Chimerique Jewellery

Wedding Jewellery Order

2010-12-01T02:19:00.000-08:00

I had a rushed, last minute order this week, as a bride was unhappy with her choice of necklace for her wedding and asked if I could possible get one of my pearl necklace designs to her within two days.

I was pleased to be able to say yes, and weather permitting, she should receive it well in time for her wedding this weekend.

Congratulations!

Happy Thanksgiving Y'all!

2010-11-26T02:32:00.000-08:00

Hi jewellery lovers, or should I say "jewelry"? Hope everyone is having a great Thanksgiving weekend. I would imagine that beaders and jewelers are taking the opportunity of vacation time to create new designs!

Join us on Facebook!

2009-11-02T07:32:00.000-08:00

Become a fan of Chimerique Jewellery on Facebook and be entered into our prize draw to win free earrings!

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Chimerique-Jewellery/161359642184

Jewellery with words is jewellery with meaning

2009-06-24T07:43:00.000-07:00

I quite like that as a slogan for my new Word Jewellery collection.

I am steadily adding the new designs to my website and just uploaded two simple but effective designs.

I own both of these necklace prototypes and wear them often as they go with everything. They's not my favourite of the word designs, but you will have to wait a bit longer to see that one. ;)

Hope you like them. I've already sold several, so I have been busily bashing out the letters onto the silver.

Jewellers Tip:
If you are wondering how to stamp without getting scratches on your silver, try placing the silver between two sheets of paper.)

Wedding Jewellery

2009-06-22T03:30:00.001-07:00

Wedding season is well and truly upon me, and I have been crazily busy creating stock for bridal shops and brides.

This season's wedding fashion is all about feminine, floaty and easy to wear designs.

Here are my most popular pearl bridal jewellery designs:

Heart and Pearl Lariat. Always a favourite!
Pearl and Swarovski Crystal Rondelles. Another best seller with brides.
Side drilled pearls with a Topaz clasp. These flat pearls are created specially for me, and this design sells out almost as soon as I get them in. I often have a waiting list so if they take your fancy, email me!
Solitaire Pearl. A simple, stylish and affordable design not yet in my web shop, but stay tuned as I hope to add it soon.

Summer Collections

2009-06-12T03:08:00.000-07:00

I am just putting the finishing touches on my latest collection for summer. The gemstones are really lovely, especially the citrine which is one of my favourite colours for summer. The bright sunny gold and yellow designs are balanced by a shipment of cool blue aquamarine that just arrived. These stones are massive (think of your childhood marbles) and have a beautiful appearance that makes me think of pale blue skies with whispy white clouds.

The bright red stones in the photograph are coral, which makes this chunky necklace surprisingly light. It also fastens with an extra strong magnetic clasp, with a small CZ for just a touch of sparkle!

Look out over the next two weeks for a shuffle at my online jewellery shop, as I shelf older designs to make room for the new.

'Retired' designs may still be available, but as special order direct to customers only. The up side to this is that each piece can be customized to each individual customer.

Hard at work

2009-06-02T01:18:00.001-07:00

I am working on two collections at the moment, which is taking up a lot of my time.

'Wordsmith' will be the full collection of stamped pendants, as well as a beautiful alphabet charm necklace, and some very special, unique pieces featuring scraps of antique manuscripts preserved in resin. As a writer, this collection is very close to my heart.

'Summer 09' will be ready before the wordy designs, and is full of luscious gold tones and gem colours, and multiple strands feature strongly, as do hoop shapes. I am hoping to add some rings to this collection too.

I have also been experimenting with some traditional forging techniques such as maille and wire wrapping, and have some nice Celtic inspirations as well as a few design ideas for men. Watch this space!

Silver Heart Pendant Now Available!

2009-04-28T08:36:00.000-07:00

I now have stock of the Filigree Heart Pendant in my online shop. This is one of my favourite pieces, and I love making it.

The pendant has a beautiful weight, and is 99.9% fine silver, being made out of metal clay, carved into shape and then fired to solidify it. I then solder on jumprings for the chain, brush it for texture, file the edges smooth and carefully polish the highlights.

