Bliss St.

Street Art in NY – 5 pointz

2010-09-08T10:04:00.000-07:00

Anyone taking the 7 train in to Manhattan has seen the Phun Phactory or what was once called the Phun Phactory. Currently known as 5Pointz the building is an ever changing canvas for graffiti artists.

This is a Sunday, Artists are out enforce.

5pointz isn't the only place to see stunning graffiti. The original Phun Phactory has re-launched in Brooklyn.

They are on twitter too. - http://twitter.com/THEPHUNPHACTORY

Follow, participate or just admire.

Victorian Inspired Monogram Shield Necklace - Custom

2010-08-06T16:05:00.000-07:00

New to our line is a Monogram necklace

Inspired by Victorian love token worn on a watch fob, this sterling silver pendant has a center shield for a monogram.

avail via Sacred Urban @ Etsy

Custom Piece made by Gillian Bates

2010-07-08T11:32:00.000-07:00

As I said , I loved Gillian Bates' work. When I decided to contact her with an idea for a custom piece.

I told her my idea and sent her some pictures of art work and photos representing the Bliss St station in Sunnyside NY. (guess where my store name came from?)

Cornelis Verwaal had this picture "Queens Noir" of the station stairs at the far end. He also has some beautiful photos on his site of NY

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Simon Donikian who painted "Under the Bliss St Station" is one of my favorite queens artist. As luck would have it I met him at the Sunnyside Art Fair the weekend I contacted Gillian.

After seeing the pictures and hearing what I wanted Gillian asked for more photos of the station and arches.

I went to the Art fair over that weekend and took photos of the subway station.

Of course it was after I got home that I realized I took a picture of the wrong side of the station!

Really what self-respecting coffee snob wants starbucks in a piece of art work?

The opposite side in the same position is Alpha donuts, a place that means more than a few random meetings with family members.

If you duck your head in there when my Father in Law is in town you are bound to find him with a donut (tsk tsk) and a cup of coffee. Knowing all to well that he shouldn't have the sugar his defense is almost always " I had a feeling I would run into you today, here I bought you a donut" To remedy matters I sent a picture of alpha donuts and asked Gillian to replace starbucks.

The blog sunnyside adventure supplied the picture and has some interesting pieces on the neigborhood.

ok so it doesn't look impressive on the outside, but it was voted one of the 10 best donut shops in NY. They apparently have superb French crullers. (note to self: buy one and tease Father in Law over phone)

So not long after that Gillian wrote that she finished the piece and mailed it out. A few days later, record time for a transatlantic package I received her creation.

What is not to love?

Bliss St Station By Gillian Bates @ Etsy

Gillian Bates Textile Artist.

2010-07-07T16:05:00.000-07:00

I discovered Gillian Bates on the front page of Etsy.

A textile artist that lives in East Sussex UK, Gillian has some contemporary pieces with a touch of the classic.

Four 99s Please

I am missing something in pop culture reference. 99s? As a New Yorker it looks like Mister Softee to me.

Eastbourne Pier

Wish you were here - Bournemouth Pier

Both Piers look like heaven...especially since it is 103° where I am right now. Ahhh to lounge in those chairs and have something cold.

De La Warr Pavilion

This building was built in 1935, very modernistic. I would say more but I would just reveal myself as the geek I truly am.

While I loved Gillian Bates' work nothing personally screamed ME!

So I contacted her....

Specializing – Atheist Necklace

2010-06-08T12:25:00.000-07:00

Originally written for Passion Preferred by me.

The wonderful world of business and of course life sometimes calls for specialization. We see it in professionals all the time.

Legal law

Cardiologist

Spanish translation

Stay at home mom or dad

People specialize. It insures that when you are looking for something you find it. That the focus of the shop or person is clear. "Niche" is another word for a specialized market.

This I am going to look at some of the specialized shops on etsy.

First is Gold Mettle a clever but cutesy name. Before you conclude that that is an insult, cute sells look at Disney. The name made me smile.

Gold Mettle sells one thing. (so far) Atheist Necklaces. She has 6 up currently. Photographing each one one in a slightly different way with different backgrounds. She has 14 sales since sept.

Would you put only one item in your shop. Probably not. It would be nice to see GM expand but what her shop offers is a niche item to a percentage of the population that is usually forgotten. After all how many non atheist have thought about creating a product that declares a non belief?

Yet Gold Mettle has found some success in this focused approach.

What can you learn from Gold Mettle?

Where can you focus your line to a specific group?

Are there things you need to drop to give your line, shop or life in order to become a specialist?

Can your categories help you separate your line or items into niches?

How does your clients see your shop or site? what do you sell?

Atheist necklace Via Gold Mettle @ Etsy

Mysterious trauma

2010-06-06T17:52:00.000-07:00

The last of the day’s light is streaming through the window. I spent the day in bed. My guy told me not to get up this morning. He brought my my laptop, books and a personal pizza. Hot peppers, olives and pepperoni. Today was to rest and heal. My cage ribs hurting like I had been beaten.

My sister in law G described it as “the mysterious trauma” . A few years back I had a chest cold and because of family history of heart murmurs the doctor ran some tests. Told me I was fine and the pain I was feeling was a swelling of my chest bone. Xrays revealed it healed well but inflammation was going to happen from time to time.

Healing well??? Healing from what. I asked

The accident I was in. said the doctor.

I had never been in an accident. The doctor proceeded to inform me that I had. years ago. The xrays clearly show a severe trauma, most likely a car accident.

I protested. but there was the xray and a doctor that assured me I had infact been in a major accident.

Rewind a few more years before that....

I had picked up a box the “wrong” way and pulled my back. The chiropractor looked at my xrays and said my spine was damaged. He wondered how soon after physical therapy was I walking again?

what?

He too said my xrays showed I was in a major accident. that It clearly showed in the xray and yes of course I seemed to be healing quite well but to not over do it.

Xray necklace via Tillybloom @etsy

Both doctors estimated the year of the accident. both said the same year.

Now I swear I have never been in a major car accident. When I asked if it could be a minor
fender bender they said no. Never had physical therapy. Have no idea what the where taking about. Yesterday I woke up with sore ribs by the end of the night I couldn’t turn with out winching.

So today I stayed in bed per my guy’s orders. G called asked me what happened? And that’s the most embarrassing part. I have no cool story not even a boring story the truth is I have no idea. So G theory is “mysterious trauma” in a former life I was in a accident and it is showing up as physical pain in my body now.

ok….or I could just be a doof that doesn’t realize I’m getting hurt until a few days later when my body is sore.

Of course there is also the Geek theory. I had been in an accident but the memories where blocked by time travelers for the safety of the human race. Neither me nor anyone around me remember any such accident. Either way it means a day in bed with streaming netflix and a couple of books.

Xray necklace via Tillybloom @etsy

Is it Wrong?

2010-05-27T11:07:00.000-07:00

D, my friend, is afraid of squirrels. I love D. She is funny, even when she doesn't mean to be.

NY is not the place to be afraid of squirrels. They are all over the place. She avoids parks. Rarely goes near them and never when she has been drinking. It was on one of those occasions that the conversation came up. We had been out to dinner, had a few glasses of port and were walking through the neighborhood. Her fear of squirrels came up. I know some people with odd phobias. Feathers of instance. There is a person I know that is scared of feathers. A male bartender that is afraid of butterflies. Phobias don't have to make sense. The reaction is real enough.

