tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34469173941274418992024-02-20T16:00:33.939+00:00becky pearce designs jewelleryI hand make contemporary jewellery and blog about jewellery, other crafty stuff and life in general.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06840897647375567381noreply@blogger.comBlogger281125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3446917394127441899.post-8245846140453459802015-11-04T21:24:00.000+00:002015-11-04T21:24:27.134+00:00Christmas shopping datesI promised myself I wouldn't mention it until November, and I think I did pretty well. But I do need to let you know about <b>Christmas shopping</b> cut off dates.<br />
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This year one of my lovely cousins is getting married on the 21st December, so I thought that was a pretty good reason to make sure my shop was shut up and all orders were shipped well before then.<br />
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International orders - USA, Australia, and some Europe (please check) - 30th November<br />
Most of Europe (France, Spain, Portugal, Germany - contact me for more info) 7th December<br />
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UK - 10th December<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmEoD6MT9fJ0ivW0HGnKOzamRudeg7SRz7NGt3UPdrLCqzKqBI86yxn7plb6U-3Q6ajOy1a5PCuvukJ-6uxFWld7zfD_6ea28ohOdmchjmhTOyC_00JfKPpSwcqoYiEU9uGyOtHStJX9E/s1600/ring+stack+leaf+lbt+wt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmEoD6MT9fJ0ivW0HGnKOzamRudeg7SRz7NGt3UPdrLCqzKqBI86yxn7plb6U-3Q6ajOy1a5PCuvukJ-6uxFWld7zfD_6ea28ohOdmchjmhTOyC_00JfKPpSwcqoYiEU9uGyOtHStJX9E/s400/ring+stack+leaf+lbt+wt.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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If you have something custom in mind, please do get in touch sooner rather than later to avoid disappointment.<br />
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It's just me here doing, so if things get too busy, my shops will <b>have to close earlier</b> to enable me to get all of the items made to the high standard you all expect. So if you have your heart set on something in particular, please (please) do get your order in early.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06840897647375567381noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3446917394127441899.post-76763839961285383322015-10-24T12:07:00.002+01:002015-10-24T12:07:11.217+01:00And the winner is....Hang on...wait a minute.<br />
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Before I do the big reveal I just wanted to say a HUGE thank you to all of you who took part in my giveaway. Plus so many of you got in touch with kind words about my jewellery. It's made me so incredibly happy.<br />
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Sometimes it feels a bit odd working for yourself, on your own and selling the things you make online. Don't get me wrong, on my own is one of my favourite places to be, but you know, you do wonder if the stuff you're doing is ok.<br />
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And it's you lovely bunch on facebook, instagram, pinterest and getting in touch via email who make me realise, "ah yes people do like what I'm doing". Seriously, it means <b>such a lot</b> so <b>thank you</b>.<br />
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That's why as I began writing this winner announcment I felt a bit sad about only picking one winner. Obviously I can't give you all a set of stacking rings/ £50 voucher. I mean, I'd love to, but you know...<br />
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BUT how's about this...I'll do a bit of a flash sale for the rest of today.<br />
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Until 12 midnight you can all have 25% off whatever you'd like from <a href="http://www.beckypearcedesigns.co.uk/">Becky Pearce Designs</a>.<br />
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Just enter the code HAPPY25 at the checkout.<br />
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This offer closes at midnight tonight GMT (24th October) so get in quick and enjoy.<br />
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UNLESS of course, your name is <b>Louise Hughes.</b> Because if you're Louise Hughes, you might want to be planning out what stacking ring set to get, or what to spend your £50 on. Louise, I'll be in touch shortly!<br />
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Congratulations Louise, and commiserations to the rest of you - hopefully the discount code above will sweeten the blow a little. And don't forget those of you on my newsletter get entered into a giveaway each and every month, so don't uncross your fingers just yet.<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06840897647375567381noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3446917394127441899.post-57544911133590178482015-10-16T13:42:00.002+01:002015-10-16T13:42:17.362+01:00It's my once in a blue moon GIVEAWAY!Did you know I do a little giveaway every single month?<br />
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It's only open to my <a href="http://www.beckypearcedesigns.co.uk/page_3140119.html">newsletter subscribers</a>, and it's one of the many ways I thank this bunch of lovely loyal customers for letting me email them occasionally with news about my little handmade business.<br />
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But, I don't usually do more general giveaways. In fact, I don't think I've done one so far this year, and probably won't for the rest of the year - so NOW is your chance!<br />
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<a class="e-widget" href="https://gleam.io/ElN7I/birthstone-stacker-ring-giveaway" rel="nofollow">Birthstone stacker ring giveaway</a><br />
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If you'd like to win one of my ever popular birthstone stacking sets all for yourself..... you need to read on (and actually, even if you don't want a set - keep reading, as there is an alternative prize!)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw1Y7e1y18o9-UFiQ02QqlylODg-9fR86wn14X3O7hFX6xIk70rHEQplYOQcrTHhVIv_6fU-EYSZMDL4M-nNGLxYfrKGC6egPI8Z42OXnwxV9aUCAnWl70RCvmTiQiVVmtaGV6IE6b-Wc/s1600/stacking+rings+004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw1Y7e1y18o9-UFiQ02QqlylODg-9fR86wn14X3O7hFX6xIk70rHEQplYOQcrTHhVIv_6fU-EYSZMDL4M-nNGLxYfrKGC6egPI8Z42OXnwxV9aUCAnWl70RCvmTiQiVVmtaGV6IE6b-Wc/s320/stacking+rings+004.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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The winner will choose up to three ring - which could each be plain or set with a gemstone (birthstones, favourite colours, favourite gems - whatever I have that you fancy) and together we will decide on the shapes and sizes that will work best, to make sure your bespoke stacking ring set is absolutely perfect for you. </div>
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As soon as we have the design worked out, and your ring size I'll get to work. Your rings should be with you within three weeks of me getting started. </div>
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If the stacking rings aren't for you (or you already have a set!) don't worry. You can either gift your prize to someone else... (I'm not mentioning the C word but I know you know what I mean) and I can create a little gift voucher for you to give OR you can have a £50 GIFT VOUCHER to spend at <a href="http://www.beckypearcedesigns.co.uk/">Becky Pearce Designs</a> instead. </div>
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This giveaway is my way of saying a HUGE BIG MASSIVE THANK YOU to you all for your support. This has been the best year ever for my little handmade business, and I'm so thrilled and thankful. </div>
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But as well as saying thanks, I'm hoping this giveaway will help to spread the word about my jewellery! I'd love it if you could share the chance to win with your friends. </div>
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I tried to give as many options as possible to enter to make it lots of fun. Click on the link below to get started and enjoy!!<br />
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<a class="e-widget" href="https://gleam.io/ElN7I/birthstone-stacker-ring-giveaway" rel="nofollow">Birthstone stacker ring giveaway</a><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06840897647375567381noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3446917394127441899.post-62888224859485482812015-09-26T20:15:00.000+01:002015-09-26T20:43:08.945+01:00September's birthstone - SapphireWell September might be just about over, but there's still time for me to sneak in a little post about one of my favourite birthstones.<br />
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<b>September's birthstone is sapphire. </b>I did a little post about sapphire, back in 2013 - when I hardly had any sapphire goodies to show you. Well, in the last two years I've incorporated a load of them into my range....here are some of my favourites. (Click on the links for some more information!)<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.beckypearcedesigns.co.uk/beckypearceshop/prod_3554132-Sapphire-handmade-sterling-silver-earrings.html" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="sapphire stud earrings" border="0" height="320" src="https://create-cdn.net/siteimages/27/2/8/272888/91/9/6/9196625/399x399.jpg" title="sapphire stud earrings" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sapphire studs </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://create-cdn.net/siteimages/27/2/8/272888/10/1/0/10105854/1529x1533.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="sapphire trillion ring" border="0" height="320" src="https://create-cdn.net/siteimages/27/2/8/272888/10/1/0/10105854/1529x1533.jpg" title="Sapphire September birthstone ring" width="319" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sapphire trillion ring</td></tr>
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I think this is one of my all time favourite rings that I've made.<br />
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I use lab created sapphires in most of my designs as sapphire is a precious, rather than semi-precious stone and therefore a lot more pricey than other gemstones. Lab created sapphires have all the same chemical and structural properties as "real" mined sapphires, but they are made in a laboratory environment rather than over eons beneath the earth. As such they're more reasonably priced, and near perfect in colour and composition.<br />
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Check out the rest of the <a href="http://www.beckypearcedesigns.co.uk/shop/search.php?pageid=2595423&q=sapphire">sapphire jewellery</a> in my range.<br />
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I found some other lovely handmade goodies on the September theme... (click on the pictures to go through to the shops!).<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://folksy.com/items/4370962-Leather-Mini-Journal-Sapphire-jewel-small-leather-notebook-stocking-filler" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://images.folksy.com/aXRlbXMvODc3OS8yMDEzMDkxNy8xMjE5MzYzMDU0MDQ-Q-N/main" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sapphire journal by BOUND on Folksy</td></tr>
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<span style="text-align: center;">I do have a bit of an obsession with notebooks, and this one is rather lovely.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://folksy.com/items/6589922--Congratulations-Sapphire-Gold-A6-Greetings-Card" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://images.folksy.com/aXRlbXMvNjEyMzQ2LzIwMTUwMTExLzIwNTAxMzcwMjIxMA-Q-Q-N/main" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Congratulations Card by Angela Chick on Folksy</td></tr>
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How could I not love this card? Perfect. </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://folksy.com/items/4443085-Moonlight-Hedgehog-Mosaic-Garden-Bird-Bath" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://images.folksy.com/aXRlbXMvMjQxNjUzLzIwMTUwNDA1Lzg1NDQwMTAzNzA3-N/main" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Moonlight hedgehog birdbath by Jo Sara on Folksy</td></tr>
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I love this birdbath too - such brilliant work. And those gorgeous blues are just wonderful.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06840897647375567381noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3446917394127441899.post-22239976731107634582015-07-19T21:31:00.001+01:002015-07-19T21:31:18.512+01:00Care of your silver jewellerySilver jewellery, and particularly silver rings which are worn often are unfortunately are prone to tarnish.<br />
