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Top 10 Highlights from the Dazzling Tucson Gem Show!

Wire Lux meeting

One week later and I’m already missing the excitement “high” you get from exploring the magical Tucson Gem Show!

Meeting Linda from Alacarte Clasps was an extra special treat! She demonstrated how to use her amazing WireLuxe products and wow, I have to say I was really impressed with her extensive knowledge and creative ideas.

Wire Lux Options

Her innovative product compliments Swarovski Crystal colors and effects exceptionally well. Just look at all the color options that you can bend/twist/ mold these bracelets or necklaces into virtually any shape. So fun, creative and beautiful!

Wire Lux and Swarovski Crystal Design InspirationBeautiful design idea using the WireLuxe, Swarovski Crystal Mesh, the 6470 Ellipse Pendant and the 6525 Wave Pendants in Light Amethyst. (please contact me for the Crystal Mesh options – we can order anything Swarovski makes!)

pearl necklace design inspiration

Elegant necklace design inspiration highlighting Swarovski Gold and Bright Gold Pearls with a 4547 Baguette Fancy Stone in Crystal Copper surrounded by a gold setting.

geod face

You never know what you’ll find around the next corner! This stunning work of art was made entirely out of natural crystals and geodes. SO AMAZING!

 flower amethyst geod

Nurtures’ beauty always astounds me! Look at this perfect white crystal flower blossoming within this amazing amethyst geode!

 swarovski crystal mesh rhinestones

Here a sparkle, there a sparkle, everywhere a crystal sparkle! Rolls and rolls of colorful Swarovski Crystal Cup Chains and just dreaming of who or what they will adorn!

Druzy with 5040 Swarovski Rondelle Bracelet

Getting the dizzies with druzies! Loved this sparkling crystal encrusted druzy bracelet using Swarovski Crystals 5040-4mm in Crystal Silver Shade.

 Swarovski 5600 Cube Ring Purple

Creative with Cubes! This is a Swarovski Crystal 5600 Offset Cube encrusted in a rhinestone setting!

Swarovski Cluster Cube ring

Clustered Cube Ring with 5600-6mm and 8mm Offset Cubes dance on my finger!

service doggie

Last but certainly not least…this adorable service pup with pink bows and all bringing smiles to all the visitors!

Oh you lovable Tucson Gem Show…I miss you already!

Swarovski Heart Beads

If you attended the Tucson Gem Show this year or a previous year, I would love to hear all about it! Please share your special experience!

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Wire Luxe ~ Luxurious Knit Wire for Jewelry Making

Wire Luxe Bracelet Design and tutorial

Beautiful Swarovski Crystal Bracelet using WireLuxe.

WireLuxe is a special new kit wire, designed a striated open weave center and tight knit edge. This unique combination creates a soft, flexible, lightweight knit with a firm structure that can be manipulated into different shapes by simply pulling one or both edges.

Bracelet using WireLuxe

Jewelry artisans and crafters alike will love the versatility, metallic shimmer and rich colors. WireLuxe is also perfect wear as is, or spice it up with a variety of sparkling options. You can embellish the WireLuxe with seedbeads, or for an extra glamorous look, glue or attach on SWAROVSKI ELEMENTS such as Swarovski flatbacks, Cupchains (contact us for details), BeadsPendants and Sew-On Stones to name a few. 

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Bracelet Design and Instructions

The WireLuxe is very flexable and durable providing a variety of design options – straight, curved, zigag or any combination. Now you can create a wide band necklace that curves, shapes, conforms and lays flat around your neckline!
• cut with scissors, self-locking knit won’t unravel
• tarnish resistant, nickel-free
• easy to clean, simply wipe with a water-damp jewelers or lint-free cloth

Swarovski Crystal Pave Bead Jewelry Design Inspirations

Gorgeous jewelry design inspirations using the Swarovski Crystal Pave Bead Collection and thread onto WireLuxe for an easy application and very unique look.

Watch this helpful video tutorial on how to use WireLuxe and be inspired to create gorgeous sparkling designs!

Swarovski Elements Rainbows of Light

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DIY Swarovski Crystal Charm Bracelet Design and Instructions

Swarovski_Summer_Bracelet_Free_Design_and_InstructionsBracelet Design Inspiration ~ Summer Grace Charm Bracelet made with SWAROVSKI ELEMENTS

DIY Swarovski Crystal Charm Bracelet Design and Instructions below.