So when D told me she was afraid of squirrels. It seemed reasonable enough. To many NYers. Pigeons are rats with wings and squirrels are rats with bushy tails. When I asked her why, I'm not sure what I expected. but I didn't expect this.

"A Squirrel tried to kidnap me."

What? Of course I hadn't had that much to drink. D repeated and added to her previous statement.

"When I was a baby a squirrel tried to kidnap me."

I must have looked doubting because she explained it was true. Her father told her so. She was out with her mother and father, sleeping in her baby carriage when a squirrel tried to take her away. No type of "well maybe the squirrel..." had any affect on her. Her father told her and that was it. A reasonable woman in a medical profession decided that squirrels freak her out because of a story her father told her as a child. The story doesn't freak her out. The truth to her is a squirrel did try to take her away.

So is it wrong that I want to get her this for Father's day?

If I have to ask it probably is. But I can't help it every time I see a squirrel I think of D.

I'm just happy that D phobia of squirrels is very mild and she just gets a little *insert bad pun here*.

The necklace is Scampering Squirrel Necklace Via RhondasTreasures @ Etsy

Clouds around the World

2010-05-11T09:31:00.000-07:00

Have you ever dreamed of traveling the world? Ellie's mom has. Ellie is a dear friend, she is a fellow coach and a fellow jewelry designer. She even has a shop on etsy- Joy Happens. . Ellie recently made this request on Facebook -

Ellie:

I hope this finds each of you well and happy.

I really need help with something.
My mother is terminally ill. We don't know how long she has left...could be a few weeks or if we are lucky, she might be with us for a few months.
My mother has always LOVED clouds and watches out of her hospital window for them.
A couple of days ago, when she was able to speak about it a bit, she said that she would be able to do what she has wanted to do since she was a child...be a cloud and travel all over the world.
I am putting together photos of clouds from all over the world to bring her joy now.

Could you please, please, please either email me (or post them on my FB wall) a photo or a few of clouds in your part

of the world or that you have taken on your travels? Please tell me where they were taken.
It would mean so much to her and to me.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart. ♥
peace, ellie

A cloud hiding my mom's flower in Portugal. - BlissSt

So I ask a favor. Please join this Flickr group Clouds around the World add a cloud and tell us where it comes from!

Help someone travel the World

Love Carolena (akaBlissSt)

For the Love of Filigree - Front page Material?

2010-05-10T10:30:00.000-07:00

This treasury has pieces with amazing detail. Wonder if it will make it to the front page? Etsy seems to like sleek, mod, front pages. Or simple "Martha stewart" front pages. Would Etsy pick a front page with this much detail? Just wondering....

Vermeil Filigree Butterfly Swirls Pin via BlissSt @ Etsy

Glass and Silver

2010-05-10T10:15:00.000-07:00

For the first time both my guy (Indigo Heirlooms) and I have been included in the same treasury and it's a beauty.

Hmm does his water pitcher need a new picture?

Click on the picture of the treasury to be taken to it. Please leave a comment.

The Izmir Charm is @ Blisst on ETSY

Mr. Darcy Proposal Mug

2010-04-23T10:32:00.000-07:00

"You must allow me to tell you... how ardently I admire and love you"

Love Austen love the mug! but even if you don't love Pride and Prejudice how loving and wonderful to read each time you take a sip.

personal pet peeve: I like mugs that I can fit 4 fingers in. ( ok I'm strange) but it's not stopping me from buying this one soon.

$15 via Brookish at Etsy

Rocker Mom!

2010-04-21T14:38:00.000-07:00

Just love this simple and edgy purse! Perfect gift for the edger mom with style.

$89 Handmade via Una shop @ Etsy

Polishing Silver

2010-04-21T14:16:00.000-07:00

Getting in a patch of vintage silver means more than photographs and research. It means POLISHING and lots of it.

I remember my godmother’s pink polish. Out came the house hold flatware and the teapots and all the thing-a-ma-jigs that were bought and used in a proper home.Out came rags and the big jar of pink polish bought at woolworths. Of course all the kids were enlisted and the pink polish quickly (or not so quickly) became black on the cotton rags as the silver began to sparkle. I screamed slave labor, I wasn’t a radical kid but honestly felt that the kids should be able to use the sterling tea set if we had to clean them. The adults disagreed.

Fond memories of my family doesn’t make polishing silver any more of a joy today. Especially when we get in a large group. Laziness however is the mother of ingenuity and experimentation.

Eco Friendly silver polishing

1tablespoon Baking Soda

1tablespoon Salt

a crumbled up or not so crumbled up piece of aluminum wrap

a big glass or plastic bowl

warm water

and cotton rags

I have seen a few versions of this formula. I have tried out all if not most. Some call for boiling the water. This one seems to be the most efficient and the best for the lazy polisher. Really easy and eco friendly how can you go wrong?

Just put warm water, baking soda and salt in a bowl mix add silver and aluminum foil. The warmer the water the quicker it cleans. I leave it for about an hour. The tarnish is pulled off. Then dry and buff with a cotton rag.

what you need to know:

this does not work on gold wash.

Do not use this with jewelry that has sensitive stones. If you drop a piece of flatware in that is not silver by mistake it will become black (pulls the tarnish instead of the aluminum)

some pieces are too tarnished for this to work.

So I got my first patch of sterling spoons, baby cups, porridge bowls and silver chains done today. So much easier and with less elbow grease than the pink paste polish. Of course I left on a bit of patina what good is the point of making vintage silver shine like new?

oh and the best way to prevent tarnish on sterling? USE IT.

Etsy Treasury Bodaciously Purple

2010-03-14T16:55:00.000-07:00

Amethyst Ring from my shop is included in this Treasury.

Created March 14 by thelongchateau

From left to right, top to bottom

countryworkshop – zuzusworld - Ivyndell

vintagemarmalade – BlissStreetJewelry (me) – burntmill

vinestreetvintage – gloriousglassgarden – metalight

visionquest - rosewebs - livlf13

A Boiler bursts and then…..

2010-02-24T19:15:00.000-08:00

What happens when your parents’ boiler busts and destroys your mom’s china cabinet?

Well if you are my dad you try to fix it and move it to a new “safer” location. If you are my brother you use the new empty space for a bigger TV after debating it the right size with the rest of the family. If you are me you try to talk your mother into replacing it with a solid wood vintage piece that will last longer than anything that can be bought today.

And if you are my guy? Well you buy one and give it to her as a gift.

Look are what he bought today

It’s solid wood handcrafted and the perfect size. It’s not that old but it is a quality piece.

So what do you think? Think she would like it? He’s going to surprise her on Friday.

Vintage advice (1938) - Tips for Dating (Modernized)

2010-02-15T13:29:00.000-08:00

I was over at Sad and Useless and scans of this 1938 article on tips of the single ladies. People commented on the posting saying the article was antiquated and sexist. A little dated yes. Sexist? not really. So I posted the pics here with updated advice and the men version. Will this be for every date? no.

Both – when your date arrives don’t keep them waiting, Don’t dress in front of them and Smile.

Men don’t like women borrowing their hankerchiefs, brushes, or other grooming items when you first meet them. Handle grooming including make up and perfume in private.

Women don’t like it either. Men groom in private and please light on the cologne.

Women, sit in a relaxed position. with your legs closed or crossed . Don’t look bored. Don’t chew with your moth open no one needs to hear or see your gum or dinner.

Men- don’t spread your legs and take up one and half seats. Don’t slouch half way down the chair. Sit up in your chair. Don’t look bored. Don’t chew with your mouth open no on needs to hear or see your gum or dinner.

