Pages

Ads 468x60px

Wednesday, November 24, 2010

Gift Idea: Pretty is a Pendant

Fuchsia Venetian Crystal Beaded Pendant Set (P09)
You know the old saying "the best things come in small packages"? I, for one, believe that to be very true! And just in time for the holidays, a perfect stocking stuffer is a beaded pendant from Crystal Allure Beaded Jewelry or better still a Pendant Gift Set.

Each pendant arrives on a sterling silver chain and gift packaged in our lovely signature organza bag.

Already have one, two or more of our beaded pendants and just need the pendant, without a chain? No problem! Simply email me prior to placing your order and I'll adjust the item for you.

A single pretty pendant drop necklace lends a demure touch to your femininity. Pair with the matching earrings and OH-LA-LA!

View Beaded Pendants and Pendant Gift Sets
Read More »

Wednesday, November 3, 2010

NEW The Great Beaded Pumpkin Keychain

Love pumpkins and wish you could have them year round? Now you can with our adorable Halloween Pumpkin Charm Crystal Lampwork Beaded Keychain (K103).

There's no need to be afraid of our adorable Jack-O-Lantern beaded keychain! A "scary" strand of black and orange Swarovski Crystals and an artisan lampwork glass bead are host to an adorable sterling silver pumpkin keychain. Total length (including ring) 3-3/4".

Our pumpkin keychain is also perfect for attaching as a charm to book bags or school backpacks!

In keeping with the theme of autumn pumpkins, we also have available a new category of beaded gifts: zipper pulls and purse charms. Add them to purses, handbags, book bags, tote bags, luggage, jean belt loops, you can even clip them on shoelaces! The possibilities are endless.

Wicked Witch Lampwork Zipper Pull Bag Charm (ZP101)
Scare up some frightful style by simply clipping our wicked witch beaded lampwork zipper pull bag charm on your coat, jacket, jeans belt loop, purse, handbag, school bag, book bag, luggage or anywhere you can think of. Or grab two and clip to your shoelaces for double the fun! Total length 2-1/4".

Pumpkin Patch Lampwork Zipper Pull Bag Charm (ZP100)
It's the Great Pumpkin! Fall pumpkin lovers will just adore this lovely lampwork beaded zipper pull. Easily attaches to coats, jackets, purses, handbags, tote bags, jean belt loops, shoelaces -well, just about anywhere! Total length 2".
Read More »

Monday, November 1, 2010

NEW Personally Yours Purple Heart Beaded Keychain

NEW to the Crystal Allure Beaded Jewelry Designs boutique, is a beautiful, customizable Personally Yours Purple Heart Picture Frame Charm Beaded Keychain K104.

We designed it -you can personalize it! Our beautiful beaded keychain features a heart-shaped picture frame to personalize with a picture of your loved one or favorite pet. Accented with stunning dark and light purple glass beads, Swarovski Crystal Pearls, sterling silver beads and Bali.

Total length (with ring) 4"

Not so much a key carrying person? No worries! The Crystal Allure Beaded Jewelry Designs collection of handmade beaded keychains are versatile enough that you could even stylize your handbag, purse, computer bag, or well, any bag by simply slipping the ring onto the handle. So go ahead -Unlock Your Style with a beautiful beaded keychain by Crystal Allure!
Read More »

Tuesday, October 5, 2010

2010 Fall Beaded Jewelry Colors Trend Report

I know. I know. Fall...really?! I can't avoid admitting I'm a tad late in presenting these wonderful beauties, created with some tools I received back in September through a beaders blog program.
Our challenge: the "colors of fall" -choose traditional colors or current fashion colors from the PANTONE Fashion Color Report Fall 2010.

I knew I'd never be able to choose between the two color groups so I knew from the beginning I wanted to do two separate designs.

The first design would use traditional seasonal colors in Swarovski Crystal with a seasonal flair.

The second design would use colors chosen from the PANTONE Fall color palette. The two colors I chose, which are also my favs, were green (Woodbine) and purple (Purple Orchid).

Keep a watch out on the Crystal Allure Beaded Jewelry Designs website for new handmade Fall Beaded Jewelry designs. Better still, sign up for the newsletter and you'll be notified when new designs roll out!
Read More »

Wednesday, September 22, 2010

Heart Transplants: Inspiring Customer Feedback

A few months back I posted about custom and customizing awareness jewelry in which I showcased a heart transplant survivor awareness bracelet I had customized for a customer. This customer (Barbara) asked to have our Transplant Awareness Survivor Heart Bracelet crystals changed to red. She wanted to give the bracelet to her daugher for her birthday and in celebration of her heart transplant.

Shown at right is a picture of the gift recipient opening her gift: Jeannette's Custom Heart Transplant Survivor Bracelet.

This is what my customer said about her beautiful bracelet:
Dear Stephanie,
After attending my daughter's (Jeannette) birthday party, I just had to tell you how much everyone was stunned at the bracelet that I gave to her. My daughter, as well as everyone else, were amazed at how beautiful and appropriate my gift was. This made me feel great. My daughter will cherish it forever! Of course, I told everyone about you and where I found my gift.

Thank you so much. It was a pleasure doing business with you.
Barbara
--------------
Not more than a month later, another customer, currently on the heart transplant waiting list, requested this design as well. In her email request, she wrote, "Some days it is hard to keep a positive attitude when one is feeling so tired and weak. I think wearing this bracelet and looking at it would remind me one day at a time that you can do this, you are a survivor. Thanks for what you do making items like this to give individuals like me hope and encouragement".

When I emailed her to tell her the bracelet shipped, she wrote back, "Thanks again and may you be richly blessed for helping individuals like me to have something beautiful to look at for inspiration along their journey".

