Jewelry All Day

My jewelry game is tight, it's never just a trend,

It's a symbol of my journey, from beginning to end.

Bada bing

 I'm back to clean house.

Born and Made in Los Angeles. 

From the extraction of soil,

To global marketplace and toil,

I deal with packages and keys,

Known by a streetname with ease.

Every level of the game,

My trade brings fortune and fame,

Sourcing, producing, selling,

In many countries, my tale telling.

In my lab, scales and bags,

"Specialized" equipment, no hags,

Unique products well known,

On the streets, their fame grown.

International clients seek,

Discreet packages, no leak,

All goods stamped with purity,

Exactness and security.

But I am not free from strife,

An outcast since the day of life,

I pray every day to Lord God,

For direction, victory, and nod.

For deliverance from the evil one,

My lifestyle, hard work never done,

I deal with packages and keys,

A billion-dollar industry with ease.

Honeycomb Skull Rings - B&W

As above, so below.

Throughout history, artists have been inspired by a variety of natural objects and phenomena, from the human form to landscapes and animals. Bees, honeycomb, and skulls are just a few examples of natural elements that have captured the imagination of artists across cultures and time periods. In this article, we will explore how these three objects have been used and expressed in art.

Bees and honeycomb are common motifs in art, especially in cultures that have a strong connection to nature. Bees symbolize fertility, abundance, and divine power. Also, the Bible references bees in several passages. Bees are mentioned as an example of hard-working creatures that gather food for their hives. In the book of Judges, Samson found a swarm of bees in the carcass of a lion he had killed, and he took honey from it to eat (Judges 14:8-9). In the book of Deuteronomy, the Promised Land is described as a land flowing with milk and honey, which has become a metaphor for abundance and prosperity (Deuteronomy 6:3). Additionally, in the book of Psalms, the sweetness of honey is used as a metaphor for the goodness of God's word (Psalms 19:10, 119:103). 

Honeycomb is often used as a visual metaphor for organization, unity, and efficiency. In Renaissance art, for example, honeycomb was often used as a decorative element in architectural motifs, symbolizing the harmony and order of the natural world. In contemporary art, honeycomb is often used as a material, with artists creating intricate sculptures and installations using beeswax and honeycomb. One of the most famous examples of honeycomb in art is the "Honeycomb" sculpture by Spanish artist Eduardo Chillida. Installed in 1991, this massive sculpture consists of several large honeycomb-like structures made of steel, which seem to float in mid-air. The sculpture is a stunning example of how natural forms can inspire art and architecture.

Skulls have a long history in art, with examples dating back to prehistoric times. In many cultures, skulls are associated with death and mortality, but they are also used as a symbol of rebirth and transformation. In Western art, skulls were often included in memento mori paintings, which were meant to remind viewers of the transience of life and the inevitability of death.

In contemporary art, skulls have been used in a variety of ways, from street art to high-end galleries. One of the most famous examples is the work of Mexican artist Frida Kahlo, who often included skulls in her self-portraits. In these works, Kahlo used the skull as a symbol of both her own mortality and her connection to Mexico's rich cultural heritage. Another example is the work of British artist Damien Hirst, who is known for his use of animal remains in his art. In his famous sculpture "For the Love of God," Hirst created a diamond-encrusted human skull that sold for over $100 million. The sculpture is a provocative statement on the relationship between art, death, and money.

Bees, honeycomb, and skulls are just a few examples of the many natural elements that have inspired artists throughout history. From ancient Egyptian regalia to contemporary sculpture, these objects have been used in a variety of ways to express ideas about life, death, and the natural world. Whether used as symbols or as actual materials, bees, honeycomb, and skulls continue to capture the imagination of artists and viewers alike.

Good and evil

Two affirms that there is another; while One affirms that there is not another.

Wax carving - skull ring

Wax carving is a popular technique for creating custom jewelry pieces, including rings. Here are the materials and steps to wax carve a ring:

- Jewelry wax

- Carving tools

- Ring sizer

- Heat source (e.g. heat lamp, candle)

Choose the type of wax you want to use. Jewelry wax comes in different colors, textures, and densities. You can choose a type of wax based on your design preferences and the tools you plan to use.

Determine the size of the ring you want to create. You can use a ring sizer to measure the size of the ring finger, or use an existing ring as a reference.

Heat the wax to soften it. You can use a heat lamp or candle to melt the wax slightly, making it easier to carve. Make sure not to overheat the wax, as this can cause it to melt too much.

Start carving the wax using your tools. You can use different types of carving tools, such as a carving knife, a V-shaped tool, or a round-tipped tool. Be gentle and take your time as you carve the wax, shaping it into the desired form.

Refine the details of the wax carving. Once you have the basic shape of the ring, you can add more intricate details to it. Use smaller carving tools to create finer details, such as lines or textures.

Check the fit of the ring on your finger. Once you have finished carving the wax, check the size of the ring and make any necessary adjustments. You can use a ring sizer to ensure that the ring fits comfortably on the finger.

Polish the wax ring. Use a polishing cloth to gently polish the surface of the wax ring, giving it a smooth finish.

Cast the wax ring into metal. Once you are satisfied with the design of the wax ring, you can send it to a professional jeweler to have it cast into metal. The jeweler will use the wax mold to create a metal casting of the ring, which can then be polished and finished as desired.

