tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-66992670540925348472024-03-29T04:02:22.600-07:00La Bella JoyaMarcie Abney Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07578434608830556772noreply@blogger.comBlogger640125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6699267054092534847.post-31776352970944227322016-06-28T19:18:00.000-07:002016-06-28T19:18:11.591-07:00Things I've learned <br />
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I've started making most of my rings with this open shank style that is super sturdy and comfortable to wear, and I thought I'd share with you how to make it! </div>
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1. You'll need double half-round wire that you can purchase at Rio Grande. Any gauge will do. Measure and cut a length of wire at least a half size LARGER than the ring you're creating. </div>
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2. Use your miter jig to flush up the ends. </div>
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3. Measure out a 10mm length from the exact center (find the center and measure 5mm to the left and right) and mark it off. Saw from each end of the wire until you reach the middle, leaving the 10mm section intact. </div>
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4. Separate the end pieces by pulling them apart evenly spaced and then form your band around a ring mandrel. </div>
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5. Bring the ends together until they meet and solder them shut. After you've soldered and pickled, slide the ring back onto the mandrel and shape it. If it measures too large, pull the two rings apart until you're shank measures the size you need it to. </div>
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<br />Marcie Abney Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07578434608830556772noreply@blogger.com35tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6699267054092534847.post-73733789587409822922016-04-11T12:51:00.003-07:002016-04-11T12:51:31.216-07:00Enablers...I'll make this sound professional:<br />
In an effort to recoup some of the cost of my metalsmithing, and also to fund my further study of said craft, I have decided to offer some of my previously loved and gathered jewelry making supplies over at my other shop: <a href="http://www.labellajoyasupply.etsy.com/" target="_blank">www.labellajoyasupply.etsy.com</a>.<br />
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Okay, now what's really going on:<br />
I'm a junkie.<br />
With a problem.<br />
I call it Agate and sometimes Jasper, but we both know what it is and what it's doing to me, and like most junkies, I'm selling everything short of my own mudda to fuel the habit.<br />
NO, really....<br />
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Head on over there and pick something up: </div>
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<a href="http://www.labellajoyasupply.etsy.com/" target="_blank"> www.labellajoyasupply.etsy.com </a></div>
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Oh, and for a limited time, every purchase over there will include a free gift (because we're all junkies aren't we?) </div>
<br />Marcie Abney Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07578434608830556772noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6699267054092534847.post-46583997319912872342016-02-27T18:53:00.001-08:002016-02-27T18:53:27.119-08:00Planting Seeds <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I've recently found myself with a student. </div>
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It wasn't intentional, I didn't advertise, it was more like, I've got a husband who has a friend who has a friend and one thing led to another and here I am with an opportunity like no other. </div>
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It's been so good for me. </div>
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She's determined and wants to learn and also has a completely different style from my own which means she's challenging me as much as I'm challenging her and to top it off we get along really well. </div>
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Those were kind of the thoughts that were working through my head as I worked on this piece. It's as much about the work as it is the passing on of the knowledge. </div>
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This last one is particularly poignant. I've taken dried grass seeds and preserved them in resin. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikybGgL1Bi-Yy6sG2ssKBDP_chZ_sgsrfvDqbzm3p3I9_0lJZahQKVElsyCPVzsFuV58FddXnGGZQ1RFSNsQwc-oTq9FNqEUAnv3ZQ_T0nNsGfiLs2y-PVwWgU85TFOEkFY8Byr78pncys/s1600/1-P2270454.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikybGgL1Bi-Yy6sG2ssKBDP_chZ_sgsrfvDqbzm3p3I9_0lJZahQKVElsyCPVzsFuV58FddXnGGZQ1RFSNsQwc-oTq9FNqEUAnv3ZQ_T0nNsGfiLs2y-PVwWgU85TFOEkFY8Byr78pncys/s640/1-P2270454.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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It's a reminder to me that you never know what seeds are going to grow and sometimes you never even know when you're planting a seed to begin with. </div>
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It's truly a humbling thought. </div>
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I'm glad that I've been given the opportunity to teach again. It was one of my favorite parts of what I did when I was beading. </div>
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I believe the sharing of knowledge is so important and something that we should always work toward. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJOV5t2huNCmfZKSAlRfvK7VLtCLy5ioqLRhGETZNzUpys4H72asXhxYno1umXXoWc20yXlAR_zR8276GskhdgVVQQY8-7kBwADvIqPICqspn-Llw633ZVzu2KP5neA78KV8VESGH6bYZl/s1600/1-P2270456.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJOV5t2huNCmfZKSAlRfvK7VLtCLy5ioqLRhGETZNzUpys4H72asXhxYno1umXXoWc20yXlAR_zR8276GskhdgVVQQY8-7kBwADvIqPICqspn-Llw633ZVzu2KP5neA78KV8VESGH6bYZl/s640/1-P2270456.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />Marcie Abney Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07578434608830556772noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6699267054092534847.post-73041203416996705882016-02-13T14:12:00.001-08:002016-02-13T14:12:50.569-08:00Flashbacks <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
About a year after I started making jewelry, Ice Resin became really big. </div>
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Everybody was resinating everything and there were entire mags dedicated to the wonders of the smelly stuff. </div>
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I too went through a bit of a resin kick, and got to re-visit it this week when my sister's boyfriend commissioned me to make a ring to commemorate her time spent abroad. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNPWFuErjK6mOpdbmcq1kqAiYAq5WDH6TcW5n4Nyj9OkYfhyWsVKbb7uOOYGvhBLeAzVUwldvq0q88qImSPErNYUdB0C9-XexfVaRHhQMrZdeeww1br4-7gQjk5IoT8BkdsFLXSaxydWl9/s1600/1-P2120267.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNPWFuErjK6mOpdbmcq1kqAiYAq5WDH6TcW5n4Nyj9OkYfhyWsVKbb7uOOYGvhBLeAzVUwldvq0q88qImSPErNYUdB0C9-XexfVaRHhQMrZdeeww1br4-7gQjk5IoT8BkdsFLXSaxydWl9/s400/1-P2120267.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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This is what I came up with. </div>
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It's a collage of images cut from a couple of Costa Rican bills that he brought back when we he visited this Christmas. </div>
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This time around, my skill set has increased dramatically and I was able to build the body of the ring, along with the collage. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBhBYhYQs_0agb7HpaZ0Za3YGwBEhgpeyGOnN7BrjPdUacpb0NqjBWKoQvpHT_eVLn2aZaftrga9vD-Yj-6WiDbN1W5oratGnc_2pR1ZfMAPTztvuwKV5X33fCnwB7EOkz3979Rt7NlAvg/s1600/1-P2120259.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBhBYhYQs_0agb7HpaZ0Za3YGwBEhgpeyGOnN7BrjPdUacpb0NqjBWKoQvpHT_eVLn2aZaftrga9vD-Yj-6WiDbN1W5oratGnc_2pR1ZfMAPTztvuwKV5X33fCnwB7EOkz3979Rt7NlAvg/s400/1-P2120259.JPG" width="398" /></a></div>
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The back says "Pura Vida", Costa Rica's slogan which more or less reads, "The Good Life" in English. </div>
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I haven't done resin in a while, and I'm not going to lie, it was fun. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5lLYTZqKmLmVU1KqE4fm1vvYzmHqQfSAxI6sVpr3Lz1TSs6mmdvu11HYGcDOz0C9HZ4HVEbe6Tjwasdctn56WttXdhGl-xBsf10iQVrT9-YYpSxyJB5Psd2fqpjOjuIn2pVcTgrM1rj8F/s1600/1-P2120252.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5lLYTZqKmLmVU1KqE4fm1vvYzmHqQfSAxI6sVpr3Lz1TSs6mmdvu11HYGcDOz0C9HZ4HVEbe6Tjwasdctn56WttXdhGl-xBsf10iQVrT9-YYpSxyJB5Psd2fqpjOjuIn2pVcTgrM1rj8F/s400/1-P2120252.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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These were my older attempts at resin work, and yes, they are miniscule. Each little collage only measures about 1" square. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwCpzpNt4RLIhsswtfDJw5eWsCVaONJjHevgbEPJqJqU4yFg-J3pumSH0tbHuvYUrkRmLtsJQQLQL_9VDZhSlXy2ZZPwhrISgbD1itCIwh2UGtF5FInc3DYN6pO2qHtGdXpYSBu-LhLzQo/s1600/IMG_7582.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="386" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwCpzpNt4RLIhsswtfDJw5eWsCVaONJjHevgbEPJqJqU4yFg-J3pumSH0tbHuvYUrkRmLtsJQQLQL_9VDZhSlXy2ZZPwhrISgbD1itCIwh2UGtF5FInc3DYN6pO2qHtGdXpYSBu-LhLzQo/s400/IMG_7582.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSqc9jAKmw6PI5VWGCSgfszMl0vN0dBTPiK9JvGSK0QLr5aezx7eepSNOiDZhRV7sgCnnCwcrgNu45kgEbDA-0Q8zdgQ6bEzHWZ3IfLBpyzCespQUFqNDJrBUhfzQY3wnI2NNcunkg17V8/s1600/IMG_7581.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSqc9jAKmw6PI5VWGCSgfszMl0vN0dBTPiK9JvGSK0QLr5aezx7eepSNOiDZhRV7sgCnnCwcrgNu45kgEbDA-0Q8zdgQ6bEzHWZ3IfLBpyzCespQUFqNDJrBUhfzQY3wnI2NNcunkg17V8/s400/IMG_7581.JPG" width="398" /></a></div>
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This was the one he saw her wear that he wanted me to copy. </div>
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It's actually a miniature Amsterdam, made from paper cuts. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYFgmmBkkVRzHzgZDlHezuHIQz_b4He5ZHHZbuD3K2t6B689EMIaRg9QXK17qXPAqWm9zIjvPG_hqyt5i6sI2MSBrRfaFURhyMds7QC9aLcpucXpDQv6fd9rjj4G2UWd3A2uB318ZrDSrU/s1600/IMG_1870.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYFgmmBkkVRzHzgZDlHezuHIQz_b4He5ZHHZbuD3K2t6B689EMIaRg9QXK17qXPAqWm9zIjvPG_hqyt5i6sI2MSBrRfaFURhyMds7QC9aLcpucXpDQv6fd9rjj4G2UWd3A2uB318ZrDSrU/s400/IMG_1870.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Who knew I'd ever visit that again?!</div>
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<br />Marcie Abney Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07578434608830556772noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6699267054092534847.post-59902326519795073522015-11-30T19:09:00.000-08:002015-11-30T19:09:10.777-08:00A paperback...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Has it really been over two months since my fingers tip-tapped over a keyboard instead of swiping a cell screen? I haven't forgotten I assure you. <br />I can pinpoint the culprit. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF6a7st2wU1KPfx9QudExck8ipFdmv4vaZUAEAoEp0yKNhzRiuDRQhtJPtzFRXbTKxHCdWBTjziKqbFfQcP60kH45Vf10pfBBf-6ZdXDX12UtSj8omKaJ7yqZho7n_IgfvG20jFgjzvTyj/s1600/1-PA310063.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF6a7st2wU1KPfx9QudExck8ipFdmv4vaZUAEAoEp0yKNhzRiuDRQhtJPtzFRXbTKxHCdWBTjziKqbFfQcP60kH45Vf10pfBBf-6ZdXDX12UtSj8omKaJ7yqZho7n_IgfvG20jFgjzvTyj/s400/1-PA310063.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Instagram.</div>
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I know it's not intentional, it's just become habit, the phone travels with me...studio, house, car. It's easy to snap and go. <br /></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7GZA1bdTyLKWM0Fyy2q23FD5OiE9i-bG8Q8KoHBCBdiiXLBSIeIEp4xndK9hOTz7nMB-lhUyWQKVimsgWNQw8oXJWEBawQe0DYj1XY4GGB-CmVdHmw_l6gcy6h5Doctjy4riEHd42nH2e/s1600/1-PB230097.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7GZA1bdTyLKWM0Fyy2q23FD5OiE9i-bG8Q8KoHBCBdiiXLBSIeIEp4xndK9hOTz7nMB-lhUyWQKVimsgWNQw8oXJWEBawQe0DYj1XY4GGB-CmVdHmw_l6gcy6h5Doctjy4riEHd42nH2e/s400/1-PB230097.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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But, even though I try to write the story on a phone screen and copy and paste the true meaning, it doesn't seem as big or as important as it does here with these giant words and even bigger pictures. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdoaalT3EdeECLKLkZy2H17M3RhyAbjJL2bxxOUkK3R7bF0RvFOMYrLSydRgwA_WBsThx3324uw_HaaQtpPommKaGSwvtrGYk74vargpFqmvALhoIYe4Hhc_Ji4HRrfL161Dq1dyWZvxRj/s1600/1-PA150053.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdoaalT3EdeECLKLkZy2H17M3RhyAbjJL2bxxOUkK3R7bF0RvFOMYrLSydRgwA_WBsThx3324uw_HaaQtpPommKaGSwvtrGYk74vargpFqmvALhoIYe4Hhc_Ji4HRrfL161Dq1dyWZvxRj/s400/1-PA150053.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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There are also the stories. </div>
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I've relegated the meaning behind my pieces to listing descriptions and stopped keeping them here as a kind of journal of the journey. </div>
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I've actually started reading more, real, actual books and I've re-awakened a love of history that has always been deep in my bones. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhceLFrRPz2L-g13Qv30Ap_dCkdb3zwksP0noA2BcmrL91C3VXmMRZxvIrSSS8tR0IXbLUk1C6l9d0dzjPNfTa1Tmw3eXBSuyIF34hOp4w9S1zXRFAe8iMsjmt7IZ7bEpvP1t6ONHExTucK/s1600/1-PB090073.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhceLFrRPz2L-g13Qv30Ap_dCkdb3zwksP0noA2BcmrL91C3VXmMRZxvIrSSS8tR0IXbLUk1C6l9d0dzjPNfTa1Tmw3eXBSuyIF34hOp4w9S1zXRFAe8iMsjmt7IZ7bEpvP1t6ONHExTucK/s400/1-PB090073.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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You would think that all of this would spur me to write more, but it doesn't, I find instead the words in the stroke of a saw. </div>