But, I was completely blown away when I opened my email the other day. My customer had sat down and written a most thoughtful email about how much she loved her awareness bracelet and how it gave her comfort and hope. If I have not said it a thousand times before, I'll say it again: THIS IS WHY I LOVE TO DESIGN AWARENESS JEWELRY! To touch peoples lives in this way is just beyond words. It fills my heart...

Here is my customers' email to me:

Dear Stephanie,
I just wanted to let you know I received my bracelet Monday. I absolutely "love it". I had to go to Transplant clinic last Friday and was feeling so down. They think I have some issues going on with my lungs now. The week-end was really stressful, because they had sceduled me for a bunch of testing Tuesday. I put that beautiful bracelet on and everytime I felt myself feeling down, I looked at it and my spirits would lift. I wore it through the testing and it helped "so" much. I am claustrophobic and the pulmonary function test requires getting closed up in a glass
cage. I would just glance at my bracelet when I tensed up, and did the same for the
CT scans. I am sorry to ramble on, but I just had to let you know what a blessing
the bracelet has been to me. Even though I am a yellow-gold girl, I love it.

I don't want to take it off, but will it hurt it to wear it showering or to bed. I do not want to damage it. Thank you again so much for what you do, and thank you for the beautiful card that you enclosed and the pen. I look forward to doing business again.
Hope you have a great day,
Charlene

Thank you, thank you, thank you to ALL my wonderful customers for providing me the feedback that helps inspire me and my designs. I'm so overjoyed you love your designs and that they offer you comfort and hope.

In response to Charlene's question on the proper care of her handmade beaded bracelet, there is a jewelry article on the website detailing the proper storage and care of beaded jewelry.
Read More »

Tuesday, September 21, 2010

NEW Jasper Gemstone Transplant Awareness Bracelet

We've created a one of a kind awareness bracelet that features a unique jasper gemstone that has ribbons of green, beige and a hint of purple coloring. It is the perfect stone representing both cystic fibrosis and transplant!

Jasper Gemstone Organ Transplant Awareness Bracelet B165
This one of a kind handmade transplant awareness bracelet features a jasper gemstone centered on a strand of Swarovski Pearls and Crystals, accented by sterling silver, Bali and finished with a sterling silver awareness ribbon charm and our signature jewelry tag. Length: 7-1/2".

Although green represents many awareness diseases, this bracelet was designed as a symbol for organ donation awareness and the gift of life through transplantation. When someone receives a set of transplanted lungs, it has been said the new lungs look like a butterfly opening its' wings, when they take their first breath of new life.

View Awareness Jewelry

View Organ Donation Awareness Bracelets

View Transplant Awareness Bracelets
Read More »

Thursday, August 26, 2010

Island Treasures Wedding: Jewelry Inspiration Board

It should come as no surprise that I'm completely mesmerized by our new Island Treasures Summer Jewelry Collection featuring CrystallizedTM Swarovski Elements Starfish.

Although originally designed for everyday summer fashions, I quickly realized that all three crystal colors would also pair perfectly with a summer wedding. So I got to work building a jewelry inspiration board that would make any bride weep with joy.



Although I was a winter bride and loved my winter wedding (held just three days before Christmas). Just about a month before our wedding we took a trip to Sanibel Island. IF for some reason, my winter wedding was not doable, I definately would have considered a beach wedding, right on Sanibel Island.

The layers of the wedding dress featured, by Brides.com, reminded me of waves on the ocean, rolling towards the beach. Ironically, just a few weeks ago, I purchased a pair of bronze jewel encrusted sandals from Dress Barn (love 'em!). After wearing them I thought, 'gee...these would be perfect for a beach wedding' (in white of course!). So if you're having a beach wedding or destination wedding, why bother with the formality of a wedding shoe -wear a wedding sandal! Featured in the set above are a pair of women's starfish beaded sandals by Cocobelle.
Read More »

Sunday, August 15, 2010

NEW Pulmonary Fibrosis Awareness Bracelet

We've taken an existing handmade beaded bracelet design and transformed it into a beautiful pulmonary fibrosis awareness bracelet.

Pulmonary Fibrosis Beaded Awareness Bracelet (B022-D3)
Handcrafted beaded awareness bracelet features red and blue Swarovski Crystals, symbolizing both oxygenated and unoxygenated blood going to the lungs and sterling silver beads, lobster clasp. Finished with a sterling silver awareness ribbon charm and our signature jewelry tag.

Beaded Awareness Bracelet measures 7"
Read More »

Wednesday, August 11, 2010

NEW Beaded Awareness Bracelet: Pulmonary Fibrosis

Crystal Allure Beaded Jewelry Designs is honored to present a new line of handmade beaded awareness bracelets in support Pulmonary Fibrosis Awareness (PF).

Back in 2006, we spoke with Jennifer Bulandr about creating a one of a kind beaded awareness bracelet in support of pulmonary fibrosis. We excited to get started and out of the studio came a beautiful, sparkling red and blue Swarovski Crystal bracelet complete with awareness ribbon charm. It quickly sold out.

Since then we have re-introduced the original pulmonary fibrosis awareness bracelet only this time the design reflects a more feminine flair for a look that is both beautiful and chic!


Pulmonary Fibrosis Beaded Awareness Bracelet (B125-D2)
Handcrafted beaded awareness bracelet features gorgeous red and blue Swarovski Crystals, sterling silver beads, Bali and finished with a sterling silver awareness ribbon charm and our signature jewelry tag.

Beaded Awareness Bracelet measures 7-1/2"

As with all our other awareness bracelet designs, we incorporate the colors of the cause -NOT the colors of the charity that represents the cause. This is a key feature of our designs -your purchase supports the cause.