Some Tips:

- Work in a well-lit area to ensure that you can see the details of the wax carving.

- Use a variety of carving tools to create different textures and shapes in the wax.

- Take your time and work slowly to avoid making mistakes.

- Always wear protective gear, such as gloves and eye protection, when working with wax and carving tools.

- Wax carving is a skill that takes practice to master, but with time and patience, you can create beautiful and unique jewelry pieces, including rings.

Honeycomb Skull Ring Series

Here's a preview of the new Honeycomb skull ring series. All very intricate and detailed.

Christmas gifts

Jewelry has been a popular gift for centuries, with its beauty, elegance, and sentimental value making it a go-to present for a variety of occasions. From engagement rings to birthday gifts, jewelry has been given to express love, friendship, and appreciation. In this article, we will explore the popularity, history, and practice of giving jewelry as presents and gifts to others.

Jewelry is one of the most popular gift choices for a variety of occasions, including birthdays, anniversaries, Valentine’s Day, and Christmas. It is also a popular gift for significant life events such as graduations, weddings, and the birth of a child. One of the main reasons for its popularity is its versatility. Jewelry can be given to men, women, and children of all ages, and there is a wide variety of styles and price ranges to choose from.

Another reason for its popularity is its sentimental value. Jewelry is often given to mark a special occasion or milestone in a person’s life, and it can be passed down through generations as a family heirloom. It can also serve as a reminder of a special moment, such as an engagement or wedding.

The practice of giving jewelry as a gift dates back thousands of years. In ancient times, jewelry was often given as a form of currency or as a sign of wealth and status. It was also used as a way to express love and affection. In ancient Rome, for example, men would give their wives a gold ring called an “annulus pronubus” as a sign of their commitment to marriage.

During the Renaissance period, jewelry became more elaborate and intricate, with gemstones and precious metals becoming more widely available. In the Victorian era, jewelry took on a more sentimental meaning, with pieces often incorporating symbolic elements such as hearts, flowers, and even locks of hair. Jewelry was also given as a mourning gift, with black jet and onyx being popular materials.

When giving jewelry as a gift, there are a few things to consider. First, think about the occasion and the recipient’s personal style. A simple and classic piece, such as a pair of diamond stud earrings or a gold chain, is a good choice for a birthday or graduation gift. For a romantic occasion, such as Valentine’s Day or an anniversary, a piece with sentimental value, such as a locket or a personalized bracelet, may be more appropriate.

It is also important to consider the quality of the piece. While it may be tempting to choose a cheaper option, investing in a high-quality piece will ensure that it lasts for years to come and retains its value. Look for pieces made from precious metals such as gold or silver, and consider the quality of any gemstones.

Finally, think about the presentation of the gift. A beautiful gift box or bag can add to the overall experience and make the recipient feel special. Giving jewelry as a gift has been a popular tradition for centuries. Its versatility, sentimental value, and beauty make it a go-to choice for a variety of occasions. By considering the occasion, the recipient’s personal style, and the quality of the piece, you can choose the perfect piece of jewelry to express your love, appreciation, and friendship.

Various skull rings

Various skull rings. 

Pendants - photography

 

Jewelry photography is a crucial aspect of the jewelry business. Jewelry is a luxury item, and its photographs need to reflect the same level of quality and finesse. A good jewelry photograph captures the intricacies of the jewelry design, the shine of the gemstones, and the textures of the metal. In this article, we will discuss some tips and techniques that will help you capture stunning jewelry photographs.

- Use proper lighting: Jewelry photography requires a lot of lighting, and it is essential to use the right kind of lighting. Natural light is the best option, but if you are shooting indoors, you need to use a lightbox or a softbox. These devices diffuse light and prevent harsh shadows from forming on the jewelry.

- Choose the right background: The background is as crucial as the jewelry itself. A plain white or black background can work well, but you can also experiment with different textures and colors. For instance, a velvet or suede background can bring out the texture of the metal, while a contrasting background can make the gemstones pop.

- Pay attention to the composition: The composition of the photograph is critical to showcase the jewelry's design. The jewelry should be the center of focus, and it should be positioned in a way that highlights its features. A good rule of thumb is to position the jewelry at a slight angle, which creates depth and dimension.

- Use a macro lens: A macro lens is ideal for jewelry photography, as it captures the intricate details of the jewelry. It also allows you to focus on specific areas of the jewelry, such as the gemstones or the engravings.

- Use a tripod: A tripod is essential for jewelry photography, as it keeps the camera stable and reduces blurring. It also enables you to shoot at slower shutter speeds, which can result in sharper images.

- Clean the jewelry: Before you start shooting, make sure to clean the jewelry thoroughly. Any dirt or smudges on the jewelry can detract from the photograph's quality.

- Experiment with different angles: Experiment with different angles to find the best shot. Shoot from above, below, or at eye level to see which angle works best for the jewelry.

- Edit the photographs: After you have captured the photographs, it is essential to edit them to enhance their quality. You can adjust the brightness, contrast, and color saturation to make the jewelry look more vibrant and attractive.

Jewelry photography requires a lot of attention to detail and careful planning. By using proper lighting, choosing the right background, and paying attention to composition, you can capture stunning photographs of your jewelry. Don't be afraid to experiment with different angles and edit your photographs to make them stand out. With a little effort and creativity, you can showcase your jewelry in the best possible way.