Margica's Notebook

Holiday Showcase: 12/16/12 Moonstone Peacock Chandelier Earrings

2012-12-16T08:18:00.000-05:00

Hello everyone! Hope you are all having a peaceful Sunday today.

For today's holiday showcase I wanted to show you these lovelies...

I call these Moonstone Peacock Chandelier Earrings. During the holiday season lots of people go to holiday parties. And if I had to choose, which of my jewelry pieces I would most likely wear for the special occasion, it would most likely be these earrings.

Note: Don't worry! These are new, as in, I have never actually worn these... :)

Ok! So lets get into the details...

As you can probably tell from their name I used genuine Moonstone, they are the beads that have a diamond shape to them and have a milky AB (aurora borealis) hue. Each earring has 8 moonstone beads. On the very bottom of each strand, you have a small clear AB swarovski crystal dangling.

But wait, there's more!

If you look in the center of each earring, you have a silver accent component. It has a diamond shape. And yes! Those rhinestone crystals you see, 6 in each, are actually round clear swarovski crystals with an AB finish.

Now, here is where the "peacock" comes in... On the very top, I used a freshwater pearl that is dyed in a beautiful color. Or should I say, "colors". The pearl itself has a silvery purplish hue, that depending on the light can have flickers of green or teal.

Add that, to my lovely AB swarovski crystals, then you get a whole array of colors going on. You know how peacock feathers are known to have multiple colors, such as emerald green, deep purple, teal, and blues?

In fact, that's how I got the name of "peacock". That, as well as the round crystals in the silver component. They kind of reminded of peacock feather.

Ok, that was a long explanation! haha :)

Moonstone Peacock Chandeliers by Margica

Length: 2 1/2 inches. Wired in silver. With silver lever back closures. Oh, and these are one of a kind.

Whether its a Christmas, Hannukah, New Year's--heck, any special occasion for that matter, what I love about these earrings, is that even if you are wearing a basic or simple outfit, put these on and bam! Instant glam!

Currently I am having a sale promotion going on in my shop on Etsy.

This code HOLIDAY15 can be used on any item or entire order. Use to get 15% off!

Coupon is valid until Dec. 31. 2012

Comments? Questions? Will be happy to respond.

Thank you so much for stopping by.

Happy Holidays Everyone!

Holiday Showcase: 12/15/12 Luna-Black Crocheted Necklace with Frosted Crackled Quartz and Black Crystals

2012-12-15T10:20:00.000-05:00

Today I want to show you all a piece that I made a while ago. It's a crocheted necklace made of black cotton, accented with sparkly faceted black czech crystals, and it features something quite unique as a center piece. I call this necklace LUNA.

LUNA- Black Cotton Crocheted Necklace w/ Black Crystals and Frosted Crackled Quartz

So why LUNA?

Well, first let me start with that center bead that I simply adore! What is it? Natural semi-precious stone-clear crackled quartz that has been given a frosted matte finish. I remember when I first stumbled upon this, while shopping for material, and I knew from the start that I had to use these in my jewelry!

This picture was taken in direct sunlight. Its a little hard to see the amazing texture and features that that the center bead has. I apologize for this, the sun in combination with the reflective qualities of the quartz makes it hard to see the fine detail.

But look how lovely those black facted crystals sparkle! I guess it was when I took this pictures that I decided to call this necklace LUNA. The center reminds me of the full moon, and the sparkly beads--the stars!

I would put this in the Bib necklace category. This is the only one that I have made. Probably won't ever do a repeat. For one, it's a bit hard to replicate the crocheted pattern that I came up with. Even if I tried, it still would turn out a little different.

As for more details on the crocheted pattern, the band of the necklace is made of rows of circles that intertwine. For a better description, it's quite similar to a chain-link pattern.

Also has a black enamel toggle clasp for closure.

I am currently putting this piece up for sale on Etsy.

Also having a sale promotion going on until Dec.31.12

Use Coupon Code: HOLIDAY15 and get 15% off any item or your entire order.

Comments? Questions? Feel free to post, and I promise to respond.

Thanks for stopping by to read this post!

Happy Holidays!

Holiday Showcase 12/8/12: Green Fashion Bead and Peridot Crystal Earrings

2012-12-08T13:21:00.001-05:00

Hello Lovelies!

Yesterday I heard that Pantone, (who is responsible for forecasting color trends in fashion, interior design, makeup, and yes, jewelry!) had officially announced that the color of the year 2013 is....wait for it!.... Emerald Green!

Which is great! Have always been fond of emerald, and knowing that next year (which is only a few weeks away- whoah!) this color will get some extra attention, I already have in mind to make a few pieces in ode to this color....stay tuned!

Tangerine Tango was this year's color of the year. Although the trends will be moving on, I certainly won't forget you oh tangerine! Haha, no really, why would I?

Now for today's Holiday Showcase, I figured why not in honor of Pantone's announcement post a piece that's green?

Green Fashion Bead w/ Peridot Faceted Crystal Earrings

Ok, so, these aren't exactly Emerald Green, but they are green!

So instead, this post will be just a "green" one.

I only made one pair of these and probably won't make another, as some of the material that I used is no longer available for me to get my hands on.

Wired in silver, these have a lever back clasp which I tend to use because once on they stay put.

Starting from the top bead, you have a spiral-hexagonal shaped crystal that is faceted all the way round (or hexagonally ? I don't know). The color is a light peridot color, and as you can see in the picture you can see through them.

Sandwiched by two small hematite-toned faceted crystals, you have these large fashion beads. I was referring to these beads when I meant that some of the material is no longer available for me to get. Which is a pity, because these are so pretty and I haven't seen anything like them before.

They are certainly cool to look at. With an aurora borealis (AB) finish, they have a wavy oval form, and oh, can you see the swirls in them?

For measurements these lovelies are 3 inches long, and so very lightweight!

Holiday Showcase: Magenta Ornament Earrings 12/2/12

2012-12-02T11:22:00.002-05:00

Hey everyone! Hope you are all having a peaceful Sunday.

Now that it's officially December, some of us might already be starting to decorate our homes for the holidays. A few days before Thanksgiving, I've started to see Christmas tree vendors pop up in my area. Crazy right?
I wasn't going to get one then, and probably will wait another week or so before I do (maybe two?).
However, decorating the Christmas tree is one of my favorite things during the holidays, hands down! Its just so much fun! Every year I try to decorate it differently. One year I went with a all-out silver theme with white lights, and last year I chose all the rich jewel-color ornaments that I had (I have alot of christmas tree ornaments- A TON!) with multi colored and white lights.