The support colors for raising awareness of Pulmonary Fibrosis is red and blue. Why red and blue? Because these colors symbolize the oxygenated and unoxygenated blood going to the lungs.
Read More »

Monday, August 2, 2010

NEW Swarovski Crystal Transplant Awareness Bracelet

Available now is a brand new sparkling Floating Ribbon Organ Transplant Awareness Bracelet (B177).

This unique organ transplant awareness bracelet features a centered emerald green Swarovski Crystal flanked by sterling silver awareness ribbon block beads and accented in a beaded style of sterling silver, Swarovski Crystals, pearls and silver floating twisted rings. Finished with a sterling silver butterfly charm and our signature jewelry tag.

This may sound silly, since I am the designer, but I am always amazed at how beautiful the transplant awareness bracelets are. No matter what mix of crystals, beads, gemstones or sterling silver I use, the result is always a chic bracelet I'd be proud to wear. And the fact that it raises awareness of an important cause makes it all the more beautiful!

I have a few more organ transplant awareness bracelet styles to get pictured and posted and just last night (before falling asleep) I came up with another fabulous design that, I promise, will make the perfect holiday gift! (yes...I know, it's August...what am I thinking about the holidays for....it's just a thing I do. *smiles*)
Read More »

Friday, July 30, 2010

NEW Beautiful Beaded Anklets

Adorn your ankle this summer with a Crystal Allure Beaded Jewelry Designs handmade beaded anklet. Choose our Swarovski Crystal Ice Engagement Ring Charm Beaded Anklet to make your marriage proposal truly unique! Or simply to say "I Do" all over again.

Swarovski Crystal Pink and Brown Charm Beaded Anklet (A103)
Handcrafted beaded anklet features beautiful pink Swarovski Austrian Crystals, sterling silver beads, Bali and chocolate-bronze seed beads. Finished with a double crystal drop charm and our signature jewelry tag. Crystal Beaded Anklet measures 10-1/4".

Swarovski Crystal Aventurine Shell Charm Beaded Anklet (A102)
Seamist. Handcrafted beaded anklets features stunning green palace opal Swarovski Austrian Crystals accented by aventurine gemstones and pearlized seed beads. Finished with a pearlized czech shell bead charm and our signature jewelry tag. Crystal Beaded Anklet measures 10-1/4".

Swarovski Crystal Ice Engagement Ring Charm Beaded Anklet (A100)
Handcrafted beaded anklet features shimmering aurora borealis Swarovski Austrian Crystals accented by sterling silver and finished with a beautiful faux "diamond" engagement ring and our signature jewelry tag.

If you are looking for a unique way to propose to the love of your life, are having a beach wedding or just want to give a treasured gift for your engagement, our Crystal Ice Engagement Ring Charm Anklet is perfect! Crystal Beaded Anklet measures 10".
Read More »

Wednesday, July 28, 2010

Celebrate Summer: New Beaded Anklets!

Summer is not over yet! But, hot or not, don't neglect adding a feminine touch to your ankles. A new Collection of Beaded Anklets have arrived at Crystal Allure Beaded Jewelry Designs!

Celebrate summer with one of our beautiful sterling silver and Swarovski Crystal handmade beaded anklets.

Shown in the picture (from left to right, top to bottom):
Swarovski Crystal Shell Charm Beaded Anklet (A101)
Seascapes. Handcrafted beaded anklet features both clear crystal and beach blue Swarovski Austrian Crystals, sterling silver spacers, beads and pearlized seed beads. Finished with a summer loving pearlized white czech shell charm bead and our signature jewelry tag. Crystal Beaded Anklet measures 10-1/4"

Swarovski Crystal Peridot and Brown Charm Beaded Anklet (A104)
Handcrafted beaded anklet features beautiful peridot green Swarovski Austrian Crystals, sterling silver beads, Bali and chocolate-bronze seed beads. Finished with a double crystal drop charm and our signature jewelry tag. Crystal Beaded Anklet measures 10-1/4"

Swarovski Pink Pearl Dragonfly Charm Beaded Anklet (A105)
Handcrafted beaded anklet features beautiful pink Swarovski Pearls, sterling silver beads, Bali and pearlized-fiber optic white seed beads. The unique finishing touch on this lovely Swarovski anklet is the sterling silver CZ pink dragonfly charm that features a "stained-glass" style wing. Finished with our signature jewelry tag. Pearl Beaded Anklet measures 10-1/2"

Swarovski Crystal Pearl Classic Beaded Anklet (A106)
A classic, elegant design suited for any occassion or outfit, our handcrafted beaded anklet features jet black Swarovski Austrian Crystals, Swarovski Pearls, sterling silver Bali and black seed beads. Finished with a double crystal and pearl drop charm and our signature jewelry tag. Crystal Beaded Anklet measures 10"

Don't forget to check out the latest handmade beaded jewelry added to the Summer Beaded Jewelry Collection. You just might find a starfish or two!
Read More »

Thursday, July 15, 2010

Custom and Customizing Awareness Bracelets

Heart Transplant Awareness Survivor Bracelet
A customer contacted me about the Transplant Awareness Survivor Heart Bracelet (B173-TX) because she wanted to give it as a gift to her daughter, Jeannette. She called me Wednesday morning and needed it no later than Friday. The family was having a get together and she wanted to present the bracelet to her daughter for both her birthday and for her Heart Transplant anniversary.

I set her up with a custom ticket on the website with express shipping, which would provide enough time to get the bracelet to her by the deadline. We also discussed customizing the beaded awareness bracelet in red to represent heart disease and because the designer style is from the transplant collection, it was a perfect combination.

