J. Wass Original Designer Jewelry

Finding Inspiration for Designer Jewelry in the Antique Jewelry Past

2009-01-29T08:42:00.001-08:00

As many of you know, in addition to designing my line of designer jewelry I also have collected and dealt in antique jewelry for years. My favorite aspect of the antique jewelry world is the hunt. You never know what will be around the next corner. In the search, I often come across pieces that I have never seen before, true one of kind pieces of jewelry. By touching and feeling these pieces I get a true sense of their construction, materials used, and design elements that I then apply to my vintage inspired designer jewelry originals.
Antique pieces of jewelry are so unique when compared to fine jewelry of today. The general public does not even know how much of today’s jewelry is produced by machine. Diamonds bracelets that are actually pumped out by the dozens on a machine while never touching the human hands. Antique jewelry was often done entirely by hand. Stones were hand cut, gold was hand etched, pearls were hand wired. This puts antique pieces in a quality category that just cannot be matched today.
In my beaded jewelry collection I try to put that attention to detail into my line. All of my centerpieces are hand wired, a process that takes hours per piece. Although I do not hand cut my stones, they are hand selected one by one for placement. Whenever I can I also use vintage gems and beads which gives then another layer of care, detail, and connection to history. Patinas are hand finished on my metals and each is hand signed for originality. This is what I believe sets me apart from so many other lines of jewelry out there on the market today. This is also why my pieces are so limited and often one of a kind couture pieces.
Collecting antique jewelry is not an easy task. So many pieces that I come across are in unacceptable condition due to age and careless handling over the years. Some of these pieces can be revived through costly repairs, but others are not able to be saved. Some pieces have been redesigned over the years, which is fun to see how others have envisioned wearing their heirlooms. When I come across an interesting yet damaged piece I always consider whether it could be incorporated into one of my original designs. No matter what I do, I always strive to keep the original integrity of the piece and even if broken I try to keep it in its original form in case someone someday wants to reclaim these antique elements from my designer jewelry piece.

Above photo: Antique Art Nouveau 14K Diamond Brooch, circa 1890 available at www.your-antique-jewelry.com .

Yellow is the New Pink: Michelle Obama Sets the Fashion Tone

2009-01-21T09:43:00.000-08:00

It seems that fashion is coming out of the soothing grays of Fall and Winter, a color of uncertainty, into vibrant Spring colors of Yellow as Michelle Obama chooses the bold color for her designer look at Tuesday’s inauguration. Michelle looked stunning in her Isabel Toledo yellow dress and matching coat. Yellow is the color of hope, optimism, and strong will. Nothing says this more than the Obama’s to so many people right now.
Yellow has been in the Spring forecast for 2009 but nothing brought it more to life than the new First Lady wearing it at Tuesday’s event. It is a color that we just do not see all too often in fashion, but in these trying times I think it is refreshing and much needed. If you are a bit timid about wearing the “new pink” head to toe, here are some tips on how you can inject some of this hopeful color into your 2009 wardrobe.
You can always use yellow as your accessories with a more neutral outfit. Try wearing a designer jewelry piece in yellow tones . Lemon quartz, yellow jades, and citrine offer this yellow tone in natural shades. String lemon quartz around your neck as a constant reminder to you and everyone you encounter that now is the time to stay positive and look to the future. Buy something from a domestic jewelry designer, something that was handmade, and the statement will be even stronger.
If you want to interject yellow into your wardrobe take your cues from nature. Think about how nature uses yellow in its natural beauty. Yellow combines beautifully with whites, as in daisies, and greens. Michelle Obama paired a touch of green with her gloves to her yellow ensemble. I would recommend staying away from Earth tones when working with yellow, no browns, tans, or oranges.
When accenting yellow itself, pearls are a natural and classic choice. Pearls are also something that you can wear time and again, a symbol of thrift and versatility that also fits in with today’s underlying themes.
I wish the Obama’s all the best as they shape our next chapter in history.

Spring Is In the Air: New Designer Jewelry Collection

2009-01-12T17:56:00.000-08:00

Spring is in the air and it is influencing my artistic spin on my designer jewelry collection. Here in Southern California we are having warm sunny days in the middle of January, which is quite unusual even for this part of the country. The warm weather definitely is holds whispers of Spring, and with it comes optimistic change which is long overdue. My eye has been drawn to inspired colors of yellows, spring greens, and light shades of amethyst which I have been using in my designer jewelry line. These colors translate into yellow jades and quartz, light shades of earthy jade, and lighter shades of amethyst quartz. These natural materials pair beautifully with the natural luster of pearls. Pearl jewelry is always a big focal point in my jewelry collections.
While out and about I took some photos of the Spring flowers that are already in bloom in promising colors of white and yellow showing off proudly against their green foliage. It is no secret that these are challenging times, but I truly believe that we need to stay optimistic about the near future. The media has been playing up the negativity which only breeds more negativity. In times like these, if we can take a step back and look at the beauty found in nature and more of the simple pleasures in life we can rekindle a sense of being ok. Knowing that no matter what happens there will be a tomorrow, that the flowers will still bloom and that nature holds so much beauty. This type of attitude tends to be contagious, so keep this in mind as you go about your days.
In my Spring Designer Jewelry Collection, I have tried to bring in this sense of renewed hope and have attempted to highlight the beauty in nature. The idea being that these will not only serve as beautiful accessories for your Spring wardrobe, but also as reminders, charms of some sort, reminding the wearer to stay positive and optimistic and spread this uplifted attitude in all she does. Please take a look at the collection and let me know what you think.

Buying Designer Jewelry: Do's and Dont's

2008-09-03T12:48:00.001-07:00

There are a lot of factors to consider when buying designer jewelry (http://jwassoriginals.com/) One must consider the style, materials, artist, value, color, stones, metals, trends to mention a few aspects of the buying process. Following I have some simple, fool proof methods to follow when buying your designer jewelry pieces.

Dos:
The number one thing to remember when buying your designer jewelry is to buy what you love. If you keep this in mind, all else will be easy. Regardless of trends or materials used, you will be sure to enjoy your selection for many many years to come. Do get to know the jewelry designer and artisan that made your piece. This is important as you are buying a piece of their craft, their artwork that you will be wearing for years to come. If you like the artisan, you will feel that every time you put on your designer necklace or earrings. If you can actually meet the designer you will create a memory of that experience that will stay with the piece that you select. Also, do get in writing what the piece is made of and a guarantee that backs the representation of materials used. I know that I said that it did not matter what it was made of if you love the piece, but it has to do with the value and authenticity of the piece that you are buying. There is a big price difference is dyed vs. natural gemstones and solid gold vs. gold filled.