Love to shop for ornaments, every year it seems I add a few to my collection.

Well, go figure, because I made a pair of earrings inspired by them. (!)

Magenta Ornament Earrings

Available on Etsy.

But I wonder, does this now mean I am obsessed with christmas tree ornaments? Haha. Just kidding!

Features:  Wired in silver. These lovelies are but 3 inches long. But don't worry, you know me--- looove it when my earrings are featherlight in my ears. So, I made these to be super light!

The color of these beads (two of which are fashion beads, and the bottom a faceted crystal) all fall in the same color family- a magenta fuchsia pink.

Each earrings has a lever back closure for a secure fit. The top bead is sandwiched with two small gun-metal hematite colored multi-faceted crystals. (Whoah! that was a long one to say! lol)

Then you have this really cool diamond shaped fashion bead, that is semi-clear with swirly stripes of magenta in it. Whats a fashion bead? I call them that, because they are not glass, pearl, or a semi-precious stone. These are made of a durable plastic. Alot of major retail stores use fashion beads for their jewelry. Hence, their light fit.

Lastly, the bottom dangle bead IS a crystal that is faceted all the way round! These are so rich and vibrant in color.  You can kind of see in the picture, how the crystals show slightly different hues of magenta and fuchsia. Its subtle, but with the light--gosh, sooo pretty.

Well that's it for today's holiday showcase!
If you love christmas tree ornaments as I much as I do, well, now you wear them!

Thanks so much for checking this post out! If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to post below. I promise to respond!

happy holidays!

xoxo,
MARGICA

Inspired by Poinsettia- Holiday Showcase: Poinsettia Leather Applique Bib Necklace 12/1/12

2012-12-01T12:06:00.001-05:00

Happy December 1st Everyone!

We are now officially in the holiday season!
I hope you all had a wonderful, warm and cozy Thanksgiving with your loved ones and friends.
I simply love this time of the year, regardless if you celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah or Kwanzaa, its a time to share with family and friends. Even a time to make new friends.

Today is December 1st--- 25 days of Christmas and holiday spirit, here we go!

With the holiday season kicking in full gear, today's showcase features a true holiday item.

Christmas Holiday Poinsettia and Crystal Leather Applique Necklace
Available on Etsy

This is a unique OOAK necklace that I made inspired by the Poinsettia flowers which are popular during the Holiday Season.

Comes with a cord that is 16 inches long. I categorize this as a bib necklace, as it falls on center of the chest when worn.

Features: I used pieces of genuine suede leather to make the Poinsettia flower. The suede is dyed in various rich colors such as Red, Teal, White, and Forest Green.

In the middle of the flower are beads of Red Bamboo Coral, with clear glass seed beads and a clear swarovksi crystal in the very center of the flower bud.

Towards the bottom I wired and strung black and clear seed glass beads, including genuine large multi faceted Clear Quartz crystal.

This applique necklace is flat, with suede to cushion the back of the it.

Modeled by my daughter, this picture is taken in direct sunlight.

One of my favorite features of this piece is the quartz crystal. It is so dazzling and spectacular. In the pic, with the direct sunlight its blinding, and you can't really see the definition of the crystal. The first pic I posted gives a better look.

(Here I'll post it again)

Voila! Look at that stone! Can you see the facets, and the glow that crystal has? --Beautiful.

Want to see more? For customer info for this item click https://www.etsy.com/listing/61738399/christmas-holiday-poinsettia-and-crystal?show_panel=true .

Etsy shop: visit www.margic.etsy.com for all my jewelry items.
All unique, OOAK (one of a kind), and made with love.

Comments? Questions? Feel free to post below!

Happy Holidays Everyone!

Until next time,
XOXO

Margica

Holiday Showcase 11/25/12: Its Sparktackular! Amethyst and Purple Crystal Jewelry Set

2012-11-25T08:20:00.000-05:00

   Everyone has something that they cannot resist, right? That one thing that we can't help but be obsessed about, and when tempted it's hard to say no.

       For me, it's my jewelry. Even after a long day of work, when I come home, it's my jewelry that I am ever so faithful to. Just to play with my crocheting needles and yarn, or with my wiring tools and beads, spells H-E-A-V-E-N to me.

   And if I really want to indulge, I head over to one of my go-to supply stores where I get some of my stones, crystals, and beads. This sounds like a cliche, but its so true for me, when I say that walking in and seeing all those beautiful semi-precious stones and beads strung and hanging from the walls.....now that is me like a kid in a candy shop! Mmmm--hmmm!

   Alas! I shouldn't be partial, but crystals and semi-precious stones are my Achilles heel. I can't get enough of them! I don't know if its because the combination that works so well, the light-play that I can get (an insane and hypnotic sparkly effect when the light hits the beads) or what...!

     This jewelry set that I am about to show you is no an exception.

(photo by Margica)

Amethyst and Crystal Jewelry Set

click here to see on Etsy

(photo by Margica)

MATERIALS: Yes, I used real all natural, not dyed, AMETHYST stones with faceted czech crystals in clear, and in colors light pink, grape purple and amethyst purple. Wired in silver. A czech glass bead (rectangular) is used as a dangle drop. Also used a silver toggle clasp embezzled with clear AB swarovski crystals.

(photo by Margica)

FEATURES: Necklace 19 inches long. Earrings 1 1/2 inches.

Amethyst stones are smooth and polished. I used a variety of crystals here with this necklace. There are three different colors of the medium large sized crystals that you see. They are faceted rondelles in the colors of light pink, a deep purple amethyst color, and thirdly, a purple that is warmer with more red than the deep purple. I call this one a grape purple.

(photo by Margica)

Faceted all the way round, its insane how much they sparkle. Never mind being alongside with the amethyst stones. Simply put, only in person can see the full extent of their performance!

(photo by Margica)

Necklace modeled by my daughter.

As if that wasn't enough, I also used small swarovski clear AB crystals as accents. In the earrings I used them as the dangle droplets. With silver wire I created a ringlet of the clear AB swarovski crystals in the necklace, so that two sides attach to the pendant drop.

For the pendant drop, you have one rectangular czech glass bead that has swirls of purple, and blue teal within.

