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

Outside In

Talk about never having to leave the house! Built in 1960 by architect Daniel Leiberman in Mill Valley, CA, this house was designed, naturally, to bring the outside in. And that it does so well. The beams radiate out from the center column and walls of glass allow uninterrupted light to fill the space. It somehow reminds me of the tree houses from Star Wars, but more modern, and oh so much cooler.

Mess!

This is how my bench looks after days of non-stop work.  Quite messy, huh?  For some reason, when I have a ton of work to do, I just can't justify taking 10 minutes to clean up and start fresh. Perhaps I should rethink this strategy.

Bound Together

I was lucky enough to actually attend the wedding that I made this slightly rugged, yet still refined wedding band for.  The Groom's ring was cast from an actual shipwreck plank that I found along the San Francisco coast.  The white gold ring featured rope accents on both sides to tie together the nautical theme.  It was very appropriate for a classic wedding on gorgeous Cape Cod.  The bride was glowing in her stunning strapless gown, and the groom's smile was no less than a mile wide.  With the reception held at a beautiful old inn, it felt like a throwback to another time and place, one that I did not want to leave.  Cheers to the bride and groom!

Stars + Ravens

I'm absolutely obsessed with local gal Sarah Boruso's nostalgic collection of carefully made clothing called Stars + Ravens.  The intrigue lies just as much in her inspiration as in the breathtaking details and draping of her garments.  Not to mention, she's the lead singer in a band, AND her name is Sarah (with an "h")

What's not to love?