Heart Scarab of Hathofer ca 1492 B.C.

Greco-Roman lion bangles.  I'll take two, please!

Mesopotamian Lunate earrings 2600 B.C. 

 I'm dying to make lightweight folded hoops like these!

Stunning Greek arm cuffs.  

Imagine self sunning on the Mediterranean, tan skin, hair flowing, long cascading dress, arm cuffs!  One can dream, right?

My NYC

Here are some points of inspiration for me from my recent trip.

Press!

I've been busy traveling and haven't even had the time to write a blog post.  Last Friday, Daily Candy featured a front page article all about Sarah Swell Jewelry!  The article, entitled Princess of Tides, weaves a romantic tale about my jewelry.  Check it out! 

A Love Story

Making an engagement ring can easily become stressful and nerve racking.  Strict timelines, hazy concepts and the fact that I'm responsible for pleasing two parties; the proposer whom often has no idea what the proposee is pining for, and the (hopefully) soon to be fiance who usually has a very clear vision of the perfect moment with the perfect ring.

Luckily for me, I recently had the chance to make a wonderful ring for dear friends that included none of the above dilemmas. 

John, who works on the San Francisco Bay, came to me with idea of using coral somehow to create a "lace-like" engagement ring.  I instantly thought of using a sea-fan to create an interesting pattern for the band.   I used an actual piece of coral, made a mold into which I injected wax.  I then took the wax and sculpted the band of the ring which was cast in white gold.  I selected a 1/3 ct stunningly cut, clean and white sparkler which I bezel set and sunk into the band.  

Serena, an amazing graphic designer, obviously has a great eye for design.  I thought she would appreciate the nod to nature in a subtle and interesting way.  The result was a totally unique, organic ring that also reads as somewhat architectural and modern.

The proposal went down at one of the couple's monthly "movie nights" held in the backyard of their SF home.  I was honored to be in the audience as the sailor man crouched on bended knee and asked his fair maiden for her hand in marriage, to which she said YES!

                      

  The ring in wax prior to casting