(photo by Margica)

Silver toggle clasp with swarovski crystals! The crystals are clear AB and are embezzled around the ring. Plus, two added crystals embezzled on the sides of the "stick" or "wand" part. (Sorry I don't know the exact term for it. I mean to refer not to the ring of the clasp but contrary.)

Oh and before I forget the earrings have a silver lever-back closure. For a comfortable and secure fit.

This jewelry set is unique and one of a kind.

Until next time!

Any questions or comments? Feel free to post below!

PROMOTION ALERT!

Use coupon code FALL10 to get 10% off ! Offer now extended to Dec 1!

www.margica.etsy.com

Holiday Showcase 11/24/12: Sodalite Jewelry Set with Lapis Lazuli and Blue Lilac Aventurine

2012-11-24T10:21:00.000-05:00

Hello everyone!

Last weekend I was unable to continue the Holiday Showcase series. I sincerely apologize and will try to keep up in the future.

A quick announcement for my Etsy shop. The coupon code FALL10 has now been extended to December 1! Use this coupon to get 10% off on all my jewelry.

Ok, so lets begin!

(photo by Margica)

Sodalite Jewelry Set with Lapis Lazuli and Blue Lilac Aventurine

Click here to see on Etsy.

A lovely combination with natural semi-precious stones: sodalite, lapis lazuli, and blue violet aventurine. This set includes a necklace with a drop pendant and slender long

earrings.

MATERIALS: Natural semi-precious stones (Sodalite, Lapis Lazuli, Blue Aventurine), deep amethyst colored swarovski crystals, variety of Czech glass, bali silver clasp closure, silver hooks (earrings) and silver wire.

(photo by Margica)

FEATURES: Wired in silver. A large chunky piece of sodalite is used as the focal point of the necklace. Almost in a organic shape of a heart, the stone rests nice and flat against the chest. The necklace is 21 inches long and it has a v-shape form. Small beads of blue aventurine and a single deep amethyst swarovski crystal add a nice dangle.

(photo by Margica)

For the rest of the necklace, all the small round beads that you see are of blue lilac aventurine. You might wonder why lilac ? In the pictures they tend to look more of a lighter blue in comparison to the blue czech glass beads (more on them later), but in person they do have a faint lilac, light purplish hue to them. Which is why I used the swarovksi crystals, which are a rich deep purple, to pick up on the purple from the aventurine stone.

The swarovski crystals are faceted, have a hexagonal spiral form, and they have a beautiful rich amethyst-purple hue. Swarovski crystals are one of the best fine quality crystals made, if not THE best. They have a hard resistancy, (they don't break or scratch as easily---but again, that doesn't mean you shouldn't be gentle with them!) and they simply sparkle, sparkle, and sparkle!

As you may have already realized, I couldn't help but add a few crystals in this piece. I simply love my sparkles!

(photo by Margica)

Moving on, there are a variety of czech glass beads that I used. Such as two large frosted round blue glass beads (the largest beads of the bunch), and small round faceted beads that are a deep black and opaque. Sandwiched in between the small black beads are clear faceted rectangular beads. Aside from the swarovski crystals, these are the only clear beads in the bunch. These too had a little sparkle, but mostly great light-play!

You'll have to excuse me when I say light-play. I don't think its a real term ( lol let me know if it is!), but I use it to mean when a bead looks spectacular when the light directly hits it. Such as having a great sparkle quality, or giving a wonderful depth of hue and intensity when lit!

Last but not least, the final czech glass that I used are two medium sized rectangular glass beads. These have a frosted quality and when looking closely they have swirls to them.

Aside for the black, all of the czech glass beads correspond to the same family of blue more or less. I would describe their color to range from rich cobalt

The closure clasp is a S shaped hook made of bali silver from India. Very easy to put on and take off. But don't worry, it stays put and secure in place.

(photo by Margica)

Wired in silver. Earrings are 3 inches long. Light and slender in the ear. Here you have three small beads of blue lilac aventurine, oval-round lapis lazuli and a swarovski crystal each. At the time I didn't have any small sodalite stone beads that I could use for the earrings. The pieces that I had were a bit heavy, as I like to make sure my earrings are as light in the ear as possible. Who wants their earlobes to droop? Not me.

But nonetheless lapis lazuli does fall into the same color family that i was going for. As does sodalite, these stone beads have a little bit of white in them, and if even faint hints of gold specks too! (Something which lapis lazuli is known to have).

So there you have it!

Any comments or questions, feel free to post them below!

And remember coupon code FALL10 has been extended to December 1. Use it on all items in my shop at www.margica.etsy.com.

Currently so many shops are having promotions for the holidays, so feel free to check out Etsy for all things handmade (and vintage!).

Holiday Showcase 11/11/12: Matte Agates, Metallic and Teal Crystal Jewelry Set:

2012-11-11T13:05:00.001-05:00

For the holiday season you can never go wrong with a little sparkle. That has always been my philosophy. And to be honest...why not? I mean, who wouldn't want to sparkle?

Girls, when it comes to jewelry, a little sparkle never fails to make you feel extra special.

Matte Agates, Teal, Black Metalic Crystal Jewelry Set

Click here to see on Etsy

Making my girls feel extra special has always been my objective in making jewelry. This jewelry set is no exception.

MATERIALS: This is a choker length necklace LOADED with Teal and Black Metallic Czech Crystals, Agates with a matte finish AND accents of natural Black Onyx. The earrings are of a short length, each with a teal crystal that dangles (plus an accent of small black rondelle crystals each). ALL WIRED IN SILVER.

FEATURES: I LOVE to use Czech Crystals (as you might have probably already figured that out...!) and these crystals oh so especially! Why do I love them? For one I can't get enough of these metallic crystals that come out in the market. I already used them in a few other earrings and necklaces. I just love the metallic finish that these have, and because they also are multi faceted, their finish adds that extra oomph! I promise you that you won't get enough of playing with them, as the light simply does magical things with these crystals.

Teal I feel (hey a rhyme!) will always be a gorgeous color to wear in the winter. These crystals are rich and bold in color. They have a phenomenal depth in color to them.

Now to the Agates!

Ok, these are so special. Normally I find my agates with a polished finish with a little shine to them. These however are exceptional because they are matte! Their finish is unlike anything I have seen until now. When I say matte I mean to say that they have a frosted and satin look to them without any of the normal shine that semi-precious stone beads usually have.