I was sitting in the middle seat of an airplane the other day chatting with the people next to me and the gentleman to my left complimented me on my Swarovski crystal bracelets which grabbed the attention of the young lady to my right.

She perked up and said enthusiastically, oh yes gorgeous, I love Swarovski crystals!

It’s certainly wonderful to meet people who love and admire Swarovski Crystal Beads as much as I do. They were very impressed that I had made the jewelry myself, which I have to admit, felt really great that they appreciated my designs so much. It got me thinking about the status of the Swarovski brand. I suppose the age old saying “you get what you pay for” really applies to crystals. Yes, Swarovski is a higher end product because of its superior quality, clarity and faceting structure, yet it remains affordable to many people, of whom especially value excellence. People appreciate and are always drawn to exceptional products.

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People have also truly embraced the idea that they can do many things themselves. The DIY market has exploded in popularity recently and it’s because when you make something yourself, there is an added benefit of feeling talented, skillful and capable of achieving things on your own.

Self sufficiency, now that is universally a very powerful feeling!

There is a genuine sense of pride when you take the rains and accomplish things yourself! You automatically infuse more value into what you have done, you appreciate it more and the enthusiasm that comes from creating something beautiful is poured into your next project, the next and the next. You come to the realization that you yourself are creating a continuous cycle of creativity, joy and self expression that is fun and immensely rewarding!

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In the spirit of “Do It Yourself” here is a beautiful Swarovski Crystal Charm bracelet waiting to be made by you!

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SWAROVSKI ELEMENTS

Sew-on Stones 3265-26×21 mm Crystal Silver Shade

Swarovski Beads
Art. 5000-4 mm Mint AlabasterArt. 5301-8 mm Pacific OpalArt. 5601-8 mmViolet Opal,

Swarovski Pendants
Art. 6401-8 mm Light RosePacific Opal, Art. 6401-12 mm Light RoseArt. 6650-22 mm Crystal Silver Shade Squaredelles Art. 5920-4mm Silver Crystal, or you can use; Squaredelles Art. 5920-4mm Gun Metal Crystal Or Squaredelles Art. 5920-8mm Silver Crystal

Materials

Toggle 18 mm, Silver, Jump Ring ø 5 mm, Silver Jump Ring ø 8 mm, Swarovski 5940 Silver Head Pins

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Swarovski Elements

Have a sparkling summer!

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Swarovski Color and Trend Inspirations Spring/Summer 2015 – Romantic Theme

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Welcome to the SWAROVSKI ELEMENTS Spring/Summer 2015 Color and Jewelry Trend Inspirations ‘Traces of Time’

The trend and color inspirations below focus on the Romantic – Sunset Rituals theme.

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ROMANTIC

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SUNSET RITUALS

This theme is based on the ancient tribal whisperings and sage teachings of our earliest ancestors, guiding us toward the things that really matter – food, shelter, and water.

A spirit of sustainable self-reliance makes creative use of everything found along life’s path to shape a personal vision.

For designers, fashionistas there remains a continuing strong demand for and emphasis on stories for their products. We currently desire a digital detox, encapsulated in the rise of the notion of becoming “unplugged” and the trend toward “mindfulness.”

A focus on nature’s immense power is echoed increasingly in design forms, structures, and materials.

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THE MOOD

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Romantic jewelry is inspired by the lifestyle and beliefs of the desert tribes, concentrating more on the emotional value (e.g. talismans) than the technical execution.

Raw materials found in nature are used with shapes and surfaces, often left untouched, in irregular and rough forms with a strong focus on Crystal Pearls.

There is a reduction in fashion with the use of multifunctional pieces: a single piece of cloth doubles as a shawl, sarong, or a turban – offering shade, protection, or warmth – for a life on the move.

The rise of the tribe gains more prominence as people continue wishing to belong. As high-tech individuals we feel disconnected from Mother Nature; natural and primal designs help us reconnect with the earth.

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SWAROVSKI PRODUCT INSPIRATION

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Shapes are inspired by purely organic creations to embrace the “imperfect perfection” trend.

Small and large crystals blend together to create nature-inspired compositions. Swarovski Pendants and BeCharmed Pave Beads and BeCharmed Spike Beads become ancient tribal treasures – collected and cherished. Matt, sand-like surfaces are brightened up with Mini Size Beads.

