Riveted by Jewellery

Jewellery is an ever changing medium that allows for expression in all types of form and design. However, this can become confusing for follows and fans of certain jewellers, causing these jewellers to stick to what they know and what they know will sell. Even though jewellery is an art form and is used to express the whim of the artist, it is also one of the oldest forms of business and is there to be sold.
So how do you tap into different markets and increase your following without losing the style of your brand and the essence of your design? Do what many people in the art, publishing and design field do. Have different brands that target different markets and cater to different tastes.

Maryse Castel Creations is my original business and one that will hopefully expand in design and techniques. It is under this name that I express my classic, fine jewellery tastes. The technically more advanced pieces that appeal to many South Africans who want a piece of jewellery that they will never tire of and that will continue to carry its worth in metal and stones used.

Riveted was the brand name that I came up with while studying at University. It has always been at the back of my mind to use this name for my business but as my plans changed and evolved, I found that it didn't suit my needs until recently. It is now perfect for my secondary range of jewellery that I produce under the Riveted name.
This is where I can 'play' and enjoy the whimsy and fun you can have with jewellery. Using other materials and simple shapes that are effective and eye catching without breaking the bank. My 'not so serious" jewellery range. Here I use simpler jewellery techniques that make these pieces uncomplicated and contemporary.

Pair of sterling silver, pierced feather studs.

A pair of sterling silver, pierced feather drops

Opening night of the Framed Exhibition

A few photos from the opening night of the Framed Exhibition at Veronica Anderson's shop in The Firs. It was so great to reconnect with people whom I haven't seen in ages and meet many new people who love designer jewellery as much as I do. What a privilege to showcase some of my pieces with so many South African contemporary jewellers.

At last the day has come and gone and I can post this wedding ring that I manufactured for a friend who got married this weekend in Ireland.
This ring and the men's palladium wedding band was such a pleasure to make for this happy couple.

A platinum, half eternity wedding band with alternating diamonds and sapphires.

Sneak Peak Through the Frame

A sneak peak of what is going to be on show at the Framed Exhibition opening at the end of this week at Veronica Anderson in The Firs, Rosebank.

A double length, hand-made sterling silver chain with flat-cut, facet smokey quartz, amethyst, garnet, green amethyst and grey moonstone.

A pair of sterling silver drop earrings with rose cut pyrite, flat-cut green amethyst and briolette smokey quartz.

Framed Exhibition

Visit www.veronicaandersonjewellery.co.za for more information about the pieces shown above.

Doing the Polka with the Polki

My gem dealer came to visit me a little while ago with the most amazing stones that she found on her buying trip in India. The cuts that are coming out are so beautiful and the possibilities are endless. The only problem is stopping myself from buying up all her stock.

I am finding that the South African market, though very trendy and forward thinking, still loves the classic in colours and designs. That is why these new stone cuts that are making their way to our shores are very exciting. The gem cutters are finding new whys to liven up the favorites and in turn giving the designers something inspirational to work with.

A pair of sterling silver drops with irregular, polki cut pink and aqua calcy cabs and round, rose cut turquoise.

Say Hello to the Halo

A sterling silver, square halo ring with princess cut blue topaz and cubic zirconias. Manufactured by me for Marius Nel Jewellers.

A sterling silver,round halo ring with brilliant cut sky blue topaz and cubic zirconias. Manufactured by me for Marius Nel Jewellers.

A sterling silver,round halo ring with brilliant cut London blue topaz and cubic zirconias. Manufactured by me for Marius Nel Jewellers.