Each bead is unique and you will see different colors and stripe patterns. You have some black, white, reddish-orange, brown, which are all natural colors that agates have.

I also added as an accent two round Black Onyx beads as well.

The necklace is 28 inches long and has a black enamel toggle clasp for closure.

Earrings are half an inch long (1/2 inches).

Currently I am having a store-wide SALE on Etsy. Use coupon code FALL10 and get 10% off anything in my shop Margica. www.margica.etsy.com

For info on Shipping please visit item's page by clicking here.

Do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions! Just visit the item's page, scroll down to contact shop's owner for any questions or requests you might have.

Feel free to leave any comments below! Until next time!

Holiday Showcase 11/10/12: Long Beaded Necklace with Unakite, Gold Pearls, Peridot, Amethyst and Copper Crystals

2012-11-10T15:09:00.000-05:00

Hello Everyone!

I love long necklaces!

There is just something so chic about wearing a long strand necklace. Simply because there are so many ways you can wear one!

You can wear it simply as is, or tie a knot in the middle, (as did famously Coco Chanel with her long pearl necklaces).

Double it or even it make a more layered look by wrapping it tree times around. Either way, long necklaces are so versatile and you can get so many looks with just one piece of jewelry.

Long Strand Beaded Necklace with Unakite, Gold Freshwater Pearls, Green, Copper and Amethyst Czech Faceted Crystals

Click here to see on Etsy.

Oh! and before I forget to mention, this piece is currently ON SALE on Etsy! Read for more info....

Ok! Let's get started.

MATERIALS: This necklace features Unakite which is a natural semi-precious stone, gold freshwater pearls, and three different kinds of multi-faceted Czech Crystals in Peridot AB, Copper, and Amethyst AB. This necklace has a silver toggle clasp with red Swarovski crystals. As I do with the majority of jewelry, this piece is wired in silver.

FEATURES: Length: 55 inches long.

As I have already mentioned, Unakite is a natural semi-precious stone. I emphasize this because every single stone bead is unique. You can have swirls and spots of browns, sandy beige, grey, black, brown, and even shades of red and muted grey-blue green. Each varies by color and pattern.

What is really nice about Unakite, (and one of the reasons I love to work with it) is that it features a lot of neutral colors.
This makes it so easy to wear! Neutral colors are great in complementing with almost anything you wear.

On each side of each Unakite stone you have small multi-faceted Czech Crystals in Amethyst with an AB (aurora borealis) finish. AB finishes are known to catch the light beautifully, and they give you colorful sparkles.

Next I used round gold dyed freshwater pearls. The only way I can describe their color is that they are warm and buttery.

I used other Czech crystals as well. The second kind I call Copper, but really they are Copper and Clear. What?!? How so? Well, whats neat is that half of the bead is clear and the other half has a copper foil. On the outside the copper foil has a satin-metallic finish. But, when you look inside from the Clear side, you can see how the copper foil sparkles and sparkles! This is due to the multi-facets that these crystals have.

The third kind, are crystals that have a bright peridot-green color with an AB finish as well. These are much larger in size than the Amethyst AB or Copper/Clear Czech Crystals.

Lastly, (I know... this is running a little long here!) this necklace has a toggle clasp for closure. Made in silver with three small red Swarovski crystals. One of them is an accent to a flower designed in the clasp.

Ok! Finished!

Ok....well not yet! Before I tune off, I wanted to let you all know that along with everything else in my Etsy shop, you can use this COUPON CODE: FALL10 and get 10% off!!!

Coupon expires Nov 18.2012.

Please note that this piece is One Of A Kind. Meaning: there is only one necklace such as this...period.

For Shipping Info please visit the item's page by clicking here. I ship the day of the order or the day after the most. For specific shipping options please do not hesitate to contact me. You can do so by email: margicajewelry@gmail.com. Or, click here and scroll down the page and click contact shop's owner.

Its Election Time!

2012-11-06T11:27:00.001-05:00

Just found this picture on tumblr and reblogged it.

(photo courtesy of alexisreiko on tumblr)

Happy Election Day Everyone!

Holiday Showcase 11/4/12 Multi Faceted Crystal Drops Earrings

2012-11-04T07:45:00.000-05:00

Hey everyone!

Yesterday I started a new weekend series called the Holiday Showcase, featuring holiday gift ideas from Margica on Etsy, and I plan on doing this every weekend for the holiday season--- Saturday and Sunday!
I already posted two pairs of metallic crystal earrings. Scroll down to posts before this one, and you can read about them if you wish!

Today I have another pair of earrings to show you. And yes, they do have metallic crystals as well!

                                                Multi-Faceted Crystal Drops Earrings
                                                  (click here for item's page on Etsy)

   As you can see these earrings have larger Czech crystals than the one's I featured yesterday. They are a bit more chunky. Have no fear though, for these are very light to wear.

(Note: Those pearl heads that you see, are actually pins that I used to hang these earrings on for the picture)

I made these in mind to look great with many different looks. Great to wear for holiday parties, cocktail evenings, or maybe even for a professional work day. Even with a rather basic day look, these earrings can bring a little something extra to your look.

MATERIALS: Wired in silver, as I do with all my earrings. These earrings feature three different Czech crystals. As I have said before, I love to use these crystals which are made in the Czech Republic. Crystals are a Czech specialty. If you ever happen to travel and visit Prague for example, you'll find TONS of crystals of all colors and finishes that are sold in the city markets.
Its simply amazing!

As for the clasps, these also have silver lever-backs which I like to use alot. When I first started making jewelry, I used to use hooks and give ear stoppers to my girls at work who would buy from me.
I soon found that it was easier to use lever-backs instead as they are more secure in the ear, and frankly easier to wear!

FEATURES: Ok! All three crystals are multi faceted, BUT each has a different cut and a different finish.

The top crystal is a small round multi faceted crystal. It has a AB finish (which stands for aurora borealis). This finish provides a beautiful play with the light when the crystal is hit. As it is AB, you have reflections of a rainbow of colors! So pretty! This crystal is also fire-polished. It is my understanding that fire-polished crystals have a special process when they are made.
To give them their brilliance and high intensity they are heated three times in the heating process.
Hence the name fire-polished.

To describe the color, this crystal has a smoky blue grey color. The light, the color can change slightly. Which is something that I love!

The middle crystal is a large clear crystal that has a oval type shape to hit. They have a diagonal faceting.