The vibrant Tangerine and apricot tone of Crystal Brandy, along with the warm deep brown hues such as Crystal Golden Shadow, Light Colorado Topaz, Light Smoked Topaz, Smoked Topaz, and Crystal Copper, awaken memories of summer sunsets over haunting desert landscapes.

Jewelry designed by Auden

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SWAROVSKI COLOR AND STYLE INSPIRATIONS

Featured colors and styles include 5056 Mini Drop Bead in Crystal Golden Shadow, 5055 Mini Rectangular Bead in Crystal Golden Shadow, 4568 Cushion Fancy Stone Crystal Golden Shadow, 5840 Swarovski Baroque Pearl in Petrol, 4320 Pearshape Fancy Stone in Crystal Astral Pink, 1088 Round Stone in Crystal Astral Pink, 5328 Xilion Bicone Bead in Crystal Astral Pink, 80801 BeCharmed Pave Metallic Beads in  Copper Brushed Metallic, 5054 Mini Rhombus Bead in Crystal Rose Gold, 5056 Mini Drop Beads in Crystal Rose Gold, 80501 BeCharmed Pave Cabachon Beads in Crystal Golden Shadow5750 Skull Bead in Crystal Silver Night, 1122 Rivoli in Smoked Topaz, 5000 Round Bead in Jet Nut 2X, 4228 Xilion Nevette Fancy Stone in Crystal Bronze Shade, 6017/G Crystalactite Pendant in Crystal Golden Shadow, 3251 Spacecut Sew-On Stone in Crystal Bronze Shade. (We can order anything Swarovski makes, so please contact us for any color or style not listed on the website).

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SWAROVSKI JEWELRY INSPIRATIONS

Featuring the following SWAROVSKI ELEMENTS: 1028 pp7 Round Stones in Crystal, 1100 pp5 Xilion Round Stones in Crystal, 5056 10x6mm Mini Drop Beads in Tangerine, 6022 14mm Raindrop Pendant in Clear Crystal, 4428 1.5mm Xilion Nevette Fancy Stones in Light Colorado Topaz,

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SWAROVSKI JEWELRY INSPIRATIONS

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Swarovski Color Combination Inspiration

Featuring Crystal Petrol Pearls, 80101 BeCharmed Beads in Montana, Topaz Blend, Crystal Rose Gold, Crystal Bronze Shade, Crystal Metallic Light Gold, Crystal Copper, Smoked Topaz, Light Colorado Topaz and Crystal Golden Shadow.

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SWAROVSKI SEGEMENT INSPIRATIONS

Basic, organic shapes come together in random – often asymmetric – order to create jewelry that looks like it is designed on impulse.

Inspiration is taken from untouched natural shapes and raw surfaces.

Imperfections and irregularity create a unique look.

There is an ongoing tendency to repair and care for valued items rather than replace them.

We will witness: “A casual bohemian styling direction inspired by global fringe culture and off-grid living.” (WGSN)

Products entail a certain talisman-like quality – true, simple, and honest, they speak to our innermost emotions.

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SWAROVSKI TRANSFER FLAG

Surface color and finish feel neutralized and eroded by the sands of time while unexpected combinations, such as crystal and rough weave, create a sense of story and detail.

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SWAROVSKI COMPONENTS FLAG

Evoking ancient tribal whisperings, this flag combines raw materials with a refined balance of Crystal Pearls and crystal.

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Swarovski Heart

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Sneak Peak: SWAROVSKI ELEMENTS New Innovations Spring/Summer 2015 Part 2!

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Swarovski’s New Spring/Summer 2015 assortment shines with versatility, complexity and brilliance. Each new style is sure to WOW admirers, jewelry designers, and crystal aficionados alike!

The overall trend is “Traces of Time” which explores the “new beginnings” for people as they age. Technological advances are allowing people to live longer, healthier lives which is encouraging a trend of engaging in more joyful and rewarding behavior such as being creative and participating in sports activities. Living a life that is artistic, carefree and spontaneous, sure is a wonderful life to live!