I have one of these necklaces, and have also been busy making them for friends and family who saw it on my bench weeks ago. Makes a great gift for a special occassion.

New Designs

2009-04-21T08:42:00.001-07:00

Hi all! I have been busy making tons of new designs recently, and playing with all of the new tools and materials that I have bought this year. It will take me some time to add them all to the shop, but here is one of my favourites.

The sterling silver pendant of this word bar necklace can be stamped with any word up to 6 letters, so 'Peace', 'Dreams', 'Love', 'Wishes' are all great ideas.

You can also choose the colour of the Swarovski crystal, making this a great personalized gift for any occassion.

At only 21 per necklace I think it's great value too.

Enjoy!

Interview with Anne Choi

2009-03-25T08:42:00.001-07:00

I have the honour of interviewing some amazing jewellers for The Jewelry Report http://jewelryreport.com (Yes, US spelling, because the site is run in the US)

This week, I had the pleasure of speaking with Anne Choi who designed intricate silver beads.

You can read the interview here. I try to feature a new jeweler every Wednesday, so if you are fanatical about the art form (like me!) then subscribe to the RSS to be kept up to date.

Something Blue

2009-03-19T03:12:00.000-07:00

I love to use the 'something blue' idea when designing bridal jewellery. Here are two designs that light the light creaminess of pearls with a touch of sparkle.

The zig zag blue pearls are matched with a large, faceted white topaz set in a sterling silver clasp. This necklace sits beautifully and is one of my best sellers. The blue pearls are currently only available at the Artery galleries in Scotland.

The white pearl necklace is made with AA grade white freshwater pearls and has a brilliant blue topaz pendant. Two blue Swarovski crystals add more colour and symetry to the design. The clasp on this necklace is adjustable so that the legnth can match your wedding gown neckline.

New photos online

2009-03-17T03:08:00.000-07:00

I have got lots of new photos online. This summer colors are hot, so I wanted to update my site with some of the latest colorful designs I have been creating.

Happy Birthday to me!

2009-03-15T03:04:00.000-07:00

I feel all 'grown up' now, as I am turning 30 today. I am looking forward to a new decade of moving on from the struggles of starting up a new business and focussing on enjoying the work, and meeting new clients.

I thought this would be a good weekend to start trying some new techniques.

This pendant will be the focal point of a pearl necklace that I am entering into an international jewellery competition this year. It is made out of fine silver, and inspired by an antique scroll pattern.

The necklace should be available in shops and online around late April.

New Pearls Stock

2009-03-13T02:59:00.000-07:00

My new pearls are here, and they are beautiful. I am really pleased with the quality of all of this batch.

A few hours later, several strands had turned into necklaces for shops. The black and blue necklaces are currently exclusive to the Artery galleries in Scotland.

Hair Vines

2009-03-11T02:55:00.001-07:00

I was pretty productive over the weekend, and made a lot more hair vines. I am still playing with these designs and trying to work out the best pricing, as obviously they are quite labour intensive.

There is a problem that the more you work silver, the more brittle it becomes, and these hair vines are a balancing act between getting fine, even twists and keeping the whole thing supple enough to be woven into your hair.

Stamped Jewellery

2009-03-03T14:59:00.000-08:00

After a few months of practicing with my imported set of letter stamps I finally have some designs I am happy with. I will be uploading these in the next few weeks.

This necklace is one I made for myself. (Just as well, really as you can see the mis-hit of the Paisley pattern stamp at the bottom of the oval. Ooops.)

I have discovered that the secret to strong impressions is to really give each stamp a good firm whack with the mallet. It is a good lesson in decisiveness.

There is something primally satisfying about this kind of work, although I don't think the neighbours have been too happy about the noise!

Look for the new sterling silver stamped jewellery range in my online shop soon. All designs can be customized with your own name, or any words of choice.

Wedding Hair Vines

2009-03-03T09:49:00.000-08:00

Over the next couple of weeks I will be adding my new collection of hair vines.