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Sterling silver is a mixed metal, combining pure silver (92.5%) and copper (7.5%) and it is the copper in the silver that reacts with moisture, and sulphur in the air to create the tarnish. As such the tarnish is produced more quickly in areas with high humidity - like swimming pools.<br />
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The tarnish will also happen with different speeds on different people, due to the differing body chemistry and the environments they live in.<br />
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I did a blog post a while ago on <a href="http://www.beckypearcedesigns.blogspot.co.uk/2010/07/caring-for-your-silver-jewellery.html">the basics of how to keep your silver shiny..</a> and have since found lots of other useful info on the internet about it.<br />
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I thought this post was particularly informative on <a href="http://blog.novica.com/how-to-clean-and-care-for-sterling-silver-jewelry/">how to clean and care for sterling silver jewellery</a> and covers everything you could possibly wish to know.<br />
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There are a lot of other websites which suggest using <a href="http://scifun.chem.wisc.edu/homeexpts/tarnish.html">aluminium foil, and bicarbinate of soda </a>- but I must admit I've not tried it yet. I'm also lucky as I got myself a super dooper ultrasonic cleaner for my workshop, which keeps all my silver nice and shiny, (and you're always welcome to get in touch about sending your jewellery for a go in it!) but I'd love to hear any of your other tips and tricks if you've got any.<br />
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To stop the tarnish building up in the first place there are lots of suggestions like not wearing your rings in the shower, or pool, or when you're cleaning etc..<br />
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Pah - I don't know about you, but I can't be doing with taking my jewellery on and off all the time.<br />
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Apart from anything else I'd forget to put it back on again.<br />
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I personally reckon the easiest solution is to keep the tarnish at bay by getting a silver polishing cloth, and giving them a quick rub every day just before you put them on. By keeping the tarnish down in that way, it should never build up to a problem level. Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06840897647375567381noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3446917394127441899.post-47996438456099860232015-07-05T21:28:00.001+01:002015-07-05T21:28:14.164+01:00The evolution of a jewellery businessWell, after months of thinking about it, and a few weeks of doing bits and bobs behind the scenes, the new look <a href="http://www.beckypearcedesigns.co.uk/">Becky Pearce Designs</a> is now live.<br />
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Things have really changed in terms of how my business looks since the start. When I started this all off back in 2009 it was a hobby. I was trying to juggle working three days as a research manager for a publishing company, and two pre schoolers. At this time doing a little bit of beading here and there was what kept me sane. It was how I relaxed.<br />
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It was so exciting to set up a new shop, and blog. There was loads to learn and play around with. I called my shop Red Bird Jewellery, got a pretty banner and it bought in a few pounds to help pay for all the beading supplies I was buying. When I look back now on the really early days - crikey - things have changed a bit!!<br />
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Here's an, ahem, ever so professional picture of the <a href="http://www.beckypearcedesigns.blogspot.co.uk/2009/09/shop-open.html">first thing I ever put into my etsy shop</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGjj-Xwoz0P5-EmxVOeCd1hfWsTUqp4vAlzT-N1nXF7LlsBtbe45OIFcWTxNwAmMTPuCWff_fjc96o-HdGYGGXPW_PpRmEms9VWxQHHXB-6bk-vlcQfdbwE9O5ErgN38lh3hXHNy7ABkQ/s1600/chainmailled020909.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGjj-Xwoz0P5-EmxVOeCd1hfWsTUqp4vAlzT-N1nXF7LlsBtbe45OIFcWTxNwAmMTPuCWff_fjc96o-HdGYGGXPW_PpRmEms9VWxQHHXB-6bk-vlcQfdbwE9O5ErgN38lh3hXHNy7ABkQ/s320/chainmailled020909.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu0yPk1aUGE4u_djZzNGgMh42cxC0d6Ggy6q6KLzFrqnqsDTeIDr6cx8yIQcNUqavho3_B6cYIrcU98Z8PMQRuQiWCGFsIQEhRhCt_LO1S_sEq7DmdkTqQeBNBMw85-6nkw_7oewglQtU/s1600/chainmaillea020909.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu0yPk1aUGE4u_djZzNGgMh42cxC0d6Ggy6q6KLzFrqnqsDTeIDr6cx8yIQcNUqavho3_B6cYIrcU98Z8PMQRuQiWCGFsIQEhRhCt_LO1S_sEq7DmdkTqQeBNBMw85-6nkw_7oewglQtU/s320/chainmaillea020909.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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(chain maille necklace from 2009)</div>
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Wow. I'd have to say both my jewellery style and photography have changed somewhat over the past six years. Hopefully for the better.<br />
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The first banner I had at this time was one;<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjlKvBBs_h4Cac3gJNkWF9ajyt4fa1rGdfYoIDXz0O53MQ0PEVD9iyCRgHURFp7cYmIJEBXJspiwZEIkZ7-1bTqHewoea7FMxQBR0-b1zhrv_z_dbsBRvah8xgVOtR3swVA94-c2Ip3EY/s1600/banner.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="42" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjlKvBBs_h4Cac3gJNkWF9ajyt4fa1rGdfYoIDXz0O53MQ0PEVD9iyCRgHURFp7cYmIJEBXJspiwZEIkZ7-1bTqHewoea7FMxQBR0-b1zhrv_z_dbsBRvah8xgVOtR3swVA94-c2Ip3EY/s320/banner.png" width="320" /></a></div>
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Beading eventually led to playing with precious metal clay; which then led to getting a torch and basic soldering, which then led to all the silversmithing I do today.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgygGJggllWByL3ocDI9otqGd6quKQ-7YbCG4WGtfJD68zgeWa5QM7jaktvnDHBhyVs3MpvdpwQ1zU2fU3YsErHWxHpDBRSAhwqG_df_hyphenhyphennMgFjuxJjD1Z0HVpmW35L_eJ1TpWDxtANtJM/s1600/012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgygGJggllWByL3ocDI9otqGd6quKQ-7YbCG4WGtfJD68zgeWa5QM7jaktvnDHBhyVs3MpvdpwQ1zU2fU3YsErHWxHpDBRSAhwqG_df_hyphenhyphennMgFjuxJjD1Z0HVpmW35L_eJ1TpWDxtANtJM/s320/012.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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(a 2015 necklace)</div>
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I <a href="http://www.beckypearcedesigns.blogspot.co.uk/2009/12/two-weeks-to-go.html">gave up work</a> at the end of 2009, and started childminding so I could spend more time with the kids, as well as step up the jewellery. It was then that I thought (hoped) that maybe jewellery could, just maybe be more than a hobby which just about funded itself, and develop into a creative business. </div>
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Here's my post at <a href="http://beckypearcedesigns.blogspot.co.uk/2011/01/bye-bye-2010-hello-2011.html">the end of 2010</a> on whether I'd made the right decision or not. </div>
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In 2011, I <a href="http://beckypearcedesigns.blogspot.co.uk/2011/08/time-to-lay-off-that-auto-setting.html">splashed out on a new camera</a>. (I can still remember the pain of spending that much money at the time) and I took a <a href="http://beckypearcedesigns.blogspot.co.uk/2011/10/photography-course.html">photography course</a> both of which changed the way my photos look dramatically. </div>
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In February 2012 <a href="http://www.beckypearcedesigns.blogspot.co.uk/2012/02/new-website-new-name.html">I got my own website, and changed the business name</a> to Becky Pearce Designs. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYdFHFYy3OAYYqDlTQdkwI1DS_TekUoq0i08O6wPnqbIHFnNkM1e2N9pBUoIXnBWCJeAPjKwa1JHtnA7dHrwUWJwMiRmswYPf0NGrNKHnrDVlI7gbyuzdJD0JsoypDBDYXuJlaL5vvM3w/s1600/blog-header-april-12-rev5.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="91" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYdFHFYy3OAYYqDlTQdkwI1DS_TekUoq0i08O6wPnqbIHFnNkM1e2N9pBUoIXnBWCJeAPjKwa1JHtnA7dHrwUWJwMiRmswYPf0NGrNKHnrDVlI7gbyuzdJD0JsoypDBDYXuJlaL5vvM3w/s320/blog-header-april-12-rev5.gif" width="320" /></a></div>
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And this header made an appearance,</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiavSjUlDdZ2c7qDcFZPhsJ8aAlVRXTZLdGa2i7Gzclog0XsNoX_mdttwUxNNK-h6L0ul9ZooJl_RUyA7ZNaHdQKFON_mPkeHaYMwbthktdq08iIYzSl8tzAZANMAacY2nMb0kjPtiunno/s320/handmade-contemporary-jewel.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiavSjUlDdZ2c7qDcFZPhsJ8aAlVRXTZLdGa2i7Gzclog0XsNoX_mdttwUxNNK-h6L0ul9ZooJl_RUyA7ZNaHdQKFON_mPkeHaYMwbthktdq08iIYzSl8tzAZANMAacY2nMb0kjPtiunno/s320/handmade-contemporary-jewel.gif" /></a></div>
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I also <a href="http://beckypearcedesigns.blogspot.co.uk/2012/03/ring-ring.html">started making rings</a>. And then realised I absolutely bloomin' LOVED making rings.</div>
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Some of you will probably remember this incarnation. It doesn't feel so long ago, but in so many ways the business has changed dramatically. </div>
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In August 2013 the header changed again to this... </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9YyJpv2DzhBBvF0tRxYsDFDSPaxS5GadN60wAfLfjTxtKlghW9Yim1zt_VUKUL147KGzdz_jDp4njNnm415dzRFd074qXgYSvlwq3i1jjvlAQ2UGmauval6ykdLd7OmnwTmPCWZzDC8c/s1600/bpd+banner+muted.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="64" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9YyJpv2DzhBBvF0tRxYsDFDSPaxS5GadN60wAfLfjTxtKlghW9Yim1zt_VUKUL147KGzdz_jDp4njNnm415dzRFd074qXgYSvlwq3i1jjvlAQ2UGmauval6ykdLd7OmnwTmPCWZzDC8c/s320/bpd+banner+muted.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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and I got more and more into working with birthstones, and began making more and more rings. </div>
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Rings, and in particular <a href="http://www.beckypearcedesigns.co.uk/beckypearceshop/cat_528215-Birthstone-stacking-rings.html">birthstone stacking rings</a> have definitely become my number one bestseller...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiHl8CrGSH-DRodk0CikVGN63zQ333cCuIFheBE9XvfjzMeaZmYaxiHi8IV_Fjte7hdp09sbq-m3WeNAzeeCf2yVz2PUkjkSq3hYhVUoV5IQdB5wC9JRa7j3eNKAS2YVFJYadjqyQK0js/s1600/aquamarine+and+opal+003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiHl8CrGSH-DRodk0CikVGN63zQ333cCuIFheBE9XvfjzMeaZmYaxiHi8IV_Fjte7hdp09sbq-m3WeNAzeeCf2yVz2PUkjkSq3hYhVUoV5IQdB5wC9JRa7j3eNKAS2YVFJYadjqyQK0js/s320/aquamarine+and+opal+003.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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...but I still make all my other goodies too; <a href="http://www.beckypearcedesigns.co.uk/beckypearceshop/cat_527378-Bracelets.html">bangles</a>, <a href="http://www.beckypearcedesigns.co.uk/beckypearceshop/cat_527373-Earrings.html">earrings</a>, <a href="http://www.beckypearcedesigns.co.uk/beckypearceshop/cat_527375-Necklace.html">necklaces</a>, you name it. And I have so many new designs waiting to be made in my sketch book.<br />
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When I started writing this post, I was just going to show you the new logo design but once I started, looking back to the beginning and plotting the evolution of the business was a real eye opener.<br />
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One thing I realised is how much I have learned, and how my skills and confidence have developed in the last 6 years. I feel so proud of my progress. <br />
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But the thing that struck me most; the thing that really thrilled me is the realisation that so many of my customers, and facebook friends have been along for the ride, maybe not since the very beginning but for years and years. I can't tell you how grateful I am to all of you for your custom, your support, and advice, your comments and "likes" and for pushing me to advance my designs with your commissions and special requests.<br />
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It really means the world - I am so lucky to have you all - THANK YOU!<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06840897647375567381noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3446917394127441899.post-87773501046210594312015-06-07T21:42:00.000+01:002015-06-07T21:42:16.923+01:00Stone shapesI wrote recently a bit about <a href="http://www.beckypearcedesigns.blogspot.co.uk/2015/03/the-difference-between-cabochon-and.html">the difference between types of stones</a>, specifically faceted stones, and cabochon cuts, but that's not the only thing to consider in the stones you choose.<br />