The third crystal has a metallic finish with diagonal spiral-like faceting. I would describe their shape as hexagonal. I cannot begin to tell you how amazing these crystals look in person! Similar to AB, however the colors here are jewel-toned! You can get gorgeous deep emerald greens, amethyst purple, a golden peridot color, and sapphire blue. Again, with the light the colors can change!

ON SALE! Yes you read that correctly! Currently I am having a store-wide sale on Etsy. Original price is $28.00. But use this coupon code FALL10 and take 10% off!

Shipping: I try to ship the day of the order. The latest would the day after. I used standard FEDEX shipping. Within the U.S I charge $5.99 and everywhere else $6.99.
Please do not hesitate to contact me for special shipment requests!
Click here and scroll down the item's page on Etsy to click contact shop owner.
Or you can email me at margicajewelry@gmail.com (Email use this for business inquiries only)
Or leave a comment and I will respond, I promise!

BIG NOTE! I forgot to mention this yesterday, but the earrings that I had featured in this weekend's Holiday Showcases, are all ONE OF A KIND! Yes, that means I only have ONE pair of each earring.

Part 2 Holiday Showcase 11/3/12

2012-11-03T12:01:00.001-04:00

Onward to Part 2 of today's edition of the Holiday Showcase!

Earlier I showcased a pair of metallic crystal drop earrings (click here or scroll down to the prior post). Well, in continuing today's theme of metallic crystals I have another pair to show you!

Multi Faceted Purple/Gold, Blue and Red Orange Czech Crystal Drop Earrings

(click here for item's page on Etsy)

I love to sparkle, and I know a lot of us women love to sparkle too! What is neat about these earrings is that you can wear them with almost anything. They are delicate and slender. Dressed up or casual, these add a special touch to your outfit.

Holidays are coming up, and anything that sparkles always seems to be trendy for the season. And don't forget about New Year's Eve!

MATERIALS: I like to use silver to wire my earrings. (I include care instructions with the item on how to clean and preserve the jewelry items). These also have silver lever-back clasps which are great to secure the earrings, and you won't have to fear of losing them from your ear. Plus, I used some silver findings (accents) as well. You can see them in the top half of the earring. They are long with a spiral carving and they separate the two sets of crystals.

I love Czech Crystals, which are made in the Czech Republic. Not only do they have a wonderful sparkle to them, but they are made of fine quality. These are great for everyday wear as they will not break and chip as easily as other crystals. (But again! That doesn't mean you can thrash them about, because then they will). I say this, because there are some crystals that have an excellent sparkle quality, but they chip so easily!

FEATURES: In each earring, you have two faceted purple Czech crystals that have a gold iridescence depending on how the light hits them. I can't begin to tell you how pretty they are! Its a little slight in the picture, but this is more visible in person.

Alongside these purple/gold crystals, are two hematite-tone small crystals each. Hematite has a cool silvery grey hue, they are semi-precious and have a metallic quality to them. These little crystals have the same effect.

On the bottom you have the same little crystals that sandwich a beautiful multi-faceted crystal that has stripes of a light blue (towards periwinkle) and reddish orange hues. So, so, so pretty!

Don't worry about these being heavy. I can't stand heavy earrings, and always strive to make mine as light as possible. These are light as feathers!

Length: Long. Over 2 inches.

PRICE: Currently I am having a SALE on all of my items. Original price is $15. But with this code: FALL10 you can get them for 10% off less!

SHIPPING: I ship the day of the order, maximum the day after. FEDEX standard shipping with tracking order number for $5.99 in the U.S. Everywhere else is $6.99.

Please do not hesitate to contact me for certain shipping requests. Click here to send me a convo on Etsy. Scroll down the page and click contact the shop owner.

Hope you enjoyed this post, and thank you for visiting the blog!

Have any questions or comments? Don't hesitate to leave a comment. I promise I will respond to you.

Holiday Showcase 11/3/2012 Part 1

2012-11-03T09:19:00.000-04:00

Ok! So its been a while since the last post. First let me say I'm sorry about that. I have been preoccupied with many things in my personal life. Needless to say I am back, and will try to keep posting as often as possible!

I have been brainstorming lately to come up with ways to make this blog more fun! (Haha... not that it isn't fun already...) Like for instance different types of posts, for certain days of the week. I've been noticing that alot of the blogs that I follow (and love!) do this, and frankly it does make reading a blog a bit more fun! So, I decided why not?

Soooo.... to start, for those of you who are the early birds in holiday shopping, I thought it would be fun to start a Weekend Holiday Showcase! Holiday season is coming! So every weekend, I will put up posts to showcase holiday gift ideas from my shop Margica on Etsy.

OK! Lets Get Started!

                       Matte Metallic Silver and Iridescent Peacock Czech Crystal Drop Earrings
                                                     (click here for link)

  MATERIALS: These are wired in silver. I wire almost all my jewelry in silver, but especially for my earrings. I used lever-backs for the closure clasp. They are comfortable and will stay put; I find that these are great closures because you don't lose the earrings so easily from the ear.

  These earrings feature Czech Crystals that have a metallic finish. They are multi-faceted, so that means you get the most sparkle out of these beads when the light hits them! So pretty! I love using Czech crystals because they are one of the best quality crystals out there in the market.

Made in the Czech Republic, the crystals are known to be one of their specialities. Fine quality, and excellent sparkle. I have found that these are way more durable compared to some other alternatives. They don't chip and break as easily. However, that doesn't mean you can go ahead and bang them like crazy! But with everyday wear, they will last and last.

FEATURES: A big part of my passion for jewelry, is making them! I love searching for new material, and these crystals (!!!) are a great example of me being a kid in a candy shop when I found these beauties. I already mentioned that the crystals I used have a metallic (chrome) finish. The top part of the earring, is a stack column of hematite-toned crystals.

For those of you who are not familiar with hematite, it is a semi-precious stone that have such a beautiful cool silvery grey hue to them. These crystals have that same effect, BUT with SPARKLES!

The bottom part, features a crystal drop that has stripes of a light blue (similar to periwinkle) and a reddish orange hue. These too are multi faceted. What is so special about these crystals, is their effect. In the picture you can see that they have a effect of giving off multiple colors (hence the peacock name) The picture simply do not justice for them. When the lights hits them, you not only TONS of sparkle but a WHOLE RAINBOW of colors! Jewel-tone purple, blue, green, even red. They change color, and it all depends on how they play with the light.