These delicate confections of silver wire and freshwater pearls are designed to be worn in your hair. Spring and short vines can be simply clipped to your updo, while longer vines can be woven into your hair as part of your style.

All vines are made with genuine freshwater pearls and can be customized with your choice of Swarovski crystal colours.

New stock

2009-02-25T09:52:00.000-08:00

I heard from my pearl supplier today that my specialty pearls are now ready!

I was first shipped these top drilled, flat pearls by accident, but decided to use them anyway in a new design. The design (167) quickly sold out, but when I contacted my supplier they explained that they had been a mistake and were not readily available.

However, as customers kept enquiring after the design, the good folks at the pearl farm said they would create a new batch for me. Of course, these things take time, and after the pearls were seeded it was just a waiting game for them to grow the pearls to maturity.

To be honest, I had totally forgotten they had promised to make them until I visited their website today.

I am thrilled to say that not only does this mean that the design will be available again, but that it will also now be available in luxury black pearls.

These necklaces and bracelets will be ready in two - three weeks, but I expect to sell out again pretty quickly. To place your pre-order, please visit my shoppe using the link below:

http://www.chimerique.co.uk/item_27/Side-Drilled-Pearl-Bracelet-with-Topaz-Clasp-B167.htm

Pre Launch

2009-02-25T02:43:00.000-08:00

All jewellery images are now online! Yay.

I have also loaded many new designs which have never been seen online before.

I will be updating the site with new designs and improved photos on a regular basis, so be sure to sign up for my newsletter to hear about the latest designs and special offers.

Pearl Jewellery Photos

2009-02-23T16:48:00.000-08:00

I managed to get all of the photos of my pearl jewellery collection online today, and also the Swarovski crystal collection. I just finished uploading some Autumn Pearl photos too, along with some new designs which you may not have seen yet. I will get the Semi-Precious Stones, Hollywood Bridal, and Harmony Pearl collection images loaded tomorrow, but for now I think it's time for bed! (2am.)

I hope you like the new site. As always, feel free to drop me an email or leave a comment with your feedback.

Slideshow

2009-02-19T04:11:00.000-08:00

I just installed my latest Flickr photoset onto my new website. While you are waiting for the rest of the jewellery images to be loaded onto the site, click here for a little taster to whet your appetite.

Almost there!

2009-02-18T02:29:00.000-08:00

New Year, New Collections, New Look!

The re branding of Chimerique is almost complete. The site templates are installed, and I am thrilled with the job that Robin at Boutique Mama has done.

The site is now fully hosted on Eco Chic's green servers, who have also been amazing. So now I am doing a little more for the environment. (More on that front to come too.)

All I have to do now is finish loading the images of the jewellery, and I promise to try and have it done by this weekend.

After that, there will be new collections on a regular basis, and stay tuned for some very special competition news! In fact, if you don't want to miss out, be sure to sign up for my newsletter.

New Site

2009-02-06T06:23:00.000-08:00

Our 'new look' site is being prepared, and availability of Chimerique.co.uk will be limited until installation is complete sometime early next week.

Our new website is being hosted on green 'eco chic' servers, and has an all new artistic feel that is fast to load and easy to navigate.

I hope you like it! Be sure to stay subscribed to our blog to hear about the latest news.

Happy Anniversary!

2009-01-28T09:01:00.000-08:00

2009 sees Chimerique's 5th birthday, and what a five years it has been!

I need to say a huge thanks to my family for their support in starting my own business, and also to the Artery galleries and their customers whose enthusiasm for a wide variety of jewellery has kept my creative juices flowing.

In honor of the big occassion, I am gearing up for a special event. '52' will see me creating and launching a new mini collection each week for the next year. Each collection will feature at least two items of jewellery (e.g. necklace, earrings, bracelet, brooch) and usually at least a full set of three.

52 will explore the various techniques and materials I have discovered on my journey so far, as well as incorporate new ones that I am sure to pick up as the weeks go on.

All designs will be available to purchase through my online jewellery store.