I wanted to share this with you because not only does Crystal Allure provide designer beaded crystal awareness bracelets and jewelry, but also custom awareness jewelry. You can have a unique design custom made for the cause closest to your heart, or you can choose one of our existing designs and we'll change up the crystals to represent your cause.

For a list of awareness causes and colors, please see our Awareness Ribbons by Cause Color, as well as, the Awareness Colors and Meanings resource jewelry articles.
Read More »

Monday, July 12, 2010

Summertime Fun and Sparkling Designs

Yeah! It cooled off just enough this past weekend that I was finally able to get some pictures taken.

In partnership with the Artbeads Design Partner Blog Program, I received my beads back in May. The theme was Summertime Fun and I immediately thought of incorporating Swarovski Crystal Elements. I also decided on a Lillypilly Shell Pendant that I've had my eye on.

My Inspiration: Ocean blues, sandy beaches and natural materials. I chose Swarovski crystal shapes in bicone, cosmic rings, starfish, pearls and a lovely hammershell teardrop pendant. My first thought was to incorporate these bead materials into one or two designs and then I had a dream...yes, I literally had a dream about using these crystal beads in a particular way.

One of the other great opportunities of being a Design Partner is my ability to review products. I had not yet gotten into stock any of the "new" Swarovski Crystal Xilion cut crystals -until now. You can see from the picture at left, that the new Xilion cut showcases more facets, more color and more light. Just look at the mirrored image of each crystal bead, the crystal bead on the left (Xilion) shows more points of light than the traditional bicone crystal. Isn't it just fabulous?!

So far I have not used the Lillypilly shell pendant in a design yet, but did want to provide a review of it. I was very pleasantly surprised at how beautiful and dainty the pendant was. It will definately work perfectly in a beautiful summer design. My only criticism is that the drilled hole was not exactly centered on the pendant.

The goal of my Summertime Fun idea was to really highlight the luminosity and beauty of Swarovski Crystals by showcasing each one in its own design. To do that I pulled out some of my personal stash of beads and materials and fashioned the beginnings of a beautiful summer jewelry collection.

I also just had to get the new jewelry pieces pictured with a few of my personally collected shells, right from the beaches of Sanibel Island, Florida! When we vacationed years back, I spent just about the entire time on the beach (loved it!) and I'd walk the beach and collect shells. I even brought back some sand!

This collection also begins a fresh new start of the crystal jewelry offered by Crystal Allure Jewelry by going back to its' roots. I'm very happy with the end result because in the summer, I don't like to wear bold jewelry and I personally think by showcasing the crystals on their own, it really makes the crystal stand out.

Of course, I did run out of materials (again) and still have some of the crystal beads left. But those new designs will be forthcoming.

Disclosure: As a Design Partner of Artbeads.com, I periodically receive products, beads and/or components free of charge. I have been asked to review these products and give my honest opinion of the products...positive or negative. I have in no way been compensated by Artbeads.com for my endorsement as it pertains to the products received and reviewed.
Read More »

Monday, June 28, 2010

Emma's Custom Crystal Prom Earrings

Back in May a woman emailed me and said that one of her co-workers told her about Crystal Allure. She said, "he told me by order of marriage he was obligated to mention his wife's jewelry business, Crystal Allure". Yes, that was my husband. He's a funny guy. :-)

Amy contacted me about designing a custom pair of crystal earrings for her daughter's prom. We communicated the whole custom order through email. I provided her some direction on earring styles based on the style of the dress and asked her to send me some pictures of the dress.

Her daughter, Emma, had chosen a lovely mermaid style dress in a pinkish-salmon color with a silver and gold overlay. It was definately a beautiful dress!

Since the dress was patterned, I suggested a simple crystal earring style, possibly a drop of some sort. So I sent off to Amy a sample picture of crystal colors and four possible earring styles. Although it would be difficult to match the pinkish-salmon color in the dress, I did show a light rose crystal style, for comparison purposes.

I offered my thoughts on the design and suggested since the dress was so beautiful and elegant, I would chose Style #1 for the style but I would choose Style #2 for the color. What you can't see in the pictures are the many gold-toned beads on the straps of the dress. By going with the golden shadow crystal, it also would not compete with the dress for attention.

Emma did choose exactly this design option and the earrings turned out stunning! Emma was kind enough to send some pictures after her prom of her handsome date and the lovely Emma wearing her Custom Swarovski Crystal Prom Earrings (E257).



Emma had this to say about her custom earrings:
Hey Stephanie,
This is a little late, but I wanted to thank you SO MUCH for my prom
earrings! I've just sent a card along with my mom, so hopefully that gets
to you soon. Again, I loved them so so much and I cannot thank you enough.
Hopefully I'll have some more Crystal Allure earrings in my future :)
Emma
Awww! You're very welcome Emma! So glad you loved your earrings and it was my pleasure to design them just for you! Enjoy!

PS: Don't forget, crystal earrings are very versatile and can be worn for more than just special occasions! Pair them with a beaded top, jeans and viola' -instant style!
Read More »

Friday, June 25, 2010

Happy Customer Shares Her Thoughts

Our daily lives can be so busy sometimes. But when a customer takes the time to write a thank you email or letter, it gives me great pride to share it with all of you.

Hello Stephanie,

Just wanted to let you know that I received my order today in the mail and I just love the bracelet and matching earrings. I like the story behind the
bracelet about a butterfly and taking a new breath. I am on a list for a double-lung transplant and I am going to wear this jewelry proudly!

Thank you so much for thinking of us transplant individuals.