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It's a problem, really, because I'm so wrapped up in the story behind the pieces that I can't accept the failure to sell as just the passing over of a monetary expenditure and instead interpret it as the rejection of what I see as my life's memoir. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyqvlzGBvsIOeMYQUucITxB-fC0VY-ZCIymX-zPFsCGn1a4QIq28qTQ7GdPrFzepKdYadChbstXwR-eoEuyXtc3bB2yphiPXUjsvHg0XmKedtI5SJJ-ppn8Jto9TVC6nVRlsOyFjjofAqa/s1600/1-P9210014.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="308" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyqvlzGBvsIOeMYQUucITxB-fC0VY-ZCIymX-zPFsCGn1a4QIq28qTQ7GdPrFzepKdYadChbstXwR-eoEuyXtc3bB2yphiPXUjsvHg0XmKedtI5SJJ-ppn8Jto9TVC6nVRlsOyFjjofAqa/s400/1-P9210014.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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What's the magic? </div>
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Why is one story better than the other? </div>
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What happens when you see stories that overlap and can't understand why everyone doesn't realize they're reading the same thing, and calling it by different names? </div>
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Is wanting to be different even worth it? </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuG2AZ2ytYJydx74tv4uRROcICREA2gsLY3Jfb7ogeJClPomny3xaeMXiAqAha3kMhoGurN257Rt_4XppogH7WzdJnOHgwqOup9zYKidEOWUFfpi9frRjsdUSzqif4Z4MHEqvQ0DOADVc9/s1600/1-PB250135.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuG2AZ2ytYJydx74tv4uRROcICREA2gsLY3Jfb7ogeJClPomny3xaeMXiAqAha3kMhoGurN257Rt_4XppogH7WzdJnOHgwqOup9zYKidEOWUFfpi9frRjsdUSzqif4Z4MHEqvQ0DOADVc9/s400/1-PB250135.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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I feel like a paperback at the library. </div>
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Stuck in those little spinning merry-go-round shelves while the real books get jackets and bookends and, well...dusted. </div>
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I feel dusty and my head hurts from spinning. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNMEYew_AWqNIT0BwseaW4sSHoZZOs_8rOPI5fBPiftGmSjdGY5vK9W5FB5iMu5MpJ_KfhZI6HBWNomLKkNAjuCdppBqRzWXyRTLqC4jhe5-xt9XzyNZGrXpuwkAyYnWym5bMNUX9N82g1/s1600/1-PB250087.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNMEYew_AWqNIT0BwseaW4sSHoZZOs_8rOPI5fBPiftGmSjdGY5vK9W5FB5iMu5MpJ_KfhZI6HBWNomLKkNAjuCdppBqRzWXyRTLqC4jhe5-xt9XzyNZGrXpuwkAyYnWym5bMNUX9N82g1/s400/1-PB250087.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Keep writing, I say to myself...</div>
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You may be a paperback, but they're lightweight and easy to carry, <br />and isn't that what you want to be anyway? </div>
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Oh, and also, the hardcovers don't get to be you, until they've sold a million copies... </div>
<br />Marcie Abney Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07578434608830556772noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6699267054092534847.post-72023297360652439732015-09-09T19:29:00.000-07:002015-09-09T19:29:20.772-07:00Reaching Higher<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Have I ever actually told you that I'm most comfortable making rings, or did you just figure it out by looking through my shop which makes it look like I've pretty much only got fingers and no neck? </div>
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My inspiration always takes the form of rings for whatever reason. I get an idea, I see a picture and my head finds a way to wrap the idea into a circle and my hands obey without thinking. </div>
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I'm wanting to change that, to become an artist who doesn't just think in terms of the finger, but who sees a larger picture, who can use silver and stone to paint a portrait around your neck....or even your wrist. I feel lopsided always making rings, like the old V8 commercials where everyone is always leaning. </div>
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These pieces have so much meaning to me, not only because I feel like I'm growing in my craft, but because I feel like I'm taking my inspiration and working it out in a larger more meaningful way. </div>
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This one is called The Thing with Feathers. Inspired by the Emily Dickinson poem and my attempt to capture the wings of hope in silver. It features Carico Lake Turquoise on braided leather. I must say, the stories to these pieces are long and meaningful, and I won't rewrite them here, I've poured it out, each of them in the listing on my website, but it's been so long since I've stopped by and I come by here to talk about growth. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixK30d0N8vJ6fFYWvl3ot3e1WyCpGB-BfliSC3PUvmsAJC4_A-2zRMMHFwxCNPTKD4y7Yaa5pk5sFUclemJAJh_jipRBQ7811nzZ9NmfbMFA88m9yhQWBuJI8C0UlZ6_tHZh32938wkFxc/s1600/1-P9082075.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixK30d0N8vJ6fFYWvl3ot3e1WyCpGB-BfliSC3PUvmsAJC4_A-2zRMMHFwxCNPTKD4y7Yaa5pk5sFUclemJAJh_jipRBQ7811nzZ9NmfbMFA88m9yhQWBuJI8C0UlZ6_tHZh32938wkFxc/s320/1-P9082075.JPG" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMRbyvwCo6Mst6aL5DizI-Eyeyroel79EYppG_8Kk5i-W5IJS91ZW8RQOxP3W_dvZafYLKgJ5bcxLy7JbgrKPWyCYq9NiPlzi2B32Ggg_5Sz0qZGiC3P99AI_4Ohlva-0t3teG0Veu4JRf/s1600/1-P9082102.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMRbyvwCo6Mst6aL5DizI-Eyeyroel79EYppG_8Kk5i-W5IJS91ZW8RQOxP3W_dvZafYLKgJ5bcxLy7JbgrKPWyCYq9NiPlzi2B32Ggg_5Sz0qZGiC3P99AI_4Ohlva-0t3teG0Veu4JRf/s320/1-P9082102.JPG" width="247" /></a></div>
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This piece is reversible. That was important to me, I want my work to have layers of meaning, but also depth of material. This one was inspired by home, the forest around me, the ground beneath me. The malachite juxtaposed against the Montana agate, the depth of color. <br />
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This little piece sports the most amazing piece of Ocean Jasper I've ever nabbed. </div>
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The color on this one is deep and those little green spots have just a bit of druzy sparkle. </div>
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It was inspired by my Bring Down the Moon series. </div>
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I am however, most proud of these. The first set of bangles I've ever created. Inspired by the Resurrection Fern that grows around these parts on the live oaks. It's such a beautiful story of a plant that refuses to give in, coming back again and again despite the odds. </div>
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These tested my patience and my skills, demanding a whole new set up at my soldering station and patience the likes of which I've never had to tap into before. </div>
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These have the most beautiful clink and clank and was well worth the literal hours of frustration and work and re-work. </div>
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These are all currently available in my shop, <a href="http://www.labellajoya.com/">www.labellajoya.com</a>, and I invite you to stop and read the story that goes with each. My heart goes into my work and I hope it comes back out when you see it. Fall is coming, and I'm looking forward to feeling it and living it and enjoying every minute with my family and seeing what kind of inspiration it brings. </div>
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I hope you're reading this and enjoying the place you're in as well. </div>
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Thank you so much for your support over the years, I couldn't build this without you. </div>
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<br />Marcie Abney Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07578434608830556772noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6699267054092534847.post-45066835849051046012015-07-27T13:47:00.001-07:002015-07-27T13:48:39.938-07:00Rock and a Hard Place <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
These little rings were inspired by difficulty, by the frustrating push and pull of life. </div>
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We call it stuck between a rock and a hard place. It's a place we don't want to be and that often times feels impossible to get out of. </div>
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This was the heart behind this design. </div>
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The rock, a tiny bit of turquoise and the hard place a ball of silver. </div>
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Taking something ugly and making it precious. </div>
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My current batch has sold out, but I'm offering a whole new batch Made to Order in your size and choice of stone. They range from $35 - $45 depending on the stone you choose. I'm offering these on Instagram as well (follow me @labellajoya), but if you don't have IG, please visit my website and contact me through the contact page to reserve (scroll to the bottom of the website). I'll create the listings as the reserves come in. </div>
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Have a wonderful week, bellas, and remember, "...deep roots are not reached by the frost." </div>
<br />Marcie Abney Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07578434608830556772noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6699267054092534847.post-5084913353034453212015-07-12T13:42:00.000-07:002015-07-12T13:43:12.822-07:00We are Star Stuff<div align="center">
We are star stuff. </div>
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Somewhere along the way, we've forgotten that. We traded star dust for chalk dust and sought to capture the eyes of man with a well-filtered selfie while forgetting the majesty we were born with. </div>
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We stare, night after night, in awe of the Moon, her ability to push and pull the oceans, to reflect and shed light where there is none, and even her ability to wax and wane, changing her shape to reflect the seasons and mark the passing of time. </div>
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She is unique. Callisto, Enceladus, Phobos...Saturn alone has 62 satellites but there is only one we call the Moon. She is a macrocosm of the microcosm we live everyday. We feel lost in a sea of seven billion moons, all circling different planets, but to someone or maybe a few someones, we are as majestic as that Moon and all her star stuff. </div>
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For someone, we move the tides of their life, pushing the waters down when they threaten to drown, giving light where there is none and if you look closely you'll see eyes gazing upward with the same sense of awe demanded of the Moon. </div>
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It doesn't have to be a child. I catch a glimpse of that gaze every now and then in my husband, my niece, even my mom when I've lifted a burden off her shoulders. </div>
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Remember who you were created to be and for whom your light was made to shine. </div>
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Bring down the Moon. </div>
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She's got nothing on you. </div>
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Bring down the Moon Rings in Turquoise, available in my shop: </div>
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<a href="http://www.labellajoya.com/">www.labellajoya.com</a> </div>
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Along with two new stacking ring designs.</div>
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Bring Down the Moon stackers. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ9OQxT15_4laAYOnPLz4KDM8O8YNElZXX2J3YQTvXoeDooYG9C2_sokhd3gZOQpsscYS5whgnymyETa73osVPcOlmxu2CHLk-Ht0jbH42sFFTV4Lu1U36L36PTSM4CZVFTSGp2kGoth4t/s1600/P7121894.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ9OQxT15_4laAYOnPLz4KDM8O8YNElZXX2J3YQTvXoeDooYG9C2_sokhd3gZOQpsscYS5whgnymyETa73osVPcOlmxu2CHLk-Ht0jbH42sFFTV4Lu1U36L36PTSM4CZVFTSGp2kGoth4t/s400/P7121894.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg03QMwx5yxSsgbWXojBfJ-rb7i1c7CX4yYLiUpijWaxYuklmXg-GvVJH-jMkWMM4eMMvik01ukXHX6jzoh4UjpAYNsYwTXFcEBAC5NojlalhRHs5TVrjiXwBkICEMTHjp7aCTSzoHR-_oN/s1600/P7121885.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg03QMwx5yxSsgbWXojBfJ-rb7i1c7CX4yYLiUpijWaxYuklmXg-GvVJH-jMkWMM4eMMvik01ukXHX6jzoh4UjpAYNsYwTXFcEBAC5NojlalhRHs5TVrjiXwBkICEMTHjp7aCTSzoHR-_oN/s400/P7121885.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Star Stuff Stackers. </div>
