Copper is the perfect metal to represent leaves, in particular those curling colorful fall leaves. These copper leaves were impressed using a rolling mill and a paper embossing die. I wasn't sure it would work with metal, but because copper is a rather soft metal it did a beautiful job of embossing the veins. I then sawed them out and curved the shapes. I then antiqued and polished them. I added little dark red faceted garnet beads above each leaf. The leaf points and edges have all been carefully rounded, sanded and smoothed to make sure there are no sharp surprises when the earrings are worn. These earrings have presence, but at 4 grams each are a comfortable weight for most people.
The ear wires are Niobium, which is considered one of the least allergenic metals.
SIZE: These earrings hang about 2 1/4 inches. The leaves are about 1 1/8 inches wide. Each earring weighs about 4 grams.
MATERIALS: Copper, Garnet, Niobium
PROPERTIES OF STONES (information compiled from various sources): Garnet is supposed to be a stone of regeneration and stability. It is said to boost the entire system’s energy and bring inner strength as well as being a stone of romantic love and passion. Garnet is January's birthstone.
This is an original piece of jewelry designed and handcrafted by Barbara Kay Bureker in my SW Washington studio. All work and images ©2014-2024 by Barbara Kay Jewelry.