Stay tuned for more details.

Online shop LIVE - at last!

2008-10-28T06:19:00.000-07:00

The new Chimerique online store is now live! Take advantage of our FREE SHIPPING offer from now until 2009.

I have plenty of new designs still to be added, so be sure to sign up for this blog to hear about the latest offers and special discounts.

Use the discount coupon 'launch20' to get 20% off your first order. Feel free to use the Feedback link to sendme an email with your comments about the new look shop.

Shop Now!

New Design 'Manhattan'

2008-07-11T08:58:00.001-07:00

This elaborate necklace is made with multiple strands of coloured Acculon specialist jewellery wire and tons of sparkling Swarovski crystals. This sample is shown in stormy blue colours, but the same design can be made with just about any colour pallette. Looks particularly striking on sterling silver wire with pearls.

More Preview Designs

2008-07-11T04:25:00.000-07:00

My 'Harmony' collection is really taking shape now, and I am particularly proud of this design. The large open flower is made of fused silver, slightly hammered to give it an organic texture, with a freshwater pearl in the centre. The earrings are large and very dramatic, while the single flower as a pendant is striking, but subtle
.

The pearl scroll earrings are made by hammering silver wire on a texture block and then burnishing the highlights to create an almost sparkling effect. I have used soft, blue shades of pearls with the scroll designs. There's only one in the photo, because i lost the other prototype, I can now join the rest of my customers who frequently ask to buy one earring to replace a lost one.

Harmony Collection

2008-07-07T07:25:00.000-07:00

Here are some sneak peeks at my new collection. It should be complete in a couple of weeks, and will launch on my new online shop, as well as in the Artery shops in Scotland.

New Collection in the Works

2008-06-23T07:45:00.000-07:00

With a new set of tools, materials and ideas, I am excitedly working away at my new collection. Entitled 'Harmony' it is a series of designs using sterling silver and gold wire, and freshwater pearls. The designs are freeform, with flowing lines, and play with contrasting subtle textures with smooth surfaces. This is the first collection where I have used two tones of metal colours, and I am enjoying playing with the variations. I have also invested in a new camera, so I will post some images as soon as I can.

Online Chimerique Shopping

2008-06-14T02:41:00.000-07:00

All jewellery is now being sold through www.boda-boutique.com This is an online shop for wedding favours in Spain, but there is a separate category for Chimerique Jewellery, where you can buy all of your favourite jewellery securely.

Changes!

2008-05-27T05:00:00.000-07:00

I have had a bit of a reshuffle of my Chimerique business. All online sales are now going to be done through Boda Boutique, which is one of the largest retailers of wedding favours and accessories in Europe.

My online shopping site at www.chimerique.co.uk is down now, but will be reborn in the next few weeks as a place to find information, advice and news about desiginging and making jewellery. You will be able to download instructions for many of my most popular designs, as well as buy full DIY kits to create your own masterpiece if you are feeling creative!

Be sure to check back soon to see the new changes. Or, if you´d like to be added to the mailling list, just drop me an email to angel@chimerique.co.uk

Competition Finalist!

2007-11-27T04:54:00.000-08:00

Chimerique Jewellery has been selected as a finalist in FMG's international jewellery design competition in their Natural Pearls category for 'Regalia'. I have beaten off stiff competition from professional designers from around the world, and am thrilled to have got to this stage in the competition. I love working with pearls, as they have such a natural beauty and style, and can be so varied. Higher grades are so perfect that they are like real gems, but lower grades have slight imperfections that really let you see they are made by nature so each one has a charm of its own.

Hollywood Bridal Collection

2007-11-20T11:59:00.000-08:00

Every bride should feel like a star on her wedding day, and inspired by this thought, Chimerique Jewellery have launched their new Hollywood Bridal Collection .

The collection adds elegance and glamour to the brides who don them, offering a variety of bold and striking designs as well as some feminine and classic styles that complement their personal style and wedding gown. Designs range from traditional hand-knotted strands, inspired by silver-screen sirens such as Audrey Hepburn, to bold and stylish pieces that reflect more modern fashions worn by icons such as Beyonce Knowles and Keira Knightley.