Don’ts:
Don’t rush out and buy what your friends are wearing or what the magazines are saying is in this season. Instead set the trends yourself. I think it is important to stay informed about the trends and it can be very nice to wear something that is contemporary as far as the colors of the season, silhouettes etc., but this should not be a determining factor in buying a piece of artisan handmade jewelry that you will be enjoying for years to come. Don’t buy something from someone who will not back up what they are selling in writing backed with a guarantee. If it is a one-of-a-kind piece, then ask the artisan to back that up with a certificate. Don’t buy something that you are only going to wear once. As a jewelry designer and a salesman one would not expect this advice coming from me, as one would think my goal is to sell as much jewelry as possible, but this is something that I truly believe. But something that is classic enough or artistic enough that it will lend itself to several occasions or events. I try to keep my designs classic enough that they can be worn year after year despite changing fashion trends.
For more advice and jewelry news please sign up for my mailing list found on my website: http://jwassoriginals.com/.

The Wedding Ring: History and Selecting Modern and Antique Jewelry Pieces Part 1

2008-08-28T10:13:00.000-07:00

As many of you know, in addition to my original designer jewelry collection (http://www.jwassoriginals.com/) , I also offer an estate and antique jewelry service to my clients often to accompany their original wedding jewelry suite. One of the most fulfilling parts of this wing of my business is helping my clients select their antique wedding ring, engagement ring, or anniversary ring. There is nothing more romantic than selecting antique jewelry for a special occasion. Just as a handmade designer jewelry piece may very well be a one-of-a-kind piece of art, an antique jewelry item is unique and has history, romantic allure, and sentiment that just cannot be said with a modern day piece. Antique jewelry was handmade with detailing and craftsmanship that is not matched in modern day machine-worked pieces. An antique or vintage wedding ring may be the only one that exists and no one else will have the same piece.
I thought it would be a good idea to write a bit about the history of the wedding ring and give you some information on antique and vintage wedding ring pieces, as well as some tips on what to look for when selecting a wedding ring whether it be an antique jewelry piece or a modern or reproduction piece. Please check back as I will be presenting this as a series and if you miss a post you can always check the archives or email me and I will send it to you via email.

History of the Wedding Ring, The Beginning: Some evidence supports that the tradition of the engagement ceremony dates back to the beginning of time when man and woman resided in caves. The wedding ring, a symbol of ever lasting love and devotion, can be seen as far back as ancient Egyptian times. Egyptians loved fine gems, gold, and silver and were inspirational jewelry designers. To them, as to modern culture, the ring was a symbol of eternity, no beginning and no end. Today this symbol is often adorned with diamonds or colored gems in an eternity style band, a symbol of never ending devotion and love. The ancient Egyptian culture had strong beliefs in the afterlife as evident by their elaborate tombs filled with everything that they needed for life after death. So to the Egyptians life, happiness, and love had no start and no end, just a continuum, so the circular shape of the ring was a perfect token serving as an everyday reminder to them. To be continued…

(Photo: Antique 19th Century Mine Cut Diamond Wedding Ring Available at http://www.your-antique-jewelry.com/)

Gunmetal Jewelry : Antique Concept in Modern Designer Jewelry Looks

2008-05-01T10:48:00.001-07:00

Modern jewelry designers are incorporating gunmetal finishes in their work for deep shimmering effects and modern clean looks. (available at jwassoriginals.com). Gunmetal finishes are most often found today in chain and offers a wonderful alternative to highly polished Sterling Silver. When links are cut or flattened it has incredible refractive properties that shimmers in the light. Unlike Sterling Silver, gunmetal finishes will not tarnish and actually look better over time. Although it is something that has been incorporated readily into modern designer jewelry, it actually has a long history and can be seen in antique jewelry looks (http://your-antique-jewelry.com) .
When we think about antique jewelry, we usually associate Gold, Diamonds, and gemstones. In the early 1800’s some styles of jewelry was produced from cast-iron and given a black-lacquered finish. More specifically it appeared around 1804 in Berlin, Germany. This jewelry pre-dates Victorian Era jewelry and dates to the Napoleonic Wars (during the Georgian Period in England). This type of jewelry is called Berlin Iron and is quite scarce today. Styles that are found tend to be in the Neo-Classical form, cast cameos and the sort in ornate frames. A bit later the Gothic Revival influenced the jewelry design with intricate lacey designs. It is amazing to think that these pieces were actually cast in sand and then lacquered in black. With its intricate design, it is a wonder that any examples still survive today.
Another form of gunmetal type antique jewelry is called Silesian wire work and was produced in Eastern Europe around the same time period. In this process iron wire was wrapped and woven into bracelets, necklaces, brooches, and earrings. In addition, jewelry was adorned with Aluminum at the time…yes it was that rare! It was prized due to the fact that it did not tarnish like Silver and was lightweight and highly refractive. Examples show that it was actually riveted to gold. As mining practices improved it fell out of fashion and as a result pieces are very scarce today.
In my designer jewelry collection I use both modern gunmetal finishes, mostly in chain along with my couture collection that incorporates antique steel cut components that date to the Georgian and Victorian Periods. I love the way that they play off of more modern cuts of gemstones. They also give a very romantic feel to the jewelry line and look amazing by candlelight. I will be writing more specifically about antique steel later on, as it also has a long history.