Also, no need to worry about these earrings being heavy. I personally don't like wearing earrings that are, which is why I make sure I always make them to be light in the ear.

PRICE: Originally these are listed for $15. BUT! Currently I am having a PROMOTIONAL SALE on Etsy! All you have to do is use my COUPON CODE : FALL10 and you get 10% off!

SHIPPING: I use standard shipping with FED-EX and will send you a tracking order number.
I charge $5.99 for shipping in the U.S. For everywhere else $6.99.
Please do not hesitate to contact me for specific shipping requests (click here), scroll down and click contact shop owner bottom of description page of the item. NOTE: You have to have an account with Etsy to send a convo to me. You also need to have an account (its free!) to buy or sell anything on Etsy too. Normally I ship the day I get the order, at most the day after.

(sorry for the low quality, I tried to zoom in for a better view)

Have any questions or thoughts? Please leave a comment and I promise I will respond.

Before I finish, just want to send my thought and prayers to all those who have been affected on the east coast by Hurricane Sandy! Where I live, in NYC, so many have lost everything, as well as in other parts of the east coast and it is truly devastating....

To help bring relief, please visit the www.redcross.org.

The Delaware Waters

2012-07-22T21:08:00.002-04:00

It was a lovely July afternoon on the Delaware River, on our favorite route 209. After cooling down into its clear waters, my daughter and I had a wonderful picnic, and we were watching a couple of dragonflies zooming above and under the ancient rocks in a frantic dance that absolutely mesmerized our dog Muffy. She practically resembled an Egyptian statue, only her eyes were moving following the dragonflies. All of a sudden she plunged into the water as thousands of droplets rose into the air, creating an instant rainbow to the enchantment of my daughter.
Yes, it was a lovely afternoon. Well into the night when everybody was sound asleep (swimming does wonders) I had a little bit of time to look into my box of wonders,where I keep my special stones. I looked at some Mongolian jasper and I said, "Yes! They do resemble the pebbles found in the Delaware river!" They have that blue-ish grey wonder in them. I mixed them up with some aqua and iridescent crystals to mimic the water droplets created by Muffy's jump. And so, Muffy's jump has been immortalized into a beautiful necklace. I called it "The Delaware Waters". Of course the woman who will wear it can apply her own story to make it hers. To each their own.

Happy 2 year anniversary!!! Whoo Hoo!

2012-06-30T20:40:00.001-04:00

Margica celebrates it’s 2 year anniversary on Etsy! First of all, I must say a heartfelt thank you to all our friends that visit us and supported Margica. In these 2 years we had 18,558 views at the moment, about 4,024 shop views and 14,534 listing views. Which I think is absolutely wonderful. For those of you new to the world of Margica, I will introduce you to what this shop stands for. I am an artist with a love to create beautiful things around me. A few years back in time I decided to dedicate more of my time to crafting beautiful original jewelry out of mother nature’s resources around us. Natural stones and crystals (that by the way, I simply adore them!) are combined with handmade beads of any imaginable origin, as well as fibers, and the list goes on and on as the sky is the limit to where imagination is concerned.
Every single piece has a story to tell,and its up to you to make it your very own! They are meant to be worn by women who work 9 to 5, or just want to have fun in feeling beautiful and special. I pride myself in not repeating any of my designs. Every single piece is unique and it is meant to be worn by only one of you in this whole wide world! My jewelry is a pure labor of love and it arrives at your door with care instructions for years to come.
Thank you all for your support! Special thanks to my visitors from Germany, Japan, Lebanon, Tasmania, and to all my international visitors who made Margica part of their interests!
As July is the anniversary month, we are offering a special offer valid throughout this July!
Visit http://www.margica.etsy.com/ and enter this COUPON CODE when you checkout your purchase. Get 15% off your purchase with this CODE: BIRTHDAY15.

Samba Rhythms

2012-06-24T12:36:00.002-04:00

This weekend we had an invitation to the most colorful barbecue of the summer. A good friend of ours celebrated his birthday Brazilian style. He and his wife shared with his us, his friends, the beautiful traditional food and music of their native country. My favorites were the blissful cocktails made with Cachaca, a rum with a faint tequila scent that is not as sugary as other rums made of sugarcane: Caipirinha, Copacabana, Batida de Carneval, and Macadas Milk.
His wife prepared an endless array of extraordinary salads, Brazilian rice with black beans and a slow cooked (about 3 hours) pork roast OUT OF THIS WORLD!! And of course, the BBQ worked full time till the late hours of the evening. The New Moon and the clear starry sky served as the perfect background for the soul tempting sambas rhythms.
I decided this year to change the usual white shorts and t-shirt with a more tropical look. A T-Dyed dress in the colorful hues of tangerine, blues, purples, and greens. To accessorize the look with an even more tropical feel, I created two necklaces using an eclectic mix of natural stones, handmade ceramic beads and crystals.
This is the way to travel to Brazil in one's own backyard. Happy Birthday my Brazilian friend!

To many happy returns!!!

http://www.etsy.com/listing/102884474/amazonite-unakite-red-new-jade-and

http://www.etsy.com/listing/102885068/green-fire-agates-red-new-jade-howlite?ref=v1_other_1

2012-05-16T19:07:00.005-04:00

UPDATE!

Hey Everyone! Yes, it has been a while since my last post...sorry, been crazy busy! I recently added a few pages to the blog. I linked my Tumblr, Facebook, and Twitter pages, so feel free to pop in and say hello, or not.