Woman- when a man dances he sometimes just want to dance. If you talk leave it light on the dance floor and then only if it does not interfere with the dancing.

Men – If the music is load and the girl is enjoying the dance. Don’t talk. there is time for that at the table. It just shows that you are uncomfortable physically with a woman. Dance when you dance. talk when it’s time to sit and talk. (Does not apply to slow dances but keep conversation light or romantic)

Both – leave grinding to a minimum. While it is a form of dancing that is popular and has been it also sends a “I want to have sex with you” message. Your partner may get “I ONLY want to have sex” message instead.

Women- where a bra if you need one. Don’t wear clothes that are too low cut or too low riding. Wear clothes in your size not two sizes too small. Wear sexy and comfortable shoes. (yes there are such a thing)

Men -If you need a belt wear one. Do not show your ass crack, scratch your crotch or butt. Wear clothes in your size not two sizes too big.

Both- Fashion has it’s place. over sized pants, under size shirts are fine after the person gets to know you. until then you should be the focus not the clothes. What you were should accentuate not mask or over inflate who you are. In other words let them date you not your outfit.

Both – Don’t use the car mirror to fix your hair, contacts or adjust yourself. The driver need it to drive along with turning for blind spots. Use the mirror that’s attached to the passenger side sun visor. there is always one there. why the hell would you need to screw with the driver?

Both – Don’t be overly familiar with date. Touching them may not be appropriate. holding hands is fine. Light touches on the arms and shoulders is fine. adjusting their clothes? no. Cleaning something off of their face is only ok if they say so. It is never ok to use spit to clean someone else.

Women - Don't be sentimental.....(above)....

Men – Don’t be pushy. Or give too much advice. If she doesn’t want to talk about her work, then drop it. Some women don’t want to work on their career when they are on a date. Most don’t want their date to fix them. women don’t like their men crying in public places either.

Both – Don’t be overly familiar with the waiter or waitress. Don’t talk about how much fun you had with someone else. Your date deserves your full attention.

Women – don’t talk about clothes, shoes or your “favorite” girly show. (you know which they are) Talk about things that he wants to talk about. If it happens to be the same thing Great!

Men – Don’t talk about the latest trade to your favorite sports team or the motor in your car or your favorite video game Talk about the things she wants to talk about. If it happens to be the same thing. Great! (she may love sports, cars or video games)

Both – Don’t drink too much.

Some women are clever but most get silly. Some men get fun, most get loud and sloppy.

Both – Don’t flirt with other people or have long drawn out conversations with others. It’s rude to your date.

This includes cell phones. Leave them off or tell the caller you will call them back at a later time

Women - don’t pass out

Men -Don’t pass out. You are too damn heavy to carry home.

Both – You may be left.

Both- If you see the man all the way on the right. Avoid him. He is off of his meds.

New York gets ready for a Blizzard

2010-02-12T15:56:00.000-08:00

New York schools were closed Wednesday . We were expecting 18in of snow. Will we get it? No. A week ago when DC got hit they said we would get 6-12in. how much did we get? zero. I should of taken this one more serious. The day before my postman said he wouldn’t pick up – snow day. But of course I didn’t.

I decided like any good NYer to do all my errands before the snow got deep.

Everything was closed except food places. That was the first time since 1996 that NY partly shut down because of snow. It was the first time I can remember it shutting BEFORE a blizzard.

Snow just getting started

These were taken early in the day. It snowed all day and all night. NY was open for business and back to school the next morning.

Coolest thing? the photos you see above were taken with my phone and cropped down to less than half their original size.

Uncool – my guy says I don’t need a camera with a phone like that. So much for my valentine day gift.

Rum Buttered Scallops over Lemon Pepper Pasta

2010-01-31T11:48:00.000-08:00

You can make rum buttered scallops over any pasta but lemon pepper makes a great contrast to the sweet buttery taste.

What you need to buy -

Lemon pepper pasta. :

I like Trader Joes. Pappardelle you can’t miss the lemon or pepper it makes a wonderful surface of the butter. or Ronzoni makes a lemon pepper angel hair which gives a more subtle flavor. Either is fine

Butter:

of course real butter, good butter is best, while you can use margarine it will make your pasta and scallops oily instead of the buttery goodness we are looking for. as much as you would like.

Scallops:

Make sure they are as fresh as possible (of course). Scallops can be eaten when cooked to medium, some even eat them raw (I wouldn't) but to not get sick the the rawer the scallops the fresher they need to be. 1 1/2 pounds to 2 pounds.

Rum:

When cooking with liquor always choose a quality that you can drink. It makes the food taste better. Cooking a bad quality liquor will not make it taste any better. Choose what ever rum you would like. I like bacardi but that’s just me. 151 is just because that's what I had in the house but any unflavored rum will do. Later you can experiment with other flavors.

Optional – Bacon:

I don’t use measurements. I will include approx amounts for 4 , adjust to your own tastes

Ok start preparing the pasta as the package indicates. I use 1 package of the TJ pasta or 1/2 of the ronzini box. Al Dente preferred or Med please.

opt – If you have chosen to add bacon this is a good time to cook it. Take a large frying pan and brown 4-5 slices of bacon. cut into 1 in pieces. If your bacon is frozen don’t worry just cook it first then cut. Remove bacon from pan. let drain. You can now cook the scallops in the bacon grease or clean the pan and add butter. don’t add butter to the bacon grease. While it will be tasty it is just too much grease. It will also make it more likely that the butter will burn.

After the pasta is done- drain the water. I know that many people like to rinse their pasta but this makes no sense unless you are making salad. Now that your pot is empty put 2 pats of butter in the pot (burner should be off). The heat of the already hot pot should melt the butter. add pasta back to the pot and mix until the pasta is coated in the butter. This will keep the pasta separated and warm while you cook the scallops.Its also the reason to make it al dente or med. because pasta will continue to cook with it’s internal heat.

If you haven’t chosen bacon then heat up a large frying pan. add 2 pats of butter or enough to coat the bottom of the pan. The butter should be very hot. sizzling and add scallops. Once you put the scallops in. Scallops take no time at all

to cook. if they are over cooked then they will get rubbery. Their thickness determines how long they should cook.

note: if you have never cooked scallops. leave lots of space in between the scallops and DO NOT stir or mix. Just place them in the pan and let them sit. you can lift one to check the bottoms after 1 min (for large) and keep checking periodically. If you stir them or they are too close together then instead of searing they will steam. Increasing chances of over cooking.

The scallops should look just change color before turning them to the other side. (DO NOT turn golden brown) cook the other side the same then remove scallops from the pan. It is easy to over cook scallops that’s why you have to remove the scallops before reducing the rum.

keep the pan hot and add 2 shot glasses of rum or just enough to coat the bottom of the pan. you want the rum to start reducing

Plate buttered pasta.

Rum should be sizzling and steaming. once the rum is reduced add the partly cooked scallops to the hot pan. (bacon too) let the scallops sear on each side in the rum now you are looking for that golden brown color. scallops should be springy if they are firm they are over cooked. Once you get that nice golden brown color you can put scallops (and bacon) on top of pasta. you can also add the buttery rum liquid. Serve immediately.

This recipe should take about 45 min in total. that includes waiting for the water to boil.

I tweeted about making it for dinner the other night . @libertyimages from etsy ask more about it so I decided to include the recipe on the blog.

New Sizes for the Venus Ring.

2010-01-06T11:51:00.000-08:00

The Venus Erotic ring is one of my clients favorites.