Starting in price from £38, the collection is affordable for all budgets. Designs are created with sterling silver, but several designated pieces are also available in 14 karat yellow or white gold, offering a touch of luxury to those who want something truly special.

“I wanted to create designs that accented the bride’s special style and flair on her wedding day. I spent quite a bit of time researching the a range of looks and styles of some of Hollywoods most elegant and stylish stars to find just the right looks that would enhance a bride’s beauty and the Hollywood Bridal Jewellery Collection is the culmination of that work and inspiration,” says Angel Neal, Creator and Designer of the collection.

For more information about Hollywood Bridal Jewellery Collection by Chimerique, please call 0131 208 1646 or email sales@chimerique.co.uk to request an information pack. The collection can also be viewed at http://www.chimerique.co.uk/

Weddings Ideas Magazine

2007-10-28T22:26:00.000-07:00

See some of our new designs in Wedding Ideas Magazine! We have a huge range of bridal jewellery, as well as necklaces and earrings for bridesmaids, and a range of designs to suit the mother of the bride and other wedding guests.

Visit our site to see new designs. We will be uploading our new pearl collection in the next two weeks, with some beautiful designs, including hand knotted pearls, unusual black pearl jewellery and some adorable gifts for brides and bridesmaids.

Help Women in Need

2007-10-16T02:05:00.000-07:00

October is International Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and there are lots of ways that you can contribute to this cause.

* Chimerique donates 10 - 20% of all sales on our website to Breast Cancer Care UK this month. 10% of all sales from our Breast Cancer Support collection are donated throughout the year.

* Click here to help raise funds for women who cannot afford to have a mammogram done. This site raises money through advertising, sponsorship and their shop. Simply clicking a button on their site each day can help them reach their goal of giving over 500 mammograms to women.

* Give yourself a breast exam regularly. We all know we should, but how many of us remember? Early detection is the best way to lower the number of deaths from Breast Cancer. Visit this site for more information about giving yourself a breast exam.

Golf Jewellery

2007-10-11T02:50:00.001-07:00

I took up golf last summer, and sadly, haven't had a lot of time to play. It did inspire me to add some golf jewellery to my collection though. Golf charms, sterling silver golfer pendants, golf club charms for your phone... you name it! I will also have some great designs coming in next week that will make especially good gifts for that man golfer in your life. Men's jewellery is something else that I am currently working on, with hematite, black agate, and leather featuring in the designs. For now though, silver golfing motifs will have to do.

See the golf collection here.

Be sure to sign up to my newsletter to hear about new designs.

Breast Cancer Support Fundraising

2007-09-25T04:13:00.000-07:00

It is as sad fact that most of us knows at least one woman whose life has been affected by Breast Cancer. Chimerique donates 10% of all sales from our Breast Cancer Support collection to Breast Cancer Care UK.

I have been loading more pink ribbon products over the past few days. I have also made some changes to the format of images, and the menu layouts, which should make the site faster and easier to browse. As always, your comments are appreciated.

Visit the site to show your support for this cause.

Welcome

2007-09-03T09:10:00.001-07:00

For news about Chimerique jewellery, new collections, trends and more.

New studio

2007-09-03T09:10:00.000-07:00

August has been a record breaking sales month for Chimerique, and I am treating myself by finally overhauling my studio.

From what I know, the majority of jewellers are extremely messy, and I am no exception. Don't get me wrong - I am very organized. I know exactly what is in which pile, my paperwork is stacked into neat(ish) bundles, and my supplies are all stored (flung) into the right box.

The deal with my partner was, that if I wanted help in redesigning the studio, then I first have to tidy it!

That said, it really didn't take long, and I now have a clean and tidy studio, and a lovely sketch of my new L shaped desk, complete with bench-pin and tool rack on one side and laptop and order trays on the other. (Running a jewellery business is about 50% jewellery and 50% paperwork!)

I would post before and after pictures but it may be bad for business!