Beverly (Iowa)
Shown above: Organ Transplant Awareness Ribbon Bracelet (B105) & Matching Crystal Earrings
You are very welcome Beverly! It is my pleasure to design beautiful awareness jewelry for such beautiful people! And good wishes are sent your way on your journey to transplant.
Read More »

Friday, May 14, 2010

NEW Secret Garden Swarovski Pearl Charm Bracelet

New to Crystal Allure is the Secret Garden Swarovski Pearl Charm Bracelet (B175) featuring a lovely strand of Swarovski Pearls accented by Swarovski crystals and sterling rose beads. Finishing this beautiful design is an orchid quartz gemstone teardrop and green czech pressed glass leaf.

I only have to look to my own gardens for inspiration. We were only weeks into spring and our bleeding heart bushes, one each of the sides of our steps leading to our front door, were just sprouting faster than I could enjoy them. So I snapped some photos to show how beautiful they are and in return for admiring my beautiful garden I was inspired to create a secret garden bracelet! Enjoy!

View All Beaded Bracelets by Crystal Allure
Read More »

Wednesday, May 5, 2010

The Art of Electroforming Leaves

The art of electroforming a real leaf is a delicate process.

First, a real leaf is pressed flat and dried. Once it has dried, the leaf’s pulp is removed in a light acid bath which produces the result of a leaf "skeleton".

This skeleton is very fragile as it only has the veins of the leaf holding it together. The leaf is then dried once more and then hand painted with a copper based paint (which allows it to be electroformed).

Next, the leaf is submerged in an electrolytic solution and with the magic of the positive/negative charges from electricity, metal deposits onto the copper based surface. This process takes place over a period of three days.

Logically so, if the leaf has fine veining then a "filigree" leaf will result; if a leaf has little veining then the electroformed surface will be solid. Tip: Prolonged electroforming will also result in a more solid form. Taking the extra time during the electroforming process insures the metal deposits are uniform.

Oak Leaves Swarovski Crystal Earrings (E135)
The final metallic leaf finish is dependent on the electrolytic solution used.

The leaf jewelry Crystal Allure offers have been electroformed in 24kt gold but other variations exist that include sterling silver or iridescent rose gold (which is a combination of 24kt and copper).

How To Care For Your Leaf Jewelry
Leaves should be cleaned carefully with a warm cloth and not with abrasives to maintain its longevity. Each leaf is unique and special, capturing a part of nature, resulting in a beautiful piece of wearable art. Over a period of time, our 14kt gold electroformed leaf jewelry will age to a deep brown-red.
Read More »

Friday, April 9, 2010

NEW Springtime Artisan Lampwork Beaded Earrings

Our newest handmade lampwork earrings are as beautiful as springtime flowers and with Swarovski Crystal accents, they sparkle like glistening dew drops in the morning sun.

Crystal Teal Swirl Lampwork Beaded Earrings E248
A beautiful artisan teal swirled lampwork bead is accented by blue zircon, crystal aurora borealis Swarovski Austrian Crystals, sterling silver beads and .925 Bali. Handmade beaded earrings are finished with sterling silver french hook earwires. Teal is the nationally recognized ribbon color for Ovarian Cancer awareness and support. Length: 1" from bottom of earwire.

Crystal Pink Swirl Lampwork Beaded Earrings E249
A beautiful artisan pink swirled lampwork bead is accented by fuchsia, crystal aurora borealis Swarovski Austrian Crystals, sterling silver beads and .925 Bali. Handmade beaded earrings are finished with sterling silver french hook earwires. Pink is the nationally recognized ribbon color for Breast Cancer awareness and support. Length: 1" from bottom of earwire.

Crystal Peridot Swirl Lampwork Beaded Earrings E250
A beautiful artisan light green swirled lampwork bead is accented by peridot, crystal aurora borealis Swarovski Austrian Crystals, .925 Bali and sterling silver beads. Light Green is the nationally recognized ribbon color for Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) awareness and support. Sterling Silver Earrings measure 1" from bottom of earwire.
Read More »

Sunday, February 28, 2010

The Beauty of Spring -Freshwater Pearl Handmade Necklace

The beauty of spring is knowing that just around the corner is summer -wouldn't you agree? Sunny, warm days with beautiful flowers in bloom and the occasional garden visitor -a dragonfly.


This is the first time Crystal Allure Beaded Jewelry has used colored freshwater pearls in any design. But, when we saw these freshwater pearls we knew the size, shape and luster were right on target for our vision of this delicate design.

We chose three distinct freshwater pearl colors (olive, light blue and peacock) for their representation of the iridescent shimmer of the dragonfly.

Individually wire wrapped with sterling silver rings and light sapphire Swarovski Crystals, this beautiful Freshwater Pearl Dragonfly Charm Lariat Necklace (N099) features a sterling silver dragonfly charm that easily slips through a hand wrought and hammered sterling silver teardrop loop for a lovely lariat style handmade beaded necklace.


View All Spring Beaded Jewelry
Read More »

Monday, February 22, 2010

New Chain Gemstone Beaded Necklace

This necklace is the first in a series of beaded chain necklaces that will be designed for the upcoming Spring and Summer months.

The style incorporates a little of three different techniques seen in beaded jewelry: beading, chain and wire wrapping.

What is so unique about this handmade beaded necklace are the gemstones! In beautiful shades of brown, pink and cream, you can see a mix of bright yellow and orange in the brown gemstone beads. Adding to its' unqiueness is the fact, that no two gemstones are exactly alike.

The Golden Strawberry Quartz Gemstone Bead Necklace (N096) is accented with an elegant sterling silver chain and circle links for a touch of modern allure.
Read More »

Sunday, February 14, 2010

Sacred Heart Beaded Necklace -NEW

Happy Valentine's Day!!

Today is a special day for couples all over the world, as many will wed today. So as the old saying goes, "Here comes the bride, all dressed in -Red?!" That's right, red. The red wedding dress is becoming increasingly common in North America. Although it may seem an absolute fashion rebellion, the choice to wear a red wedding dress varies for each bride who takes the plunge.