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New Swarovski 5750 Skull Bead

The latest precision cutting technology has now made it possible to create the 5750 Skull Beads, an exceptionally unique masterpiece in crystal design. The highly sophisticated multi-layer cut offers exceptional subtlety and delicacy in its profiling of the skull. It is available in a 13mm and a 19mm in blue and black tones, gleaming metallics, or eye-catching effects such as Crystal Astral Pink and Crystal Aurora Borealis.

These are an edgy extension of Swarovski’s crystal product range. The Skull Bead fits perfectly with any expressive design direction. As a precision-cut crystal skull, it can be used to create romantic, tribal pieces when combined with other beads and natural materials. It is also ideal for darkly glamorous designs.

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New Swarovski 5054 Mini Rhombus Bead

(This color is Indicolite, please contact us if you are interested in this color)

The classic diamond shape of this Mini Rhombus shape is a beautiful and delicate new addition to the mini bead assortment. This is a timeless style that offers a sophisticated quality with brilliant multi-layered facets that adds remarkable versatility to designs.

The Mini Rhombus Bead comes in a classic diamond shape and is a beautifully delicate addition to the mini bead portfolio. Offered with the same sophisticated, brilliantly multi-layered cut, and in the same 6 mm and 8 mm sizes as the popular Round, Oval, and Square minis, it also comes in 11 effects and 8 colors. Its small size makes it the perfect choice for layering into delicate and intricate looks, or it can be used to offset bigger stones. This versatility extends to both masculine and feminine designs, and it looks great when used to add a striking sheen to graphic patterns.

How to use: Beading, stringing, wiring, sewing, weaving – everything is possible with the Mini Rhombus Bead. Combine with the existing mini bead portfolio (its hole length matches the Swarovski 5052 Mini Round Beads and the Swarovski 5053 Mini Square Beads) to create opulent designs using many beads, or subtle highlights using a select few.

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New Swarovski 5055 Mini Rectangle Beads

As a versatile cut offering myriad combination possibilities in size, pattern, and color, the classic rectangle shape that the Mini Rectangle Bead offers, is ideal for use in DIY designs, and to create precious highlights in jewelry. They are available in the 8×6 mm and the 10×8 mm. Convincing as a minimalist and refined design element, it looks great as a standalone feature or in combination with other materials and will never go out of fashion. Although each cut has its unique fascination, the Mini Rectangle is offered in the same range of colors as other mini beads to make the mini bead family even more dazzling in its unity. (contact us for more color options than what is listed on line).

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New Swarovski 5056 Mini Drop Beads

The 5056 Mini Drop Bead features the definitive teardrop shape and is a beautifully delicate addition to the mini bead portfolio. A sophisticated juxtaposition of a soft shape with a geometric cut, the Mini Drop Bead offers superb versatility and is ideal for updating any design. Available in the 10×6 mm and the  12×8 mm sizes, it also comes in 11 effects and 8 colors (contact us for more color options than the ones listed on line).

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New Swarovski 6022 XIRIUS Raindrop Pendants

This brand new design from Swarovski is a modern interpretation of a classic cut displaying dramatic and spectacular chaton-cut faceting structure fashioned into a drop pendant that is perfect for both elegant and futuristic designs.  For the first time its colorful effect is applied from the top, rather than the side, to achieve a homogenous look. When seen from the side it has a classic appearance, but when viewed from below, the masterpiece of a dazzling kaleidoscopic effect is revealed.

Its conical shape adds sculptural volume, which meets the current demand for architectural pieces and progressive 3D design. It is particularly effective when used to create stand-out statement pieces, and when combined with smaller sizes its water-inspired droplet shape has an exciting nature-tech appearance. This exceptional style can be utilized in necklaces, earrings and eye-catching charm bracelets that are available in a 14 mm, 24 mm, 32 mm and a 33 mm.

 The kaleidoscopic complexity of the XIRIUS cut finds its match only in nature’s miracles: captured in the new XIRIUS Raindrop Pendant is the beauty and wonder of a fresh summer shower. The drop motif is the perfect embodiment of Swarovski’s most brilliant crystal. Look at it from the sidea classic. Look at it from belowa phenomenon!

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There are many new styles in the new line of SWAROVSKI EMEMENTS Spring/Summer 2015 Innovations. Please stay tuned for Part 3 where we will explore the new Bow Tie Flatbacks, Butterfly Flatbacks, Bow Tie Sew-On-Stones, Rivoli Crystal Buttons, and Pavé Balls!

Swarovski Amethyst Heart