In the past is was available only in 6 1/2 after receiving request for different sizes it is now it is available in 6 1/2, 7 1/2, 7 3/4 and 9

Sold at Bliss St the full website - or- Sacred Urban @ etsy -or- SacredUrban @ 1000markets

Vintage Metallic Couture

2009-12-21T16:35:00.000-08:00

Glittery gold and silver screams “where is the party?!” Apparently the party is over at Tiddleywink’s Etsy shop where vintage is queen and shop’s selection of metallic vintage is oh-so alluring.

Retro metallic shoes and purses are being routinely being featured in top international magazines. The fashion revivals in this shop are designer re-dos of vintage fashion.

If only I could find vintage pair of shoes that fit.

Etsy Fashion Look Book.

2009-11-30T14:49:00.000-08:00

Where did Fairies Come from?

2009-11-23T19:01:00.001-08:00

“When the first baby laughed for the first time, its laugh broke into a thousand pieces, and they all went skipping about, and that was the beginning of fairies.”
— J.M. Barrie (Peter Pan)

If faeries are created by the laughter of babies then no wonder they bring us joy!

Just added to Bliss St Jewelry

Yellow Enamel Pansy Necklace Picked for Treasury

2009-11-03T14:51:00.000-08:00

Ginghamgrlva aka Gingham Girl has created the Smiling Pansy Faces Treasury

I love Pansies and our Yellow Enamel Pansy Necklace was picked for this treasury.

Left to Right and Top to Bottom

Yellow Enamel Pansy Necklace
Shop: BlissStreetJewelry

Hand Painted Pretty Pansy Note Card
Art By Aimee Joy

Gingham Pansies Pot
Lil Chameleon Designs

Pretty Pansy Tea Cozy
Ginghamgrlva aka Gingham Girl

Pansy Hand Painted China Dresser Tray
Porcelain Heirlooms

Paperback Book Cover with Matching Bookmark; Pansies
QuiltSewCover

Pansy Face
Edeeotr

Pansy on Egg
Natashakaj

Pansies Afgahan
Barbara's Afgahans

Purple Pansy Scarf
Telford Silk

Beautiful Table Runner
Embroidered Dreams

Hand Felted Petite Shawl - Pansy
Elena Makes Things

If you don't know what a treasury is you may want to read this

What is an Etsy Treasury?

2009-11-03T11:43:00.000-08:00

Etsy defines it as - curated galleries handpicked by the Etsy community

So for those of who who don't know what a Treasury is lets start with the basics.

Etsy started as a handmade community for artisans to sell their creations. The Site has since expanded to include Vintage goods (at least 20yrs old) and supplies. It is the largest site of it's kind with sellers from all over the world.

So many sellers and so little prime exposure. On Etsy the front page is a goal for many sellers getting on the front page insures lots of views. Being in a Storque article, featured seller, Gift Guides and the Main Gallery all get you views, and hopefully sales.

The Main Gallery on the front page is 12 items picked by Etsy to showcase their sellers. It's hard to miss and instantly drives traffic to a etsy shop. If you look in the forums of etsy, you will see tons of threads about the Front Page (FP). How do I get on the FP? Why is it all the same Sellers on the FP? Rants about the Front page. Currently there are 4,561 threads dedicated to the Front Page.

One way to get there? Treasuries. Picked by Sellers. If you are lucky enough to get a treasury slot. You can pick one of your own items and 11 others plus 4 alternates. 16 items in total. 12 For the treasury page and if something sells the alternates get put in the empty spot.

Treasuries are other sellers saying "I like this item" or "this is front page worthy" at it's best. It is being honored by other sellers. Great treasuries (chosen by Etsy staff) are featured on the front page. Of course even the best treasury doesn't always make it. What is the saying? it was an honor just being nominated.

It isn't easy getting a treasury spot. People set up and wait for it. With just 333 spots they fill up quickly. So Etsians wait for one to open up. Craftpolis created a clock, two just to figure out when there will be an open spot. It doesn't always help. If you get a treasury it lasts for only 2 days.

With competition steep to get a treasury and steeper to get to the front page gallery being chosen for a treasury is a good thing. Something to tweet, blog, and basically share. It says somebody liked my item enough to promote it.

Sacred Urban and Bliss St.

2009-10-13T13:39:00.000-07:00

“What’s in a name?

That which we call a rose By any other name would smell as sweet.”

~Shakespeare, Romeo and Juliet.

Bliss St Jewelry as a company has labor intensive one of a kind pieces along with hand assembled and vintage Jewelry

As a result I created a line called Sacred Urban and a page Sacred Urban.
It is where all my artisan jewelry can be found

For 1000 markets where only my artisan jewelry is I debated for a while whether a name change is in order or not. In the end I decided that a clear and defining line was important. For months the lovers of handmade jewelry has known us as Bliss St. Jewelry on 1000 markets. Today the name changes officially to Sacred Urban.

A new shop was created on Etsy to reflect the change. Sacred Urban is now up and I am listing my Hard Candy Collection.

While Sacred Urban is a part of Bliss St. On Etsy and 1000 markets Sacred Urban will represent our one of a kind and artist made pieces.

We will still have Vintage Jewelry on Bliss St on Etsy

Wonderful ideas are brewing! Watch for our new creations
~Carolena Costa

The Insane Artist Myth

2009-09-30T17:19:00.000-07:00

There are many romantic scenarios of the solitary artist. Living alone in a loft, with plenty of lovers of course. The misunderstood artist who can not create and be in a relationship, the working spouse just doesn’t understand. The all consuming artist the one that does nothing but breathes, eats and sleeps art. Basically lives his or her art. The latter is the most favorite of patrons. It feeds in to the myth of artist being so different that they are insane. It also raises the value of art. It raises the adrenaline rush, which quickens the blood and loosens the wallet.

In no small way the gossip spreads.

Before Hollywood gossip there were artist gossip. Did you know Van Gogh cut off his ear? Picasso was known not only to save his hair but that of his son’s. Oh and Hemingway….could that man drink! Gossip still goes with art today. Yet gossip, even odd behavior, does not make you insane. It’s good press. That’s all. Ok maybe it’s just press.

Today we know that Van Gogh is like to have been an epileptic. The depression that he wrote about was by some believed to be manic depression. If he had either or both would he be…insane today? Or would he be part of the thousands that take medication or are otherwise treated? Hemingway was an alcoholic. Know one? Are they insane? OK Picasso he was nuts. you got me there. Or not. We could take apart each artist and see what made them tick, what “damage” we could find. Yet that would only lead to post mortem therapy (possible- many famously dead are on twitter, go ahead check) or it would lead to us finding out simply that artists are human. Each with their own quirks, manners and abilities.
The equation artist = insanity or artist =odd or that artist = solitary or artist =broken is wrong. And a bit insulting because it is much too simplistic.

What the insane artist myth mean to an artist? ….Next time.

Filigree Butterfly Featured in Treasury

2009-09-09T11:35:00.000-07:00

A Treasury called Sweet September Fade was created by Vintage seller Comfuzzled.

It includes my Vermeil Filigree Butterfly Swirl Pin. (lower left hand corner with the heart)

This Treasury is beautiful. So well done. There are at least 4-5 things that I want from it.

Still haven’t been able to get a treasury myself. I should check more often. There are so many items I would like to include.

My Venus Ring is a 1000 Markets Staff Pick.

2009-08-29T15:35:00.000-07:00

My Venus ring was picked as a staff pick on 1000 markets! They called it stunning. I missed my opportunity to take a screen shot (next time I will think of it sooner).