(source Warman's Jewelry by Christie Romero, 1995)

A Trip to Disneyland Brings an Encounter with Antique Jewelry

2008-04-28T13:19:00.000-07:00

Disneyland just so happens to be one of my favorite places to go here in Southern California when I need to get away for the day and clear my head and get transpired. Yesterday was spent as the park riding the coasters and attractions, being completely in awe of how beautifully maintained everything is in the park. I always wake up the next day from a visit feeling creatively recharged, inspired, and oddly enough exhausted at the same time. Having grown up in Southern California, many Summer days were spent at Disneyland and although much has changed over the years, Pirates of the Caribbean and the Haunted Mansion seem to remain high on my list of all time favorites.
Around the corner from Pirates in the heart of New Orleans Square is Jewel of Orleans, and Antique Jewelry Boutique with a limited but stunning collection of estate jewelry. It is this type of jewelry that often provides the inspiration for my own designer jewelry originals (http://jwassoriginals.com/). In the small corner shop, you can find antique diamond engagement rings from the Edwardian and Art Deco Era as well as gemstone pieces and the occasional designer jewelry piece from Cartier and Tiffany and Co. Being in the ambiance of New Orleans square makes browsing the collection that much more enjoyable as it is one of the most magical parts of the park.
This time Jewel of Orleans has beautiful pearl jewelry, large Tahitian pearl strands and a handsome collection of antique wrist watches from the 1930’s and 40’s. Especially eye catching were the Victorian style Rose Cut Diamond earrings proudly displayed in the window. You are always greeted with a smile there, unlike some more pretentious experiences out there at stores of the like. They like to take the time to tell you about the antique jewelry pieces as information is key to you making an informed decision about your purchase. It is just the experience that one would expect from the Happiest Place on Earth.
So the next time you stroll down the alleys of New Orleans Square, look for the antique jewelry collection at Jewel of Orleans…a small corner store tucked amongst the gift shops offering pirate hats and glowing Lucite skulls. It is always fun to brose and you just might fall in love with an antique or designer jewelry piece that you must have for your own collection.

How to Select a Designer Jewelry Piece

2008-04-26T15:40:00.000-07:00

Being in the fashion and jewelry industry, I see so many different styles, designs, and materials being used from both the past and present. I have spent years studying jewelry design and so much has passed through my hands over the years. With so much on the market, it can be overwhelming to select a designer jewelry piece for yourself knowing that you will be making an investment that should last you many seasons if not a lifetime. Below you will find a few tips in selecting a jewelry designer for you.
Fist, you must know yourself and your own sense of style. Are you more contemporary and edgy in the clothes you wear or more conservative and classic? That is what is so great about shopping for designer jewelry pieces today is that there is bound to be someone doing something that is an exact fit with your stylistic taste. You can also go with something in between that might lend itself to both contemporary and classic dress as I strive to do in many of my own designs (http://jwassoriginals.com).
Then you must choose what materials you are most drawn to. So you like Silver or Gold tones? Colored gems or pearl jewelry? Natural or most polished looks? Diamond jewelry or semi-precious stones. There are jewelry designers out there working with everything from wood and plastic to rare colored Diamonds and Tahitian pearls. Go with what you love and what really speaks to you in terms of color, feel, and energy as opposed to the intrinsic value of the materials involved.
You will also have to decide on what price range you are willing to spend on your new finds. You can buy very inexpensive pieces that might be trendy and fun that might last a season or invest in a piece that will be passed down to your children’s children. With a very competitive market, one is bound to find something wonderful at every price level. I advise that if you are going to spend a considerable amount on a designer jewelry piece, that you find something that is a classic or destined to be a classic that you will wear more than once. That is one reason that I recommend and use so many pearls in my designs as they are something that never go out of style.
So once you decide on these areas, go out there and shop around. Look at the quality, get to know the designer or about the designer and what makes he or she create. Most importantly you must love the new pieces that you purchase because ultimately that is really all that matters.

Save On Gas and Buy More Designer Jewelry

2008-04-24T10:07:00.000-07:00

It is no secret, in fact it is hard to avoid the painful news of rising fuel worldwide. At an average of $4 per gallon, it is not yet clear if we have seen the highs. For everyone this means higher prices not only at the pump but on everything that we normally buy. We still want what we normally buy and most of us do not like making sacrifices and living without the things that we want. So does inflation mean that there is no longer room in our budget for designer jewelry? Given a few smart tips, you will see that you can have your gas and jewelry too!
The bottom line is that we need to make some simple changes to our daily lives to control the uncontrollable (gas prices). We live in a world where technology can really lend a hand in our solutions. Those of us who shop a lot know that you might drive around from store to store to find exactly what we are looking for, especially those of us with discriminating taste. The good news is that most jewelry designers have online stores, either through their own independent sites (jwassoriginals.com) or a combined destination site. I know, one might say, “well, I then have to pay the shipping on the designer jewelry that I purchase online”. Jewelry is small and inexpensive to ship and most jewelry designers will ship their jewels for free if you ask them to, especially as a first time customer. Most independent designers are friendly and negotiable and want you to wear their designer jewelry looks. If free shipping will make or break a sale then I think it is a pretty safe bet that you will get free shipping on your jewels. Shopping online can be just as rewarding as window shopping, and a lot of the time you can find one-of-a-kind designer jewelry items that are not offered anywhere else. So all the money that you save at the pump can be adorning your neck, ears, and hands.
I do not mean to make light of the pressing issues that our nation faces, and I hope that this is not the tone here. I do believe that we can still have the things we want…designer jewelry, shoes, electronics if we make some simple changes to our lifestyle to use less of the items that are draining our budget in exchange for the things that help us feel adorned and enriched. Walk more, drive less, shop online and spend the money that you save on gas on designer jewelry and goods that you have always purchased. Go ahead feel beautiful and empowered…it will only make us, as a nation, stronger.

Vintage Victorian Banded Agate Necklace by J. Wass

2008-04-08T14:55:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to take a moment to share one of the newly added designer jewlery pieces to the web site. This beautiful one-of-a-kind piece features Vintage large Banded Agate gemstones with fascinating stripes of color. This designer necklace is one of one, that means when it is sold there will not be another as the agate beads were a Vintage find. I have always been fascinated with the natural beauty of agates. I am especially fond of the antique Victorian use of agates in the 19th Century. I have a small collection of antique Victorian boxes with the use of Scottish agate that I have acquired over the years. Agate just has such a warmth and sincere beautiful presence. For more photos of this piece and more in the collection visit http://www.jwassoriginals.com . I also have the matching earrings made from the same vintage lot of agates. You can purchase them together or separately.

Designer Earring Collection by J. Wass Original Designer Jewelry is Here

2008-03-24T16:05:00.000-07:00

By popular request, a designer earring collection has been added to the website as of last week. You can view the selections at jwassoriginals.com. The selection is limited for now, but new pieces will be added to the collection over time. Custom earrings were always an option but I wanted to offer you some ready-made and one-of-a-kind selections that you could order in a hurry. Pictured are my favorites, the pearl, hematite, with antique steel cuts from the 19th century. These have a very complicated construction and I couldn't be happier with the outcome. These are one-of-a-kind as I cannot replace the authentic antique steel cuts that will adorn each ear. So once these are gone, they are gone forever. You can order these directly at jwassoriginals@aol.com or you can visit the site: http://www.jwassoriginals.com/ and order through the order form. When you are there, please sign up for my updates via my mailing list as there are many new and exciting pieces going up for sale soon and you will want to have first choice at them before they post to the puplic. Enjoy!