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I'm making more and more sets of stacking rings these days, and it's so lovely to use a variety of shapes and sizes in the stack.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW0A6TR5_G3QKSAM9hIT1JrK2-08kRMwldoKNiceylqRVPmb6GqNgCRueuhF8T_dWDhnXQj94Nkwl7_qNQPed7WWjOAxgBe19K8JYNyXTpEAfc3zIPKY2ZXl2Fo1PC9AnZ652a-osDWqo/s1600/jose+ring+stack.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW0A6TR5_G3QKSAM9hIT1JrK2-08kRMwldoKNiceylqRVPmb6GqNgCRueuhF8T_dWDhnXQj94Nkwl7_qNQPed7WWjOAxgBe19K8JYNyXTpEAfc3zIPKY2ZXl2Fo1PC9AnZ652a-osDWqo/s1600/jose+ring+stack.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I'm always adding more options to my stone collection, so won't list here all of the different shapes and sizes I can offer in each stone choice - for the most up to date information, <a href="mailto:beckypearcedesigns@gmail.com">just get in touch</a> and I'll be able to let you know the options. But here are the key shapes...<br />
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<h3>
Round</h3>
These are the rose cut, faceted and cabochon stones that I use most often;<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilWOoiF-cuRJt4Bo_Dj18EjLVDRS_u_Cj3Xy_cKr8G67OrKo3TriQKhV7E7TVRpzPnsYHkyjL8WtdYaRSuPaXF4q2ks2aL2bFVMprfJ-vdwyDJbzG2SL57STeUoiam_J9MilrE4asEx1o/s1600/milky+aquamarine+stacking+ring.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilWOoiF-cuRJt4Bo_Dj18EjLVDRS_u_Cj3Xy_cKr8G67OrKo3TriQKhV7E7TVRpzPnsYHkyjL8WtdYaRSuPaXF4q2ks2aL2bFVMprfJ-vdwyDJbzG2SL57STeUoiam_J9MilrE4asEx1o/s1600/milky+aquamarine+stacking+ring.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">aquamarine rose cut ring<br /><br /></td></tr>
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The size of cabochon I most often use within ring stacks are 6mm and 5mm. <div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjefYhpBDptli1MhHJ4ZrA3Fo5zPLhAOMkKsLGf8XfqtAt-rxMga4xfFiCfGqVgaTHcDUO34PFwcT9xGyJPjiWaBjX73Pi8q5MsoMcO0HM5aSce_O5LQNDsTULTOJM7Hv1g0RkNmyGLkMU/s1600/cz+002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjefYhpBDptli1MhHJ4ZrA3Fo5zPLhAOMkKsLGf8XfqtAt-rxMga4xfFiCfGqVgaTHcDUO34PFwcT9xGyJPjiWaBjX73Pi8q5MsoMcO0HM5aSce_O5LQNDsTULTOJM7Hv1g0RkNmyGLkMU/s320/cz+002.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">cz faceted round</td></tr>
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The most popular size of faceted stones are 5mm, such as in this cz ring above.<br />
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<h3>
<span style="font-weight: normal;">Oval </span></h3>
Again ovals are available in cabochon, rose cut and faceted stones, and come in a variety of sizes. The most common, that fits nicely into a ring stack is a 7x5mm oval.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyvSVx6JhtQsfWa44xrkCyce1buDvD0WxrGESP_T3z8nwLX2UA6BCuEZhMGOoQGWMdXtr8h3opd3IIY8pYZPJqnqE5lPNskON__QA4H51SVvlVYnZBuqjZ6__ubJjIfxXTqBIT2kqDHk8/s1600/ring+030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyvSVx6JhtQsfWa44xrkCyce1buDvD0WxrGESP_T3z8nwLX2UA6BCuEZhMGOoQGWMdXtr8h3opd3IIY8pYZPJqnqE5lPNskON__QA4H51SVvlVYnZBuqjZ6__ubJjIfxXTqBIT2kqDHk8/s320/ring+030.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">7x5 london blue rose cut stone</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLI5mhyphenhyphen34NN45jfAoQhQI8aXDfQvxFgNSFp-Th7bsvRM_T5AIbBhDLcwHR6S9lN1WzYAmp1DFDQxfZye31mP6DmW5U-pdhxitqPMBnfdqbVtJdv8U8naALPxZqZv0u6xStFtL61JLZdlQ/s1600/gold+star+sapphire.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLI5mhyphenhyphen34NN45jfAoQhQI8aXDfQvxFgNSFp-Th7bsvRM_T5AIbBhDLcwHR6S9lN1WzYAmp1DFDQxfZye31mP6DmW5U-pdhxitqPMBnfdqbVtJdv8U8naALPxZqZv0u6xStFtL61JLZdlQ/s320/gold+star+sapphire.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">star sapphire cabochon in gold fill ring<br /><div style="text-align: left;">
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<h3>
Square</h3>
The square sizes I most commonly use are 4mm and 5mm. These can be a little tricky to get hold of in a lot of gemstones but are readily available for rubies, sapphires, cz, and a few others.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-1uZQ5psMxU8rcaT0qozZjQQptWkHgs-vsXffzZkSr0vUbCaJe4CcIYhelBWU9EzegadPngvwvlu_GK3qNEQMnlHQ69VwTQN-6_Qu9mHU-wpsFVrwSrv42j6yrAwLYJCI_ILPF1U2OjI/s1600/square+sapphire.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-1uZQ5psMxU8rcaT0qozZjQQptWkHgs-vsXffzZkSr0vUbCaJe4CcIYhelBWU9EzegadPngvwvlu_GK3qNEQMnlHQ69VwTQN-6_Qu9mHU-wpsFVrwSrv42j6yrAwLYJCI_ILPF1U2OjI/s320/square+sapphire.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Square sapphire with chunky band</td></tr>
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The stack in the photo at the very top of this page shows a lovely turquoise cabochon.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg51f2EgPQ-9YgYTsdBOxr8vwCroTOs16qNQwpun8eOcQrkovTGMnUOpX6Sh__HX3-qeKe8itt-LX_CERuvzlbedZrlc4uVdPRTJA_TW6N3dj56Sb1GEdpnS2iJ4HruDiG9oDdrD8nhUVU/s1600/rainbow+moonstone.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg51f2EgPQ-9YgYTsdBOxr8vwCroTOs16qNQwpun8eOcQrkovTGMnUOpX6Sh__HX3-qeKe8itt-LX_CERuvzlbedZrlc4uVdPRTJA_TW6N3dj56Sb1GEdpnS2iJ4HruDiG9oDdrD8nhUVU/s320/rainbow+moonstone.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">cushion cut rainbow moonstone</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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A slight alternative to the square is a cushion cut which is a square cut stone with slightly rounded corners.<br />
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<h3>
Triangle (Trillion)</h3>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHVT_RJcG_aDMOuHB2lp8ad_PjtkAOzvJyd1iZWeL9JXxlxRpFYpfxf1jXMaj_wRy2uveboF9JkFdJGNgta0AOw39ojWv-XCfbt_Q6o-lzV8Uup6owzIKhEyPwE6xHFab98fQhYNUSW5w/s1600/sky+blue+topaz+trillion.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="192" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHVT_RJcG_aDMOuHB2lp8ad_PjtkAOzvJyd1iZWeL9JXxlxRpFYpfxf1jXMaj_wRy2uveboF9JkFdJGNgta0AOw39ojWv-XCfbt_Q6o-lzV8Uup6owzIKhEyPwE6xHFab98fQhYNUSW5w/s320/sky+blue+topaz+trillion.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sky blue topaz trillion</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
The trillion stone has a few variations. It is a triangular cut, but can have straight or slightly curved edges, and often has soft points. <table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI_-d_4gUu5Tc-4MAo553yC1KzBRK3K6fetJWvGNkwyAAQgO3S3OkavktSuVbsBzAtovsQ9xrvyGGkaSb5m8h5cd1ZtblTkGr2coCsrKSfEOmysI60u1HXEnsuC6xeBZw6F3aAOY1zhQ4/s1600/peridot+trillion.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI_-d_4gUu5Tc-4MAo553yC1KzBRK3K6fetJWvGNkwyAAQgO3S3OkavktSuVbsBzAtovsQ9xrvyGGkaSb5m8h5cd1ZtblTkGr2coCsrKSfEOmysI60u1HXEnsuC6xeBZw6F3aAOY1zhQ4/s320/peridot+trillion.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Peridot trillion (a curvy number!)<br /><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div>
This post is already a little picture heavy, but I hope it gives you an idea of the most popular stone shapes, that are readily available in a number of gemstones. I'll put together another post shortly with a few of the other options... octogon, teardrops and freeform. </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06840897647375567381noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3446917394127441899.post-42193994347099061692015-04-11T21:23:00.001+01:002015-04-11T21:24:23.374+01:00Hand stamping On my birthstone stacking rings, (and actually on all sorts of other goodies come to think of it), I now offer hand stamping on the inside of the band.<br />
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This could be a name, date of birth, or any other special text or number you care to think of.<br />
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<a href="https://folksy.com/items/6537786-Personalised-ring-sterling-silver-stamped-ring" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://images.folksy.com/aXRlbXMvMTEyNzIvMjAxNDEwMTAvMjA1NzM4NDcxNjEx-N/main" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
But, there are a few things to bear in mind. First of all, the nature of hand stamping is very different to engraving.<br />
<br />
Hand stamping involves, as it's name implies, using a steel stamp and hammer to imprint each letter individually into the shank. This is done before the ring is soldered and shaped, whilst the wire is still laid flat.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhISpqK6HKMsnHnQHUO_IUs0kIcYEHOqhfDKSYy2dqy7xmSuLfhdkvRdLkM_bRUBdMNCjV358kOaQJvzWTQdQHUgMCNtnUMEhT9BB9H0azDFm2NgDZ-s8eI6IK3nUw3dt8qaejknNzFko/s1600/hand+stamps.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhISpqK6HKMsnHnQHUO_IUs0kIcYEHOqhfDKSYy2dqy7xmSuLfhdkvRdLkM_bRUBdMNCjV358kOaQJvzWTQdQHUgMCNtnUMEhT9BB9H0azDFm2NgDZ-s8eI6IK3nUw3dt8qaejknNzFko/s1600/hand+stamps.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
As each letter is stamped individually, it's unusual (for me anyway) for them to be completely straight, level and equally spaced.<br />
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I like this "higgledy" effect. It's the reason I love handmade jewellery - rather than the factory made, super perfect, never been touched by a human hand sort.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh16lsNbiJ5jLxiky_cgMo0kXpzwGVaJCiuEzNHO2n8Ooi11KTCWomVs0mC45mNtYVJU4Wsa-Fu3GxZaBYVJo17q1kA3Zop2bgEJm6PqYATCreTdiOjbExJu3W3o_LuIoIkfVKNCcnutI/s1600/hand+stamping+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh16lsNbiJ5jLxiky_cgMo0kXpzwGVaJCiuEzNHO2n8Ooi11KTCWomVs0mC45mNtYVJU4Wsa-Fu3GxZaBYVJo17q1kA3Zop2bgEJm6PqYATCreTdiOjbExJu3W3o_LuIoIkfVKNCcnutI/s1600/hand+stamping+1.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf25CSScQ14593bAyCXgeErZx9pzFWw-9MULLZCF8u9drEN04bio8YTmBl6pdow-1Db_kgkMEk5hKr2EKSTzWOx0SJPKJQ53s4g6ZVgKuAdELk0Yr1JP1EZWqsB8zvOm2dvepneVsIXTg/s1600/hand+stamping+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf25CSScQ14593bAyCXgeErZx9pzFWw-9MULLZCF8u9drEN04bio8YTmBl6pdow-1Db_kgkMEk5hKr2EKSTzWOx0SJPKJQ53s4g6ZVgKuAdELk0Yr1JP1EZWqsB8zvOm2dvepneVsIXTg/s1600/hand+stamping+2.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOS1pMI79bHGGiBvHwPrdMImUJQStMU07dhJIQuNX2zM6lG0Lb3xLsAk7Ym35SPk71Wgmz0hI2VQuo48qB1R0QuD1C-Ve0t0SV7jbhGX6Dn1wEEjVsWXmhUsa-YqhL9OUvTJm_XXYjDp8/s1600/hand+stamping+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOS1pMI79bHGGiBvHwPrdMImUJQStMU07dhJIQuNX2zM6lG0Lb3xLsAk7Ym35SPk71Wgmz0hI2VQuo48qB1R0QuD1C-Ve0t0SV7jbhGX6Dn1wEEjVsWXmhUsa-YqhL9OUvTJm_XXYjDp8/s1600/hand+stamping+4.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
However, I do understand that there are occasions when it's lovely to have your text beautifully and neatly engraved (I am hoping to add this string to my bow at some stage in the future!) And if this is the case you could get any items I make for you engraved at a local jewellers after they're made.<br />
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A couple of other things you need to know...<br />
<br />
Bear in mind the number of digits or letters that will fit inside the band. This will vary very slightly from size to size but is generally approximately 20 characters.<br />
<br />
I have 3 different size sets of stamps now. The 1.5mm stamps to fit into my standard 2.3mm width band, 2mm and 3mm stamps. All the stamps I have at the moment are capital letters.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06840897647375567381noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3446917394127441899.post-48321234361419519852015-03-26T11:46:00.000+00:002015-03-26T11:46:08.511+00:00Gold, gold filled, rolled gold.... what!?!This year I've been working a lot more with gold, and trying to expand the range I can offer in my shop.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNJnoDCK2m2qxQA7Xwc65WA1-Lp0t3l-B8p9bq9GDwLzLfYbni-JmMA0cOHsXjtJ64A6UszXCbdWAhWtZ5n7k5mWFkXcBBRI3o-KkMrTVwXHUf4Mu_D2plSt696hpnfFpRz3DQd61g7oU/s1600/gold-stacking-ring.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNJnoDCK2m2qxQA7Xwc65WA1-Lp0t3l-B8p9bq9GDwLzLfYbni-JmMA0cOHsXjtJ64A6UszXCbdWAhWtZ5n7k5mWFkXcBBRI3o-KkMrTVwXHUf4Mu_D2plSt696hpnfFpRz3DQd61g7oU/s1600/gold-stacking-ring.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
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<br />
I'm working with 9k gold as standard but, I'll be honest with you - it's pricey. And so I do like to offer a more economical option, with that same golden loveliness.<br />
<br />