For some brides, it is mostly cosmetic; they feel they look good in red and want to stand out in the warm, vibrant color that only red can deliver. Some brides will wear red for its' symbolic meaning of love and commitment, or of marriage and motherhood, or for religious beliefs. And still others choose the red wedding dress for traditional reasons relating to their cultural background.

Whatever the reason, there are a variety of ways to incorporate red into your wedding day. As previously mentioned, you could choose to wear a red wedding gown or you could create a red and white theme for your wedding through favors, neckties, flowers, bridesmaids dresses or red accented beaded jewelry.

The warm contrast between red and white is both sensual and feminine. Whether you are getting married or simply want to get your sweetheart something beautiful, you won't want to miss the Sacred Heart Freshwater Pearl Crystal Heart Beaded Jewelry Set. Embrace your unique side this beautiful beaded necklace and earrings set.

Designed with a combination of feminine Freshwater Pearls and sensual red Swarovski Austrian Crystals, wire wrapped Crystal Heart Pendant (approx. 1/2" in size) finished with Sterling Silver components.

This handcrafted beaded necklace set is new at Crystal Allure Jewelry.
Read More »

Saturday, February 13, 2010

Hill Tribe Heart Leaf Pendant Beaded Necklace

Fourteen Days of Hearts & Love
Part 13 of 14


I've decided to showcase the newest heart necklace tomorrow, on Valentine's Day. But the Crystal Allure Jewelry collection is not without other heart jewelry! When I first started these blog posts I thought I wouldn't have enough heart jewelry, but silly ole' me, what was I thinking! And of course, a hand full of other jewelry was designed as I sat in my studio preparing each of these articles. In fact, I even found a necklace I had designed weeks ago, meant to get a picture of it and just happened to uncover it on my studio table as I was "cleaning". Where in my case, in my studio, "cleaning" means shuffling things from one corner to another. Yup, my studio is the only room that looks like a hurricane hit it. Based on the type of person I am, I certainly don't understand it but I just go with it. I have always been a firm believer (and my mother will confirm this) that everything has a place and every place has a thing for it. Organize, organize, organize. Yet, in my bead studio....that rule just doesn't seem to work. An empty table, for me, seems to stiffle my creativity. Strange I know. But, I just go with it (which is probably why you'll never see pictures of my studio). :-)

But, alas I digressed. Heart Jewelry. Got it. Back on track.

On this thirteenth day of Hearts & Love, I wanted to highlight the Green Grossular Garnet Gemstone Beaded Necklace (N085), featuring a Karen Hill Tribe Heart Leaf Pendant. Just as every element of nature comes together, so too did the elements of this necklace. The green garnet gemstone is simply beautiful, beyond words and complements perfectly with the wood beads for a truly nature inspired beaded necklace.

And as ironically as my confession above about a messy studio....well, I just spend a half-hour looking for the remaining green garnet gemstones to get a close up picture of them so that you could truly appreciate what I'm trying to convey in their beauty. But, as suspected I just can't find them. Note to self: clean table. (right).

The heart shaped leaf pendant was handmade by the Karen Hill Tribe in northern Thailand. Using techniques that have been passed down from generation to generation and a higher silver content allows them to easily shape their metal into very different styles. As a result, no two pieces are exactly alike. So even if I ever decided to make a similar style necklace, the heart leaf pendant will be uniquely different than the one shown here.

You simply can't go wrong with this beaded necklace because green and brown are the new "black" of the fashion world!
Read More »

Thursday, February 11, 2010

The Heart of a Survivor

Whether you have had a lung transplant, heart transplant, or any organ transplant, your body, mind and spirit endure more than some can imagine. It can be physically and emotionally draining leading up to -through -and post transplant. But you do it because you have the will to live and transplant is a gift of life -a second chance.

For these reasons and many more, I designed the Organ Transplant Awareness Survivor Heart Bracelet (B173-TX) as a symbol of the strength and will to be a SURVIVOR. What makes this bracelet even more unique is not only does it support transplant awareness but it's also the perfect gift for that special transplant person on Valentine's Day.

Designed with emerald Swarovski Austiran Crystals, .925 Bali, accented by pearlized white seed beads and sterling silver heart beads that spell, SURVIVOR. This beautiful beaded awareness bracelet is finished with a sterling silver lobster clasp and custom Crystal Allure Jewelry tag.

This beaded bracelet is new to the online store.
Read More »

Wednesday, February 10, 2010

Window Heart Earrings Grounded in Tradition

While preparing today's post, I had wondered what does the old wedding custom of "something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue" really mean/represent? So I did some research. It turns out the old saying in full reads:

Something old, something new
Something borrowed, something blue
And a silver sixpence in her shoe.


Each item represents a good-luck token, that if given to the bride and carried/worn on her wedding day, her marriage will be happy. "Something old" represents a bride's connection with her family and the past; "Something new" symbolizes optimism and hope for the bride's new life ahead; "Something borrowed" is usually an item from a happily married family member or friend, whose good fortune in marriage is suppose to carry over to the bride's new marriage; and a sixpense in the bride's shoe represents wealth and financial security.

It is the "something blue" that carries a bit of history with it. The color blue has been connected to weddings for centuries. The brides of ancient Rome wore blue to symbolize love, modesty and fidelity. In the Christian faith, the Virgin Mary was dressed in blue, associating the color with purity. And although it would be hard to believe now, with all the choices a bride has for wedding gowns, before the late 19th century, blue was the most popular color for wedding gowns (hence, the proverb, "Marry in blue, lover be true").