(via Bliss St on 1000 markets)
Like many woman Venus was divided by her different roles.

There was Venus Genetrix ("Mother Venus"),Venus Felix ("Lucky Venus"), even Venus Kallipygos ("Venus with the pretty bottom"), and the list goes on, an epithet for each the different facets of the goddess

Venus Ercina was the Venus of untamed or wild love in other words, erotic love. Literally it means "queen of the heather" an untamed rose that grew out of the rocks.

This sterling ring unearths an image of powerful beauty, vulnerability, and complexity of female sexuality in the simplest form I could think of. Inspired by Jean Leon Gerome and done in the Art Nouveau style.

The Venus Erycina Erotic Love Ring can be found in my shop on 1000 markets as well as in Bliss St Jewelry.

Books

2009-08-29T13:35:00.000-07:00

Found this on Facebook on Charity Maas Sloan's Notes. Every thing written by me is in blue italics. <--- Like this! I of course am all the X's After all it is my list.

If you want to see Charity Mass Sloan's just check it out click on her name.

A room without books is like a body without a soul." --Cicero

Have you read more than 6 of these books?

The BBC believes most people will have read only 6 of the 100 books here. How do your reading habits stack up?

Instructions: Copy this into your NOTES (Or BLOG) . Look at the list and put an 'x' after those you have read. Tag 20 other book nerds. Tag me as well so I can see your responses!

1 Pride and Prejudice - Jane Austen X
2 The Lord of the Rings - JRR Tolkien X
3 Jane Eyre - Charlotte Bronte X (I also read Eyre Affair, not by Bronte but fun book)
4 Harry Potter series - JK Rowling X (all but the last book)
5 To Kill a Mockingbird - Harper Lee
6 The Bible X (It was really good, a bit heavy on the sex and violence)
7 Wuthering Heights - Emily Bronte X (First "adult" book I read)
8 Nineteen Eighty Four - George Orwell X
9 His Dark Materials - Philip Pullman
10 Great Expectations - Charles Dickens -X
11 Little Women - Louisa M Alcott - X
12 Tess of the D’Urbervilles - Thomas Hardy X
13 Catch 22 - Joseph Heller X
14 Complete Works of Shakespeare - (out of 42 works I have read 28)
15 Rebecca - Daphne Du Maurier
16 The Hobbit - JRR Tolkien-X
17 Birdsong - Sebastian Faulk
18 Catcher in the Rye - JD Salinger X
19 The Time Traveler’s Wife - Audrey Niffenegger
20 Middlemarch - George Eliot
21 Gone With The Wind - Margaret Mitchell X
22 The Great Gatsby - F Scott Fitzgerald X
23 Bleak House - Charles Dickens X
24 War and Peace - Leo Tolstoy
25 The Hitch Hiker’s Guide to the Galaxy - Douglas Adams X (I loved it I also read the other books in "a trilogy in five parts",
27 Crime and Punishment - Fyodor Dostoyevsky
28 Grapes of Wrath - John Steinbeck X ( Love Steinbeck)
29 Alice in Wonderland - Lewis Carroll- X (Also read Through the Looking Glass)
30 The Wind in the Willows - Kenneth Grahame
31 Anna Karenina - Leo Tolstoy
32 David Copperfield - Charles Dickens X
33 Chronicles of Narnia - CS Lewis X ( all of them )
34 Emma-Jane Austen X
35 Persuasion - Jane Austen X
36 The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe - CS Lewis X
37 The Kite Runner - Khaled Hosseini (in my to read pile in my living room)
38 Captain Corelli’s Mandolin - Louis De Bernieres (reading next)
39 Memoirs of a Geisha - Arthur Golden X
40 Winnie the Pooh - AA Milne X
41 Animal Farm - George Orwell X
42 The Da Vinci Code - Dan Brown X (read the illustrated version too. It's better)
43 One Hundred Years of Solitude - Gabriel Garcia Marquez X
44 A Prayer for Owen Meaney - John Irving
45 The Woman in White - Wilkie Collins
46 Anne of Green Gables - LM Montgomery X
47 Far From The Madding Crowd - Thomas Hardy
48 The Handmaid’s Tale - Margaret Atwood X
49 Lord of the Flies - William Golding -X
50 Atonement - Ian McEwan
51 Life of Pi - Yann Martel X
52 Dune - Frank Herbert X The original and some of the others in the series)
53 Cold Comfort Farm
54 Sense and Sensibility - Jane Austen X
55 A Suitable Boy - Vikram Seth
56 The Shadow of the Wind - Carlos Ruiz Zafon
57 A Tale Of Two Cities - Charles Dickens X
58 Brave New World - Aldous Huxley
59 The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night - Mark Haddon
60 Love In The Time Of Cholera - Gabriel Garcia Marquez X
61 Of Mice and Men - John Steinbeck X
62 Lolita - Vladimir Nabokov
63 The Secret History - Donna Tartt
64 The Lovely Bones - Alice Sebold X (loved this book)
65 Count of Monte Cristo - Alexandre Dumas X
66 On The Road - Jack Kerouac X
67 Jude the Obscure - Thomas Hardy
68 Bridget Jones’s Diary - Helen Fielding X
69 Midnight’s Children - Salman Rushdie
70 Moby Dick - Herman Melville X (Call me Ishmael. He never tells you his real name, just what he wants you to know.)
71 Oliver Twist - Charles Dickens X
72 Dracula - Bram Stoker X
73 The Secret Garden - Frances Hodgson Burnett X
74 Notes From A Small Island - Bill Bryson
75 Ulysses - James Joyce X
76 The Inferno – Dante- X
77 Swallows and Amazons - Arthur Ransome
78 Germinal - Emile Zola
79 Vanity Fair - William Makepeace Thackeray X
80 Possession - AS Byatt
81 A Christmas Carol - Charles Dickens X
82 Cloud Atlas - David Mitchell
83 The Color Purple - Alice Walker X
84 The Remains of the Day - Kazuo Ishiguro
85 Madame Bovary - Gustave Flaubert
86 A Fine Balance - Rohinton Mistry
87 Charlotte’s Web - EB White X ( one of my favorites children's book )
88 The Five People You Meet In Heaven - Mitch Albom X
89 Adventures of Sherlock Holmes - Sir Arthur Conan Doyle X
90 The Faraway Tree Collection - Enid Blyton
91 Heart of Darkness - Joseph Conrad
92 The Little Prince - Antoine De Saint-Exupery X
93 The Wasp Factory - Iain Banks
94 Watership Down - Richard Adams X
95 A Confederacy of Dunces - John Kennedy Toole
96 A Town Like Alice - Nevil Shute
97 The Three Musketeers - Alexandre Dumas X
98 Hamlet - William Shakespeare -X
99 Charlie and the Chocolate Factory - Roald Dahl (nope, first movie freaked me out wouldn't read the book)
100 Les Miserables - Victor Hugo X

I haven't found this list outside of Facebook, now that I googled it. But BBC did put out a list in 2003 of the top 100 favorite books. The list is quite similar. I only marked books I had read from beginning to end at least once. I didn't mark books that I started but never finished, also watching the movies or listening to audiobooks don't count (sorry)

Coffin Couch Via She’s Batty Design Blog

2009-08-28T14:53:00.000-07:00

I discovered this Coffin Couch Via She’s Batty Design Blog . So today there were two great finds. First The coffin couch from VonErickson shop on Etsy The lid closes so it looks like a regular coffin. They will make it in purple, red or black. Personally Red would be my choice. I can’t tell you if it comfortable but it is definitely a statement.VonErickson is in NY. The couch is $3500, shipping depends on your location.