P.S. Take a look at my youtube video at: http://youtube.com/watch?v=Mvc1EnaZOXI and leave me a comment if you wish. Thank you in advance.

Designer Jewelry by J. Wass Original Stop Motion Animated Film

2008-02-29T16:30:00.000-08:00

I have always been fascinated by stop motion animation, but never ventured out to make my own short film. After doing some research I made my first stop motion film featuring my designer jewelry. It took about 8 hours total to make for a 40 second film! I hope that you enjoy it...please let me know by leaving a comment on YouTube.com where it is hosted.

Inspiration for my designer jewelry can come from anywhere

2008-02-28T09:32:00.000-08:00

The more I design, the more that I find my inspirations can come from anywhere. Yesterday I decided that I needed to take the afternoon off from my normal work of juggling two businesses and did some work on the yard and house. I can do this during the week as I am often working full long days on the weekends selling, sourcing, and meeting with clients who normally work during the week. After some long hard rains here in Southern CA, the yard started looking a bit overgrown in stark contrast to last year's dry dead brush that kindled the devastating fires in the area. After weeding out the beds and seeing what survived and what perished this Winter I decided to run out for a few replacements. I found this beautiful Japanese Tea Flower plant to grow near my fountain. I was really looking for something white or purple (purple being the appropriate color for that area of the garden according to Feng Shui), but I was drawn by the graceful form and delicate blooms of this beautiful specimen. I find that when I step back for a moment from being engrossed in my business that I often have thoughts that inspire me to do or make something completely different for my line. My goals for 2008 are to push myself in different directions...to take some more risks and to do so I think that I need to remember to take those moments out and away to take care of my environment and myself.

-J. Wass
(J. Wass Original Designer Jewelry)

(photo taken by J. Wass at dusk, copyrite 2008).

Oscar Fashions Leave Stars Too Nude

2008-02-25T13:18:00.000-08:00

Oscar night is a time where stars not only get recognized for their amazing talent and work over the last year, but is also a time where they get to shine in designer couture at its best. Although I found many gowns to be quite beautiful and flattering in their sleeveless silhouettes, I am wondering why the choice for bare minimal accessories leaving stars necks way to nude for my taste. I understand the choices that stars have made over the last few years since 9/11 in pairing down the extravagance, and the concern over blood diamonds, however there are so many choices out there that would soften and compliment the look of these elegant gowns without going overboard on glittering million dollar diamonds. The overall decision to cut out these fantastic adornments all together seems a bit too Marie Antoinette to me. How about a simple yet elegant semi-precious collar to bring the attention back up to the star's face? Something with hand crafted workmanship and artistic design over a million dollar gem? Just a thought that I've had for some time and I'm wondering how many of you agree?
J. Wass Original Designer Jewelry

New Antique Jewelry, Vintage Jewelry, Wedding Ring Site

2008-02-13T23:40:00.000-08:00

Hello All,
Sorry I have been out of touch here for a while. I have been working away on my collection and organizing my antique jewelry collection for my new Web Site Aawsomblei Antique and Vintage Jewelry at http://www.your-antique-jewelry.com/. I have pieces ranging from early 1800's Georgian Jewelry to more modern pieces in platiunum, gold, silver, and designer costume jewelry as well. I also have a wedding ring collection, which is one of my specialties. You can check back frequently as I am adding pieces almost daily to the site. Also, take a minute to sign up for updates, sales, and news and a chance to preview my one-of-a-kind finds 48 hours before anyone else can even see them on the site.

Losing Our History: American Antique Jewelry Disappearing Forever

2007-10-11T15:01:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to share a thought with you all out there that I have been thinking about a lot lately. As someone who cares about our history and respects objects made by artisans of the past and present, I am seeing a trend in the estate jewelry business that is in my mind criminal. Through the normal process of wear and tear many pieces of antique jewelry are lost every year. Some just wear out, others break, or get left behind in some way shape or form. This is what in my opinion makes it so special. But for those you you who do not know the market, gold, silver, and platinum is at record highs. Because of this fact, every day pieces of antique jewelry are melted down by those who value the quick cash they can get from refining it over the value of the superb workmanship and history associated with these pieces. I understand recycling something that may be broken beyond repair, but I am seeing beautiful pieces of our history being destroyed every week. The fact is that once these pieces are gone they cannot be recovered. Over the years the price of precious metals fluxuates but the beauty of a finely crafted antique will always outweigh its value of raw materials.
As an individual and a designer I try to save what I can but I am only one person. I try to educate those around me about the true value of antique pieces. I strongly urge everyone to invest in these pieces because not only are they being melted down and destroyed, but also with the relatively low exchange rate, foreign investors are buying up American Art and Jewelry. For those of you who care, we need to do out part to preserve our history.

J. Wass

J. Wass Original Designer Jewelry: Everyday designer necklace and wedding jewery selections www.jwassoriginals.com

Why Create Designer Jewelry? Interview with J. Wass of J. Wass Original Designer Jewelry

2007-10-05T14:22:00.000-07:00

Q: Why did you decide to create designer jewelry?

A: As a jewelry designer I am often asked how I got into jewelry design initially. The first word that cames to mind whenever someone asks me this is creativity. It is just what I do in a sense. As an artist and a designer I constantly have ideas in my head that I want to express to the outside world. I feel fortunate when I am able to do so successfully. Whether it is through paint, cooking, or gemstones creating new and interesting things is something that I am passionate about.

Q: What made you make a vintage inspired collection?

A: Specifically speaking to the current line, I love the ability to incorporate history into the modern world. Antique and Vintage jewelry is wonderful but honestly great examples are very difficult to find. As a dealer in these original pieces, I quickly found this to be the case. The best pieces are away in collections and not accessible to the public. Also many have been damaged from years of use or are too delicate and no loger can be worn. One day I thought to myself, why not create pieces myself that reflect these wonderful styles of the past but do them in my own way.