When I saw these beads, three words came to mind: princess, castle, wedding. I pictured them designed with some soft blue Swarovski Crystals and immediately thought of a princess -we all want to be a princess on our wedding day (and everyday if the truth be told!); and the beautiful frosted window heart beads reminded me of regal castle style windows -you know the ones told in fairy tales...where only princesses' and queens live.

The finished design of the Crystal Blue Frosted Heart Beaded Earrings (E200) reminds me of a beautiful bride with a classic wedding style -fit for a princess!

Designed using Sterling silver earwires, they are an enchanting pair of earrings for the Bride-to-be, an anniversary gift or just because. A coordinating necklace can be designed for a complete 2-piece jewelry set.
Read More »

Monday, February 8, 2010

Pearl Heart Dangle Beaded Earrings

Every year on Valentine's Day, February 14th, thousands of couples walk down the aisle to say, "I Do". Some couples plan their special wedding day a year in advance, others simply decide to get married just days before Valentine's Day. Whether you get married on the sweetest day of the year or not, the universal symbol of love is the heart and pearls have always been a timeless accessory for brides to wear. Pearls are smooth, lustrous, highly regarded for their beauty and are a symbol of femininity. What bride doesn't feel like royalty or a princess in pearls?

Marry together the symbol of love (the heart) with the symbol of feminine beauty (the pearl) and you have a look that is classic, timeless and will never go out of style. For example, have you ever seen wedding photos from the 80's? We all have. Those mile high poof-shoulder dresses, hair permed and/or teased to the sky with cans of hairspray holding it in place. At that time, that was the style of weddings, but to look at those pictures now, aside from a small chuckle or two, they are clearly outdated.

I wore pearls for my wedding and looking back at my wedding pictures, now 8 years ago, I'm so happy I choose a timeless, classic accessory. I, personally, have always thought of pearls as wishes. Seems strange, I know. But when I designed the Swarovski Pearl Heart Charm Beaded Earrings (E202), I thought they'd make the perfect accessory to either a Bride, as a Valentine Gift or even as an Anniversary Gift.

I'm also no poet, but I did dabble a little when I was in high school. While pulling together this blog post, I also pulled together this wonderful little poem that seemed quite appropriate for these pearl earrings.

If pearls were wishes,
I'd wish for you,
a heart full of love,
with love times two!
Read More »

Sunday, February 7, 2010

NEW Blue Heart Beaded Cell Phone Charm

Sometimes love is as simple and sweet as a heart fluttering beneath blue skies and sparkling stars.

Open Heart Pave' Blue Beaded Cell Phone Purse Charm CPC6
Design features a sterling silver open heart charm, faceted blue glass bead, pave' style sterling silver bead and sterling silver. Length: 3-1/4".

Everyone has cell phones these days and what makes this little Valentine's Gift so fabulous is you can even attach the charm to jeans, purses, MP3 players and even iPods -the ideas are endless.
Read More »

Saturday, February 6, 2010

Love You Conversation Heart Charm Beaded Bracelet

Sometimes it's the little things -those small acts that show how much you love someone. Every now and then you hear a story about a grand expression of love, that it almost became an "event" in itself.

For example, those men who go way above and beyond to show how much they love their sweetheart, say by having the electronic billboard at a football game changed (during half time of course!) with perfectly chosen words to express his eternal love. Hmmmm, well I'm guessing that probably cost as much as the diamond ring he is considering buying her.

A sweet gesture -yes! Expensive -oh yes! So why not just show her you love her with a beautiful bracelet, say, with a timeless conversation heart -charm. The best part of her gift? She'll love this tasteful expression of love because it's also zero calories!!

Don't tell her you love her -show her! Say it with our treasured handmade beaded bracelet and earrings set featuring a love-ly sterling silver conversation heart charm that reads "Love You", surrounded by red Swarovski Austrian Crystals and Pearls, sterling silver Bali, lobster clasp and earwires. Bracelet measures 7-3/4"; sterling silver earrings measure 1/2" from bottom of earwire.

This beaded pearl heart bracelet stacks perfectly with the coordinating Marry Me and Be Mine heart charm bracelets.
Read More »

Friday, February 5, 2010

Secret Crush Lampwork Heart Beaded Earrings

Come on now, admit it. You've had one...we've all had one at one time or another. You know what I'm talking about, that......Secret Crush.

Okay, okay. I'll start us off -Hi, my name is Stephanie and I've had a secret crush. In junior high there was this boy, of course he didn't even know I existed. To this day, I still don't know why (although I suspect there was some conniving with his best friend) he gave me his phone number and told me to call him sometime. Sounds easy enough and boy was I blown away.

So one night I worked up my courage, picked up that phone and made that call. Needless to say, it was an awkward phone call -I'm sure our young ages had a lot to do with it -but for the most part, it was like pulling hair out to make conversation with him. We hung up and that was the end of that. From afar, I still had a secret crush on him, although I had learned that secret crushes are more beautiful than sometimes the real deal!

With the Secret Crush Crystal Heart Lampwork Beaded Earrings (E219) you can wear your heart on your ears -and not your sleeve! A pair of lovely ruby artisan lampwork hearts with swirls of white and flecks of gold are accented with Sterling Silver Bali, Swarovski Pearls and Crystals and dangle ever so femininely from leverback earwires.

Psst -get these beaded earrings on sale now, limited time only!
Read More »

Thursday, February 4, 2010

Sending All My Love Heart Charm Bracelet

Nowadays there are many reasons why your one true love is not by your side -they had to travel for their job; they are serving in the military; they are in another state taking care of family. Regardless of the reason, we all know how heartbroken we are when we are not with our true love.