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Three granules of sterling silver, a cluster of stars. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZvKs4zBxqg_DXknW3V-LmPBcQrq9Z775j2o_NToHdyMdGX_1bprQZHru8kBvbleKAmkw7YSJqS0J8kZFdM7GjVxZm9gDQhkVFeEeU92-YSx8lgPoFmC3Nvmuj3wu-oDELbhnbo3pQNsu6/s1600/P7051861.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZvKs4zBxqg_DXknW3V-LmPBcQrq9Z775j2o_NToHdyMdGX_1bprQZHru8kBvbleKAmkw7YSJqS0J8kZFdM7GjVxZm9gDQhkVFeEeU92-YSx8lgPoFmC3Nvmuj3wu-oDELbhnbo3pQNsu6/s400/P7051861.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMvz13d7WZyOjoZVlVRY1CYL2tkax_ryFZcfhrKsfnXSJYwgBtooF9bqPflztMdHxvpCnyBYnSXZK-OguoDCVGH172N_6j9I5kKjK2lBQR83qTnOtH2_HBN9eJHmsCw-wYlZNZ9rAr5qM9/s1600/P7051859.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMvz13d7WZyOjoZVlVRY1CYL2tkax_ryFZcfhrKsfnXSJYwgBtooF9bqPflztMdHxvpCnyBYnSXZK-OguoDCVGH172N_6j9I5kKjK2lBQR83qTnOtH2_HBN9eJHmsCw-wYlZNZ9rAr5qM9/s400/P7051859.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Marcie Abney Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07578434608830556772noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6699267054092534847.post-70588689642866370052015-07-09T12:40:00.000-07:002015-07-09T12:40:16.121-07:00La Paz <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I'm calling this series of pieces based on heraldry, the La Paz collection. </div>
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In Spanish, the word means Peace. </div>
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While that may seem like a juxtaposition when you see the medieval shape and armored form, each shape and cut out has its own meaning, which I've put together for my own Coat of Arms. </div>
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These were my original thoughts when I began assembling this collection: </div>
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<span data-reactid=".1.0.0.0.2.1.0.0.1"><span data-reactid=".1.0.0.0.2.1.0.0.1.$text0:0:$end:0"><em>I have, for the past two years allowed my occasionally overwhelming feelings of anxiety far too much power, occasionally warranted, but most often not at all.</em></span><br data-reactid=".1.0.0.0.2.1.0.0.1.$newline3:0" /><span data-reactid=".1.0.0.0.2.1.0.0.1.$text4:0:$end:0"><em>The stag in this form traditionally represented peaceful strength, the strength of a warrior, capable of fight but unwilling to waste strength or energy until provoked.</em> </span><br data-reactid=".1.0.0.0.2.1.0.0.1.$newline5:0" /><span data-reactid=".1.0.0.0.2.1.0.0.1.$text6:0:$end:0"></span></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcL64sOKa2RFWqrN8ZCuB775V2XeqlaAAJvzGfInyRuYu-qApWVd5nVe8obRY7n0fZ2KM5Mf8OF9CdEUeLr0Lxm-BPBpHpn_mihpKqE_Z6JQEuoerojz99HCc1LsSiv4EcwQL-1z-GyLdy/s1600/P7091881.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="308" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcL64sOKa2RFWqrN8ZCuB775V2XeqlaAAJvzGfInyRuYu-qApWVd5nVe8obRY7n0fZ2KM5Mf8OF9CdEUeLr0Lxm-BPBpHpn_mihpKqE_Z6JQEuoerojz99HCc1LsSiv4EcwQL-1z-GyLdy/s400/P7091881.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span data-reactid=".1.0.0.0.2.1.0.0.1"><span data-reactid=".1.0.0.0.2.1.0.0.1.$text6:0:$end:0"><em>The crescent moon, two of them above the stag and two on the sides, which represent serenity and power to conquer the everyday.</em> </span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpe8llvdGlSL5R1Mm3nkyHU9XUU7BgxQPo9tQcZIkx_t1FzLCGScdGBCc-OVlwrl2Jaxnk2hXn87zq8-VbFakO54LBDhrMEd2L6nG-S-MNho9ge4d_fy5PYLi378wOTH63FVaCV-fmc-5B/s1600/P7091882.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpe8llvdGlSL5R1Mm3nkyHU9XUU7BgxQPo9tQcZIkx_t1FzLCGScdGBCc-OVlwrl2Jaxnk2hXn87zq8-VbFakO54LBDhrMEd2L6nG-S-MNho9ge4d_fy5PYLi378wOTH63FVaCV-fmc-5B/s400/P7091882.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<em>Along the side, a sword. Often seemed as a symbol of war, it actually stood for justice, which is one of the pillars of peace.</em> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq4jyXM-8peL9Vm7s1jke1-ttN1Z-bcExhyjymyOd09FFUbblPTHjnKd-kWnv_H5sBhCYkobJ6wiiPiL0Zy4EZTiErLvE9sR5XFYEYvTrg1OjzQrggYkSxkMyqqsNk2ccURO8ark0HeJrr/s1600/P7091885.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq4jyXM-8peL9Vm7s1jke1-ttN1Z-bcExhyjymyOd09FFUbblPTHjnKd-kWnv_H5sBhCYkobJ6wiiPiL0Zy4EZTiErLvE9sR5XFYEYvTrg1OjzQrggYkSxkMyqqsNk2ccURO8ark0HeJrr/s400/P7091885.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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The entire cuff, cut from copper, each piece hand cut as well and carefully assembled with sterling silver rivets, the final piece has been given an earthy patina. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq4he_VK7wkFGF5agu3adYKEuz_WXmiY-kxc3onxWIH5__hVy_4K_a0IkQn6bRYGCFVvIt9N4bl_Vdfwr7Vs0BwJr3R1cdCTtkYt22icUbHgrWQKsZvRnMLZ8DEI0uhfs7sAJYGO0QADUn/s1600/P7091888.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq4he_VK7wkFGF5agu3adYKEuz_WXmiY-kxc3onxWIH5__hVy_4K_a0IkQn6bRYGCFVvIt9N4bl_Vdfwr7Vs0BwJr3R1cdCTtkYt22icUbHgrWQKsZvRnMLZ8DEI0uhfs7sAJYGO0QADUn/s400/P7091888.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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The making of this piece, meant as much as the wearing. The heart that went into it, and the slow work of my hands...those are the things I've tried to capture in every detail. </div>
<br />Marcie Abney Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07578434608830556772noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6699267054092534847.post-83670797055747713172015-06-30T13:32:00.001-07:002015-06-30T13:32:29.839-07:00The Wanderer <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
"All that is gold does not glitter, <br />Not all those who wander are lost; <br />The old that is strong does not wither, <br />Deep roots are not reached by the frost. <br />From the ashes a fire shall be woken, <br />A light from the shadows shall spring; <br />Renewed shall be blade that was broken, <br />The crownless again shall be king."</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN_XXE37p7H0YKuBBTitFAxRjHamlhMS25nfyDPiNLVwigMxVszVT8qx0cmYZYgp931gcfip2DW1zCYkvkKPamUDwFLEBiLmiZGry7nnnGHkP9i9fh_yTQdlbsnEYHgeMhZkHRW4ttieHs/s1600/1-P6251900.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN_XXE37p7H0YKuBBTitFAxRjHamlhMS25nfyDPiNLVwigMxVszVT8qx0cmYZYgp931gcfip2DW1zCYkvkKPamUDwFLEBiLmiZGry7nnnGHkP9i9fh_yTQdlbsnEYHgeMhZkHRW4ttieHs/s400/1-P6251900.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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I think too often we catch snippets of Tolkien's words, but rarely them in their entirety. This poem, quoted again and again was about the King, who had committed his life to the protection of good and also to follow wherever that road took him.<br />
I wanted to capture that here. The idea is stones floating seemingly disconnected, but in reality, joined by one solid, flowing band of silver. One path with many stops along the way.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTklkcgMwWpfvKRcRZCssm1_wbyOYxg-KjLNrwNM51EhEDkcmAHJXJa7UTmF29nvPiIIYE-bsufHHCOGZCTpcr65vjYi_pRe-UDiczIthkXj3qYZy_1qUvwFn35vndLgbeCL0qGerPh9Cc/s1600/1-P6251890.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="307" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTklkcgMwWpfvKRcRZCssm1_wbyOYxg-KjLNrwNM51EhEDkcmAHJXJa7UTmF29nvPiIIYE-bsufHHCOGZCTpcr65vjYi_pRe-UDiczIthkXj3qYZy_1qUvwFn35vndLgbeCL0qGerPh9Cc/s400/1-P6251890.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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I've listed, on my website, three custom rings with these choice of stones. I have it set up so that you purchase the deposit now, with the remaining balance due as the rings are completed. </div>
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These are the stone options and each ring will be made in whatever size you'd like: </div>
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Two Labradorite flanking one rutilated quartz. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlZjOAS0mtgvfrflS3EM-AU-C-jqiKgil86pGViLStDjTXgtsTP-BclPaEnFGtYMsoNk3t6C6p12JYmU5LJMRhDoNCruvnHg5jtBaHdmgM5iqxvUiqGCLiLh5V4osr0M4ny8S8LElrP-vn/s1600/1-P6251909.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="308" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlZjOAS0mtgvfrflS3EM-AU-C-jqiKgil86pGViLStDjTXgtsTP-BclPaEnFGtYMsoNk3t6C6p12JYmU5LJMRhDoNCruvnHg5jtBaHdmgM5iqxvUiqGCLiLh5V4osr0M4ny8S8LElrP-vn/s400/1-P6251909.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Two Black Onyx and one Rutilated Quartz </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmhfQU1hR9iXp7cDaEmUCxg3XiS8apNWZpvmlnb_nPZETjp-JoL7nbB1iFFKZc4KZ4Z1i1oz2QWzHkwSiYsFhQ_WdzAQFGrRTHDAYZT81Mrkl0Tr6-MmJEwNxXxwTisSbGceNR_bXt3IDe/s1600/1-P6251913.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="308" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmhfQU1hR9iXp7cDaEmUCxg3XiS8apNWZpvmlnb_nPZETjp-JoL7nbB1iFFKZc4KZ4Z1i1oz2QWzHkwSiYsFhQ_WdzAQFGrRTHDAYZT81Mrkl0Tr6-MmJEwNxXxwTisSbGceNR_bXt3IDe/s400/1-P6251913.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Two Pyrite (Fool's Gold) and one Rutilated Quartz</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS9kcFZ-3i_02xRsw7jvoz78tSuxdCYJfPhOTaI5FAYSSpgE05E-7QTgYJSMO90ggr2HxC2Oz7-nsAcTewD3vX3I3lnE8mImcEbzlFgEYqLUJbdqJgXT5YFfODlW0PhYMGssl0Imdo4H71/s1600/1-P6251905.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="308" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS9kcFZ-3i_02xRsw7jvoz78tSuxdCYJfPhOTaI5FAYSSpgE05E-7QTgYJSMO90ggr2HxC2Oz7-nsAcTewD3vX3I3lnE8mImcEbzlFgEYqLUJbdqJgXT5YFfODlW0PhYMGssl0Imdo4H71/s400/1-P6251905.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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As I read the poem over and over, the images seemed dark and I wanted the stones to reflect that, but I also chose faceted stones to reflect the light. </div>
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These listings are on my website: </div>
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<a href="http://www.labellajoya.com/">www.labellajoya.com</a></div>
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Marcie Abney Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07578434608830556772noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6699267054092534847.post-87349351779459376722015-06-22T12:03:00.002-07:002015-06-22T12:03:48.813-07:00Special Offer! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
For today only, with every Bird on a Wire or Winged Thing sterling stacking ring that you purchase, I'll add a complimentary Slim Sterling Stacker free of charge! </div>
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These make great gifts and my customers have told me that they really love them as an everyday ring. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_gphVt61P4hCNgk_qxe-XNh6QSqljin2uwuKEl3FFJuEVTPJCBWOFeuWnjk1QRtz-95RuKRpFdNSAfuQIyL9ne3GNJUYaxTuFyNW20bCP63jVFRfWuAKRgX6lqrrysaZ2hGrOCQMMPHQR/s1600/1-P5171918.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_gphVt61P4hCNgk_qxe-XNh6QSqljin2uwuKEl3FFJuEVTPJCBWOFeuWnjk1QRtz-95RuKRpFdNSAfuQIyL9ne3GNJUYaxTuFyNW20bCP63jVFRfWuAKRgX6lqrrysaZ2hGrOCQMMPHQR/s400/1-P5171918.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPgMSkznsdhEdGMWNWhAXfRF9xmPXaeBsaoNYfKBi1D-1w8_RCM3NXGkk0eW-pe9ETvqVlIujAIshHI9WcM4TPqTMdiY_2G9XkJdgFeTdOy3fKJkCYgRkeRtLp3yYZ67edZ5Ff4F76V9mx/s1600/1-P5171908.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPgMSkznsdhEdGMWNWhAXfRF9xmPXaeBsaoNYfKBi1D-1w8_RCM3NXGkk0eW-pe9ETvqVlIujAIshHI9WcM4TPqTMdiY_2G9XkJdgFeTdOy3fKJkCYgRkeRtLp3yYZ67edZ5Ff4F76V9mx/s400/1-P5171908.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaQCwwiNR8clyp4EBBxdfKRHpzMKZfhw2zEMC4Lr3WfRAjPuUiFfuqJ1ejzvW4ZfIoRXCG15EjNWSiV-Usf_qFaoFvsh8FdU_TMzeCai89_kUZn64KI2Mrk1DH-sOu062JZwwOdjZjxXt0/s1600/1-P5171927.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaQCwwiNR8clyp4EBBxdfKRHpzMKZfhw2zEMC4Lr3WfRAjPuUiFfuqJ1ejzvW4ZfIoRXCG15EjNWSiV-Usf_qFaoFvsh8FdU_TMzeCai89_kUZn64KI2Mrk1DH-sOu062JZwwOdjZjxXt0/s400/1-P5171927.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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The offer is only good until midnight and only if you purchase through my website! </div>
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Here's the link: </div>
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<a href="http://www.labellajoya.com/">www.labellajoya.com</a></div>
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Thank you for supporting my work! </div>
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<br />Marcie Abney Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07578434608830556772noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6699267054092534847.post-28610420369309845712015-06-16T12:56:00.002-07:002015-06-16T12:56:51.423-07:00There and Back Again<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It has been so long since I've haunted this little space. </div>
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I haven't forgotten to write, it's just that lately, my words have been so tied to my work that I find the two inseparable and the stories are found with the listings to each piece, or on my Instagram. </div>
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But, as my blog feels more like a diary, it feels right somehow to leave the work of the past couple of weeks here on this page. </div>
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It is full of photos, but also of words. I hope they both inspire. </div>
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<em>La Paz Series</em></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHUtIyulPBwTrddeLijFie2FvUWT8GDGGvTcmVOdY2vhh3O0Ogzkj4oS7dF03t6Svi_phKPpXvrauy63eEPWdgpcYYJwLQcPDXBRrSOcauDJV0wPjz2erIHpKlpCbXXI4piSnnLsu80z7D/s1600/1-P5261821.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHUtIyulPBwTrddeLijFie2FvUWT8GDGGvTcmVOdY2vhh3O0Ogzkj4oS7dF03t6Svi_phKPpXvrauy63eEPWdgpcYYJwLQcPDXBRrSOcauDJV0wPjz2erIHpKlpCbXXI4piSnnLsu80z7D/s320/1-P5261821.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span data-reactid=".1.0.0.0.2.1.0.0.1"><span data-reactid=".1.0.0.0.2.1.0.0.1.$text0:0:$end:0">I have, for the past two years allowed my occasionally overwhelming feelings of anxiety far too much power. Occasionally warranted, but most often not at all, I built this beauty as a shield of peace. </span><br data-reactid=".1.0.0.0.2.1.0.0.1.$newline1:0" /><span data-reactid=".1.0.0.0.2.1.0.0.1.$text2:0:$end:0">It is my first attempt at a saddle ring and heavily influenced by heraldic imagery that has inspired me so much this year. </span><br data-reactid=".1.0.0.0.2.1.0.0.1.$newline3:0" /><span data-reactid=".1.0.0.0.2.1.0.0.1.$text4:0:$end:0">The stag in this form traditionally represented peaceful strength, the strength of a warrior, capable of fight but unwilling to waste strength or energy until provoked. </span><br data-reactid=".1.0.0.0.2.1.0.0.1.$newline5:0" /><span data-reactid=".1.0.0.0.2.1.0.0.1.$text6:0:$end:0">The crescent moon, two of them, which represent serenity and power to conquer the everyday. </span><br data-reactid=".1.0.0.0.2.1.0.0.1.$newline7:0" /><span data-reactid=".1.0.0.0.2.1.0.0.1.$text8:0:$end:0">The aquamarine, chosen mostly for color, blue gray, a cool color associated with calmness and peace and also my daughters birthstone. </span></span></div>