Now the second find. She’s Batty Design Blog. She has products, finds, marketing for artists, and entries about just what is going on with her. It’s a blog worth checking out.

Bamboo a Sustainable, Eco-Friendly Product?

2009-08-12T08:10:00.000-07:00

Recycled, up cycled, refurbished, reclaimed, cruelty free, conflict free, organic are all word used in eco- friendly or green products. One word is gets the most question from clients. Sustainable. What is a sustainable product? Bamboo some blurts out to their computer screen and you would be right. Why? Why when we are is bamboo the hottest thing in living green? Furniture to Flooring to towels are currently being made from Bamboo. Bamboo is a Fast Growing Grass

The best definition is “Sustainable products are those products providing environmental, social and economic benefits while protecting public health, welfare, and environment over their full commercial cycle, from the extraction of raw materials to final disposition.”
Tough to find a product that does that in this modern age. Benefit the environment, public health and economy. Some say bamboo is the only true sustainable product. Yet it isn’t. It is renewable, and eco-friendly, but it does not meet all the requirements of a sustainable product.

Bamboo is a hard, durable, renewable resource. Bamboo grows quickly and the use of it helps save trees that take much longer to grow. Most comes from the Pacific Rim, generally in China or Vietnam. Generating economic growth in these counties as the demand becomes greater. Bamboo as a tree substitute does not require use of pesticides and fertilizers used are often organic. So far it sounds eco friendly and it is very.

But why is it not sustainable? Since there are no American growers of wood substitute bamboo all the bamboo used in flooring, furniture and cutting boards are shipped from the Pacific Rim. The energy used for transport if not very eco friendly.

Most bamboo flooring uses an adhesive that contains urea-formaldehyde (UF). Use of UF resins, are harmful to indoor air quality. It must be said that bamboo flooring uses a relatively small amount may other materials such as particle board (hello Ikea). There are sellers that have Formaldehyde free bamboo flooring. You also may consider using salvaged wood.

Importers generally have little information or control over bamboo manufacturers. Manufacturers can use potentially toxic binders, finishes and other chemicals. They can create lots of solid waste, run equipment that may be dangerous, polluting and eroding hillsides. Bamboo can be an aggressive invader because of its quick growth if it is not managed well. It creates monoculture which is has less biodiversity. Biodiversity is good for the environment.
As the demand for bamboo rises so does the economical potential. With that there should be a rise in tracking bamboo. Where did it come from? How environmentally conscience is the company growing it? Producing the products? What was used in the production? Once these questions are asked and America start growing and producing (instead of hydrogenated corn oil please). Many of bamboo’s sustainable issues will disappear.

While Bamboo is not yet sustainable it is extremely promising and is eco-friendlier than many other materials in use and it is beautiful too!

My Mocha Cup Charm Necklace in Treasury.

2009-07-13T09:58:00.000-07:00

TLV Coffee Shops #1 above can be found at Tali Schiffer-Oren Photography it can also be found in the Coffee in the Sky treasury along with my Mocha Cup Charm Necklace
Note the little heart in the center on my necklace. Now to see the whole treasury just click into the picture or link (as always). I made a screen shot but was unable to include the whole treasure in it.

My Mocha Cup charm necklace and Latte Cup charm necklace is perfect for the Coffee Addict. I should know. Best addiction ever. Heading out to get a latte now. ;P

Reasearching Jewelry - Taxco Sterling Bracelet

2009-06-16T14:48:00.000-07:00

One look at this bracelet and I thought eighties. When researching jewelry that is not enough. It's a good start especially when you have 22 years experience.

Sterling set with a black onyx this bracelet fit well and was discovered with a matching ring (pictures coming soon)

The Bracelet is marked TX-120 925. 925 is sterling. First step was to look up the mark. No luck but the registration mark was for taxco.

The T in TX-120 stands for Taxco Mexico. The X is for the silversmith. The artist either had a first or last name that started with an X. Yeap that's how they did it. 120 means that the silver smith was the 120th to register with the initial X. No information on the artist. Then I did an internet search that produced no information. Then I hit more research books, auction catalogs and specialty books.

What I found was three designers TX-145, TX183 and finally TX-240. All three (unnamed) designed for various companies in the early and mid- eighties. All registered after TX120. All the clues to the age of this piece scream 80's. (via BlissStreetJewelry) It is also available on (Etsy)

Family Tradition - Lace making.

2009-06-15T16:52:00.001-07:00

I grew up in a family, as many do, where the women cook, sew and create art in traditional ways. Skills in Crochet and Lace was handed down in my family. It skipped me. Or should I say I skipped it. Sadly lace making is a time consuming task that I didn't take to. Ask my mother and she will say it was too quiet and still for me. Mother's know best. It was.

I took to metal work, glass blowing, and enameling. While my female family, mom, grandmother, aunt and cousins knitted, crocheted and weaved lace I was hammering metal. Fired up a kiln, picked up a torch hmmm starting to see a fire theme here.

These pendants are my lace making, an ode to those quiet artists everywhere that make stunning pieces that we use in our everyday life.

Look at me mom!!! I'm making Lace !

Father's Day - Musical Dad

2009-06-14T23:39:00.001-07:00

Guitar Pick pendant is just so simple but striking. Yes it is custom and handmade. Just a wonderful idea for a music fanatic. jc jewelry design will personalize it with lyrics or names or anything you can think off. Although I am sure that there is a character limit. just under $50. (via jc jewelry design at Etsy)

Father's Day - Car Guy.

2009-06-14T15:03:00.001-07:00

Can you think of a better gift for a car guy? I already asked for one for my hubby's birthday. Shhh... Don't tell him! The posting says that it is made for wide loops I hope that it fits standard levis or that he will make a thinner version. I will keep you posted. (via julien jaborska at etsy)

update: It fits Jeans!!!! He also has a back orderlist so if you want one get your name on the list.

Father's Day The Photographer's Box by SixthandElm

2009-06-14T12:11:00.001-07:00

For the picture taker. I love this box it brings back a vintage feel to a hand made piece. I would put a memory card or film in the box so that dad has everything he needs to take photo's and store them. If he has a camera of course. If not how about putting your favorite photos in the box?

Here is some detail from Sixth and Elm

"This beautiful wooden box has been woodburned with a vintage-inspired "Photos" label with matching flourishes. The box has been sanded to a soft 600-grit smoothness and stained a Red Oak colour, with a faux-vintage treatment applied." (via SixthandElm)

Father's Day - For the Science Dad

2009-06-12T23:27:00.001-07:00

7th anniversary?(It's copper by the way) or Science Geek? This is a great , unusual hand made gift. I think it is perfect for father's day. (via 1000 markets -Anandi laboratory) ohh and I almost forgot it's $26. nice price.

Father's Day - Morpho Butterfly Wing Cufflinks

2009-06-11T21:07:00.001-07:00

Yes. These cufflinks have real butterfly wings, aren't they stunning. I bought a collection and am slowly listing pieces. Many fathers go to the office for work, but not every father takes the beach with him. (via Bliss Street Jewelry). I also have a Capital Building pair.

Note while I still have a pair on etsy, I now have them on my new website.