Love is missing someone whenever you're apart, but somehow feeling warm inside because you're close in heart. ~Kay Knudsen

The old saying goes 'absence makes the heart grow fonder'. But what if that absence is on or near Valentine's Day? Why not send her all your love? Swarovski style! Just because you might not be with her doesn't mean you can't show how much you miss her. The Sending All My Love Red Crystal Love Letter Heart Charm Beaded Bracelet (B141) says it perfectly with deep red Swarovski Austrian Crystals and Heart Charm, Sterling Silver Bali and Heart toggle clasp with a beautiful Sterling Silver Envelope Charm -sealed with two heart kisses!
Read More »

Wednesday, February 3, 2010

Amethyst Heart Charm Beaded Bracelet

So what does February, Hearts and Amethyst have in common? My birthday! Yes, today is my birthday and I am making a shameless plug using one of my favorite crystal heart bracelet designs. I absolutely love the color purple, hearts and anything sparkly! I definately think I was born in the month that most represents who I am.

Aquarians are one of the most creative and artistic signs in the zodiac (and I'm not making this up just because I am a jewelry designer!). One of the ways that an Aquarian shows love is through creative ideas and once they are truly in love, they are fiercely loyal. Some famous people born in February: Farah Fawcett, Sheryl Crow and Jennifer Aniston, to name a few.

Knowing all this, naturally it would follow that I would design a bracelet, in purple, with crystals and hearts! In the Purple Freshwater Pearl Crystal Heart Charm Beaded Bracelet (B138) design you get double the love with both the Swarovski Crystal Heart charm and the Sterling Silver Heart toggle clasp. The purple freshwater pearls are such a unique color that I simply can't describe them. But, my partiality towards the color purple makes every shade simply beautiful!
Read More »

Tuesday, February 2, 2010

Be Mine Conversation Heart Charm Beaded Bracelet

We all remember as children both giving and eating Sweethearts Conversation Heart candies at school. You remember them...the tasty pastel sugar hearts pre-printed with quirky phrases expressing love and devotion. Even today as adults we recognize and associate them as the American icon of Valentine's Day and they are still the best-selling Valentine candy around.

NECCO (New England Confectionery Company) has been manufacturing these lovely candies since 1847 and manufactures over 8 billion hearts each year. The company has since discarded all its previous phrases and updated them with new expression of love, the candies now come in brighter and bolder new colors and there are even new flavors. But the symbolism of this iconic candy is still the same.

As kids, we loved getting Conversation Heart candies. But as adults, it might seem a little childish or awkward to give and/or receive a box of these candies as a gift on Valentine's Day. Which is exactly why giving this unique beaded bracelet as a gift is perfect. Every woman loves sparkling Swarovski crystals. In romantic colors of pink and white with a tiny conversation heart charm this handcrafted bracelet is just enough to express your love.

Be Mine Swarovski Crystal Pearl Heart Charm Bracelet Set BES4
Won't you BE MINE? Say it with heart...and style with our handmade beaded bracelet and earrings set. Design features a beautiful strand of Swarovski Pearls accented by pink crystals. Sterling silver beads, Bali, lobster clasp and BE MINE heart charm. Beaded bracelet measures 7-1/2"; beaded earrings measure 1/2" from bottom of earwire.

This beaded pearl heart charm bracelet stacks perfectly with the coordinating Love You and Marry Me bracelets.

This Valentine's Day -say it with heart!
Read More »

Friday, January 29, 2010

NEW Animal Awareness-Spay-Neuter Beaded Awareness Bracelet

We are happy to announce the launch of our NEW Awareness Jewelry Collection: Animal Awareness! Within this collection, there will be handmade beaded bracelets and handmade jewelry to support the worthy causes of spaying/neutering your pet, animal abuse and feral cat programs. The first piece to be introduced into the animal awareness collection is:


Spay Neuter Animal Awareness Paw Ribbon Beaded Bracelet (B171)
It's the responsible thing to do -spay and/or neuter your pet. In the U.S., there is an estimated 6-8 million homeless animals entering animal shelters every year, with only about half of them being adopted out. It's a tragic ending that we, as individuals, have the power to change through the simple act of having our beloved pets spayed and/or neutered.

This beautiful handmade beaded bracelet has been designed with a light blue Swarovski Austrian Crystals accented by Swarovski Pearls and .925 Bali. The unique feature of this beaded bracelet is the lovely paw stamped sterling silver awareness ribbon toggle clasp. Finished with our sterling silver signature jewelry tag.

Light Blue is the nationally recognized ribbon color for spay/neuter awareness and support.

Beaded Awareness Bracelet measures 8"

Spaying and/or neutering your pet helps to save the lives of millions of homeless animals each year. Your purchase from this new crystal awareness jewelry collection helps make a difference and we thank you in advance for your support.

Have you rescued/adopted a pet? We'd love to hear your story. Sometimes it's the individual stories of animals that inspire our designs.
Read More »

Tuesday, January 26, 2010

NEW Gemstone Heart Beaded Earrings

Celebrate your femininity with our lovely, alluring and beautifully handmade heart earrings from our Heart Jewelry collection.

Unchain My Heart Rose Quartz Gemstone Earrings E256-P
Handcrafted beaded earrings feature a pair of romantic rose quartz gemstone hearts dangling from a pair of intertwined sterling silver chains. A lovely gift for your sweetheart on Valentine's Day! Sterling silver earwires. Length: 1-1/4" from bottom of earwire.

Unchain My Heart Jade Gemstone Earrings E256-G
Handcrafted beaded earrings feature a pair of romantic jade gemstone hearts dangling from a pair of intertwined sterling silver chains. A lovely gift for your sweetheart on Valentine's Day! Sterling silver earwires. Length: 1-1/4" from bottom of earwire.
Read More »

LinkWithin

Related Posts Plugin for WordPress, Blogger...