Cameo Necklace

This month we had a really fun challenge from Artbeads for Blogs and it fit into just what I was trying to do, I love it when that happens!


The challenge was “make it new” which meant to take something you already owned and give it new life, perfect!

I had a Victorian Shell Cameo given to me and all I know is the value is somewhere between $115.00 and $1500.00. While I wait to have it appraised I thought I could come up with a general design for it on a resin Cameo. I also had a variety of copper chain lengths and none of them were quite long enough to do anything with. I ordered some new copper chain, large copper jump rings, the Cameo, pearls and I was on my way.

Because the chain lengths varied I used the large copper rings to join them together in an asymmetrical pattern. I used 49 Strand wire to string the short strand of Czech Druk beads, Pearls and some odd copper beads I had in my stash, leftovers from other projects. For the last strand it was back to the 49 Strand but this time I added genuine Carnelian chips and of course the Cameo.

Now I have a showstopper Cameo Necklace that did not break the bank, used up some of my supplies that I have for a while and gave me some ideas toward what I will do with this genuine Cameo. The metals I use will be determined by the value of the cameo but I know I like the multiple chain designs and lengths and adding the gemstones and pearls worked nicely.



Blog for Beads by Artbeads.com contributed a large part of my materials in exchange for my honest evaluation of their merchandise in my blog. I am not paid to endorse them in any way.

Poppy Jasper Jewelry

I found these Poppy Japser chips when I was rearrangeing my studio yesterday. I didn't know I had them! The colors in these are so beautiful. If you look at them closely they are truly spectacular. Sometimes it really amazes me, the beauty of nature. So it gave me the inspiration I needed for my next piece. I know the colors are sort of Fall-ish but they are just too pretty to wait until then. I selected some faceted Carnelian and some other poppy 6mm and 8mm beads to go with it and I will of course put in the pearls and Swarovski crystals. I found a large faceted carnelian at a shop nearby to use for the center. I think this piece will be my best yet. Of course, it could be because I just love these colors. Earthtones are my favorite and I love working with them. This set will of course be in gold. I just might keep this one! I have said that before and always end up selling but to date I do not have one of my signature pieces of my own. I do plan on making 2 bracelets with this one so maybe I can just keep one of those. I usually only make one set; necklace, bracelet, and a couple pair of earrings then it is on to the next color scheme. So in the shower with me then onto this beautiful project!