Q: What do you feel makes your line unique from other designer jewelry collections on the market?

A: All of my pieces are hand made by me personally. I do all my own wirework, construction and designs. The pieces that I make are very limited in their production. Some that use special materials, such as antique beads or findings are one of a kind couture pieces that you will not find ever again. Each piece I feel is a piece of myself, something that I have held with my own hands, spent hours designing and redesigning until it is just right.

Q: You mentioned that you use antique pieces in your line, can you tell us more about that?

A: Every piece that I design for the collection either incorporates authentic antique or vintage pieces or has elements that were cut from molds that are as much as 100 years old. Lately I have been busy collecting antique French artifacts dating back as far as the 1700's. I just think that it feels wonderful to own a piece of history, to wonder where this element might have been, who it might have belonged to...these things give the piece a true sense of romanticism.

Q: Do you feel it is more difficult to incorporate these pieces as opposed to creating something from all new materials?

A: Those who know me best know that I never shy away from a challenge. If something doesn't work or fit at first I can usually find a way to use it if given the chance. Yes, sometimes it can be a challenge to use antique pieces as every piece is completely unique in its construction, but that is why my pieces are what they are and not cookie-cutter jewelry that you might find elsewhere.

Q: Where can you find your current line?

A: For the momement I have made the decision to exclusively offer my pieces through my website. I want to work directly with my customers at this point in time and offer the possibility of custom made pieces. This may change in the near future which may drastically limit the availability of my pieces.

Q: Where do you see your line going in the near future?

A: As an artist I feel like my work is always evolving in new directions. I want to be able to continue to work on my one-of-a-kind pieces that use these antique European findings that I have been collecting. I always find new gems and pearls to use as well, which often times give me inspiration in their own natural beauty. I just want to keep designing beautiful jewelry that brings joy and a sense of history and glamour to the women who wear them.

J. Wass Original Designer Jewelry: Everyday designer necklace & wedding jewelry selections
Offering designer jewelry originals & wedding jewelry inspired by vintage jewelry and incorporating modern style. Made using vintage couture techniques with vintage filigree, genuine pearls, and semi-precious gemstones. Custom designs offered.

Summer Weddings Approach: Pearl Jewelry in your Wedding Jewelry Collection

2007-05-16T13:43:00.000-07:00

Festoon style Pearl Necklace with Seed Pearls, Vintage Filigree, and Crystal. A beautiful part of your wedding jewelry collection. Exclusively at www.jwassoriginals.com.

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Summer Weddings Approach: Include Genuine Pearl Jewelry in your Wedding Jewelry Collection. As I scouted about looking at the current market for wedding jewelry, I was overwhelmingly disappointed by the offerings of most retailers and designers today. I was puzzled by this idea that on one of the most celebrated days of one's life, a bride would settle on something less that perfect to adorn her neck. This is one of the reasons that I decided to add a special wedding jewelry collection to my line of designer jewelry. There is no reason that a bride should have something less than perfect on here wedding day.

It is my opinion that faux pearls and crystal beads are appropriate for one's high school dance, but when it comes to a wedding, a bride should always go with the genuine pearls and gems. We live in a very fortunate time when up until recently genuine pearls were only affordable to the well to do. With the invention of the first cultured Pearl in the late 1800's by famous jeweler MIKIMOTO, the pearl industry was forever changed. Today the cultured pearls rival the most cherished natural pearls in antique jewelry in color, shape, and quality at just a fraction of the cost. Although helped by man, most modern day cultured pearls are completely made up of nacre, which is the natural coating produced by the mollusk almost identical to the natural pearls of antiquity.

A bride should be able to reflect her own style in her wedding jewelry selections, from delicate to bold, from pearls and crystal to colored gems and gold. There really are no set rules except that it should be unique to the bride and make her feel incredibly special. If possible a bride can coordinate the wedding colors in her bridal jewelry selections which truly ties everything together on the wedding day. Recently I designed an original collection for an entire bridal party with genuine pearls (both chocolate and cream), and olive jade to reflect the gorgeous color combination selected by the bride.

To be honest, I am tired of seeing the delicate "Y" necklace with faux pearls and rhinestones...delicate glass crystals on chain and other obvious choices being pedaled over and over again to brides to be. It is my sincere feeling that a wedding is too special, too memorable to make a quick and easy choice for your wedding jewelry. If possible wear something that has been handed down through the family. Check with relatives to see if there is a family heirloom locked away in the bank that you could borrow for your special day. Or have something designed especially for your wedding day. I offer this service through my website and it is more affordable than one might initially think. If you have something that you truly love, you will be able to wear it time and time again (unlike that expensive wedding gown) and you will be able to pass it down to the next generation.

I welcome any questions or comments that you may have about my work or my company, so please feel free to contact me at any time.

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J. Wass Original Designer Jewelry: Everyday designer necklace & wedding jewelry selections
Offering designer jewelry originals & wedding jewelry inspired by vintage jewelry and incorporating modern style. Made using vintage couture techniques with vintage filigree, genuine pearls, and semi-precious gemstones. Custom necklace designs offered.
CONTACT via EMAIL
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Copyrite 2006-2007. All rights reserved. All designs, copy, pictures protected under U.S. & International law.

Some Thoughts on Pearls: J. Wass Original Designer Jewelry Collection

2007-04-14T11:44:00.000-07:00

Large baroque pearl necklace with amethsyt, seed pearls & crystal. A personal favorite for everyday or your wedding necklace. Exclusively at www.jwassoriginals.com.

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Genuine Pearls have been coveted by society for thousands of years. In some cultures and times they were the most prized of all gemstones. Growing up in the jewelry business, I have always been fascinated by the natural beauty of these gems from the sea. Up until about 100 years ago they were unaffordable to all except the wealthiest of individuals. We live in a very unique time when it comes to this most beautiful of gems.
Given their historical importance and sheer beauty, I incorprate genuine pearls into the majority of my orginal designer jewelry pieces. Lately I have been trying to learn as much as I can about the pearl industry, their history, and their physical properties and what it all means for the pearl jewelry business of today. Recently I have come to find that pearls that are being cultured today rival the most expensive of pearls naturally found in antiquity. It is my opinion that the quality and availability of these gems will not be sustained forever and they will be wonderful investments for the future. As pollution and global environmental changes continue to be an issue, it has already greatly impacted the avialability of Japanese cultured pearls and naturally found coral supplies. Around the turn of the century in the United States there was a great harvesting of gorgeous natural river pearls. With their depletion and pollution from the industy and surrounding civilization, these pearl simply do not exist today and it is a great treat to find these beauties in antique pieces. I think that is why I am so drawn to the variety and quality of pearls on the market today. Most modern day cultured pearls are almost 100% natural nacre, which is very close to the quality used in antique jewelry pieces. I feel honord to be able to work with such beautiful materials and truly hope that their natural beauty is highlighted in my work.