So here they are... gold filled stacking rings are now available in a Becky Pearce Designs shop near you.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAYFeA8D8WftP0uiD7IBp0n0LPUwP953EZsWt2tDk8XsxpANQTZQfDoQAJ73WRYKdJa662-AmrsDLn0ZgWehYVf_BvPoQz5cEy8vmkLt9Al_Oz2h_FFI-wUO0Nwp1Xm0P0Y30lQngVZrc/s1600/labradorite+gold+ring.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAYFeA8D8WftP0uiD7IBp0n0LPUwP953EZsWt2tDk8XsxpANQTZQfDoQAJ73WRYKdJa662-AmrsDLn0ZgWehYVf_BvPoQz5cEy8vmkLt9Al_Oz2h_FFI-wUO0Nwp1Xm0P0Y30lQngVZrc/s1600/labradorite+gold+ring.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Labradorite gold filled ring</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
BUT what the heck is gold fill? Is it the same as rolled gold and gold plate? Is it going to wear off?<br />
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Gold filled metal is made by heat and pressure bonding gold onto a base metal (usually brass) core. Basically sandwiching the base metal. The important thing is that the proportion of the gold on the metal has to be at least 20% of the total weight, so it's quite a substantial amount compared to gold plating where the gold is a microscopic film rather than an actual layer.<br />
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The gold filled material I'm using at the moment is 20% gold, but I believe you can also get 40% gold material.<br />
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Rolled gold is not quite as good quality - the proportion of gold is less than 20%. So whilst it is still in a layer form rather than a film, and is therefore better than gold plated goods - it will wear more readily than gold filled.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAWkDfi5Rl-9u8VBUZtoGdULlGajAGONpUaivc2Izx5iBLfLFe4IHBcLLZCkWY4dgixYGkL_2gIIoc5pB3YptQs0-9uvwQ7M2YsiknVUjYFw6XO9NUbVZtBvJGfI1ro_DQRXu347IVpx4/s1600/gold+stacking+rings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAWkDfi5Rl-9u8VBUZtoGdULlGajAGONpUaivc2Izx5iBLfLFe4IHBcLLZCkWY4dgixYGkL_2gIIoc5pB3YptQs0-9uvwQ7M2YsiknVUjYFw6XO9NUbVZtBvJGfI1ro_DQRXu347IVpx4/s1600/gold+stacking+rings.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Textured gold filled rings<br />(available in yellow and rose gold)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br />
I have been trying to get an idea of the kind of wear you can expect with gold filled material, especially in comparison with gold plating which we all know about - and found this info on <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gold-filled_jewelry">Wiki</a>.<br />
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<i><span style="background-color: white; color: #252525; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.3999996185303px;">"Gold-filled items, even with daily wear, can last five to 30 years but will eventually wear through. The gold layer on </span><a class="mw-redirect" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gold_plated" style="background: none rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #0b0080; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.3999996185303px; text-decoration: none;" title="Gold plated">gold-plated</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #252525; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.3999996185303px;"> jewelry varies greatly depending on manufacturer, so there is no single, simple comparison. Gold-filled items are 50 to 100,000 times thicker than regular gold plating, and 17 to 25,000 times thicker than heavy gold electroplate (sometimes stamped HGE or HGP—usually found on</span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cubic_zirconia" style="background: none rgb(255, 255, 255); color: #0b0080; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.3999996185303px; text-decoration: none;" title="Cubic zirconia">cubic zirconia</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #252525; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.3999996185303px;"> "cocktail rings")."</span></i><br />
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The recommendation is to treat your gold filled jewellery just as you would gold. Gently clean with a soft cloth every now and again, and make sure you take it off before swimming and it should last for years and years.<br />
<br />
I'm fairly new to this material, so will be experimenting and playing with the designs I can do. It can apparently be slightly tricky to solder, so designs which require more than one or two solder joints are probably out for now, but I'll keep you posted about how I'm find it to work with.<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06840897647375567381noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3446917394127441899.post-14986389402743713062015-03-14T15:06:00.000+00:002015-03-14T15:12:28.554+00:00The difference between cabochon and faceted stonesI've been getting loads of requests for custom birthstone stacking rings recently, and a question that always comes up in conversations about stone choice, is about the difference between cabochon and faceted stones. And what on earth they are anyway.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiZfLjSKp9gVKYeC41Gw_uZbHfdr9auti3uniPNb5hqnmazk4WOXHRFUpBcDoUoTC40rSNw1y6y6OScuYn5rupjpZ69kVx2D8UO9xyQkZjFiMto4z28piimzxEgk_VR5fXIrHjhVq9RCs/s1600/stacking+rings+005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiZfLjSKp9gVKYeC41Gw_uZbHfdr9auti3uniPNb5hqnmazk4WOXHRFUpBcDoUoTC40rSNw1y6y6OScuYn5rupjpZ69kVx2D8UO9xyQkZjFiMto4z28piimzxEgk_VR5fXIrHjhVq9RCs/s1600/stacking+rings+005.JPG" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Opal cabochon, amethyst rose cut, garnet faceted trillion</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<br />
So here goes, my attempt to clear up any confusion.<br />
<br />
<h3>
What is a cabcohon stone?</h3>
A cabochon is cut with a flat back and a domed top....<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://create-cdn.net/siteimages/27/2/8/272888/79/9/4/7994260/400x400.jpg?1391461931" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://create-cdn.net/siteimages/27/2/8/272888/79/9/4/7994260/400x400.jpg?1391461931" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sapphire stacking ring</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Like this sapphire stone in the ring above. It has a smooth dome on top, and a flat back. It is set in a bezel setting.<br />
<br />
<h3>
What are faceted stones?</h3>
The other kind of stone I often use is a faceted gem.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivCGD6C6dXRMWyLlhNe8N0wAKVLHqAy9o80PjBr3xmzo_HN6ykFoIDDEPWsLxBxE8dxI3PEkT8Yw43pqLAAzi-xfDaghAzSsAEir5caarEKHfO2k24M-wMWCZwqj7zIzj2QhwNu8tI7Ok/s1600/faceted+stone.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivCGD6C6dXRMWyLlhNe8N0wAKVLHqAy9o80PjBr3xmzo_HN6ykFoIDDEPWsLxBxE8dxI3PEkT8Yw43pqLAAzi-xfDaghAzSsAEir5caarEKHfO2k24M-wMWCZwqj7zIzj2QhwNu8tI7Ok/s1600/faceted+stone.jpg" /></a></div>
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These stones usually have a pointed back, with facets or cuts taken from the stone which helps to bounce the light around. Faceting a stone is a key way to add value to a transparent stone, as it gives a higher luster and a better play of colour in the stone. <br />
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<a href="https://create-cdn.net/siteimages/27/2/8/272888/82/8/0/8280969/500x500.jpg?1395325855" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://create-cdn.net/siteimages/27/2/8/272888/82/8/0/8280969/500x500.jpg?1395325855" width="400" /></a></div>
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The Cubic Zirconia above is a manmade faceted stone - I've shown this picture as hopefully you can get an idea of what the stones are like, but for stacking rings I tend to use more enclosed settings like the one below...<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTf-hI4IvTcjWVDu03rszeX0XiJBCvmMlMMQtWtH_X1EmqC9jPbAjIAPwg2-GGZoPihd99bBciL4KeHcrw3HPV_dlqL0XEtIRrZoMPCwxbbdxA7HZF8X2o4iRg0V_l3Kl9n4s6NVFoSWI/s1600/003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTf-hI4IvTcjWVDu03rszeX0XiJBCvmMlMMQtWtH_X1EmqC9jPbAjIAPwg2-GGZoPihd99bBciL4KeHcrw3HPV_dlqL0XEtIRrZoMPCwxbbdxA7HZF8X2o4iRg0V_l3Kl9n4s6NVFoSWI/s1600/003.JPG" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dark (fire) citrine ring</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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</div>
<br />
....so you only see the sparkly top of the stone.<br />
<br />
<br />
Some stones are much more commonly found in one sort or the other. For example, turquoise (the birthstone for December) and opal (the birthstone for October) are pretty much always cabochon stones.<br />
<br />
<h3>
What the heck are rose cut stones then?</h3>
So, now for my fave stone of the moment - the rose cut stone. This is a kind of crossover. It's a cabochon stone (so it has a flat back and a dome) but it's also faceted...I know confusing! Here's a diagram..<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHmZmRTUestNZtmSqBLP93Ff_Kt_DvE-CiI9OwZ9odl_-MSwEo9e-AZty3_WMVqR3Z8_B4thhvKV7-phQhLfDOqYXCWdb3Y2vKBXnx_2wU6XZi7FvHRvlwgw2suiBo2acR2TtHunDXq9g/s1600/rose+cut+diagram.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHmZmRTUestNZtmSqBLP93Ff_Kt_DvE-CiI9OwZ9odl_-MSwEo9e-AZty3_WMVqR3Z8_B4thhvKV7-phQhLfDOqYXCWdb3Y2vKBXnx_2wU6XZi7FvHRvlwgw2suiBo2acR2TtHunDXq9g/s1600/rose+cut+diagram.jpg" height="177" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Rose cut stones went out of fashion for a while, because they don't really add much brilliance or light to the stone. But I've gone completely crazy for them - I like that they're a little unusual and quirky, and I love how they bounce the light.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.beckypearcedesigns.co.uk/beckypearceshop/prod_3708681-Rose-quartz-sterling-silver-ring-Valentines.html" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" height="307" src="https://create-cdn.net/siteimages/27/2/8/272888/96/0/6/9606103/500x385.jpg?1423136491" title="rose cut rose quartz ring" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rose cut rose quartz stacking ring</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.beckypearcedesigns.co.uk/beckypearceshop/prod_3377487-London-blue-topaz-stud-earrings.html" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://create-cdn.net/siteimages/27/2/8/272888/87/2/5/8725262/500x500.jpg?1403096054" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">London Blue Topaz Earrings</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
So there you go - a very quick guided tour of some of the types of stones I use!<br />
<br />
I'll also put together a post on the different shapes I can offer. Sadly my shop is a little out of date - so many of the things I make still haven't made it to a listing, so if there's something you'd like in particular, just email me hello@beckypearcedesigns.co.uk to discuss. I could have the perfect stone sitting in my stash right now.<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06840897647375567381noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3446917394127441899.post-49523191880616341802015-02-20T20:57:00.000+00:002015-02-20T20:57:23.097+00:00The year so far (aka cripes, February already!!)<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Where's the year going? </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">January whipped by, and it looks like February is shaping up the same way; days going by in a blur.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3mhsi67Rk77WyRj7wTmR7wtlzs2xkgRHUuSdvb4ZJ__YvAP11k6O9JCC73h8zi2Ps81CiauoqfnY7EA-PjAlafLivc6gmSXyMuOvRgdgvNgPOhLQ7XRJxztacpWtYKU3Hae0wo2I6PuU/s1600/snowdrops.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3mhsi67Rk77WyRj7wTmR7wtlzs2xkgRHUuSdvb4ZJ__YvAP11k6O9JCC73h8zi2Ps81CiauoqfnY7EA-PjAlafLivc6gmSXyMuOvRgdgvNgPOhLQ7XRJxztacpWtYKU3Hae0wo2I6PuU/s1600/snowdrops.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As you know, life gets pretty busy around here in the run up to Christmas. I start </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">planning for it in September, and people often begin their Christmas shopping in </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">October, ( I know, I know) so the orders start picking up; it then gets properly crazy half </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">way through November. So during these months I tend to put any new designs and </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">experiments with new techniques on hold.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />That was definitely the case this time around so there were a few things I added to my "new year - new ideas " list. Its exciting to start the year with a big list of new things to try.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Number one on that list was gold!<br /></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoWudaEc8_UfQccqgPp5a3kUgdyvZRxV1IrDfbnWaviVdClMMlx4A7zKyjERaSdYM5rMO9Y94xyZqPGM0z_cESZ92EScmspC-PUgJTC8Va3ky2zuYvOel0rgXB4ZPII2GjTbZ6Dc7cZ7g/s1600/017.