Just started the Tumblr and so far so good! More pics to come. Feel free to post a comment and let me know what you think!

margica.tumblr.com

Route 209 to the Delaware Gap

2012-03-26T00:58:00.002-04:00

    Currently my daughter is home from school for spring break. This past Saturday we decided to spend the day out in the great outdoors, to see how lady spring has decorated one of our favorite places --- the Delaware Gap.
     As soon as we crossed the Hudson river Mother Nature saluted us with clear blue skies. I cannot describe this amazing feeling that I get whenever we cross the Tappan Zee Bridge. Away from the city life, away from the conglomeration and high stress from day to day life. With the city behind us and only the road to the Delaware Gap before us, I just can’t help but feel so happy and giddy! It’s funny how you notice the differences when you’re out on the road. The beautiful trees that are beginning to blossom (quite early this year too!), and the many, many hawks circling above them. They are so majestic! And so large too. I can’t imagine how big they are in person, they must be enormous if we see them down below so large. Anyway, there were so many, I mean literally at every bend and turn there would be at least 7 or 8 at a time. We simply lost count!
       The Delaware Gap is a favorite spot of ours because 1) if you love nature and its landscapes you can understand, you are surrounded by these beautiful mountains that envelop the Delaware river with each bend. 2) There are grounds where you go fishing, and go picnicking with your family and pets! Our Muffy loves it there! We go to our usual spot marked by a rather large weather battered limestone rock.
     We had a lovely picnic at the Gap. Muffy chased all the ducks on the banks (got real muddy too), picked a few pebbles for my jewelry. She has a special talent for this; loves to grab large pebbles in her mouth and then plop them on my lap. Too cute :)
     After the picnic we headed onward on Route 209 landing in Milford, PA. It is such a lovely historic town with lots of little boutiques and shops. Unfortunately due to current economic times a lot of the local businesses have closed out of business.
     We did though find a neat thrift shop hidden behind an art/antique boutique called “Calling All Angels”. I must say that I found the neatest tangerine suede leather blazer for an astonishing affordable price ($1!), plus it was in mint condition. I got it for my daughter and it looks really chic on her. Likewise my daughter found a really nice red wind jacket for me too. We met with the owners of the shop and they were so lovely. They told me a good deal about the town and their shop with a noble cause. “Calling All Angels” is a thrift shop, in which all proceeds (after paying rent) go to the local Food Bank supporting over 150 needy families in the area. Yes, we found some neat items, but the story behind this place gave quite an impression on me.
        Wrapping up, on our way home there was this guy out on Route 209 in this funny costume holding up a sign “Honk if you Liberty”. I couldn’t help but smile and honk!

List of FUN things to do in 2012...

2012-01-09T23:41:00.000-05:00

It is now a week into the new year 2012. Wow, already it seems like time is flying! I am with my daughter now, who in a week will be returning back to campus for the semester. We created for fun a list of things that we would dream of doing if given the chance in this new year. So here it is. A list of 5 things from each of us that we would love to do.

Me
1. Find a treasure!--- I mean....who wouldn't want to? A classic dream for the child in you!
2. Go deep water fishing--- and get a catch worthy to take a picture with and hang it up in the local fishmonger's shop's hall of fame.
3. Visit Louisiana--- gumbo and crawfish, yum!
4. Visit the Finger Lakes---- so many geodes have been found there, and not to mention beautiful raw gemstones.
5. Quit my day job!--- And do what I love instead! Create jewelry and paint!.

My Daughter
1. Go skydiving.
2. Go parasailing.
3. Learn how to sail a boat and be good at it. (What can I say except that she is a bit more daring than I am-----hehe....that what she thinks!)
4. Visit Prince Edward's Island--- A place where one of her favorite books is set in, Anne of Green Gables by Lucy Maud Montgomery.
5. Take a Road Trip with Mom, Muffy, and MISS Minnie.

Well hope you enjoyed our list of fun things that we'd love to do this year. What would you love to do this year if given the chance?

A piece for my daughter

2012-01-04T00:06:00.002-05:00

A new year, a new beginning, new strength, new hopes and the list can go on and on...
Every single piece of jewelry that I create has a certain symbolism and meaning; stones, crystals, and fibers are paired to create a meaningful piece with its own special power. Each year I dedicate the first piece I make to my daughter-- she is my first customer, I please her, I please the world.

For my new design I was inspired by the ivy plant. Its everlasting vitality, strengths and survival perseverance is to be admired. The snake-like design of the cord enhances the symbolic power of the ivy. The round shape of this choker makes you think of the continuity of the life cycle and infinite possibilities. I sprinkled 12 crystals (each representing a month of the year), AB (aurora borealis) fire-polished, that are of the icy blue reflections of the polar skies. The deep ultramarine ribbon color reminds me of something we both love, the ocean, and of our enchanting vacations out in the Outer Banks, NC.

Cin Cin--To A New Year....

2012-01-01T23:28:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year Everyone!
Although we are now in January, it certainly doesn't feel like it here in New York. Usually at this time of year, we go out of the city and go skiing with our friends and spend New Year's Eve together. This year---no snow. So, my daughter and I decided to spend it together at home with our dog Muffy, and cat Minnie. We had a lovely New Year's Eve! For dinner we had roasted orange duck, and lemon rice spinach. May I say--- it was delicious! As the ball dropped in Times Square on TV, I popped a bottle of a girly pink bubbly (Barefoot Bubbles Pink Moscato) and my daughter and I celebrated and welcomed the new year 2012!
The Christmas tree filled the air with an enchanting smell of pine, the candle flickering, the crowds outside cheering, and our bubbly flowing in our fine crystal flutes....oh, this will be a wonderful new year!

In the following morning after having fluffy blueberry/blackberry pancakes, we decided to take a drive out to Long Island and visit one of our favorite places---The Planting Fields Arboretum State Historic Park in Oyster Bay. Many of my jewelry inspirations came from this place. At this time of year the camellias are beginning to bloom. They have a special greenhouse dedicated to many species of camellias (the largest collection in North America),. The original collection was purchased by Mr. Coe in 1916 from the Isle of Guernsey, many of the original plants are still blooming today.

Here are the first camellias to bloom this season. More to come in the next few weeks.

I like to call these "snow balls".

Pink ruffles. Aren't they lovely?

This is the Main Greenhouse filled with seasonal poinsettias.

Pink Poinsettias

NEW Sparkle Earrings

2011-12-29T20:20:00.000-05:00

Hello Everyone!

It has been a while since my last post.... 'tis the holiday season, no?

Anyway, I wanted to share with you the latest earrings that I have created. They are part of the new Sparkle Earrings Collection and are now listed on Etsy! Take a look, and don't hesitate to let me know what you think.