I welcome any questions or comments that you may have about my work or my company, so please feel free to contact me at any time.

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J. Wass Original Designer Jewelry: Everyday designer necklace & wedding jewelry selections
Offering designer jewelry originals & wedding jewelry inspired by vintage jewelry and incorporating modern style. Made using vintage couture techniques with vintage filigree, genuine pearls, and semi-precious gemstones. Custom necklace designs offered.
CONTACT via EMAIL
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Copyrite 2006-2007. All rights reserved. All designs, copy, pictures protected under U.S. & International law.

A New Vintage Couture Jewelry Acquisition Offers Inspriration For My Line

2007-04-03T18:08:00.000-07:00

Vintage Jewelry Inspired genuine Baroque & Seed Pearl Necklace upon Vintage Filigree. Exclusively at www.jwassoriginals.com.

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As a designer and artist I am always scouting for inspiration, whether it is in from a photograph, the beautiful natural materials used in my jewelry, or a prized piece from the past. This past weekend as I scouted around a California Market I came across a fantastic piece of Vintage Couture jewelry that I just could not resist acquiring for my private collection. The piece is a bold, yet elegant rare piece of Coppola e Toppo faux Pearl necklace made circa 1950. This piece of Vintage Italian-made Designer Jewelry is quite spectacular and is just the sort of accessory that I consider to be a timeless classic. It is composed of six strands of graduated gleaming faux pearls in a wonderful swagging design with intricate baroque pearl fittings, all hand wired. Pieces such as these are just not found every day and come at quite a premium due to their scarcity.
I am not afraid to say that early pieces of mid-century Vintage Couture offer much inspiration to my own line. The gorgeous clean lines, quality materials, and exquisite workmanship are all qualities that I incorporate into my own collection. I am creating modern pieces using genuine materials incorporating the same hand workmanship as found in this piece made about 60 years ago by the famous Coppola e Toppo design house.
I can't help to think about who mught have worn this piece, what events might it have been to and how it ended up in my hands. These pieces exude a sense of sophistication and style that one cannot help gravitating toward. My hope is that in 50 years when one finds one of my Original Designer pieces, they too will wonder about the history behind the necklace....-Jw-

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J. Wass Original Designer Jewelry: Everyday designer necklace & wedding jewelry selections
Offering designer jewelry originals & wedding jewelry inspired by vintage jewelry and incorporating modern style. Made using vintage couture techniques with vintage filigree, genuine pearls, and semi-precious gemstones. Custom necklace designs offered.
CONTACT via EMAIL
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Copyrite 2006-2007. All rights reserved. All designs, copy, pictures protected under U.S. & International law.

Elements of Good Design: J. Wass Original Designer Jewelry Part II

2007-04-02T17:30:00.000-07:00

Vibrant coral, turquoise, amethyst, seed and baroque pearls upon antique filigree. Vintage jewelry inspired; 1930-40's glamour.
Exclusively at www.jwassoriginals.com.

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My apologies for the delay in this series as I have had many other tasks at hand in this early half of 2007. I have just finished a major revision to my web site, to which I will be adding many new pieces that I have created over the last several months. If you would like to preview the new pieces, please sign up for my mailing list. I am very excited about the revisions and hope that you will agree.
Back to the idea of elements of good design. In my last log I explained that as I travel and search for vintage and estate jewelry, findings and supplies I notice a lot about what works and what has not over the years regarding timeless design. So many items that have been produced over the years just do not hold up today, whether is it designer jewelry, furniture, home goods, or clothing, while others are just as fashionable or even more so today. Last time I explored quality materials as being an important element of timeless design. Today I will explore color.
Color is one of those wonderful sense enhancing elements that brings so much life into our experience of the world. Each color has it’s own symbolic meaning in our cultures and also evokes core emotions in each and every one of us. Giving roses...do I give red or yellow? White has forever been associated with purity, while red a symbol of fire and lust. Each year designers decide what colors will be trendy for the seasons, some more appealing than others. But why is it that some colors and combinations hold up over the decades and others fall flat?
I believe that every color can be timeless if used properly. If one thinks about at the colors of the late 60’s and 70’s it evokes images of burnt orange, avocado green, and shades of brown. Looking at patterns of the time, they look quite dated today although still appealing to some. But if you look at each of the colors individually, they work quite well in new combinations for the modern day. In my opinion, if too many trendy colors are used together it will look very dated several years down the road.
For me it is best to use strong color as accents...accessories of good classic design. In my work I do stick with natural elements and thus many colors used in my designer jewelry line are found in nature. That is not to say that the colors that I use are at all earth tones, or dull. I often think of colors that naturally occur together in nature for inspiration...colors found in a flower or landscape for example. Sometimes during the design process when a design is just not right, I pull another color from nature to sort of ground the design or give it some life. I do the same in my paintings as well.
Knowledge of properties of color such as complimentary colors, hue, saturation etc also helps in creating classic good design. Sometimes I want to have the centerpiece really stand out and I will look for a gem that is the compliment, the opposite color on the spectrum, of the surrounding stones. These are simple artist techniques that have been used for centuries. As I play with color in my designs and artwork, I am constantly learning more about how colors works. I think that most importantly that color should be used in design to evoke emotion in the human soul...this is the true sign of a classic as this is something that will make a piece of artwork, whether a designer necklace or an oil painting, live and speak regardless of the century or time.
Please check back to my entries as I share the other elements of Classic Design.
Please feel free to review my collection from Simply Pearl Jewelry, to Classic Antiquity, and Floral Vintage Jewelry Designs, and more as examples of how I try to utilize these quality elements into my own jewelry designs.
For those of you who may not be familiar with my work, I design hand made, vintage jewelry inspired original designer jewelry pieces using genuine pearls, gemstones, and antique filigree. Each piece is designed and executed by hand in a Vintage Couture process that takes hours to complete. It is a true passion, for this process is almost a lost art as many of the Classic Designers have abandoned this technique because it is too costly to manufacture. With my pieces you are purchasing directly from me, the designer. By purchasing a J. Wass Original piece, it gives you the opportunity to work with the designer and know that you are receiving a true one-of-a-kind original and a quality piece of jewelry that one will wear again and again over one's lifetime. I do make custom necklace pieces for special occasions and wedding jewelry. Please email me with any questions that you might have and I always enjoy hearing your feedback. Thank you for browsing the Collection. -J. Wass, owner/lead designer for J. Wass Original Designer Jewelry.