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<span data-reactid=".1.0.0.0.2.1.0.0.1"><span data-reactid=".1.0.0.0.2.1.0.0.1.$text8:0:$end:0"></span></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq98M3wO7N40QVMpT-W17WrMC8mxHOdvK4NzI9UqmlDA_HGHLFwqOEic4_QUk7kPi9LZYFxqpB2Ll2K6cSHuSE7BKbcjSMcBN4cy87mcL5KDFOpIGdbz9GADb21jKqpxlqV74dPna__bG0/s1600/1-P5261826.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq98M3wO7N40QVMpT-W17WrMC8mxHOdvK4NzI9UqmlDA_HGHLFwqOEic4_QUk7kPi9LZYFxqpB2Ll2K6cSHuSE7BKbcjSMcBN4cy87mcL5KDFOpIGdbz9GADb21jKqpxlqV74dPna__bG0/s320/1-P5261826.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span data-reactid=".1.0.0.0.2.1.0.0.1"><span data-reactid=".1.0.0.0.2.1.0.0.1.$text8:0:$end:0"></span></span><div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span data-reactid=".1.0.0.0.2.1.0.0.1"><br data-reactid=".1.0.0.0.2.1.0.0.1.$newline9:0" /><span data-reactid=".1.0.0.0.2.1.0.0.1.$text10:0:$end:0">Soldered on the curve to a saddle cut intentionally to resemble a shield. Every aspect of this ring a personal message sturdy enough to pass to the next generation. </span></span></div>
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<span data-reactid=".1.0.0.0.2.1.0.0.1"><span data-reactid=".1.0.0.0.2.1.0.0.1.$text10:0:$end:0">The pendant carries the same message, a slightly less dramatic but nonetheless powerful version of the ring. </span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ4XlzYd2jGba_DKjPo-cN7WWCKlZStMBfJCgXmjPYW955J-4N9h8oT76WzcPbF_ZjkwfYlcaOVoqgorJRl64YsNIdNDxzugBEodA1HawzIhvoXYUDkW5wjT9xnCM13T3DMB8MfQH0OImG/s1600/FullSizeRender.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQ4XlzYd2jGba_DKjPo-cN7WWCKlZStMBfJCgXmjPYW955J-4N9h8oT76WzcPbF_ZjkwfYlcaOVoqgorJRl64YsNIdNDxzugBEodA1HawzIhvoXYUDkW5wjT9xnCM13T3DMB8MfQH0OImG/s320/FullSizeRender.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
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<em>Ascend and Descend Series</em></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX3oAekcg8UoIzgbgFylVAYHAEgdrSFDS76nyHyjGbvsJz2STz4TxOvCfeaHqI7OQU6fVN6na2GRY5dflRBlcnuiwFXL6bR6196DjOmizC1cEcAXvZIEQYyKLERfizHdJdBuz7LH9ZJPqC/s1600/1-P6081849-001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX3oAekcg8UoIzgbgFylVAYHAEgdrSFDS76nyHyjGbvsJz2STz4TxOvCfeaHqI7OQU6fVN6na2GRY5dflRBlcnuiwFXL6bR6196DjOmizC1cEcAXvZIEQYyKLERfizHdJdBuz7LH9ZJPqC/s320/1-P6081849-001.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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We call them the Ups and Downs, the Mountains and Valleys and we vow to stay side by side as we walk through them. These are the metaphors, the images we conjure up to describe the hard times and the good times, the ascent and descent on life's road.</div>
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We've all been in the valleys, the air is thick and heavy, the ground wet and the heat relentless. And then there is the mountain, cold, clean air and a view that goes on for miles, placing the valleys in perspective.</div>
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This pendant is reversible, worn either to ascend or descend. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguG0DwTthEgCNsbH8HMSyAUW6JBi9CrIkW7j5zeZ5-sOF5JvhkUN6SyWAefOqBdSvVzqdL23FHHGUqra3_LW-5oTfvGM-UQSWQieXrAku1aoicpT3gB9nIySSt60YeI3u5ydMt8-LA0IDw/s1600/1-P6081858-001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguG0DwTthEgCNsbH8HMSyAUW6JBi9CrIkW7j5zeZ5-sOF5JvhkUN6SyWAefOqBdSvVzqdL23FHHGUqra3_LW-5oTfvGM-UQSWQieXrAku1aoicpT3gB9nIySSt60YeI3u5ydMt8-LA0IDw/s320/1-P6081858-001.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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The sun rises in this ring, or falls depending on how you slide it on your finger, or even whether your hand is upstretched to the sky, or weighted toward the ground. </div>
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The bulk of the ring has been given a dark patina and polished, but the sun is bright whether it ascends or descends. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWJZAV6E1rASS3RjCGbRwOxJYbWgHxvfB5Vq-iyAO1qLKmgko5yToykdLx5vc6nGpu1JuBc6Fln3lzR-zvluNSl0oXsTnkeDZDess94ZLjYOFP11Fe8wJkBLVKt8QlJK7EcSzDaNW7n7Im/s1600/1-P6081862.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWJZAV6E1rASS3RjCGbRwOxJYbWgHxvfB5Vq-iyAO1qLKmgko5yToykdLx5vc6nGpu1JuBc6Fln3lzR-zvluNSl0oXsTnkeDZDess94ZLjYOFP11Fe8wJkBLVKt8QlJK7EcSzDaNW7n7Im/s320/1-P6081862.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSECU-Od_WeFlic_CMi3SDNuHSZiWEUmqOhN4WYOdy3EYpDiZGgjA0XIAJL8ZVwWu1hntG8m3Xl0RGiawQt__ZZvpso-ds-H2lJPZ5kP8Imu58dRing8b-F2DAyNZqrLk-iHogRqI6N3EK/s1600/IMG_1802.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSECU-Od_WeFlic_CMi3SDNuHSZiWEUmqOhN4WYOdy3EYpDiZGgjA0XIAJL8ZVwWu1hntG8m3Xl0RGiawQt__ZZvpso-ds-H2lJPZ5kP8Imu58dRing8b-F2DAyNZqrLk-iHogRqI6N3EK/s320/IMG_1802.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<em>Tears of the Earth Ring</em></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3ISZM8baj-ZohIGRB0JtwINcIU_HN8YPn6M1diB8j69QWHjq7KAsZiE7wlhsT_gZnXlFrhclx-IWX9l0l0aTQ2rs3yFvj1iAd3NAgF3_TBjmR_j146ew3K07m51tSP99B3_h3aOf16QD1/s1600/1-P6151857.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3ISZM8baj-ZohIGRB0JtwINcIU_HN8YPn6M1diB8j69QWHjq7KAsZiE7wlhsT_gZnXlFrhclx-IWX9l0l0aTQ2rs3yFvj1iAd3NAgF3_TBjmR_j146ew3K07m51tSP99B3_h3aOf16QD1/s320/1-P6151857.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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I have seen landscapes in stones before, cut slabs of rock whose layers mimic the rise and fall of desert dunes, or whose color reminds you of a sunset, but this was new to me. </div>
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Look closely and it is as if the Earth cried tears full of mountains into this piece of Ocean Jasper. The perfection of an orbicular inclusion appears to ride high like the sun just above the jagged edge of a mountainside. It is truly a tear of the earth. </div>
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I've tried to capture its opposite on the back, a tiny cut out of a moon rising over the mountains, and a smoky quartz on the band. <br />I've placed the band slightly higher and ring sits low, flirting with your knuckle as you wear it. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYEifR30nwnj59y8Qd1XsPTaMjdVyMtKai3Ky2e8ofcHV-nsho6Z_2jd7EQ4XLZAK0B9TltprWPt1-lHXOhAjJEGHUoKXROiJ0FcJ1AqVQzjh9NDtcYz5CNhiAcnOzp3tMRJtGKw-puU17/s1600/1-P6151862.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYEifR30nwnj59y8Qd1XsPTaMjdVyMtKai3Ky2e8ofcHV-nsho6Z_2jd7EQ4XLZAK0B9TltprWPt1-lHXOhAjJEGHUoKXROiJ0FcJ1AqVQzjh9NDtcYz5CNhiAcnOzp3tMRJtGKw-puU17/s320/1-P6151862.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Finally, these: </div>
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<em>The Thing with Feathers Pendants</em></div>
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<em></em> </div>
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“Hope” is the thing with feathers - <br />That perches in the soul - <br />And sings the tune without the words - <br />And never stops - at all -</div>
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And sweetest - in the Gale - is heard - <br />And sore must be the storm - <br />That could abash the little Bird <br />That kept so many warm -</div>
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I’ve heard it in the chillest land - <br />And on the strangest Sea - <br />Yet - never - in Extremity, <br />It asked a crumb - of me."<br />-Emily Dickinson</div>
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The tiniest of pendants to remind you every time you touch it, that Hope is free, it is constant, and also, the most human of all the emotions.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs1K4hYoBOXlSHtbhuAEM21uBHBGkaZ18PwsEe2Xu0B4ph1_LDXVFPNuDgO4wzyMwf5aJdE5Gzd23eWxSmGdzQQfA1Q9aAA77Rgw6dty0UBrSKr-7GCnhyphenhyphenJiQLN2E5dCnDA7zd-L_HjIzP/s1600/1-P6151879.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs1K4hYoBOXlSHtbhuAEM21uBHBGkaZ18PwsEe2Xu0B4ph1_LDXVFPNuDgO4wzyMwf5aJdE5Gzd23eWxSmGdzQQfA1Q9aAA77Rgw6dty0UBrSKr-7GCnhyphenhyphenJiQLN2E5dCnDA7zd-L_HjIzP/s320/1-P6151879.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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These are all in my shop: </div>
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<a href="http://www.labellajoya.com/">www.labellajoya.com</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihgPUkwnlUSMvkJ1QJ6yF1JEVmw7DoICPW53Vgj5SQdd7xRswCQJg3C5K5E9Vv0w6yr_MtLGFdAJmUEeLjOn5trzoj2Tzd5Wzx2yOA-YcC1Tm2Qi3f6hw7pODiqWnxQao5riCkhf3-0RSa/s1600/1-P5261832.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a> </div>
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<br />Marcie Abney Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07578434608830556772noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6699267054092534847.post-42012899058529649672015-05-14T18:14:00.001-07:002015-05-14T18:14:07.485-07:00To the new. To the lovely. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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A Rise Above Ring. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3hbbV62mKpSztJO_DQ18RtxvOf3ru8PrfpFN-sbhN-3EtxCWbkOAffz8c8IOVdD3hhht9q2s3qm5l5ipjNdk3xF942h5hYgK_bqQP8byACYfQBjnClbXIxpUjgkpKofXZ3wlFe0NZiZ60/s1600/1-P5101819.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="308" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3hbbV62mKpSztJO_DQ18RtxvOf3ru8PrfpFN-sbhN-3EtxCWbkOAffz8c8IOVdD3hhht9q2s3qm5l5ipjNdk3xF942h5hYgK_bqQP8byACYfQBjnClbXIxpUjgkpKofXZ3wlFe0NZiZ60/s400/1-P5101819.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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A teardrop of turquoise, a band of feathers. A reminder to flap hard your wings and rise above what holds you down, even if it means you have to ruffle some feathers.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWDzk8TtdzWAD1nloIIzVhqXKz68foXL4PU2ORjxevXaZFUyt3IrcY1u1iXrYQQp9fvSrZBaGM5Xq1HkDDhIWPiifmbGEE5G2fyItlsB90ivcAFHCep5oXOsqOCVsj_cFjO3uH2d0ktc3B/s1600/1-P5101820.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="310" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWDzk8TtdzWAD1nloIIzVhqXKz68foXL4PU2ORjxevXaZFUyt3IrcY1u1iXrYQQp9fvSrZBaGM5Xq1HkDDhIWPiifmbGEE5G2fyItlsB90ivcAFHCep5oXOsqOCVsj_cFjO3uH2d0ktc3B/s400/1-P5101820.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Two Prosperidad Moonstone Rings. </div>
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The roots of prosperity stem from the harvest. We have, traditionally, looked to an abundant harvest to signify the year's prosperity. We devised celebrations to mark the harvest, filling Horns of Plenty to the brim and overflowing with the fruits and vegetables of our labor. In Latin America the new year rings with twelve grapes, consumed before midnight to ensure prosperity for the year ahead.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgumIJcVAYsNJCZ8rPDcUdmHjScMqvT3JIfN1jCBpwGa6yi_Ayg1GkM3VhRDxjc_jH_50SWrjEf0fzWCvSm5Dm0e5RCbgHJ0W-Wc2FKVBWSX4QE9CAFPL_O5_uEO-WL0WObT_LFeRLzjDQE/s1600/1-P5141823-001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="308" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgumIJcVAYsNJCZ8rPDcUdmHjScMqvT3JIfN1jCBpwGa6yi_Ayg1GkM3VhRDxjc_jH_50SWrjEf0fzWCvSm5Dm0e5RCbgHJ0W-Wc2FKVBWSX4QE9CAFPL_O5_uEO-WL0WObT_LFeRLzjDQE/s400/1-P5141823-001.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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I created this design with prosperity in mind, the little sterling silver granules on the left and right hearken to handfuls of grapes and the moonstone in the center a nod to our moon which controls tides and marks the seasons.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNd1cC77WUAu9DT0BZmCSNEcpANNC1-72RPNGd-OgMhyphenhyphen1_UKnJJ5F5M54kwom5KgRNliznIKbJRF1wdZfVzQa0THcYgQ05lJSuwg0Tc0JVfAE8L7AkNdHYwyU4LqVF0DVC385uMaT8JFMa/s1600/1-P5141826.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="308" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNd1cC77WUAu9DT0BZmCSNEcpANNC1-72RPNGd-OgMhyphenhyphen1_UKnJJ5F5M54kwom5KgRNliznIKbJRF1wdZfVzQa0THcYgQ05lJSuwg0Tc0JVfAE8L7AkNdHYwyU4LqVF0DVC385uMaT8JFMa/s400/1-P5141826.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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These rings are about abundance. Not every moment in our lives will be abundant, not every moment overflowing like a horn of plenty, but if that time is here, celebrate it, and if it's not, wait for it. <br />"There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens." - Ecclesiates 3</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkBhj1Xu871gsbfibbyVEyAj8s9nqBG6hqp-lTLs6q_UrW3ANq3mj6kyYxBSUzMo1xHmUnU4aDeqDeitSyJF6B3Asrbkin5i1RPCboDLGlz17RTmAA-WDsvyhIBJOzDgHWS2EAHmdXF35h/s1600/1-P5141832.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkBhj1Xu871gsbfibbyVEyAj8s9nqBG6hqp-lTLs6q_UrW3ANq3mj6kyYxBSUzMo1xHmUnU4aDeqDeitSyJF6B3Asrbkin5i1RPCboDLGlz17RTmAA-WDsvyhIBJOzDgHWS2EAHmdXF35h/s400/1-P5141832.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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In the <a href="http://www.labellajoya.com/" target="_blank">shop</a>. </div>