Father's Day. The Great Bowl O' Fire Recycled Steel Fire Pit: ArtBuzz

2009-06-10T21:47:00.001-07:00

This is stunning!!!. Who doesn't life fire? Not only is this perfect for a deck or backyard but it's ART. (via John T. Unger) John T. Unger has some amazing pieces. Each design has different sizes.

Fathers day Gifts - For the Rocker or Biker Dad.

2009-06-10T20:13:00.001-07:00

Black Leather wallet with a red sting ray cross. It is all hand stitched The center cross is sterling as are the snaps. Best thing? It's not just fashion - it is tough and usable with lots of pockets(?) Is that what it would be called? (via Bliss St Jewelry) It's $158.

Steam Punk Dragonfly

2009-06-04T16:13:00.000-07:00

Federikas Vintage Filigree over at Etsy has quite a few dragon flyies. my favorite? of course the Steam Punk Dragonfly.

Glass Insects by artist Wesley Fleming.

2009-06-02T12:39:00.000-07:00

Dragonfly - 2009

Wesley Fleming is a glass artist with an eye towards nature. He uses glass rods from Italy and shapes them over a flame then anneals them in a kiln. Sounds like 3 simple steps? Think again. Working with hot glass is like sculpting with honey. Quick hardening honey that cracks. Wesley Feming has know the how glass behaves and uses that knowledge to create his sculptures.

Grandaddy LongLegs 2008 was made for Bozeman Public Library's "Catch the Reading Bug" program. Can you imagine tiny little insects gathered around listening?

Orb Weaver (2009) is for anyone who loves spiders

Jewel Rhinoceros Beetle - 2009

Wesley Fleming working the Australian Walking Stick, 2008

Check out Wesley Fleming's site. He has many more pieces there, not all bugs. ;)

Art Nouveau insects by Lucien Gaillard (1861–1933).

2009-06-01T19:52:00.000-07:00

Art nouveau is famous for it's flowing lines, natural inspiration and artistry. Lucien Gaillard is just one artist.
Gaillard was third generation of Parisian jewelers. He took over the family firm in 1892 he took the firm away from jewelry and shifted the emphasis to larger-scale metalwork. Although the larger work did well around 1900 he returned to jewelry.

Moth Pendant, ca. 1900Lucien Gaillard (French, 1861–1933)Gold, enamel, citrine, and horn. (Picture is from the Metropolitan Museum of Art as is the description.)

Hairpin, c. 1904 , Horn, gold, emerald, diamond, citrine and enamel. (Picture is from Rijks museum)

It's BUG week.

2009-05-31T22:05:00.000-07:00

Jewelry and bugs go hand and hand. From victorian beetles to art nouveau dragonflies to spiders, lots and lots of spiders. The insect world had inspired millions of jewelry artists through the ages. This week we look at insects.
This Victorian French Beetle Brooch uses a the shape of Abalone pearl for the body. It is accented with, one of the victorian eras favorite stones, rubies. Diamonds bring some sparkle to the rich gold luster. It is offered by Nelson Rarities.

Video created for my etsy shop

2009-05-16T20:35:00.001-07:00

Playing around with different ways showcasing the jewelry. What do you think?

I have been Stalked!!!!!!!!

2009-05-07T20:49:00.000-07:00

Checking my etsy account Bliss Street Jewelry because I can't stay away:) I noticed I had a message. That's nothing new. I am always talking with other etsy members, I am even coaching a couple (I'm a life coach as well). This was different.

The message started-

Greetings and Congratulations!

I wanted to let you know that your Spiraling Eternity pin has been featured on our website, Etsy Stalker.

Here's the pin-

An here is the Esty Stalker just incase their icon take you there.

As always all pictures and names have links just click on them.

Symbols of Love - Scottish Luckenbooth

2009-04-29T19:44:00.000-07:00

Locked booths were shops in Edinburgh from St Giles to Canon gate on the Royal Mile. They became the city's first Jewellery shops in the 16th century (1700's). At least the first permanent jewelry shops as traveling vendors did exist. It was these shops that gave the love token, Luckenbooth it's name.

Traditionally given to a bride by her groom on her wedding day as a symbol of love (heart) and loyalty (crown). It was believed to ease child birth and insure good breast milk. Later it is pinned to the blanket/shawl of the baby as insurance against the child taken by the "wee folk" and to protect against evil spirit

Today the Royal Mile still produce these love tokens. Hamilton & Young offers the two above.

Often Luckenbooths are decorated with the thistle. The legend is the guardian thistle saved an entire Scottish army in the Battle of Largs in 1263. A soldier of the Norse invading army stepped on one, cried out, alerting the Scots. The Scottish defeated their attackers that night. It became the national emblem of Scotland along with the along with the Latin motto, Nemo me impune Laecessit -"No one provokes me with impunity."

The Crown on most Luckenbooths are designed after the crown of Mary Queen of Scots. She gave a Luckenbooth brooch to her betroth. Her gift was decorated with her monogram and a thistle.

The above luckenbooth is offered by Schredds. It is a lovely antique hand engraved brooch circa 1870.

These jewelry pieces have traveled the world. They were used as trade jewelry with the six nations and Iroquois Indians. Inspired the Iroquois created their own "Iroquois brooch"

When we look at the Luckenbooth, we can see a symbol of love. Love of country, of wife and of children, made by Scottish artists. No wonder the Luckenbooth is said to be most romantic artifacts of Scottish history.

The last brooch shown is made by Historic Impressions.

Researching the Art Deco Snake Bracelet.

2009-04-24T08:20:00.001-07:00

When I first saw the snake bracelet I thought eighties costume, after all I had a simular one. A bracelet and matching belt. The color how ever was all wrong for costume. Gold? it had the warmth of gold. If it was it was high as it was so rich in color. I picked it up and felt the weight, yes gold.

Taking a closer look at the design elements the craftsmen ship was excellent. Tight mesh, Art deco lines in the head, the stones were set well. It was vintage but quite a bit older than the eighties. Prelimary dating. 1920's t0 1950's.

Immediately I put it on my wrist. No looking at marks for me. I had to wear it first. Now that I rationlize it, all jewelry should be wearable and I was just checking that first. If a piece is gorgous but not comfortable what is the point? How often will you wear a piece that pinches or turns? Of course then I just wanted to feel it on, I was starting to love this piece. Striking, comfortable, Nice strong design. It had character. The fit was snug and made to curl around different size wrists. 1920-1940. Fifties bracelets had a different feel a different look. They are louder, looser and larger. Non bangles are mostly oval or oblong not round like this bracelet.

The scales are shield shaped. The tail is beautifully done but the only pure Art Deco element is the head. Light on art deco? The twenties had heavy art deco elements. This piece had no straight lines. No multi level straight lines in the tail. Was it an newer piece? 30's or 40's or did the artist just have a gentle design hand? I wasn't sure at yet.

At that point the work started. I took it off and looked for marks. Immediately I noticed the 750 (not american) noting it was 18k gold. There were two more marks. One which I couldn't read and 252VI.

750 was used in most european countries. Lounges , the frame around the marks told me that it was assayed so regulations where in place. It wasn't english or french or russian all have complicated and distinct marking systems. It probably wasn't american since it had a makers mark in numbers (the 252VI). It's important not to rule any thing out definately. Many items are marked in non-traditional ways. Or made in non traditional ways. I looked at it through a loop and still couldn't make out the third mark.

The next day, I tested the piece. Even though it was marked it was a heavy piece and marks have been known to be faked. It tested 18k. Good start

Next I took a macro photo of the mark. Then another, then a third and forth. and fifth. Why so many? Because I still couldn't read the third mark. Macro photography can show you more than a loop. The third mark was a blur no matter how clear or enlarged the photo was. Finally I decided it just wasn't punched clearly, alas no clues there.

