Lovely Linocuts

I've always enjoyed both practicing and admiring the art of printmaking. I must admit it's been far too long since i've had time to do anything creative besides making jewelry. Back in the day, I LOVED making linoleum block prints. The process is actually quite simplistic in theory, but how the techniques are applied allows the end results to vary greatly. I love local artist Rigel Stuhmiller's whimsical "Circus Troupe" prints. Check out how she makes them here.

Age Of Aquarius

I'm pleased to announce that 7X7 Magazine showcased my Fishbone Bracelet in the February issue Fashion Trend layout! I feel honored to be on the same page as jewelry superstars Kathy Kamei and Melissa Joy Manning.

Editor Jaclyn Binder hit the nail on the head when she wrote that my bracelet ".... looks just as stunning with a T-shirt and jeans as it does with a dramatic cocktail dress."

To me, that is the ultimate compliment. When I design, I try to find that magical compromise between beautifully crafted art and wearable jewelry. Great jewelry should and can transcend clothing choices, time of day, event, age, and even personal style. I'm happy that others see that in my creations.

I live 90% of my life in jeans, boots, and t-shirts. The other 10% warrants a bit more effort. Either way, I wear my jewelry proudly. It is part of me-always.

The Marin Store HEARTS Sarah Swell Jewelry!

The Marin Store showcased my romantically rough-and-tumble Shipwreck Heartbreaker Necklace in their two page magazine spread. Not a traditional heart jewelry kind of gal? Well then this is the piece for you! Cast from a piece of a washed ashore shipwreck, the heart is formed from "planks" and can feature diamonds if you'd so desire (who wouldn't). A true testament of love from a sailor man to his sweetheart back on dry land.

Ring Envy

As a jewelry designer, I pay a lot of attention to what other jewelry designers are doing. I have been quite taken for quite some time with Israeli-born goldsmith Daphna Simon. The weighty luxury of Simon's 18 karat sculptural pieces is almost palatable.

I want them on me. Now, please.

The Color of Love

Being a jewelry designer, I often wonder what my own engagement ring may look like. My man sure does have a lot to live up to, and knows very well that a mall store special simply will not do. I'm not saying that I need a big rock, or even a diamond at all, just something unique and stunning in its simplicity. Often times jewelry is like art; you can't put your finger on what makes it work, it just does.

This was the case recently when I was asked to design a non-traditional engagement ring. The client wanted something simple and ancient looking. Perhaps the most important part of this ring was finding the stone. The color we were going for was "the Atlantic ocean on an overcast day." Quite specific. When I came across this amazing Australian Sapphire, I knew it was perfect. The subdued blue/gray/green color would be amazing against the regal gold color of 18 karat. The result is so perfect in my eyes. Jewelry need not be complicated. In this instance, the beauty was in the marriage of perfect simplicity, amazingly harmonious color, and the meaning behind the chosen stone.

The proposal took place during a routine stroll along the pair's favorite beach on the rugged New England coast. She enthusiastically said "yes," and will forever have the memory of her special day captured in the sea-blue color of the stone.

Branching Out

Surprises are the best, especially when you get what you had dreamed of! I love being a part of jewelry surprises when the giver knows exactly what the receiver wants. It allows me to be creative AND be sure that the result will be much adored. This was the case when I was asked to design a custom ring for a Christmas gift that resembled a tree branch. I immediately became enchanted with the idea of having the branch weave around the finger and entrap a trio of brilliant diamonds. The challenge of this piece was finding a balance between having the ring look like a real tree branch, while still remaining wearable and comfortable, as well as making sense when you're only able to see the front section of the ring while it is on the finger. The end result was pure success. Everyone was happy, myself included.

oh my, what a druzy!

I've seen other designers use druzy in their work, and I just couldn't resist any longer. It has everything I look for in a gemstone; a unique cut, great texture and depth, uniqueness and sparkle, of course!

I just finished this really cool "caged druzy" necklace. It features a one of a kind piece of druzy captured in a hand-crafted sterling silver setting. A bright diamond adds interest to the bail, which moves freely along an oxidized ball chain. This necklace pretty much sums up my jewelry aesthtic: a bit rough, rugged and organic offset with luxurious details.

Love it! This piece will be available soon on sarahswell.com