Here are a few of them:

These are called the Aurora Borealis Sparkle Earrings. Named AB because they reflect the colors of the rainbow. They look lovely in the light. Its almost like having a small chic disco ball in your ear.
http://www.etsy.com/listing/89311066/aurora-borealis-sparkle-earrings

These are the Multi AB Sparkle Earrings. With gold faceted czech crystals, these earrings are light in the ear. These have darker sparkle beads then the earrings listed above this pair, and are not as pearlescent. These bring a pop of color to your ear!
http://www.etsy.com/listing/89322951/multi-ab-sparkle-with-gold-crystal-drop

I only listed two of the earrings. But there are more! Check them out at this link: http://www.etsy.com/shop/Margica?section_id=10896602

St. Nicholas Day- The Spirit of Christmas Begins

2011-11-16T23:42:00.001-05:00

           This year, I am watching in horror how the most magical time of the year is transformed into a circus conducted by money hungry lunatics. Supposedly they are saving the crippled economy???? CHRISTMAS decorated stores in the first week of november?
What happened to after Thanksgiving? In the name of what are you killing our traditions? MONEY? Are you taking any with you when you depart? No, you leave as you came,only with your soul-GOD HAVE MERCY ON YOU!
          As a child growing up, on the eve of the 6th of december, all the children placed their best pair of shoes on the window sill.Of course our shoes needed to be sparkly clean and polished so ST.NICHOLAS would fill them with candy and chocolates, new socks,and school supplies. We all tried that evening to be at our best behavior, as to show ST.NICHOLAS that we were indeed little angels all year long. Before falling asleep, I always said a special prayer asking him to overlook anything that I might have done to upset my parents, promising from the bottom of my heart to be the most obedient child ever on this planet. I don't have to say I always fell asleep with my fingers crossed.
            Tradition was, according to the way we behaved over the year, we would be rewarded on this pre-CHRISTMAS visit by ST.NICHOLAS. A mischievous child, will find in his shoes a wooden stick and nothing else. That meant, until CHRISTMAS he or she needed to really become a little angel, otherwise there will be no gifts under the CHRISTMAS TREE. SANTA DOES NOT COME TO BRING GIFTS TO A BRAT !OH HO HO! Now that was the best month for our parents. There was a real competition to demonstrate how good we did in school, help with the house chores and so on....! Can't describe how we counted the days until CHRISTMAS DAY EVE, when we would fall asleep amid all the wonderful aromas from my mom's kitchen, where the oven was baking the most delicious cookies, sweet traditional Christmas bread and so many more goodies .
            Waking up CHRISTMAS morning, my brother and I would run to the living room to find the most amazing fresh CHRISTMAS TREE EVER. I remember how we closed our eyes, before looking under its branches to see what Santa brought us.
        As an eastern orthodox, these childhooh memories are precious to me. I grew up in hard times from a religious point of view, in which the goverment tried to impose an atheist education. I will forever remember the love that embraced our home at CHRISTMAS.Traditions that unite a family are a good thing, and should be carried on, as the magic time of CHRISTMAS DAY really begins with ST.NICHOLS DAY, 6th of december. Stop the circus and take a second to remember what we do celebrate, your home will be a much happier one.HO,HO,HO.....

Jim Thorpe, PA--- How I love you!

2011-10-16T18:54:00.002-04:00

       Saturday morning---- my daughter's home from college---need I say I'm in heaven?
    Early morning,I made her pancakes with caramelized apples, a raspberry sauce , and maple syrup to start the day, and a glass of cold milk (we just love this combination). We decided to drive and see what's happening in Jim Thorpe, PA, one of our favorite little towns ever! For those of you unfamiliar with this place, I must say, that this little town in Carbon County, PA has been selected by the National Geographic Adventure Magazine as one of the top 50 places to visit and explore in the U.S. Spend a Halloween or Christmas here, and it will be purely magical!!
     Nestled amid the pitoresque hills of the Pocono mountains, on the banks of the Lehigh River, I have heard many who regard this place to be a Little Switzerland of America. I highly recommend that you discover the historic legacy of Mauch Chunk, a.k.a Jim Thorpe, PA. Go! You can bring your children for fun train rides on a historic train from the 1880's, explore the whimsical boutiques and stores, hiking, white-water rafting, biking, and visit the historical mansion of Asa Packer, as well as the historic and haunted jailhouse, infamous for the Molly Maguire hangings...*shiver* very scaaaary! Be it Autumn, Winter, Spring or Summer, you are bound to enjoy yourselves in Jim Thorpe!

Arriving in Jim Thorpe, PA. Muffy is looking at view. See below.

Jim Thorpe, PA.,october misty air brings the magic in...

Here is the main street.

I just thought this store's window was so pretty!

This is the Inn. One of the many accomodations here.

Pumpkin Ice Cream. Yum!

Carriage Horses. They are breathtaking! So handsome!

Read Pumpkin Soup, more on Mauch Chunk a.k.a. Jim Thorpe... and did I mentioned his tomb is up the hill.

http://margicasnotebook.blogspot.com/2011/10/pumpkin-soup.html

Pumpkin Soup

2011-10-07T02:37:00.002-04:00

Do you like pumpkin soup?
  Yes, no, may be so. As a child I did travelled a lot with my father, weekends and school breaks were happy and full of adventure, beautiful memories. He taught me how to understand the dynamics of our development as human beings by looking at a specific natural environment. If you want to learn about a certain culture, he told me,look and listen to the folkloric traditions.
After my husband's premature death from cancer, I decided to raise my daughter (she was 14 months old when her dad moved to the rainbow) as my Dad raised me, free,curious about our universe, to be an independent thinker , and most important to love and respect all life. Now, in order to do that ,I had exchanged the pencil skirt with a pair of jeans and my heels with a pair of snickers, and almost every weekend we are leaving New York City behind and,we travel to learn what we cannot learn from books alone.
   One late october weekend ,while in Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania my old Chrysler New Yorker refused to start and we had to spend the night there. My daughter was about three years old at the time and Jim Thorpe was decorated to her delight, as a true Halloween Town. Since then it did became a tradition for us to be at this time of year in Jim Thorpe.The magic is overwhelming , pumpkin is king, from ice-cream to soup and beyond.
  That particular night, a lady dressed as a witch (what else?)served us the most delicious pumpkin soup,in a small pitoresque cafe.The pumpkin soup as she told me, was an old family recipe that originated from the Lenape ancestors that inhabited the upper Delaware region. The Lenape clans were a matriarchal society, and had three designations "turtle","wolf" and"turkey". Her maternal great great mother was a"wolf" descendant. She credited her for the pumpkin soup goodness.Two years ago, we found out that the gentle witch moved with her Lenape ancestors. She was the last of her kind, and the velvety pumpkin soup recipe never written down. May be this year, we'll meet somebody who might know the secret, miracles happen all the time, after all it's Halloween time in Jim Thorpe.