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoWudaEc8_UfQccqgPp5a3kUgdyvZRxV1IrDfbnWaviVdClMMlx4A7zKyjERaSdYM5rMO9Y94xyZqPGM0z_cESZ92EScmspC-PUgJTC8Va3ky2zuYvOel0rgXB4ZPII2GjTbZ6Dc7cZ7g/s1600/017.JPG" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Gold is probably the thing I get most requests to stock: and your wish is my command. I can now supply most of my stacking rings in both 9k and rolled gold. and will be adding new gold designs throughout the year.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />Rolled gold is sometimes called gold-filled. And is basically a far better quality alternative to gold plated metal. Perfect when you want the look of gold ( which will last) but not the expense!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />The response to these goodies so far has been amazing (especially from the lovely folk on my <a href="https://www.facebook.com/beckypearcedesigns">facebook page</a>). They aren't listed in my shop yet though so if there's something you particularly fancy please get in touch.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnLltv_ArOdpdMkKUqNAWvWTuB1Ng-h-laGzaVNl2wfn18yPQWa0C1q7qttTa_QI8QlGE_Uz7oC_jbi98M1EQ-UeYgt5i_LMrJ_IdUvC9LIw_emcrRuySbA7WcKW3NK8F6VpJVtErQZd4/s1600/jewellery+006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnLltv_ArOdpdMkKUqNAWvWTuB1Ng-h-laGzaVNl2wfn18yPQWa0C1q7qttTa_QI8QlGE_Uz7oC_jbi98M1EQ-UeYgt5i_LMrJ_IdUvC9LIw_emcrRuySbA7WcKW3NK8F6VpJVtErQZd4/s1600/jewellery+006.JPG" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />The other thing i'm currently working on is giving you a wider range of facetted stones to choose from; especially in my birthstone ranges. A lot of my existing range are set with cabochons, which I love working with, but for some gems facetted stones can offer a sparklier and more intense colour. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Don't worry though, the cabochons aren't going anywhere; those beauties (especially the rose cuts) will always be a firm fave.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4YHKn4ZOdEs8fqrXT4HAfWQdbVmC3O4Pxg3wfIgDK_Vz7u3lHJPJeEtE0c2yH2nhpaUE-uXHh3iPdrxdxhTyPVVzr6oxBZCpex1xzpqKqjIvesu4rEmWYnprJQvjThIRbiUEzJXiS69A/s1600/gold+006.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4YHKn4ZOdEs8fqrXT4HAfWQdbVmC3O4Pxg3wfIgDK_Vz7u3lHJPJeEtE0c2yH2nhpaUE-uXHh3iPdrxdxhTyPVVzr6oxBZCpex1xzpqKqjIvesu4rEmWYnprJQvjThIRbiUEzJXiS69A/s1600/gold+006.JPG" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Most of my new designs make their first appearance on my <a href="https://www.facebook.com/beckypearcedesigns">facebook page</a> as work in progress shots, so if you're interested in seeing how my jewellery is made do pop along<br />and don't forget to say hi!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />Also, for those not already in the know I have a <a href="http://www.beckypearcedesigns.co.uk/page_3140119.html">newsletter</a> which I send out monthly. Every single person who subscribes gets entered into a free prize draw each and every month. The prize being an item from <a href="http://www.beckypearcedesigns.co.uk/">my shop</a> or a voucher to spend ( it varies from<br />month to month).</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br />If you'd like to be part of the fun, just <a href="http://www.beckypearcedesigns.co.uk/page_3140119.html">sign up to the newsletter</a>. I don't sell your contact info, or pester you with spam every other day...the deal is that i get to show you my new stuff and share any shop news with you once a month (and remind you that I am here if you need any new jewels!) and you get the chance to win some freebies, get </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">10% off your purchases and get the occasional extra special offer! Not bad eh? </span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06840897647375567381noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3446917394127441899.post-61738130274066571352014-11-29T19:29:00.001+00:002014-11-29T19:29:28.829+00:00Gift guide for menAs promised, my latest handmade gift guide is for the men in your life. I find the men on my list so tricky to buy for. My husband doesn't like "stuff" and I think (but might be wrong), that it's a fairly typical male trait.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://folksy.com/items/6565404-Silver-bark-textured-cufflinks-" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2tL9yFpWSz1pGArL-rubHhribIp2aRqTHRiweOJuSdhyphenhyphenYNCC1eqdrCxdKXW4v-8t7VOJxYXaSJqeYNkzb1urhwhqFCwRah-rkBusovsMLhxJ_0m76c8sz07VNs5B7b81dzwrBUEXd-9U/s1600/gift+guide+for+men.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://folksy.com/items/6565404-Silver-bark-textured-cufflinks-">Sterling silver cufflinks - Becky Pearce Designs</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
I spent years when we moved in together persuading R that cushions are essentials for a comfy sofa and not just unnecessary soft things that clutter up the living room. Seriously. <br />
<br />
So, with that kind of tricky male psyche in mind, I enlisted some help from the wonderful Folksy sellers, and came up with this list of goodies that would go down pretty well with all of the men-folk of my family.<br />
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All are practical as well as beautifully made and designed. With the exception of the lab print, which can't really be called practical, but IS Man's Best Friend? And it's gorgeous.<br />
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<br />
<center>
<a href="https://folksy.com/items/4425473-Recycled-SCORE-1981-Notebook-Football-journal"><img alt="football journal" border="0" src="https://images.folksy.com/aXRlbXMvMTYwNDU3LzIwMTMwODAxLzE2NDczMTg1OTY1-N/main" style="height: 160px; width: 200px;" /></a> <a href="https://folksy.com/items/6565930-Padded-iPad-Sleeve"><img alt="ipad sleeve" border="0" src="https://images.folksy.com/aXRlbXMvMzIyNDk3LzIwMTQxMTIyLzEwMTY0MTc4Nzg1MA-Q-Q-N/main" style="height: 160px; width: 200px;" /></a> </center>
<center>
<br />
<a href="https://folksy.com/items/4122078-Men-charcoal-grey-scarf-Guys-knitted-thick-scarf"><img alt="mens scarf" border="0" src="https://images.folksy.com/aXRlbXMvNTUzMjg2LzIwMTQwMjIzLzEwNDIyNjU0NjcyNA-Q-Q-N/main" style="height: 160px; width: 200px;" /></a> <a href="https://folksy.com/items/6562680-Hipster-Style-Funky-Spectacle-Case-"><img alt="glasses case" border="0" src="https://images.folksy.com/aXRlbXMvODkwNDcxLzIwMTQxMTE3LzEzNTM0NzE0ODcyMw-Q-Q-N/main" style="cursor: hand; height: 160px; width: 200px;" /></a> </center>
<center>
<br />
<a href="https://folksy.com/items/6523025-Leather-Journal-Sketchbook-Chestnut-Brown-with-Golden-thread"><img alt="leather journal" border="0" src="https://images.folksy.com/aXRlbXMvMTI5NzgvMjAxNDA5MTYvMTkyODE2NTMzODk-Q-N/main" style="cursor: hand; height: 160px; width: 200px;" /></a> <a href="https://folksy.com/items/6330031-Dog-Art-Chocolate-Labrador-Dog-Linocut-Print"><img alt="choc lab print" border="0" src="https://images.folksy.com/aXRlbXMvNjQwNDM4LzIwMTQwNjE2LzE3NTE5MjAzNDY1-N/main" style="height: 160px; width: 200px;" /></a><br />
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<br />
1 - <a href="https://folksy.com/items/4425473-Recycled-SCORE-1981-Notebook-Football-journal">Recycled football journa</a>l</center>
<center>
2 - <a href="https://folksy.com/items/6565930-Padded-iPad-Sleeve"> Ipad sleeve</a></center>
<center>
3 - <a href="https://folksy.com/items/4122078-Men-charcoal-grey-scarf-Guys-knitted-thick-scarf">Charcoal scarf</a><br />
4 - <a href="https://folksy.com/items/6562680-Hipster-Style-Funky-Spectacle-Case-">Specs case</a></center>
<center>
5 - <a href="https://folksy.com/items/6523025-Leather-Journal-Sketchbook-Chestnut-Brown-with-Golden-thread">Leather sketchbook</a></center>
<center>
6 - <a href="https://folksy.com/items/6330031-Dog-Art-Chocolate-Labrador-Dog-Linocut-Print">Chocolate lab print</a></center>
<center>
<br />
</center>
<center>
Of course, some gorgeous silver never goes amiss either. The silver bark cufflinks at the top of the page are always a big hit. Practical, subtle and gorgeous. </center>
<center>
<br /></center>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://images.folksy.com/aXRlbXMvMTEyNzIvMjAxMzA1MjQvMTk0OTU0ODU4OTQy-N/main" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://images.folksy.com/aXRlbXMvMTEyNzIvMjAxMzA1MjQvMTk0OTU0ODU4OTQy-N/main" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://folksy.com/items/4382644-Men-s-sterling-silver-ring">Silver ring - Becky Pearce Designs</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<center>
This chunky sterling silver ring is also a bit hit. Understated but meaningful. I've had people stamp a special date on the inside. This ring can be personalised with letters or numbers.</center>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06840897647375567381noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3446917394127441899.post-54432030237592961202014-11-27T11:04:00.002+00:002014-11-27T11:04:58.453+00:00Last order dates for Chrismtas<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBWH__UHdSTptgW1tA0qYNMtYguC8dLVnCCN47KIf58S0RWjjHo2R_suDP1Rrd6xaH7OFebaF6Xzjk9FBC_llQDE_X3bpLGxeFmJI_ONgHkDasXLb3G9NaNj3ryHiZb5-MRZqU8emrqCs/s1600/post-box-in-snow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBWH__UHdSTptgW1tA0qYNMtYguC8dLVnCCN47KIf58S0RWjjHo2R_suDP1Rrd6xaH7OFebaF6Xzjk9FBC_llQDE_X3bpLGxeFmJI_ONgHkDasXLb3G9NaNj3ryHiZb5-MRZqU8emrqCs/s1600/post-box-in-snow.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
As I sat here working on Christmas pressies, it occurred to me that I hadn't actually let you know my last order dates for Christmas this year (or...ahem.... actually decided them myself).<br />
<br />
So, after a quick scan of the calendar I figured out that the last dates to order from my <a href="https://folksy.com/shops/beckypearcedesigns">folksy</a>, <a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/beckypearcedesigns?ref=hdr_shop_menu">etsy</a>, <a href="http://www.beckypearcedesigns.co.uk/">Becky Pearce Designs</a> shops are:<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlfxQqyDJTQ4_w45_VSrs4zF57IRnRHRVrN6YY9fuN9aU2B9TwX1F4paSHE2nK9P4o3EuAymRB7BREDfl22fadxrQcirAWV8EdqwedWYAop2QkIoVnyAFTKBaDWNyMsHs9bbAPMpkmDBs/s1600/jewellery+012.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlfxQqyDJTQ4_w45_VSrs4zF57IRnRHRVrN6YY9fuN9aU2B9TwX1F4paSHE2nK9P4o3EuAymRB7BREDfl22fadxrQcirAWV8EdqwedWYAop2QkIoVnyAFTKBaDWNyMsHs9bbAPMpkmDBs/s1600/jewellery+012.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
<ul>
<li>AUSTRALIA - 27th November (eek - today!!!!)</li>
<li>USA and WESTERN EUROPE - 6th December</li>
<li><b>UK - 16th December</b></li>
</ul>
<br />
<br />
I often close my shops at this point, so that people don't order "just in case" and then get disappointed. But this year I will leave the shops open throughout the Christmas period.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06840897647375567381noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3446917394127441899.post-7322604024544666522014-11-17T06:41:00.000+00:002014-11-17T10:20:32.352+00:00The five reasons I buy handmade.Regular readers of this blog (or my <a href="https://www.facebook.com/beckypearcedesigns">facebook page</a>) will know that I am a bit of a handmade junkie.<br />
<br />
And I get particularly excited about the handmade world at this time of year. I love a bit of gift hunting. Obviously, I could make everyone I know some jewellery, but I think they might just get a little tired of that after a while. So instead I go browsing. Usually online, from the comfort of my old sofa, with a nice glass of wine in hand.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.beckypearcedesigns.co.uk/beckypearceshop/prod_3463875-Labradorite-stud-earrings.html" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnvx6EOLc2JmV8bFRW9jH-RGMyGt9bFGnggtBw8MDivfHdfYvbadIa8BupJ_Ynv26GQwbLmvVK1AujpPGdJDjJJ8zoJhGwujzD1dhWIflfGMK688uQTrBBc55VTvlAlwy2pld8_14wsQA/s1600/why+i+buy+handmade.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.beckypearcedesigns.co.uk/beckypearceshop/prod_3463875-Labradorite-stud-earrings.html">Labradorite earrings - Becky Pearce Designs</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
There are so many reasons to buy handmade, especially at Christmas... and here are my top 5!<br />
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1 The items are generally much higher quality - each item has been given 100% individual attention, and has been finished and quality checked by a real person. Even the materials are sourced individually. The maker wants their items to last, and takes pride in their quality and longevity - there's not that " how quickly/ cheaply can we make it" mentality. No maker is going to let a substandard piece go out of the studio with their name on it.<br />
