Wishing I could use my cat to model my jewelry...

I can't believe how great this idea is. I've just got to show everyone I know!

http://nymag.com/daily/fashion/2009/10/more_proof_cats_are_in_united.html

Vacation Inspiration

Here are some photos from my recent trip to El Salvador and Honduras! I was most inspired by their use of shapes- stones in the pyramids, geometric ironworks on the windows, etc. It seemed like every building was muted yet colorful and had a different design worked on the windows and doors. I wish I'd taken more photos of them! The quatrefoil window I've seen before and already have in my collection, but the other shapes and twisting of metal is coming soon! I was also inspired by the parade I saw for Chalchuapa's feast week. The parade was full of pagentry and mystery, everyone wearing costumes and gowns, and there was an awesome dance/display of the costumed local folklore characters that was really cool.

Mother's Cross

So I recently finished this lovely custom piece I have been working on for about the last two weeks. It is a 14k gold mother's cross. The birthstones are for her and her husband, their two children and their wives, and all the grandkids. I think it turned out really great, what a lovely anniversary gift it made!

Has it really been over a month??

Sorry readers! I guess I let time get away from me... I had a busy August, and I guess it shows! I had intended to update more not less! In the span of a month I took two vacations, one to New Orleans, and the other to El Salvador and Honduras, and I had some awesome professional photos done. So, lots of new inspiration! I have officially named my two collections and am working really hard to get some new items to round them out. Christmas is also right around the corner, and I am making more pieces for that too. So, more updates to come as I share my inspirations and projects with you! To tide everyone over, here are my Jonathan Garza Photography photos. http://www.garzajon.com/

I moved my bench

People are always interested in a jeweler's bench and workshop area. It's like a secret world where magical things happen, and ugly pieces of metal and stone are created and polished up into beautiful shining pieces of jewelry. My bench was formerly located in the garage area and is now in residence in the studio. It's a lot calmer in there, and air conditioning is a real plus!! The first pic is the new location. I even have room to hang up my mirror and I also put up my favorite woodcut print of a pinball machine!

New Photos!

I just had some professional photos done with Don Couch photography. (http://dcphotos.com) They look great!

Etsy Shoppers

After having my items up on etsy for a while and adding, updating, and watching who views and adds what to favorites, I have determined that people like animals. Especially elephants! And the color blue. And things that are large and interesting. My blue elephant pendant is the most quickly viewed item on my site. Who would have thought? Note to self- make more elephants!

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=22774841