<br />Marcie Abney Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07578434608830556772noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6699267054092534847.post-43756029103009226032015-04-30T13:47:00.000-07:002015-04-30T13:47:08.213-07:00La Bella Joya It was an opportunity that didn't come along everyday. The chance to see and touch gems cut by the hand of an award-winning artist; amethysts and garnets, tsavorites and tourmalines, aquamarines...the list goes on. I knew I was out of my league before I even left. <br />
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I dressed to the nines. Hoping that my nicest shoes and make-up would somehow make my bank account bigger than it really was, and all the while wanting above all things to not look like I didn't belong. My husband saw it too, I'm guessing it was the shoes. He didn't join me that night, opting instead to watch the little one, and on my way out, he said something to me that I'll never forget. <br />
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"Please remember no matter what you see tonight, that you are the most valuable thing in that room."<br />
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It was hard to believe as a little parcel of gems came my way with a cool $23K listed on the price tag, but as the night wore on and brightly colored earth candies one after the other slipped in and out of my palms, I realized he was right. <br />
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Everyday I create under the title of <em>La Bella Joya</em>, the Beautiful Jewel, head full of rubies and emeralds, sapphires and pearls, and even turquoise and agate. But that night my husband reminded me who the real Beautiful Jewel was, it's me. It's him. It's our daughter. It's my niece and nephews, my sisters, the list goes on. The beautiful jewel, <em>la bella joya, </em>is the irreplaceable. It's you. <br />
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There will always be more amethyst, there will always be another ruby, but there will never ever be another me, and there will never ever be another you. This....this little offering is for you. <br />
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You are valuable. <br />You are beautiful. </div>
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You are...<em>bella</em>. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTjJxvfe-1KTc5z3oRpD2WYQ5of9xr3uItiU-Lr2KTVRQH09t8q6lSFtzsgDM9s0gMj1JwObdGl-vq63HUDZSEpAMYHBBErSmgzT246rsp1PmeUhUDKIkO4IxiyToRptyl8pYL8ue-1Pla/s1600/1-P4301833.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTjJxvfe-1KTc5z3oRpD2WYQ5of9xr3uItiU-Lr2KTVRQH09t8q6lSFtzsgDM9s0gMj1JwObdGl-vq63HUDZSEpAMYHBBErSmgzT246rsp1PmeUhUDKIkO4IxiyToRptyl8pYL8ue-1Pla/s1600/1-P4301833.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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In the <a href="http://www.labellajoya.com/products" target="_blank">shop. </a></div>
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Marcie Abney Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07578434608830556772noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6699267054092534847.post-18247426810372904272015-04-24T13:35:00.002-07:002015-04-24T13:35:32.779-07:00LAST DAY! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It's super busy around here so I'm gonna post and run but I just wanted to let you know that TODAY, </div>
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April 24, 2015 is the LAST DAY to order Mama Bird Stackers and have them arrive by Mother's Day! It's too late for the Bird on a Wire Necklaces as I simply can't get them made and shipped by Mother's Day. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVhz17XCNuNp07jZ7cEMdAQaRE29r522Bm2kX5szBfge2QrkD1MtQA76atFlfNNq9V8D2PlEagGm5bOGGD8mSsWTauNURNymXzzyBQbfJgk6jpMUH4N7-z2a_qhST3_m6i1SPL3qrYMiAL/s1600/1-P3210204-002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVhz17XCNuNp07jZ7cEMdAQaRE29r522Bm2kX5szBfge2QrkD1MtQA76atFlfNNq9V8D2PlEagGm5bOGGD8mSsWTauNURNymXzzyBQbfJgk6jpMUH4N7-z2a_qhST3_m6i1SPL3qrYMiAL/s1600/1-P3210204-002.JPG" height="494" width="640" /></a></div>
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Also, my new Rise Above Solid Band Rings are in the shop!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOjvKKh6_csR3G0k0aUeUb-B5ss0Iuay2LEIkyvGn2qQKb3tDutk7cp7ldSFleuX5f3lsgnt0Lan9C6BXhu3EdUsX4hW__aV2zhW9_WyCW2ZnWCQXqCQXQPyzu77XfjU2VdP1RaAVQ75Ja/s1600/1-P4231818-001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOjvKKh6_csR3G0k0aUeUb-B5ss0Iuay2LEIkyvGn2qQKb3tDutk7cp7ldSFleuX5f3lsgnt0Lan9C6BXhu3EdUsX4hW__aV2zhW9_WyCW2ZnWCQXqCQXQPyzu77XfjU2VdP1RaAVQ75Ja/s1600/1-P4231818-001.JPG" height="494" width="640" /></a></div>
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I really like the idea of these as graduation gifts. </div>
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They are made to order in any of the sizes I have available. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHU-kpJamS4LHrpdU65qwL7aiNp2Kp8f3yBMJmGq1GXpJ0CPNChqVCsS-4IF0ccYqOKRw0KqOI_4WPIaBjUXTol8UHhAagkpgk18MD4t09S31cyqkoMmAbZgmgj1-gtLcemO9qROOQUghv/s1600/1-P4231822.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHU-kpJamS4LHrpdU65qwL7aiNp2Kp8f3yBMJmGq1GXpJ0CPNChqVCsS-4IF0ccYqOKRw0KqOI_4WPIaBjUXTol8UHhAagkpgk18MD4t09S31cyqkoMmAbZgmgj1-gtLcemO9qROOQUghv/s1600/1-P4231822.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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Please visit my website for more information and to read the story behind these newest rings: </div>
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<a href="http://www.labellajoya.com/">www.labellajoya.com</a></div>
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Sorry for the post and run but I'm on dinner duty!! </div>
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Have a great one y'all!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrpBlv0cT2nxgGmUlqXZuMNRMSKzIvEK9-qP2l0ZPOSqME5NF1AHAgoRtEe4VgomW4M33jXiV2f-U0i6QHnq0WppIxSpDnqrRxDd5ypxxhf78PHrrj8geVQcRCukUAujCkMs_OwfClpzzJ/s1600/1-P4231830.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrpBlv0cT2nxgGmUlqXZuMNRMSKzIvEK9-qP2l0ZPOSqME5NF1AHAgoRtEe4VgomW4M33jXiV2f-U0i6QHnq0WppIxSpDnqrRxDd5ypxxhf78PHrrj8geVQcRCukUAujCkMs_OwfClpzzJ/s1600/1-P4231830.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />Marcie Abney Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07578434608830556772noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6699267054092534847.post-73611772027393894552015-04-12T14:40:00.002-07:002015-04-12T14:40:30.125-07:00Spring Cleaning <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Spring has sprung around here and we are truly enjoying the longer days, warmer weather and plenty of time spent with face to the sun. <br />
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And just as the freshness of Spring brings on the marathon house cleaning sessions, I'm finding my mind doing a little house cleaning as well. </div>
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It's far too often that my mind hurls me into this whirlwind of self-doubt and questioning of my abilities when the work of my hands isn't as productive as the work of someone else's. </div>
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"What's she got that I don't?" </div>
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"Why are her designs so much more popular than mine?" </div>
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It's a beyond vicious cycle that really puts you into a free-fall spin. </div>
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The result is this "design-to-sell" mentality that doesn't have place in the mind of someone whose goal is to be an artist. If my goal is to make money, it doesn't take a genius to do a little market research (i.e. scan the<a href="https://www.etsy.com/browse/mothers-day-gifts/jewelry?h=978ea7a1&lid=204929065&ref=cat_subcat_title_0" target="_blank"> Etsy Jewelry page</a>) and figure out what the trends are. </div>
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But is that really me? </div>
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Do I want to simply pour resources and time into creating a mini production house or do I want to reach for something way <a href="http://www.saulbellaward.com/" target="_blank">higher</a>?</div>
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Am I content with my skill set or do I want to add to my cache of knowledge, challenging my hands and heart to stretch their capabilities to leave behind me a body of work that my children will one day consider hidden treasures and not antiquated trends? </div>
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It's sad to me that I would even begin to equate my level of talent with the money that it generates (or doesn't). <br />Ridiculous. </div>
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Also ridiculous that in my work I'm essentially exchanging a precious metal which has shown to hold its value over time for a fiat currency that hasn't. </div>
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This is the kind of Spring Cleaning I'm talking about, a sweeping out of the junk that clutters the creative mind and allowing that space to be filled with the beauty of what I'm seeing day to day. </div>
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A baby growing into a girl, a bush that was just branches suddenly alive with color, a nest full of eggs destined to be a flock of birdies, and even the growth of my fully grown sisters into kind and confident women. </div>
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I'm also learning about my craft, immersing my self in stone and silver, studying gems and their birthplaces, but also the traditions of silversmiths going back generations whose work allows our work to be possible. Trying to suck every ounce of productivity out of the precious moments when I'm not needed by anyone else but my bench. </div>
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These latest designs are mine. They feel like me, and they come from a place that is really very real to me. They are made to order in my shop, which may collide with my desire to not do production work, but is it production if each whack of the hammer and stroke of the saw produce the real work of my hands and heart? </div>
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No. </div>
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To me, that feels like sharing. Each bangle, each charm, each band is my way to share with others the work of my hands and heart, the design dictated not by the fleeting trend of a celebrity or the say-so of a fashion mag. </div>
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The closest I've come is my stacking rings, though I feel like <a href="http://www.labellajoya.com/category/rings?page=2" target="_blank">Mama Bird</a> is the center of my stacks and the other <a href="http://www.labellajoya.com/product/simple-sterling-silver-stacking-bands-in-hammered-and-brushed-finish" target="_blank">bands </a>and<a href="http://www.labellajoya.com/product/sterling-silver-solito-birthstone-rings-one-ring" target="_blank"> stones</a> were made to complement her. </div>
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Here is the work of my hands this week: </div>
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Each of these items is in the shop as a Made to Order item. </div>
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The first are my <a href="http://www.labellajoya.com/product/copper-feather-bearer-bangle-made-to-order" target="_blank">Feather Bearer Bangles</a>. I currently have copper in the shop, but am working on a silver version. Each feather is hand stamped, the bangle is cut from the surrounding sheet (by my own two hands and <a href="https://instagram.com/p/1MB8AzB2vq/?taken-by=labellajoya" target="_blank">gigantic saw</a>) and the final version given this lovely dark patina so the feathers just jump off the bangle. </div>
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These little <a href="http://www.labellajoya.com/product/sterling-silver-solito-birthstone-rings-one-ring" target="_blank">Solito Rings</a> were made to complement my Mama Bird, but I've had some requests for them on their own, so they are also in the shop, and I'm currently offering them in the same stones as my birthstone rings. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT2kV6Et13aBtVes4XTzL9K-kKl74ggL7UryXDsDc8esExs4SfdVSkqvd9cQO-xqkv_zocYsXGKtdh8SwFAEu5bx-XqwoeVG6yMQ8jpUan-IOz879f51ZgPYHmYsMeO4Ye5Mu-atx-8E4A/s1600/1-P4101803.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT2kV6Et13aBtVes4XTzL9K-kKl74ggL7UryXDsDc8esExs4SfdVSkqvd9cQO-xqkv_zocYsXGKtdh8SwFAEu5bx-XqwoeVG6yMQ8jpUan-IOz879f51ZgPYHmYsMeO4Ye5Mu-atx-8E4A/s1600/1-P4101803.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigts8ZEHXCHwZCqxcNLaWpWZUZuVGo9QKyaPaVlBIEmXupFkoKYQaKHDwkfoEDX8NITSfpKFNnGWc1XSe-qyBXUQAbVHXrlKr_lQy1omnugi3JE5FL8jWZS_6vY_xE6mz6ghrl34l-POiD/s1600/1-P4101801.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigts8ZEHXCHwZCqxcNLaWpWZUZuVGo9QKyaPaVlBIEmXupFkoKYQaKHDwkfoEDX8NITSfpKFNnGWc1XSe-qyBXUQAbVHXrlKr_lQy1omnugi3JE5FL8jWZS_6vY_xE6mz6ghrl34l-POiD/s1600/1-P4101801.JPG" height="308" width="400" /></a></div>
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Finally, my<a href="http://www.labellajoya.com/product/la-pluma-ring-in-turquoise-and-sterling-silver-made-to-order" target="_blank"> Pluma Rings</a>. </div>