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J. Wass Original Designer Jewelry: Everyday designer necklace & wedding jewelry selections
Offering designer jewelry originals & wedding jewelry inspired by vintage jewelry and incorporating modern style. Made using vintage couture techniques with vintage filigree, genuine pearls, and semi-precious gemstones. Custom necklace designs offered.
CONTACT via EMAIL
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Copyrite 2006-2007. All rights reserved. All designs, copy, pictures protected under U.S. & International law.

Elements of Good Design by J. Wass: J. Wass Original Designer Jewelry *Part I

2007-01-12T09:06:00.000-08:00

Vintage Jewelry Inspired Peridot, Cherry Quartz, Seed Pearl, & Crystal Necklace upon Vintage Filigree. Limited Production. $395.00 exclusively at www.jwassoriginals.com.

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I have been thinking a lot lately about elements of good design. What makes something a natural classic and the other a passing fad never to be seen again. So much of fashion is recycled, quite literally seen in the trends of the past few years. In my travels I am constantly looking at antique and vintage clothing, furniture and accessories for inspiration. Some are even more beautiful today than they were back in the day. Others don't stand up quite so well as one would only consider them for next year's costume ball.

In my opinion good design starts with quality materials. If one starts with the best products available, the quality will shine through over the decades no matter what the current trends might be. A classic quality Diamond and Platinum ring made 100 years ago is undoubtedly judged by most to be just as stunning today as it was when it was first produced. A beautifully constructed solid wood table with classic lines will fit into almost any decor at any time. Start with the best and the chances of ending up with a classic piece is increased tremendously. Notice it is not a guarantee...

With my jewelry designs I select what I believe to be the most beautiful gems and beads available. Out of 100 strands available I may only select 5 of the best to incorporate into my pieces. This does not necessarily mean that they are the most perfect, pristine gems in the lot, as I do find beauty and interest in nature's imperfections. Although there are many beautiful and interesting synthetic elements on the market today, I tend to exclusively use natural stones and pearls as I honestly believe that there is classic beauty in the natural.

Please check back to my blog as I share the other elements of Classic Design.

Please feel free to review my collection from Simply Pearl Jewelry, to Classic Antiquity, and Floral Vintage Jewelry Designs, and more as examples of how I try to utilize these quality elements into my own jewelry designs.

For those of you who may not be familiar with my work, I design hand made, vintage jewelry inspired original designer jewelry pieces using genuine pearls, gemstones, and antique filigree. Each piece is designed and executed by hand in a Vintage Couture process that takes hours to complete. It is a true passion, for this process is almost a lost art as many of the Classic Designers have abandoned this technique because it is too costly to manufacture. With my pieces you are purchasing directly from me, the designer. By purchasing a J. Wass Original piece, it gives you the opportunity to work with the designer and know that you are receiving a true one-of-a-kind original and a quality piece of jewelry that one will wear again and agian over one's lifetime. I do make custom necklace pieces for special occasions and wedding jewelry. Please email me with any questions that you might have and I always enjoy hearing your feedback. Thank you for browsing the Collection. -J. Wass, owner/lead designer for J. Wass Original Designer Jewelry.

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J. Wass Original Designer Jewelry: Everyday designer necklace & wedding jewelry selections
Offering designer jewelry originals & wedding jewelry inspired by vintage jewelry and incorporating modern style. Made using vintage couture techniques with vintage filigree, genuine pearls, and semi-precious gemstones. Custom necklace designs offered.
CONTACT via EMAIL
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Copyrite 2006. All rights reserved. All designs, copy, pictures protected under U.S. & International law.

Look Amazing This Holiday Season: J. Wass Original Designer Jewelry Collection

2006-11-30T08:00:00.000-08:00

Genuine Pearl & Seed Pearl, & Quality Faceted Crystal Necklace with Vintage Filigree Centerpiece: J. Wass Original Designer Jewelry Collection. Limited Production. exclusively at www.jwassoriginals.com.

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For this holiday season I have been working hard seeking out fine cultured pearls and quality genuine quartz rock crystal for my intricate vintage jewelry inspired collection. I create each one of my pieces by hand in a vintage couture process that takes hours to complete. Each Seed Pearl, each crystal, each gem is set into place by hand. Fine materials are woven into place with fine wire on each centerpiece in a method that today is practically a lost art. This is attention to detail that I truly do not think that you will find in many designer jewelry collections these days. In just about every one of my jewelry categories from Simply Pearl Jewelry, to Classic Antiquity, and Floral Vintage Jewelry Designs, you will find something to compliment your Holiday wardrobe. In addition to pieces for the Holiday season, my web site carries a wide array of designer necklace pieces perfect for everyday of as part of your special occasion or wedding jewelry collections. If you have any questions about the jewelry making process, custom necklace orders, or anything else please email me. I always love to hear from you. Happy Holidays!
J. Wass Original Designer Jewelry: Everyday designer necklace & wedding jewelry selections
Offering designer jewelry originals & wedding jewelry inspired by vintage jewelry and incorporating modern style. Made using vintage couture techniques with vintage filigree, genuine pearls, and semi-precious gemstones. Custom necklace designs offered.
CONTACT via EMAIL
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Copyrite 2006. All rights reserved. All designs, copy, pictures protected under U.S. & International law.

Fine Original Designer Jewelry *Holiday Ideas: J. Wass Original Designer Jewelry Collection

2006-11-21T12:33:00.000-08:00

Vintage Jewelry Inspired Peridot, Cherry Quartz, Seed Pearl, & Crystal Necklace upon Vintage Filigree. Limited Production. $395.00 exclusively at www.jwassoriginals.com.