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2. Each item is individual. There won't be anyone else who has an item exactly like that. And usually there'll be lots of "wow, where did you find that it's perfect" comments flying around.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><span style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><a href="https://folksy.com/items/5529481-Messenger-Bag-Made-from-high-quality-leather-HANDMADE-IN-ENGLAND-"><img alt="handmade bag" border="0" height="266" src="https://images.folksy.com/aXRlbXMvNzE0MjYyLzIwMTQwMjEyLzk1OTU2MzU1NDk5-N/main" width="400" /></a></span></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://images.folksy.com/aXRlbXMvNzE0MjYyLzIwMTQwMjEyLzk1OTU2MzU1NDk5-N/main">Messenger bag by Sail</a></td></tr>
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3. Speaking of "perfect" another top reason is that you can often have your item customised or even commission a custom item That means getting just the right size, colour, material, shape. Most makers are people you can contact directly to discuss getting your item made to your specification.<br />
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4. Buying handmade is more ethical and environmentally friendly. Your items won't be made in a wasteful factory and flown half way around the word, with the huge carbon footprint that brings. And you won't find child labour involved. Though my littlest is a very keen helper, given half the chance - hmm.<br />
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Handmade items are made with limited waste, and are much more eco friendly. Buying handmade means you support local artists, designers, craft people, makers. You support them, and that helps their local economy, and community. And we all know that supporting and buying local is a good thing. Who needs things shipped over from China, when we have such a fabulous supply of handmade wonderfulness on our doorstep?<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/210813379/set-of-4-white-stoneware-bowls-wheel?ref=shop_home_active_3" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" height="266" src="https://img1.etsystatic.com/045/0/7702262/il_570xN.681197537_hev0.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/210813379/set-of-4-white-stoneware-bowls-wheel?ref=shop_home_active_3">Set of 4 stoneware bowls by Stoneware Studio UK</a></td></tr>
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5. As well as that there is that connection you have with the maker, and the item being made. I often post work in progress pictures on my <a href="https://www.facebook.com/beckypearcedesigns">facebook page</a>, which I really love to do, and I also love it when other makers do it. I don't know about you, but I think there is something really amazing about seeing your own items being made.<br />
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6. You get more value! You don’t have to pay the person at the till, the supervisor, manager, and the supplier and the designer and the manufacturer, because just one person is all those things! Your items may not be cheaper, but they have have that intrinsic value because of all the above reasons.<br />
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Okay, okay, there are six reasons not five. But there are just so many reasons to support handmade that I really couldn't stop at five!<br />
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I would encourage everyone to go out and buy handmade this Christmas. Go to a local craft fair, or gallery. Go online at wonderful market places like <a href="https://folksy.com/shops/beckypearcedesigns">Folksy</a> and <a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/beckypearcedesigns">Etsy</a> and have a browse around. There are hundreds of fantastic makers and hundreds of thousands of perfect items - just waiting to be matched up to the lucky recipient.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06840897647375567381noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3446917394127441899.post-64948066869554130502014-11-09T21:23:00.000+00:002014-11-09T21:42:09.204+00:00Gift guide - Teens and tweens<h2 style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">Gifts for teenagers</span></h2><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnUtBrm3jF5GUizK6fIvL-gf_AVmZRNeFhyRu8xjy08_Ziy3zgSGFx8jU2oMkY6MafbI41hta-Nlc3CDF3jkmEwYpDgeUFgpIqpB5aBjYT7eMIECDlZ_tqCF6sRdPH8XrtbxzjGoX0YHE/s1600/gift+guide+for+teenagers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnUtBrm3jF5GUizK6fIvL-gf_AVmZRNeFhyRu8xjy08_Ziy3zgSGFx8jU2oMkY6MafbI41hta-Nlc3CDF3jkmEwYpDgeUFgpIqpB5aBjYT7eMIECDlZ_tqCF6sRdPH8XrtbxzjGoX0YHE/s1600/gift+guide+for+teenagers.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Tweens and teens are so tricky to buy for at Christmas. They're often too old for toys, and everyone else will be stuck for inspiration too, so will get vouchers - so what else is there?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">In my mission to spread the word about handmade goodness here's some of my top handmade picks that would make perfect gifts for teenagers (and tweens) this Christmas. </div><br />
<center><a href="http://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/207233523/recycled-rainbow-pocket-notebook?ref=shop_home_active_20"><img alt="notebook" border="0" src="https://img0.etsystatic.com/045/1/5467284/il_570xN.670802720_198n.jpg" style="height: 160px; width: 200px;" /></a> <a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/167848529/girls-blackboard-fun-chalkboard-pink?ref=shop_home_active_7"><img alt="Girls chalkboard" border="0" src="https://img0.etsystatic.com/019/0/6172977/il_570xN.520627356_tvly.jpg" style="height: 160px; width: 200px;" /></a> </center><center><a href="http://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/176926213/handmade-smiley-face-gift-smiley-face?ref=shop_home_active_3"><img alt="emoticon cushion" border="0" src="https://img0.etsystatic.com/032/0/8768052/il_570xN.555131502_57i5.jpg" style="height: 160px; width: 200px;" /></a> <a href="http://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/166576508/fairytale-grab-bag-3-x-enchanted-times?ref=shop_home_active_5"><img alt="fairytale zine" border="0" src="https://img1.etsystatic.com/009/1/6796782/il_570xN.435211409_bxzs.jpg" style="cursor: hand; height: 160px; width: 200px;" /></a> </center><center><a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/203085783/geometric-colors-iphone-case-for-iphone?ref=shop_home_active_16"><img alt="iphone case" border="0" src="https://img1.etsystatic.com/048/1/9616235/il_570xN.678955559_ltfu.jpg" style="cursor: hand; height: 160px; width: 200px;" /></a> <a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/201238287/football-girl-keepsake-box-personalized?ref=shop_home_active_1"><img alt="football girl box" border="0" src="https://img0.etsystatic.com/041/0/9917319/il_570xN.645098272_j9jo.jpg" style="height: 160px; width: 200px;" /></a><br />
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1 - <a href="http://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/208105700/upcycled-postage-stamp-notebook-multi?ref=teams_post">Upcycled postage stamp notebook</a></center><center>2 - <a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/167848529/girls-blackboard-fun-chalkboard-pink?ref=teams_post">Girls chalkboard</a></center><center>3 - <a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/176926213/handmade-smiley-face-gift-smiley-face?ref=shop_home_active_3">Smiley emoticon cushion</a><br />
4 - <a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/166576508/fairytale-grab-bag-3-x-enchanted-times?ref=teams_post">Fairytale Zines</a></center><center>5 - <a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/203085783/geometric-colors-iphone-case-for-iphone?ref=shop_home_active_16">iphone cover</a></center><center>6 - <a href="http://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/201238287/football-girl-keepsake-box-personalized?ref=shop_home_active_1">Football girl box</a></center><center><br />
</center><center>Of course, I've got some rather lovely pieces of jewellery that would be perfect for teenagers too. Often schools allow girls to wear earrings as long as they're discreet and small. These fine silver stars are a great option. </center><center><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://cdn-27.create.net/siteimages/27/2/8/272888/57/4/6/5746547/400x400.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://cdn-27.create.net/siteimages/27/2/8/272888/57/4/6/5746547/400x400.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://cdn-27.create.net/siteimages/27/2/8/272888/57/4/6/5746547/400x400.jpg">Fine silver stars</a></td></tr>
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My birthstone rings range are also a lovely option. Choose their birthstone for a gift with extra meaning, or their favourite colour. My soon to be 10 year old has requested one for her birthday in a couple of weeks.</center><center><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://cdn-27.create.net/siteimages/27/2/8/272888/80/3/2/8032445/500x500.jpg?1391978304" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://cdn-27.create.net/siteimages/27/2/8/272888/80/3/2/8032445/500x500.jpg?1391978304" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.beckypearcedesigns.co.uk/beckypearceshop/prod_3120034-12-Turquoise-stacker-ring-December-birthstone.html">Turquoise birthstone ring</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table><center><div style="text-align: left;">These delicate vintage glass necklaces are something a little bit special, and something no-one else will have. The monochrome colouring is a teen favourite.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://cdn-27.create.net/siteimages/27/2/8/272888/75/4/1/7541861/400x400.jpg?1383679769" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://cdn-27.create.net/siteimages/27/2/8/272888/75/4/1/7541861/400x400.jpg?1383679769" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.beckypearcedesigns.co.uk/beckypearceshop/prod_2948146-Vintage-black-glass-flower-pendant.html">Vintage glass pendant</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>I'd love to know what you think of these; and if you have any other great ideas to share please put them in a comment below. </div></center>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06840897647375567381noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3446917394127441899.post-811698404154955052014-11-03T20:18:00.000+00:002014-11-03T20:18:44.195+00:00The Birthstone for November - Citrine<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Or topaz...! </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://folksy.com/items/6545028-Citrine-rose-cut-stone-and-sterling-silver-ring-November-birthstone" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjts42t9ROgtoSIQ4Z7_LbWwVp056gDb0p4R2_dDW30WUAi4T2cOlNTs1midWr21RkuYReoqqeie0libyO8MUu4bm0WSCpv2pcKhJAUhvdtZaYpGRy-GT3yv3RpaEr5rN6ZhA0iGnMqO0g/s1600/ring+039.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Citrine ring by me! Click pic for more info.</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Both citrine (a form of quartz) and topaz are recognised birthstones for November. And I use both in my designs. Although topaz comes in a huge range of colours, it's the browner (imperial topaz) hues that are traditional for the November birthstone. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Citrine on the other hand can be found in shades of yellow ranging from pastel to a deep brownish orange. I must admit, in smaller stones I prefer the deeper shades, but I have used gorgeous pastels for rings before and they were just lovely. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">These shades just fit the time of year perfectly. Everywhere I look at the moment the lush green is giving way to yellow, gold and brown.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK_P-PEBO2DWTZf-r20NJWEwQF7JygU2-QPQ5m4BIMdTw-3sqLJKxIUg6HQfFB0wydRbShfEWP-jzWHD2m-aioL_3t8TXIuwtCK4qzAB6tx-n9ZaDirUb-Ftf6LNygvLTPqUWPmsmLumA/s1600/photo+(28).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK_P-PEBO2DWTZf-r20NJWEwQF7JygU2-QPQ5m4BIMdTw-3sqLJKxIUg6HQfFB0wydRbShfEWP-jzWHD2m-aioL_3t8TXIuwtCK4qzAB6tx-n9ZaDirUb-Ftf6LNygvLTPqUWPmsmLumA/s1600/photo+(28).JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunny dog walk at Denbies Vineyard</td></tr>