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Sterling Silver Feathers jingle and jangle with a turquoise drop from a 5mm band. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2kimgA6AJdpyj3o8X3cb-vYFjWz9URn8mFCnbY154NofPl6z-TTecn6AFeM8_FLJxAvlAQsZYGg0f2iP9CI-FNUM-NAYfENCzCzQa5ZPYSwH-dnWv0t6sWeQaDOJL3pccoeKnGwBkkOMh/s1600/1-P4020204.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2kimgA6AJdpyj3o8X3cb-vYFjWz9URn8mFCnbY154NofPl6z-TTecn6AFeM8_FLJxAvlAQsZYGg0f2iP9CI-FNUM-NAYfENCzCzQa5ZPYSwH-dnWv0t6sWeQaDOJL3pccoeKnGwBkkOMh/s1600/1-P4020204.JPG" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr0DZj521Ll7AZYmlcCxtL2vAjXosOZIUGFMzl1qP8qc3CAyq0sE4qnA1x_hSWgztXRxyl48yNwg3CVn54UsKzdSISWLs3H9MnO6FP9qTYzXxv0a6Ll1F-7otChwTWdaxzGOXWvURLZdKV/s1600/1-P4020201.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr0DZj521Ll7AZYmlcCxtL2vAjXosOZIUGFMzl1qP8qc3CAyq0sE4qnA1x_hSWgztXRxyl48yNwg3CVn54UsKzdSISWLs3H9MnO6FP9qTYzXxv0a6Ll1F-7otChwTWdaxzGOXWvURLZdKV/s1600/1-P4020201.JPG" height="308" width="400" /></a></div>
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The best part about prototyping is that I get to keep the finished product and this little guy hasn't left my thumb since I made him and my most loyal customer (my sis) has already ordered one. </div>
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Thank you for stopping by to read this and I hope you're having a lovely Spring! </div>
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Once I find an idea, I have to run with it, see where it takes me and how it leads. </div>
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Often, it takes me where it wants to go, and I'm really just along for the ride. </div>
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I felt this way with this collection. </div>
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It started with the stacking rings, and I'm enjoying wearing my own set that I created and have been so honored and humbled by the response I've gotten for them. </div>
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But this is the crown of the collection if you will. </div>
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This Birds on a Branch Pendant. </div>
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I created this pendant to represent, not the babies, but the mamas, at each point in their lives carrying their babies. Each bird, a different form, a different shape and at a different point along the branch. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgcgH0TwxwMu6kQVMmWKBSKoVPaXxZVezV3nkA_yRjGfCnSAIdBlLmbtI89hL_RQtrgGjQwDEozm6LdAH1jW4ua9FiqChd_zA1qxEVxSPa57ZbFpgFh1ifnCXBeVzhzZlSsE6xbOGfN6iI/s1600/1-P3230197+(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgcgH0TwxwMu6kQVMmWKBSKoVPaXxZVezV3nkA_yRjGfCnSAIdBlLmbtI89hL_RQtrgGjQwDEozm6LdAH1jW4ua9FiqChd_zA1qxEVxSPa57ZbFpgFh1ifnCXBeVzhzZlSsE6xbOGfN6iI/s1600/1-P3230197+(2).JPG" height="308" width="400" /></a></div>
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This particular one was created for a Mama with four babies, but I've already had orders for fewer babies and am willing to customize your pendant the way you need it even down to one little birdie. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOpGvshkyjwKZfJgpBHXlAYZBnb80vQ6r9tUhZbrEAvv8eJ7on4Sccs7xyHda1gBbKnczLTEVNSXLX4rirWYqP5bRHfJjqY7ezwoK5Z-5_8aEvWpIBV8aKeuMGY6tOT8cBPnbhE3_L6Zxj/s1600/1-P3230211.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOpGvshkyjwKZfJgpBHXlAYZBnb80vQ6r9tUhZbrEAvv8eJ7on4Sccs7xyHda1gBbKnczLTEVNSXLX4rirWYqP5bRHfJjqY7ezwoK5Z-5_8aEvWpIBV8aKeuMGY6tOT8cBPnbhE3_L6Zxj/s1600/1-P3230211.JPG" height="310" width="400" /></a></div>
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These feel extra special to me, I don't know why and I can't explain it, my sister and I have remarked how sometimes birthstones can clash when you bundle them together, but this gives each stone life to me. The birdies aren't meant to be the same, just like the babies aren't the same (that was indeed the reasoning behind my decision to offer a mix of faceted and smooth stones). </div>
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However, together like this, they just feel like they belong. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdaBP7HkZP_4h9GqFpmDaUyIx5SKBbBI-IufutPAOk04oeWesspIvC00rj_hy3wszVfLWDXDc8zziiW0Iywi_KPrRu1rrsYLNsklp2_BIFp3EwxEFB9Y_5_2DzzlwX5a_A4HFS1Uni8S44/s1600/1-P3230190+(3).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdaBP7HkZP_4h9GqFpmDaUyIx5SKBbBI-IufutPAOk04oeWesspIvC00rj_hy3wszVfLWDXDc8zziiW0Iywi_KPrRu1rrsYLNsklp2_BIFp3EwxEFB9Y_5_2DzzlwX5a_A4HFS1Uni8S44/s1600/1-P3230190+(3).JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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If you would like more information about these necklaces or the rings, please visit my<a href="http://www.labellajoya.com/" target="_blank"> website</a>. </div>
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Also, please remember the deadline of April 15th! I don't want anyone to miss out, but this is a one-woman show here and I also can't stretch myself too thin! </div>
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I hope you have a wonderful Spring and are enjoying the (slightly) warmer air! </div>
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Thank you also to those of you who have commented on these pieces, the encouragement goes straight to my heart and is indeed a great push to become better. </div>
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Thank you. </div>
<br />Marcie Abney Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07578434608830556772noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6699267054092534847.post-52145372644806317152015-03-22T13:09:00.001-07:002015-03-22T13:09:44.408-07:00For the Mothers <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span data-reactid=".9.0.1.0.1.0.0.1.0.0.0:0.1.2:1.$text0:0:$text0:0">I had the opportunity this week to spend some time really touching and admiring super high end jewelry. I was in awe of the skill and craftsmanship, but driving home I looked at my freshly polished Mama bird stacker and new instantly that this was the kind of jewelry I want to make. The kind that is accessible to the average woman.</span></div>
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<span data-reactid=".9.0.1.0.1.0.0.1.0.0.0:0.1.2:1.$text0:0:$text0:0">I want the Mamas who wear these rings to be reminded every time they look at them of that first glimpse they had of their little one, of the night feedings, and afternoons at the park, the baseball games and late night test crams. I want to make jewelry that touches the soul and today it's the Mama soul. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNtcLgZdDzG7R-M4Iv4y1OtAg1UaKcKK46KvD09qHkB68dwMxCrKij3pmJdaW2pFZ52Lz8BFrpv8esZvPDEBarYqM_59I4R06eUdsCddFXfZqNyvyvRkbtjQo5An9ILF26qg4hfbGZu1-q/s1600/1-P3210204-002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNtcLgZdDzG7R-M4Iv4y1OtAg1UaKcKK46KvD09qHkB68dwMxCrKij3pmJdaW2pFZ52Lz8BFrpv8esZvPDEBarYqM_59I4R06eUdsCddFXfZqNyvyvRkbtjQo5An9ILF26qg4hfbGZu1-q/s1600/1-P3210204-002.JPG" height="308" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDwOJTbjFa4PbrVFQKvTuIBkHRQzMSZ9GTkIwphLGnBR_ae4K5mdRVyid2ZUAnEwxBwJIDy4y86Q8EiggFSKLO5azEuk-HURusm3WrKe_O3qJC_sLJh3FpUUOWcfek4kfL6HeIGxjE4hlJ/s1600/1-P3210208-001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDwOJTbjFa4PbrVFQKvTuIBkHRQzMSZ9GTkIwphLGnBR_ae4K5mdRVyid2ZUAnEwxBwJIDy4y86Q8EiggFSKLO5azEuk-HURusm3WrKe_O3qJC_sLJh3FpUUOWcfek4kfL6HeIGxjE4hlJ/s1600/1-P3210208-001.JPG" height="310" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKpBdoDoPxJh5nEAzc6eLJ9xcEpYenU6wdanT5_s0RDOEHos10-rol2tXO-d0Uye3V4eiWFdK4QIKjdQ9zXu2i2KHzZt62xBBFC-0d3HraKv5GGqsH6TYLQ57l4yd0L18Q68ceTLStcOUl/s1600/1-P3210200-001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKpBdoDoPxJh5nEAzc6eLJ9xcEpYenU6wdanT5_s0RDOEHos10-rol2tXO-d0Uye3V4eiWFdK4QIKjdQ9zXu2i2KHzZt62xBBFC-0d3HraKv5GGqsH6TYLQ57l4yd0L18Q68ceTLStcOUl/s1600/1-P3210200-001.JPG" height="308" width="400" /></a></div>
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Each Mama bird is hand cut by me from sturdy sterling silver and each stone is set by hand. I form and fabricate every band and finish it off with a lightly hammered texture and dark patina. </div>
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<br />The stones are shown in the final photo and when choosing stones for these sets of rings, my initial thought was to choose just the shiny faceted stones, but children aren't all the same, are they? So, the stones will reflect that, some faceted with a few extra cuts and some smooth with a softness of color to celebrate the differences that are these little ones we love so much. </div>
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<span data-reactid=".9.0.1.0.1.0.0.1.0.0.0:0.1.2:1.$text0:0:$text0:0">These are in my shop now and are limited edition, I will only keep the listings open until April 15th and then they will be closed. They are in both my <a href="http://www.labellajoya.com/" target="_blank">webstore</a> and<a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/LaBellaJoya?ref=hdr_shop_menu" target="_blank"> Etsy</a>. Thank you to those who have already contacted me and I'm honored to be a part of the way you've chosen to honor the Mothers in your life.</span> If you know you won't be able to make complete payment by then, please contact me, I would love to work with you! </div>
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I also created this <a href="http://www.labellajoya.com/product/plume-agate-and-gaspeite-doublet-feather-bearer-ring-size-7-5-8" target="_blank">double Feather Bearer ring</a> with this amazing Spring Green Gaspeite and Plume Agate Doublet. This ring is hefty and gorgeous and I also think perfect for Mother's Day. If you missed my story of the feather bearer, please jump back a couple of posts. It has inspired this small series of rings. </div>
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<br />Marcie Abney Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07578434608830556772noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6699267054092534847.post-13727260108039901032015-03-17T12:52:00.001-07:002015-03-17T12:52:43.755-07:00A Shield for your Heart <div style="text-align: center;">
And I will say no more. <a href="http://www.labellajoya.com/" target="_blank">In the webstore</a>. </div>
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<br />Marcie Abney Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07578434608830556772noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6699267054092534847.post-2488646058016064572015-03-04T19:41:00.002-08:002015-03-04T19:41:40.217-08:00You've been served. Today in my e-mail I received from Etsy my official notice that they had registered for an IPO with the SEC. I don't trust any of these people as far as I can throw them, and also I'm not a huge fan of this statement that was included in the letter: <br />
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<em>"The SEC is the government agency that oversees IPOs. SEC rules require a "quiet period" around IPOs, meaning we are limited in what we can say on the topic, even to Etsy employees and the Etsy community. Most of the time, we'll have to say "no comment" to your questions, and I understand that may not be satisfying.</em> </div>
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So I took it all as though I'd been handed divorce papers, and after the rocky relationship that Etsy's been having with the rest of the true makers, I say, it's high time this relationship ended. </div>
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As far as the statement above.....I know, I know, it's the government, yadda yadda...you have to obey the law, yadda yadda...but it all feels wrong to me not to mention I don't think it's in the original spirit of Etsy, so...what did I do? </div>
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I JUMPED SHIP! </div>
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I decided that this time I was gonna put my money where my mouth is, and so I did. I've got my own website now! Yup! Here it is: </div>
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<a href="http://www.labellajoya.com/">http://www.labellajoya.com</a></div>
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Crazy, right?! Original, I know. But there it is! I'm slowly working through some of the design kinks and I've already listed a bunch of Made to Order items, but so far I'm very pleased with how it's coming out! </div>
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I've heard the most horrible things about how Etsy's been handling the reaction to it going public, even so far as to delete entire forum conversations to keep up appearances. I'll be slowly phasing out of Etsy, even moving my digital downloads to my website as soon as I can work through the logistics of that. In the meantime, here is my newest little ring: </div>
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I'm calling it the Winged Things Ring. A tiny feather perched on your finger. </div>
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Also in the shop are Made to Order Sterling bands so you can turn your Winged Things ring into a stacker. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivD5qDIqZcb9l0-1EjX3jNFVTT9_s628ICrb4fNgN1knIFtNn-d3q3FYR1bwd5YSmgUy1bl7HGgREe0VOwL1ndlsjgzfwIHBZLBnZPypgwux3WirhRflqxqIOAZKqXOvejDa8jxn9M1kVD/s1600/P3030222-001.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivD5qDIqZcb9l0-1EjX3jNFVTT9_s628ICrb4fNgN1knIFtNn-d3q3FYR1bwd5YSmgUy1bl7HGgREe0VOwL1ndlsjgzfwIHBZLBnZPypgwux3WirhRflqxqIOAZKqXOvejDa8jxn9M1kVD/s1600/P3030222-001.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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Tiny Bird on a Wire Stackers. </div>
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And, some of my Tribal Sliders that have been popular. </div>
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These are also Made to Order. </div>
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Rise Above Bangles in the shop, and you can choose your size. (There's nothing worse than a bangle that doesn't fit.) </div>
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Oh, and also, anything that you see in copper can be made in silver!</div>