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With Thanksgiving right around the corner, the Holidays are in the air. When I think about the Holidays, I think of the timeless classic images from the past. Growing up, I was surrounded by Vintage decor that my parents had collected in their travels from the 20's, 30's, 40's, & 50's. I think about the colors...bright yet muted from years gone by. Intricate tinsel upon finely blown glass. Antique Period Santas dressed in pinks and muted greens. I have inherited this appreciation for these classics and as I thought about pieces that might work well for this Holiday Season I was not only influenced by Antique Jewelry, Victorian Jewelry, and the Vintage Couture designers such as Elsa Schiaparelli and Miriam Haskell, but also these images and feeling of the Vintage Decor that I grew up with every Christmas Season.
This Peridot and Cherry Quartz piece is a perfect example of how I have been influeneced by the color combinations used during the first half of the 20th Century. Peridot Green is one of my favorite colors and it is a compliment to so many other gems. In just about every one of my jewelry categories from Simply Pearl Jewelry, to Classic Antiquity, and Floral Vintage Jewelry Designs, you will find something to compliment your Holiday wardrobe.
For those of you who may not be familiar with my work, I design hand made, vintage jewelry inspired original designer jewelry pieces using genuine pearls, gemstones, and antique filigree. I do not design with one particular woman in mind, for I strive to design my pieces to have a certain classic appeal that everyone can relate to. Each piece is designed and executed by hand in a Vintage Couture process that takes hours to complete. It is a true passion, for this process is almost a lost art as many of the Classic Designers have abandoned this technique because it is too costly to manufacture. With my pieces you are purchasing directly from the designer. By purchasing a J. Wass Original piece, it gives you the opportunity to work with the designer and know that you are receiving a true one-of-a-kind original and a quality piece of jewelry that one will wear again and agian over one's lifetime. This is the first season that I have offered pieces directly to the public through the website and they would make an unforgetable gift this Holiday Season. I do make custom necklace pieces for special occasions and wedding jewelry and may still be able to get an order out to you by Christmas or New Years's Eve. Please email me with any quations that you might have and I always enjoy hearing your feedback. Thank you for browsing the Collection. -J. Wass, owner/lead designer for J. Wass Original Designer Jewelry.

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J. Wass Original Designer Jewelry: Everyday designer necklace & wedding jewelry selections
Offering designer jewelry originals & wedding jewelry inspired by vintage jewelry and incorporating modern style. Made using vintage couture techniques with vintage filigree, genuine pearls, and semi-precious gemstones. Custom necklace designs offered.
CONTACT via EMAIL
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Copyrite 2006. All rights reserved. All designs, copy, pictures protected under U.S. & International law.

J. Wass Original Designer Jewelry: Early Holiday Selections

2006-11-17T11:42:00.000-08:00

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J. Wass Original Designer Jewelry:
EARLY HOLIDAY COLLECTION 2006

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With the Holidays in the air, you will want to browse the J. Wass Original Deisgner Jewelry early Holiday collection for this year's accessory needs. This season's designer necklace selections include gorgeous quality quartz rock crystal, vibrant salmon coral, Austrian cystal, and signature genuine pearls. These designer necklace pieces reflect classic styling from decades past with his own modern design and style. Inspiration for his line draw from antique jewelry, estate jewelry, vintage jewelry, and vintage couture designers such as Elsa Schiaparelli and Miriam Haskell. Every piece is a fashioned by hand by the designer in a true vintage couture manner. The Collection uses fine materials such as genuine pearls, antique filigree, crystal, and semi-precious gemstones. You will find pieces specially suited for all of your Holiday jewelry needs. With their distinctive style and beautiful quality, J. Wass Originals also make superb gift ideas.

If you are condsidering a special custom couture order for this Holiday Season, please email us right away for production is very limited at this time. Each piece has to be designed and executed by hand using vintage filigree and fine gems in an intricate process using fine wire that takes hours to complete. If you contact us now, depending on the design, there may be enough time to create your one-of-a-kind couture piece before that special Holiday Party or New Years Eve. There are plenty of ready-made, one-of-a-kind art jewerly selections offered on the site. Pieces exclusively offered at www.jwassoriginals.com.
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J. Wass Original Designer Jewelry: Everyday designer necklace & wedding jewelry selections
Offering designer jewelry originals & wedding jewelry inspired by vintage jewelry and incorporating modern style. Made using vintage couture techniques with vintage filigree, genuine pearls, and semi-precious gemstones. Custom necklace designs offered.
CONTACT via EMAIL
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Copyrite 2006. All rights reserved. All designs, copy, pictures protected under U.S. & International law.

J. Wass Original Designer Jewelry: Exclusive Online Vintage Couture Inspired Collection

2006-11-15T13:25:00.000-08:00

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J. Wass Original Designer Jewelry:
FALL COLLECTION 2006

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After designing jewelry for many years, J. Wass has made the decision to expand his jewelry line on the Internet to offer his fine designer jewelry originals to women everywhere. His designer necklace pieces reflect classic styling from decades past with his own modern design and style. Inspiration for his line draw from antique jewelry, estate jewelry, vintage jewelry, and vintage couture designers such as Elsa Schiaparelli and Miriam Haskell. Every piece is a fashioned by hand by the designer in a true vintage couture manner. Each art jewelry piece incorporates fine materials such as genuine pearls, antique filigree, crystal, and semi-precious gemstones. As you browse the collection, you will find pieces that you will love for everyday, special occasions, and wedding jewelry ideas. Custom necklace services are offered when your needs require a one-of-a-kind designer necklace original.
Pictured above you will see pieces from the Fall Collection 2006. Order today and you will still have time to receive your selection by Thanksgiving day. Pieces in the Autumnal Color Collection incorporate rich saturated color with classic yet modern styling using jade, pearl, coral, and vintage filigree. There are also plenty of Winter jewelry selections, executed in fine quartz rock crystal and luminous pearls, on the site to suit your Holiday needs. Please check back to the site as the rest of the J. Wass Original Designer Jewelry Holiday Collection is released. Pieces exclusively offered at www.jwassoriginals.com.
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J. Wass Original Designer Jewelry: Everyday designer necklace & wedding jewelry selections
Offering designer jewelry originals & wedding jewelry inspired by vintage jewelry and incorporating modern style. Made using vintage couture techniques with vintage filigree, genuine pearls, and semi-precious gemstones. Custom necklace designs offered.
CONTACT via EMAIL
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Copyrite 2006. All rights reserved. All designs, copy, pictures protected under U.S. & International law.