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Some citrine themed goodies I found recently....<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://folksy.com/shops/CorrinaFieldHandmade" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" height="229" src="https://images.folksy.com/aXRlbXMvMzMwNTY5LzIwMTMxMDEzLzE4NDQzMzM2MjA5Ng-Q-Q-N/main" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://folksy.com/shops/CorrinaFieldHandmade">Skydancer </a>on Folksy</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://images.folksy.com/aXRlbXMvOTExNDg2LzIwMTQxMDIzLzEwMzI1MzgzNjYzMg-Q-Q-N/main" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://images.folksy.com/aXRlbXMvOTExNDg2LzIwMTQxMDIzLzEwMzI1MzgzNjYzMg-Q-Q-N/main" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Amber wisp oil lamp <a href="https://folksy.com/shops/CatMacKGlass">(CatMacKGlass)</a></td></tr>
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So gorgeous for this time of year.<br />
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I particularly like how citrine works in a stack of birthstone stacking rings.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj10pJsfkREIupWLRb6xWTBo4mrtDE7nAGqrbiviuU9H8aceCflGvk8Kgk77aebsHMBRRbZGK68VJZuNiIwOWrzNxjVPPvMttwrBnvSwKVQAa9dU2T0MTsum0qt9AwUKBr9uChtZHKRXng/s1600/ring+014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj10pJsfkREIupWLRb6xWTBo4mrtDE7nAGqrbiviuU9H8aceCflGvk8Kgk77aebsHMBRRbZGK68VJZuNiIwOWrzNxjVPPvMttwrBnvSwKVQAa9dU2T0MTsum0qt9AwUKBr9uChtZHKRXng/s1600/ring+014.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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I appreciate I'm not the best model with my sausage fingers, but doesn't the citrine just make the other colours sing.<br />
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I'm completely won over by it. My eldest is a November birthstone, and I admit, I haven't made a birthstone stack yet, but once the Christmas rush is over, I'm definitely on it!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06840897647375567381noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3446917394127441899.post-37996980878497195092014-10-15T13:15:00.000+01:002014-10-15T13:15:00.543+01:00Zulta-what?Just browsing through Pinterest as you do, for a couple of minutes (hours) and I came across Zultanite and nearly fell off my chair.<br />
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I have never even heard of it before, and it is STUNNING.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyPvVeiiRYY15D_OPhWkqsd609y158DPQcUEQQjqtYUUsFQIPFi0PuYwO_kYq71vnXEjfMFEwpVXEDi-SDWGLGOrNdBg9E0awHTCEv_S_zZjZuxa2QzoUl8kiDeEoloCMNqEXCD6FFRbk/s1600/zultanite.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyPvVeiiRYY15D_OPhWkqsd609y158DPQcUEQQjqtYUUsFQIPFi0PuYwO_kYq71vnXEjfMFEwpVXEDi-SDWGLGOrNdBg9E0awHTCEv_S_zZjZuxa2QzoUl8kiDeEoloCMNqEXCD6FFRbk/s1600/zultanite.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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I mean..... well, just look at it. There are lots of other lush examples on the <a href="http://www.thejewelleryeditor.com/2012/02/stepehn-webster-couture-zultanite-collection/">jewellery editor</a> website. And believe me, I don't use the word "Lush" lightly. In fact, I can't remember ever using it before unless referring to that rather overpoweringly smelly soap shop.<br />
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Zulcanite is apparently, an incredibly rare, and recently discovered, colour changing gemstone; changing from canary yellow to raspberry pink, depending on the light source.<br />
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I haven't seen it "in person" yet, but am feeling the need to go and seek some out. Is it just me?Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06840897647375567381noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3446917394127441899.post-15899772106014501182014-10-11T21:32:00.000+01:002014-10-11T21:34:21.561+01:00Opal - The birthstone for OctoberOpals<span style="font-family: inherit;"> are </span>unlike any other stone out there. I was struggling when listing some opal birthstone earrings items recently, to describe the colour properly. Because of course they are white, but also, blue, red, green, aaaah. How can that be?<br />
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Opals possess an internal structure which diffracts light, so depending on the conditions it can show flashes of w<span style="background-color: white; color: #252525; font-family: inherit; line-height: 22.3999996185303px;">hite, grey, red, orange, yellow, green, blue, magenta, rose, pink, slate, olive, brown, and black. Of all of these hues, the reds against black are the most rare, whereas white and greens are the most common. </span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.opalminded.com/main/index.php/about-us/jundah-opal-mines" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2hJo0tOMHnvKTmou3CzOvx7ZtlsMs2mBw080BoxVU3mZh_9WiS9lPb8BN_MtYtv1HQ9Q1IhUyPy4we7U3hjIB2iDeCdjLYBT4x20ningAZKG-mrAtMKfyOLjpT-FlMXUMCai4svtaFr0/s1600/GalaxyOpal.jpg" height="320" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Galaxy opal from Jundah Mine - Australia</td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #252525; font-family: inherit; line-height: 22.3999996185303px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #252525; font-family: inherit; line-height: 22.3999996185303px;">I found this <a href="http://www.opalauctions.com/learn/opal-information/glossary-of-opal-terms">amazing site</a> with lots of opal eye candy, including this chart detailing the different types of opal out there. </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #252525; font-family: inherit; line-height: 22.3999996185303px;">However, for me despite it's obvious beauty and variety, natural opal does have some problems in that it is relatively easy to damage, plus a good quality stone can be very expensive. I tend to use white synthetic opals, which are lab created. They take nearly 18 months to create and can be quite stunning. These are imitation opals - the chemical structure of the stone is different - which is a positive in some ways as they are stronger as they don't contain water.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.beckypearcedesigns.co.uk/beckypearceshop/prod_2898751-Opal-stud-earrings.html" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://cdn-27.create.net/siteimages/27/2/8/272888/74/1/4/7414370/400x400.jpg?1381951233" height="400" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oxidised opal earrings</td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #252525; font-family: inherit; line-height: 22.3999996185303px;">However, I have used and am always very willing to get use a more expensive stone if preferred - just contact me for a quote and I'll jump at the chance!</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #252525; font-family: inherit; line-height: 22.3999996185303px;">As they change with the light around them, you'll notice that when the silver is oxidised as in these <a href="http://www.beckypearcedesigns.co.uk/beckypearceshop/prod_2898751-Opal-stud-earrings.html">opal earrings</a> above, the stone looks very different to when the silver is left shiny....(like in this <a href="http://www.beckypearcedesigns.co.uk/beckypearceshop/prod_3251060-10-Opal-stacking-ring-October-birthstone.html">opal and sterling silver ring)</a></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.beckypearcedesigns.co.uk/beckypearceshop/prod_3251060-10-Opal-stacking-ring-October-birthstone.html" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://cdn-27.create.net/siteimages/27/2/8/272888/84/1/4/8414957/500x500.jpg?1397406826" height="400" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Opal birthstone ring</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #252525;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 22.3999996185303px;">Opals in olden times were thought to </span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #545252; line-height: 28.9599990844727px;">symbolise love and hope. Nowadays they are said to symbolise </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #545454; line-height: 18.2000007629395px;">happiness, faithfulness, loyalty and confidence.</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #252525; font-family: inherit; line-height: 22.3999996185303px;"><br /></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06840897647375567381noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3446917394127441899.post-53446233471454885502014-10-10T22:06:00.000+01:002014-10-10T22:06:01.428+01:00Hand stamped Jewellery<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I reckon all jewellery is special; handmade jewellery is that bit more special but handmade personalised jewellery, well that is off the scale in my opinion. </div>
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If you've been onto my website you probably know by now that I've got a bit of a thing for <a href="http://www.beckypearcedesigns.co.uk/beckypearceshop/cat_684706-Birthstones.html">birthstones</a>, but being able to inprint a name, phrase, or special date onto jewellery just adds that extra wonderfulness. And hows about combining the two, personalised birthstone jewellery. Excuse me while I have a little sit down.</div>
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I've had some stamps for stamping letters onto metal for a few years, but these were 4mm so not ideal for many of my smaller items. So, I thought it was about time I invested in some dinky little 2mm stamps. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3rW_JAX37hzz1CmES0mBNVn9ist2-17NnCS33Mf2QTwgxPJRyZZunbQXAfcYarvjgqq4HiiMneZslHXPy6sw8UOkllnaKhBRg1tFnlaXfQKoKpl7xp3GSIrTMxciSXAn1WC2C4diUMVQ/s1600/stamps.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3rW_JAX37hzz1CmES0mBNVn9ist2-17NnCS33Mf2QTwgxPJRyZZunbQXAfcYarvjgqq4HiiMneZslHXPy6sw8UOkllnaKhBRg1tFnlaXfQKoKpl7xp3GSIrTMxciSXAn1WC2C4diUMVQ/s1600/stamps.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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I got these ones from <a href="http://www.cooksongold.com/">Cookson</a> (I know a few people were interested in my suppliers), but Palmer Metals also have them, and I think they also have a few different fonts.</div>
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I'm hoping to get some items listed soon... like this <a href="http://folksy.com/items/6537786-Personalised-ring-sterling-silver-stamped-ring">secret message ring</a>...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPUNGWmdrMBxHE_7ghebXf0PHhpGOpFmxbTYESYzWl9pi6ZRmsE2HzxclGlekG0S-3X3PoX3sJlmNLBm6KZ0aXXhdRN8nvb6DJrry3G1C753CrG_OL0XS_C4Y0cOmv97-3w6u4cwEXaJA/s1600/jewellery+004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPUNGWmdrMBxHE_7ghebXf0PHhpGOpFmxbTYESYzWl9pi6ZRmsE2HzxclGlekG0S-3X3PoX3sJlmNLBm6KZ0aXXhdRN8nvb6DJrry3G1C753CrG_OL0XS_C4Y0cOmv97-3w6u4cwEXaJA/s1600/jewellery+004.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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...but in the meantime, if there's something you fancy having stamped, do get in touch. It'll take me a while to add that option in the shop.</div>
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Such a gorgeous way to remind you of special people, or times. </div>
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I'll be stamping me a couple of birthstone rings for the girls, with their names and birthdays on the inside, and I'll hand them down to them when they're older. </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06840897647375567381noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3446917394127441899.post-74723948578243684582014-09-05T12:26:00.001+01:002014-09-05T12:26:29.275+01:00Tools and finishes.I love getting new tools to play with.<br />
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Recently I invested in some new polishes to give my jewellery an extra high shine finish with (hopefully) a little less mess than the standard rouge polish I normally use.<br />
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I got the luxi range (mainly because they were doing a starter pack on Cookson) and I'm so glad I did; they are great to use. Because they are water soluble, they clean up so much more easily than rouge. Definitely one to continue using!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNwZXiGaZhMDY8NsqdEJ0Ja9viGsPWX-mp5HK8lVktXIgvJtAnjqR2Z1T_pR7v9OTCBxhYbC5DdL7Gg6Siwc_dfteBRg4QLx9uMV96gPcj2sk86Hgc1FmOLlsbJ24ks_gYROsv0ojHfzU/s1600/luxi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNwZXiGaZhMDY8NsqdEJ0Ja9viGsPWX-mp5HK8lVktXIgvJtAnjqR2Z1T_pR7v9OTCBxhYbC5DdL7Gg6Siwc_dfteBRg4QLx9uMV96gPcj2sk86Hgc1FmOLlsbJ24ks_gYROsv0ojHfzU/s1600/luxi.jpg" /></a></div>
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But just as exciting as the ridiculously shiny shine appearing on lots of my goodies, is the satin finish i'm playing with too.<br />