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All listed here: <a href="http://www.labellajoya.com/">www.labellajoya.com</a> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1tBjJHVupDzCML4oekinbaOYbLRZD-ndIxUBpV6esb4Z-rXDrFApr9HTkX82glgVk6KY8ol8XCfSyp9W-wsI20bpz1P_4r-C3Qr61-Pj_DrQzdIpwlrxeigHBUZq90GzZOuTpVIsIx8x4/s1600/PB171640.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1tBjJHVupDzCML4oekinbaOYbLRZD-ndIxUBpV6esb4Z-rXDrFApr9HTkX82glgVk6KY8ol8XCfSyp9W-wsI20bpz1P_4r-C3Qr61-Pj_DrQzdIpwlrxeigHBUZq90GzZOuTpVIsIx8x4/s1600/PB171640.JPG" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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I can't thank you guys enough for helping to make this possible. If you've purchased something from me (or even if you haven't), I would greatly appreciate you sharing my website with friends and family to help me get the word out. </div>
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Also, if you have Instagram, I post new work there constantly @labellajoya. </div>
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I did a giveaway on IG recently, and will probably work on doing one here very soon. </div>
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Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! </div>
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Enjoy the rest of your week! </div>
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Marcie Abney Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07578434608830556772noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6699267054092534847.post-3949415704552642452015-02-17T13:55:00.002-08:002015-02-17T18:52:09.982-08:00To Etsy, who made like a million dollars off the woman who made like a
million dollars on Etsy...Let me first preface this by saying, I'm a free market kind of gal. I believe in true capitalism (not the crony crap that runs our current economy, mind you) mostly because in a free market, the people choose the winners and losers and if you create something that meets a need then you'll be rewarded justly. It's the only truly free choice for free individuals (off soap box). <br>
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So, when I read this <a href="http://www.fastcodesign.com/3042352/how-one-knitter-makes-almost-1-million-a-year-on-etsy" target="_blank">recent article</a> about the gal who makes bookoos of money selling on Etsy, I thought...good for her. She deserves to have a thriving business that provides for herself, her family, and the other people that she employs. I believe in small businesses as the engine that should run this country. They are far less likely to get involved in lobbying for govt. policies that favor some and hurt others, and they are far more likely to offer employees some level of autonomy which ultimately creates for a much happier employee. I think it's the American Dream to be your own boss (or at least be close enough to the man up top that you could sit down and drink coffee with him). <br>
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That said, I'm here to do the free market thing and tell you that I think that unfortunately, the real enemy of handmade on Etsy is....well, Etsy. I know, "don't bite the hand that feeds you". Unfortunately, a lot of people who used to be fed very well from Etsy are now scrounging around the table of investors and wholesalers and those with the capital to outsource production. <br>
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My husband cringed when he heard that Etsy was going public and because I don't understand the stock market very well, he gave me a brief StockMarket 101 entry level course that left me with a bad taste in my mouth. Etsy is very different from most publicly traded businesses. Most businesses are in control of overhead/production/sales/advertising and they can balance these things to meet the demands of the market, and therefore their shareholders. <br>
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I find it interesting that Etsy (who has got some <em>cajones </em>I might add) chose to go public when they as a company don't DO anything by means of production. Sure, you could say they produce a website, a platform, yadda, yadda. But all of the money coming in and going out of Etsy depends on me and my hardworking artist buddies who trusted Etsy to give them a place where they would only be competing with each other. Artists have always had to compete with cheap international imports, Etsy was the place to go when you wanted to buy quality and connect with the maker and bravo on them for doing such an excellent job...until now. <br>
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I'm pretty sure it started with them allowing us to outsource production and I will admit that they tried their darndest to insure that it was done with ethical standards. If you haven't read the application it's <a href="https://www.etsy.com/help/article/4644" target="_blank">here</a>, but I'll just give you some of the highlights that really jumped out at me. <br>
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<em>We’d like you to describe:</em><br>
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<li><em>The step-by-step process of designing and creating an item with the help of a manufacturer</em></li>
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<li><em>How you, the seller, developed the concept</em></li>
<li><em>Your material sourcing and selection</em></li>
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<li><em>And any further role you have in the creation of the item</em></li>
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<em>You should also <strong>include images demonstrating your design process</strong>. Photos of your original sketches, plans, patterns, prototypes, or any other steps in the development of your designs should be uploaded here. </em><br>
<em>We’re particularly interested to see <strong>how you communicated your designs or ideas</strong> to your manufacturing partner. If you have images of your manufacturer’s facilities and/or the production process, you can share those too.</em><br>
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There's more, but let me wrap it up so you can understand: KNOW your manufacturer, KNOW what kind of labor is being used to create the pieces that you designed, BE TRANSPARENT when it comes to telling your customers about your pieces and where they were made. That one is pretty huge to me because while Etsy wants to know every single detail about your manufacturer, they let you off the hook and provide a "keep my manufacturer private" button that allows you to effectively hide all that info from your customers. <br>
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Back to the girl that makes loads of money for....ahem...from Etsy. I was shocked to read this in the article: <br>
<em>Not all the items are entirely handmade by Shaffer’s team—many, like the knitted legwarmers, socks, and gloves, are sourced wholesale from India. "We finish them here, adding lace trimmings and buttons," Shaffer says. The profit margin from such imported items is 65%.</em> <br>
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Wha? 65%? Let's do the math....that means that the $28 pair of socks was purchased at a cost to her of roughly $10! Well, sew a button on me, I'm done! <br>
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I was also pretty surprised to read this in one of <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/94824305/leather-wrap-watch-bracelet-watch-womens?ref=shop_home_active_4" target="_blank">her listings</a>: <br>
<em>This watch we have manufacturing assistance to produce this watch. We simply put the bands onto the watch once you have ordered. We do not make the actual watch face but put our two designed pieces together.<br><br>The watch is a costume watch. What does this mean? It means that it MAY not keep the most amazing time as the batteries do seem to die rather quickly. So please know that we will not be able to replace or offer any refunds if the watch is not keeping time. We love it pretty much just for the fashion aspect of it ;)</em><br>
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I'm pretty sure I can get one of those from Target, with MADE IN CHINA stamped on the back label. <br>
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Here's the deal: There is nothing inherently wrong with sourcing materials from overseas (unless of course the labor conditions are atrocious). I can rattle off a list of places that I myself shop at where my shirts, jeans, shoes, scarves, dishware and home goods are probably made overseas and then brought here. <br>
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But C'MON ETSY! These places were never meant to both exist in your buffet of listings! Money corrupts and I'm pretty sure that the little "cha-ching" that you hear on your Etsy app was the only sound running through the minds of Etsy's CEO's when they made their recent decisions. I know I'm not the only one who feels this and I'm certainly not the only one who's expressed their opinion about it. Will it change? Probably not. <br>
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BUT, like I said, I believe in the free market, and the power of the consumer to drive it. So, what can I do? I can choose to be VERY selective when I use Etsy. To make sure that if I can't tell clearly WHO made the product, HOW they made it, or WHERE it was made, I'm not buying. <br>
EXCEPTION (at least for me): If they outsource using someone located in the U.S. whose name is clearly labeled and listed and the relationship between the two is clearly defined. (Is it so wrong for me to ask that Etsy make sellers FOLLOW THEIR OWN RULES!?) <div>Of course, if I do happen to find such a shop, on Etsy, I think my first order of business will be to find out if they have a Big Cartel or alternative site and spend my money there. <br>
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Is Etsy going to see a mass exodus? No. Ya' know why? They've done a great job of advertising their site as a place to get good stuff. Am I going to leave? No. Ya' know why? It's currently the only place where my items could potentially be found, especially when I don't have enough time or $ to start my own website. <br>
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Last but not least, we can talk to each other. If you know of a great shop on Etsy that meets the above requirement, please tell someone you know, and if they ask you where you got your necklace/tie/purse/mug, make it a point to remember the name of the shop, not just "I got it on Etsy!" <br>
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It's sad that it's come to this point with Etsy. If they really had <em>cajones</em>, they'd go back to their roots and stand for the community of artists who gave them their success in the first place. The truth is that one day they'll overstep their bounds and someone else will open Alterna-Etsy, and they'll be obsolete because they refused to do what they promised to in the beginning. <br>
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Until then, it's up to us to be conscious and cautious consumers and unfortunately we have to do that now in the one marketplace that promised us we wouldn't. <br>
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As for the girl, making bookoos of money? I'm glad she's doing so well, and I hope that her dream of being a household name gets fulfilled. It'd be cool to see somebody who got their start on Etsy with a line of brick and mortars that's filled to the brim with cool stuff. But, if she's not producing each and every piece of what she's making, then she doesn't belong on Etsy. (Well, the old Etsy). <br>
<br></div>Marcie Abney Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07578434608830556772noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6699267054092534847.post-21324960988190287652015-01-29T19:20:00.000-08:002015-01-29T19:20:01.380-08:00My Armor, My Shield <div align="center">
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"Write what you know." </div>
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This is the advice they gave me in high school when we started the creative writing portion of my high school English class. </div>
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I'm proud of these silver shields. </div>
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I feel like I know them. </div>
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They take me back to Sir Gawain, to Arthur and Lancelot. I feel like I'm watching Ladyhawk again or Joan of Arc. More recently, I'm reading Tolkien, or T.H.White, or George R. Martin. </div>
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I didn't live in medieval Europe, but that day that we walked through Westminster Abbey, I felt like I could have. </div>
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This ring was the first born of the collection. The sword represents justice, and also honor while the antlers represent strength. </div>
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The aventurine is rose cut, so as you're wielding that sword, you'll see a bit of flash as the stone catches the light. </div>
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The cut out sword is also on the inside of the band, a hidden detail that only you will see. </div>
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The Moon and the Stag came next, the moon representing serenity. I like the beautiful combination of strength and serenity represented by the two images together. I chose the dark lapis to float above the moon. </div>
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And included the moon on the band. </div>