Next I looked up the marks. I started with 750 which ruled out portugal which for the most part sells 19k gold. A good starting point for me was Italy and Spain. Luckily I started with Italy. Italy is famous for it's 18k gold work.

I had a good idea by now what period to start with 1920's. Italian hallmarks for the twenties has oval outline or no outline at all. My piece had very distinct shape a diamond with the ends cut off (certainly not oval.

This Next Contest - Aqua Marine Moon Necklace by Jennifer Curl

2009-04-23T22:53:00.000-07:00

This Next.com has a contest to win this Aqua Marine Necklace by Jennifer Curl (on the left). Described as:

Aqua Marine Moon Necklace
$24.95
Raw aqua marine moon on a gold fill chain. This beautiful blue circle is sure to shimmer even at night.
Length:15" with 3" extension:18"

A simple circle with a twist. Although it isn't my personal style, the contest is interesting on different levels.

It is a necklace that goes with almost any outfit, dressy or jeans and t-shirt. The aqua marine is has color but will go with almost anything.
It is most certainly fashionable.
One of you (hopefully) will win this.
Jennifer Curl is a designer that I was not familiar with until today. I love discovering new designers.]
A This Next contest is a wonderful way for any designer to promote their work.

Jennifer Curl's glass flower necklaces and earrings have a slightly retro romantic feel. Giving clients a choice between that and her more modern gemstone collection. Both styles offer versatile fashion choices.

Her website includes a twitter link, weekly specials, a membership and a contest sign up. Contest for the same piece? Although the picture is a blue flower. I'm not sure. I haven't signed up. Her prices range from $18 to $57 as of this entry.

This next asks you to expand their shopping site. There is a page with the contest rules to read. I personally find it difficult to use This Next on a regular basis. It's not quick to add items and it requires comments for each add on. Who has the time? But tell me what you think. If you win the necklace let me know.

In Company of Marionettes

2009-04-19T21:30:00.000-07:00

Return to Witch Mountain (the original) had that wonderful Marionette scene. As a child I tied strings to many a toy to create marionettes. A knitted clown was my favorite.

Company of Marionettes on Etsy has gone way beyond tying strings to toys. They hand carve different characters. Their current prices range from $75 to just shy of $1000. Tony Sinnett explains that each Marionette takes days, weeks and even months to perfect. He excepts commissions. If you want to learn more about Tony Sinnett or Marionettes you can visit Tony's blog.

As always just click on the pictures to the marionette.(if they are still being offered for sale) If not no worries there are two other links to enjoy.

Hoops from the Sea to the Streets

2009-04-06T16:35:00.001-07:00

Jetsam's Surfer Hoops ($75) are Hand forged. Simple yes but not boring. These are definitely the kind of earrings that can go with any daytime outfit. Jetsam has more hand forged items with set with sea glass but these are my favorites.

Marlena Genau has a different twist on hoops. Her bio says "I savor the pleasure of pushing metal to its limits." and she does in the AC Hoop Earrings ($265). They look more like sculpted ribbons than sterling hammered into twists.

I can't mention anticlastic earrings with out showing Nancy Linkin's work. Simply named "Spiral Earrings" ($425-595) these spiral earrings are graceful, organic and the reason I think she is the queen of anticlastic metal work.

Modern Hoops started in the streets. With out a doubt DMD Metal brings us amazing hoops that is all street with no boardroom or ballroom. These Train Hoops ($195) are not for every event but they do make an statement. What wonderful art!

Lorena Angulo Cruz Flor

2009-03-23T20:49:00.000-07:00

CRUZ FLOR
Originally uploaded by lorenaangulo

Lorena Angulo makes art in the form of jewelry. Amazing detailed work. It's a shame that her website does not link to a site that sells her work. YEAH! her Etsy site has some pieces in it.

The posts below show some of her work but to see much more check out her Flicker account . It has stunning photos of her silver and bronze work. If you are a fan of jewelry you will love it. Warning:It will make you want to see more and buy a piece or two or three.....

Nicho Virgen Guadalupe

2009-03-23T20:45:00.003-07:00

Nicho Virgen Guadalupe
Originally uploaded by lorenaangulo

Survivor!

2009-03-23T20:45:00.001-07:00

Survivor!
Originally uploaded by lorenaangulo

Arbol de Vida (Tree of Life)

2009-03-23T20:42:00.001-07:00

Arbol de Vida (Tree of Life)
Originally uploaded by lorenaangulo

Milagro Hands

2009-03-23T20:41:00.001-07:00

Milagro Hands
Originally uploaded by lorenaangulo

How old is it????

2009-03-23T17:23:00.000-07:00

Ebay, Etsy, Go antiques, Tias, Ruby Lane all these sites have one thing in common. They have sellers that deal in other than brand new items. With online sales of vintage items questions come up about exactly how old is something. What does vintage mean or for that matter Antique?

Antique - over 100 years old

Vintage - technique it is not a specific amount of time. Just years gone by eg. vintage 1954, vintage 1986, vintage 1994. Online however it usually means 20+ years old. Many sites use 25+years old

Collectible - Has nothing to do with age. It just means that it is collected by a selection of people or groups. eg. coins, dolls, barbies, plates etc.

Estate - also has nothing to do with age. It has to do with worth. Whether the item is 5 year old or 120 years old, the word estate is conveying it is a luxury item. Eg. Estate Jewelry, Estate records In some cases the worth is because it belonged to someone famous.

Circa- Dating to an era. Circa 1950, circa 1870

Does this help value your item? Sometimes. The truth is a value of an item has less to to with age and more to do with quality, rarity and demand. These definitions give the item providence. Giving the item a story helps make the inanimate personal.

2009-03-21T22:19:00.000-07:00

HandmadeMovement.com is announcing their next sneak attack. Monday, March 23 at 7pm. What is a sneak attack? It is a chance to make someone happy and buy a cool handmade item or a few items. Basically a shop on Etsy is picked that has either no sales yet or only few sales. When announced sneak attackers go and buy items they are interested in. All at once a shop goes from 0 sales to...? as many sneak attackers that participate.

Are you interested in being a sneak attacker? See who is chosen. They choose a new Etsy seller 3 days a week.

Ferris wheel

2009-03-08T18:35:00.000-07:00

Sushipot on etsy makes wonderful pendants. I bought one not long ago for a friend. I especially like like The Ferris Wheel.

Sushipot uses ephemera to make pendant. Yes there are other things on SP etsy site, but I'm a jewelry nut so all else is lost on me. What do I love best about sushipots pieces? They are the kind of pieces that children hide in treasure boxes. The kind of that holds a hidden meaning or special memory for their owner. As a book lover there is a special attraction to these bits of images preserved.

Just in case you were wondering-

Ephemera according to Wiki is "printed matter not intended to be retained or preserved. The word derives from the Greek, meaning things lasting no more than a day"

Not in this case.

A new blog.

2009-03-05T11:57:00.000-08:00

I started my blog, Bliss Street Jewelry, over a year ago then promptly forgot the user name. There has been so many changes over the year that a new blog was due. On the right is my new makers mark. It was designed my asterisk on etsy. I wanted a mark to stamp on my jewelry pieces. She did a wonderful job.

The blog will include news on jewelry, artist and of course what is going on with Bliss Street Jewelry. Who am I kidding it will include anything cool.