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There's something very lovely about the soft matt shine you can achieve on silver, that satin finish. In the past I've used a very fine sandpaper or wire wool to put the sheen on the metal. But I splashed out on a couple of fancy tools for my pendant motor, and am loving the finish that I'm able to achieve. A scotchbrite attachment is great for a very subtle effect, but I've found the finish isn't particularly hardy. The other option is a flick wheel....<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx2QA4YkRneVd9D161KzAZgluJT1QmR8bWKImDlj2ksHvYnt7EP-_T5IZn-0Uga-p4_-Q09OyD_B8e_shRCOsrPlnUZ5Ki3ejOmSBX6Ok2ipXsWC4KoINzilQvdb9hq9V6ki0wzmibHPQ/s1600/flick+wheel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx2QA4YkRneVd9D161KzAZgluJT1QmR8bWKImDlj2ksHvYnt7EP-_T5IZn-0Uga-p4_-Q09OyD_B8e_shRCOsrPlnUZ5Ki3ejOmSBX6Ok2ipXsWC4KoINzilQvdb9hq9V6ki0wzmibHPQ/s1600/flick+wheel.jpg" /></a></div>
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It sounds a bit violent, looks a bit scary and is also pretty expensive, so I've put off buying one for a while, but I'm glad I made the investment.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8al1XuH5ahsMmHxt1lKhiRE59SPeRgtPql11LTcKbNi6SNxjjwU58MzN7-2PnbVtZ44dAJnSNBi1qNEVRSdw6wejY9wuYY4gSL1Hjcw1_gY-JdDTSg0HQgitisYSw7EB686tSPyf_544/s1600/druzy+021.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8al1XuH5ahsMmHxt1lKhiRE59SPeRgtPql11LTcKbNi6SNxjjwU58MzN7-2PnbVtZ44dAJnSNBi1qNEVRSdw6wejY9wuYY4gSL1Hjcw1_gY-JdDTSg0HQgitisYSw7EB686tSPyf_544/s1600/druzy+021.JPG" height="213" width="320" /></a></div>
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(high shine finish - initial pendant)</div>
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(satin finish initial pendant)</div>
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What finish do you prefer? I think I'm still undecided.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06840897647375567381noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3446917394127441899.post-43498986152172372072014-08-24T08:55:00.000+01:002014-08-24T08:55:52.274+01:00Summer fun.And so the summer rolls on.<br />
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Last week we went off on our hols. A good old fashioned seaside holiday in Guernsey.<br />
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I can't quite believe how beautiful the island is. Have you been? It's so completely and utterly unspoilt. Beautiful (mostly empty!!) beaches. Gorgeous countryside. I can't wait to go back.<br />
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And now, we're back and we only have a week and a half of the summer holidays left. Autumn seems to be knocking on the door already. They even said on the weather forecast this morning that there might be a frost over night! A frost! August!<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06840897647375567381noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3446917394127441899.post-12018395492360237642014-08-13T07:26:00.001+01:002014-08-13T07:26:32.249+01:00The birthstone for August - PeridotThere's something so special about wearing jewellery with a special meaning, and birthstones are a great example of this.<br />
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The birthstone for August is Peridot</b>. I'm still never sure how to pronounce it.... do you know? I always assumed it was a french word and pronounce it with a silent 't' (a la merlot) but I have heard by people who should know these things that it's actually not french and should rhyme with "hot". Who knew!? A google search didn't help me much in deciding either way, so my internal jury is still out but I'd love to know what you think.<br />
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Peridot is unusual in that it is one of the few gemstones that occur in only one colour - <b>olive green</b>. However, the <b>intensity</b> of that green varies depends on how much iron is contained within the stone. The colour of the individual peridot gems can therefore vary from a yellow green through olive to a deep brownish green.<br />
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I favour the lighter <b>zingy yellow green</b>; shown in these <u><a href="http://folksy.com/items/6494852-Peridot-rose-cut-sterling-silver-stud-earrings-">rose cut beauties</a></u>...</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://folksy.com/items/6494852-Peridot-rose-cut-sterling-silver-stud-earrings-" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1P0pDD_uQXfJjL7m5a_7znkjN04A8IEhbYLszkScIAbpm2eWZD8wt9e_qk3fXLoGhsOjgQ8XA4QLMLpFVqa3ZMiVx0GbeyX7_DXGjJ2y46nI6xREhFkaUGgopGFrTZW8tli9BCiLmERQ/s1600/jewellery+014.JPG" height="266" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://folksy.com/items/6494852-Peridot-rose-cut-sterling-silver-stud-earrings-">Rose cut peridot stud earrings</a> by Becky Pearce Designs</td></tr>
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I must admit I don't really believe in the "talisman" effect of birthstones. You know, when the wearer supposedly gets special protection, or energies from wearing their birthstone. BUT I do love the extra thought that goes into a birthstone piece.<br />
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<a href="http://folksy.com/items/6500857-Sterling-silver-and-peridot-pendant-August-birthstone-" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://images.folksy.com/aXRlbXMvOTA1NjYxLzIwMTQwODEwLzIwMzc0MDYzMTA3Ng-Q-Q-N/main" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://folksy.com/items/6500857-Sterling-silver-and-peridot-pendant-August-birthstone-">Peridot pendant by Becky Pearce Designs</a></div>
<br />Peridot, symbolizes strength. It is formed deep in the magma from the upper mantle and is brought to the surface by volcanic activity. And because it is therefore found in volcanic ashes, it was believed that peridot crystals were the tears of the volcano goddess, Pele.<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06840897647375567381noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3446917394127441899.post-37012890047615491252014-08-06T10:10:00.001+01:002014-08-06T11:09:34.682+01:00July roundup (just a wee bit late)Usually for us jewellery makers things slow a little in July and August; which to be honest is quite welcome for me as the girls break up for school, and I have less time to <strike>play</strike> work anyway.<br />
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But this year I've had more orders than probably the last four Julys put together. And now that the girls are older, (and spent the first week of the school holidays doing a drama and dancing summer school!) I've managed to keep up and it's all worked out well so far. Whoop.<br />
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So what have I been up to?<br />
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July saw a delivery of more rose cut stones...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaT7NAmREy7AQttvSOwFsX8ifYJecXfhM1CDKHY884spVYjgJ-wlBf70T33Ik3kDTGrXt5YPddU-UoGaTr1YROdLFF2g8N-qwDbeNkZ07RScpjllAEcs5OdFnKqeI2cO8sxCX8Er2CZA4/s1600/IMG_3870.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaT7NAmREy7AQttvSOwFsX8ifYJecXfhM1CDKHY884spVYjgJ-wlBf70T33Ik3kDTGrXt5YPddU-UoGaTr1YROdLFF2g8N-qwDbeNkZ07RScpjllAEcs5OdFnKqeI2cO8sxCX8Er2CZA4/s1600/IMG_3870.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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(swoon - I am still a little obsessive about these)</div>
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I nabbed some of these blue chalcedony stones for me....(mine, mine, they're all mine)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-GX9TYtDBELycGNVxUKt8hSkDgI9vWI6Smxn85gBZPoebiQNcQ_dD-9SAMwa-SqozczKaptyUDgXDUvW0HkArnCDYM5ZN9-F8CJ7Wc1X4LE1otd8WmQtXQy41CHcD545Ql0NuGLLuHQI/s1600/jewellery+019+(640x427).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-GX9TYtDBELycGNVxUKt8hSkDgI9vWI6Smxn85gBZPoebiQNcQ_dD-9SAMwa-SqozczKaptyUDgXDUvW0HkArnCDYM5ZN9-F8CJ7Wc1X4LE1otd8WmQtXQy41CHcD545Ql0NuGLLuHQI/s1600/jewellery+019+(640x427).jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
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But you can still <a href="http://folksy.com/items/6495291-Blue-chalcedony-and-sterling-silver-rose-cut-stud-earrings">grab your own pair</a> if you're quick!</div>
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Some of my favourite other July makes were:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyWA-ciJW3L1G9rcLZpBETfNS7aZXZGKGCmb-PpSysSp-0lJCOfLNNIt8iGrvkWdyrNv40ans0NXoXfIXMSWtG3pvRhtcyL5kJKibRrU8D59aDAKIp2ZNebCevo1lKij932qWZjGh_OdU/s1600/ring+001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyWA-ciJW3L1G9rcLZpBETfNS7aZXZGKGCmb-PpSysSp-0lJCOfLNNIt8iGrvkWdyrNv40ans0NXoXfIXMSWtG3pvRhtcyL5kJKibRrU8D59aDAKIp2ZNebCevo1lKij932qWZjGh_OdU/s1600/ring+001.JPG" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
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This moonstone and sterling silver ring. Moonstone is the alternative birthstone for June and I just love that blue flash as it catches the light. Apparently it's called moonstone because the Romans believed it had moonlight held within it. </div>
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I also made quite a few other birthstone goodies. As you may know by now I do love jewellery with has that extra meaning...such as birthstones. This lovely ruby (July birthstone) set was particularly nice to work on, and I'm hoping to offer this across all the birthstones soon....</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEpYOKkd7rjyk6KIz1uOlOytu-bNdapdtRdcf6ST-yH02EpbuAEUzUPAQfo-SquW-rOF_t3gGTAH9NshS4e6McNVaQDYV7GzUtC551y1_B8Z_i7LRvUzZlWNU6exvVih8VkL07WYPhFog/s1600/004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEpYOKkd7rjyk6KIz1uOlOytu-bNdapdtRdcf6ST-yH02EpbuAEUzUPAQfo-SquW-rOF_t3gGTAH9NshS4e6McNVaQDYV7GzUtC551y1_B8Z_i7LRvUzZlWNU6exvVih8VkL07WYPhFog/s1600/004.JPG" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
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I've also been working on some druzy earrings. Remember that <a href="https://www.facebook.com/RedBirdJewellery/photos/a.230754328661.176675.182645793661/10153013050703662/?type=1&theater">druzy ring</a> I made recently? But more on all that in another post soon.</div>
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Hope you're all enjoying your summer!</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06840897647375567381noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3446917394127441899.post-44183226522715024592014-07-27T20:22:00.002+01:002014-07-27T20:24:39.946+01:00Bloglovin<a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/12631325/?claim=r6ckqvvpyjn">Follow my blog with Bloglovin</a><br />
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Have you tried<a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/what_is_bloglovin"> bloglovin</a> yet? It's a nice way to follow and keep up with blogs. You can pop them into different categories, and get a list of updates emailed to you daily.<br />
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I've been trying to find a way to keep track of blogs since google reader shut down last year, and this seems okay, but I wonder if there's something better out there? Do you use anything to organise the blogs you follow? I'd love to know!<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06840897647375567381noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3446917394127441899.post-21556581317545406902014-07-10T10:35:00.002+01:002014-07-10T10:35:30.178+01:00The soundtrack to my morning.Was feeling a bit tired and sluggish this morning, so I listened to music on my dog walk this morning. I don't usually. And in fact I feel like I haven't listened to music for ages; even in the studio I've got audiobooks on most of the time.<br />
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The shuffled soundtrack to my stroll went like this..<br />
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<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PPvRsLWlDXw&feature=kp">There ain't half been some clever bastards (Ian Dury)</a><br />
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vT3HrrrHzII&feature=kp">Mountain sound (Of Monsters and Men)</a><br />
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QRey5b2Rllg">The best things in life (Half man half biscuit)</a> (this song has my all time favourite lyric, but you have to wait until 2.27 for it!)<br />
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YgTHbKtBAGM">Mania (Throwing Muses)</a> my all time fave song when I'm in a bad mood.<br />
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jt5wUiPoXPU">Handsome stranger called death (Foe)</a><br />
(and then it went onto some stuff from Frozen that I downloaded for the girls and my cheesy running music but will skim over those)<br />
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Haven't stopped grinning yet, isn't it amazing how music can change your mood right around.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06840897647375567381noreply@blogger.com0