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These are two smaller rings inspired by the heater shields and sporting small rose cut stones. </div>
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This ring has the sash or bend, to signify protection and the amethyst. </div>
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This one is a simple double heater shield with a smoky quartz. </div>
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Two shields to keep with you always. </div>
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All rings, currently in the <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/LaBellaJoya?ref=hdr_shop_menu" target="_blank">shop</a>. </div>
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And to those of you following this journey of mine who've left me a comment or a note of encouragement, whether here, or Facebook, or Instagram. </div>
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Thank you. </div>
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Thank you. </div>
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Thank you.</div>
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I know I can't always respond, but I do read and it means so much. </div>
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Marcie Abney Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07578434608830556772noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6699267054092534847.post-72200741621884661342015-01-24T14:01:00.000-08:002015-01-24T14:01:57.214-08:00Do I have what it takes to be me?<div align="center">
<span id="goog_1917690648"></span><span id="goog_1917690649">Two weeks ago (has it been that long?!) I took my husband's zippy red hatchback up the road to Fuquay-Varina and held court with her majesty, Jessica Jordan of Rosy Revolver fame. </span></div>
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She taught me to set one stone on top of another, changed my creative life with a little thing called Prips Flux (oh, and the miter jig) and showed me a myriad of other techniques to take my metal smithing to the next level. </div>
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The whole experience boosted my confidence and encouraged me to take what I had learned and make it mine. I hold on to this sentiment fiercely as I have watched in the past two years as trends have trickled into the jewelry industry only to be overworked to the point of please...kill it before it dies. </div>
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I've also watched as perfectly good and talented budding artists have chained themselves to these trends, even stooping so low as to copy...yes, I said the "c" word...copy the work of other artists in an attempt to cash in on not only the popularity of the trend, but also the artist whom they have copied. </div>
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It's depressing really. </div>
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I found an artist on Etsy last week who was literally copying the work of another Etsy artist (albeit, with slightly different bells and whistles) and I couldn't help but ask myself if her sentiments were really hers. Who did it first? Who sawed out that first dang deer with antlers...AH!! There, I said it. (Of course, these artists aren't to blame for the gluttonous amount of antlers on the market, no, for that...I blame Anthropologie.)</div>
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I was acutely aware of this the whole time I was with Jessica last week. </div>
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She has a style that is all her own, it comes from the life she's led, the books she's read, the family she's loved, the places she's been and a million other influences that are uniquely hers. </div>
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That being said,</div>
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I would like to explain my style, the inspiration and influence that drove me to saw out...wait for it...antlers! (AH!!) </div>
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For this, you'll have to come with me to middle school. </div>
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I had a history teacher, Mr. Bender, that made everything about history seem amazing. He had lived most of his life in Scotland and having been steeped in medieval history, he passed that love along to me....he didn't mean to I don't think, but excitement is infectious. </div>
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I had never read <em>Le Morte d'Arthur </em>but we did in his class and I'll never forget watching this actress with black curly frizzy hair portraying Guinevere on the tv and me thinking, "That's me!!" </div>
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Of course, one fairy tale naturally leads to another and after that my library trips mostly consisted of wizards and knights and ladies with bell sleeves, but also hobbits and dwarves and dragons. Oh, and Knights Templar and the Holy Grail with a bit of chivalry thrown in. </div>
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So you see, last week after I made these: </div>
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The itch was still there to capture the imagination of that little girl who painted her room with blood red walls and cut up calendars by Edmund Blair Leighton to hang above her bed. </div>
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So I turned to antlers, but I also turned to imagery. I remember Mr. Bender talking about the Coat of Arms, the heraldic symbols used by medieval knights and families to represent themselves and their proudest moments. </div>
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Each image meant something, each moon, each sword, each laurel, each fleur-de-lis said something to your foe or friend that did not need words. </div>
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With my heart and hands, I'm creating a collection, a legitimate assemblage of an idea that has been blossoming in my heart since I was a girl fueled by the people I've known, the books I've read, and the cities I've visited (there is nothing like a jaunt through the Tower of London to make you want bell sleeves). </div>
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It started with the midi rings and it's continuing here: </div>
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The antlers of the stag represent strength and fortitude. </div>
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The moon represents serenity. </div>
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The sword, justice and honor. </div>
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They are mindfully combined to mean something for the wearer about the wearer and they are only the first in a series of pieces, all with meanings drawn from traditions that are centuries old. </div>
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I'm working when I can and I hope to show you everything in the coming week. </div>
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In the meantime, I hope you have what it takes to be you, I know I'm working with heart and hands to be me. </div>
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Marcie Abney Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07578434608830556772noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6699267054092534847.post-53749566710482964012015-01-11T14:07:00.001-08:002015-01-11T14:07:01.650-08:00Midi Medieval Buckler Rings <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We went and saw the final installment of the Hobbit the other day. </div>
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May I just say, Tolkien is one of the few authors that I truly admire. The world he has created feels so real, and it did for me long before Peter Jackson made it so. </div>
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Inspired by that film, I created these: </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh24xZCUB8tVxV0G_g5aptlqVCeC1MhgmvoN_W99KQS1xqXDGEAUfYi5RuFtjE8_DtOh7lLeD6x33GJWLWkqDgKe3-t51UTXQz3lJFDpCHx_KwuRhKaayMIoV4eV2cWXOMkEwBuG6QYB-ay/s1600/P1110002.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh24xZCUB8tVxV0G_g5aptlqVCeC1MhgmvoN_W99KQS1xqXDGEAUfYi5RuFtjE8_DtOh7lLeD6x33GJWLWkqDgKe3-t51UTXQz3lJFDpCHx_KwuRhKaayMIoV4eV2cWXOMkEwBuG6QYB-ay/s1600/P1110002.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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I'm calling them Buckler Rings. The Buckler was a small, round shield that could be hung from the belt and was most often used in hand-to-hand combat. </div>
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Medieval Heraldic images are sawn from even tinier shield shapes and soldered onto the hammered copper. The bands are riveted on. I wanted the ring to look beat up and weathered, as if it had been dug from an Arthurian archaeology site so there's plenty of texture and a dark patina. </div>
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The Tree symbol in this form, with branches and bare trunk represents growth and new life, a starting over. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbfV0VLWXJcR15n3UFzbw3Gz6kvOQBCynASOn5t5LB3BqwYsMMDqd9hTHbXDSAI3G_Gccc1DtftRn_MYWuxCGuC8N6C67Q1OREDYeIQyfatyGPS9VRttbkLl58NIqN8HmYJCcBXh-y05n1/s1600/P1110005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbfV0VLWXJcR15n3UFzbw3Gz6kvOQBCynASOn5t5LB3BqwYsMMDqd9hTHbXDSAI3G_Gccc1DtftRn_MYWuxCGuC8N6C67Q1OREDYeIQyfatyGPS9VRttbkLl58NIqN8HmYJCcBXh-y05n1/s1600/P1110005.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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The outline of the antlers represents strength and fortitude. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnqoYVswahP_HlMISzxXhO7c3AP-fVBDaPX6RaO8_Z8DcU3eDqjuQ9oIp5FVG-6TsGhr6YzG9zQ73gsw97FaxhgnwKrzgD1fDQRCLBMbSaThByy1bsiOclTx9tK4Z8TQd7mbI91S9Dym0x/s1600/P1110008.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnqoYVswahP_HlMISzxXhO7c3AP-fVBDaPX6RaO8_Z8DcU3eDqjuQ9oIp5FVG-6TsGhr6YzG9zQ73gsw97FaxhgnwKrzgD1fDQRCLBMbSaThByy1bsiOclTx9tK4Z8TQd7mbI91S9Dym0x/s1600/P1110008.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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Finally, the Fleur-de-lis, while being the Royal symbol of France, also signifies purity or loyalty. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY3y6nOixmYccy5iRFFPaYkQfRUUd7BS75k_xL-e6K14bp1fWmQ0PiUmDXP8iYphk2Lo3_bo-gA6sX7KO6OuZIL5GFEDhOi4_3eWG04t90A2tMO1MJo-uvFmfZ42j6CTPEzM_lrfW46X6D/s1600/P1110010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY3y6nOixmYccy5iRFFPaYkQfRUUd7BS75k_xL-e6K14bp1fWmQ0PiUmDXP8iYphk2Lo3_bo-gA6sX7KO6OuZIL5GFEDhOi4_3eWG04t90A2tMO1MJo-uvFmfZ42j6CTPEzM_lrfW46X6D/s1600/P1110010.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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The best part? </div>
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They're Midis. So when you wear them, they have this definite armor-esque quality that will have you reaching for your sword and shield. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1ddowZBlVlcJ1WUbuuu_FonBb_MqSjJ_CKzhGNwe629Wc79EmGma_sDmhbZ0FOSZukQs8-BkB76g0LhH0vAekYJ9x-_RUma74NRpqsFHNyd2cEy5GDCcva-bXv6_qSQWBY9Nri7-zhEv0/s1600/P1110013.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1ddowZBlVlcJ1WUbuuu_FonBb_MqSjJ_CKzhGNwe629Wc79EmGma_sDmhbZ0FOSZukQs8-BkB76g0LhH0vAekYJ9x-_RUma74NRpqsFHNyd2cEy5GDCcva-bXv6_qSQWBY9Nri7-zhEv0/s1600/P1110013.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpnq0pxCYMP3AJeQp48jcl8Cn6W5MbjAbnLY7mq5SuE1ayPmhQtqSZa4xq4g9MHattj9gQokA9lo61OUIB0eOGyZmaC8sLwPCathbsQfVqgR0W3fYdpirFOQBDxN7q6oNRuFcdUAdTbLlH/s1600/P1110015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpnq0pxCYMP3AJeQp48jcl8Cn6W5MbjAbnLY7mq5SuE1ayPmhQtqSZa4xq4g9MHattj9gQokA9lo61OUIB0eOGyZmaC8sLwPCathbsQfVqgR0W3fYdpirFOQBDxN7q6oNRuFcdUAdTbLlH/s1600/P1110015.JPG" height="640" width="638" /></a></div>
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In the shop,<a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/LaBellaJoya?ref=l2-shopheader-name" target="_blank"> here</a>. </div>
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Fare thee well, my good ladies. </div>
Marcie Abney Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07578434608830556772noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6699267054092534847.post-80998373664013927422014-12-21T13:23:00.001-08:002014-12-21T13:23:49.446-08:00FLASH SALE! <div style="text-align: center;">
I know I haven't been around much, but I've had a great Holiday season so far! </div>
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I've been working like a busy bee packing up and shipping out orders and I've also been spending a lot of time with the family just hanging out and enjoying the season. </div>
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Also, my head has been buzzing with new ideas for laminate this season, so to celebrate, I'm having a flash sale! </div>
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For the next 24 hours I'm offering HALF off any laminate piece in my shop! </div>
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Use the code RECYCLED50 and get 50% off feathers, birdies, bangles, even the wrap bracelets! </div>
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I know it's too late for it to get here for Christmas, but it's definitely not too late to snag some components for your magazine submissions for the upcoming year and also treat yourself with a slightly belated stocking stuffer! </div>
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I hope you have a wonderful holiday and my next post will definitely be a show and tell of what my family received for Christmas! (obviously, can't show that yet!) </div>
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<br />Marcie Abney Carrollhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07578434608830556772noreply@blogger.com0