Name: Marisa
Posts by Marisa:
Dragonfly Jewelry Findings Help Hold on to Summer
August 25th, 2010Dragonfly jewelry findings have put in me in a summery mood. Watching dragonflies hover and drift over still water is a quintessential summer pastime of mine and a dragonfly pendant or charm is a nice way to remind myself to appreciate long days while they last and remember them as fall approaches.
Dragonfly Necklace
Dragonflies are busy little creatures that pop up in myths and legends from around the world. In some parts of Europe they were little boogeymen waiting to punish ill-behaving children. They appear in many Native American stories as clever tricksters carrying gifts, as powerful healers dwelling around lakes and mountains, or as the spirits of a lost loved one. In some parts of the US they are even known as Snake-doctors following around snakes and fixing them up when they got hurt.
Today dragonflies mainly inhabit an aesthetic space alongside butterflies and nymphs, but in feudal Japan they were considered masculine symbols of strength and courage since dragonflies, being unable to fly backwards, never back down from a fight. As a result dragonfly ornamental findings can be seen decorating armor and weapons from that period and what we now know as Japan was once “Akitsushima” or “The Dragonfly Islands.” I don’t think I’ll be creating any dragonfly jewelry for the men in my family any time soon, but then again who knows?
After all, Nina Designs’ dragonflies are globally inspired as well. From handcrafted filigree dragonflies that speaks of the skill of Indonesian craftspeople to whimsical sprites gathering flowers it’s not hard to create a story of your own. For this last lazy bit of sunshine, Nina’s Dragonfly Necklace of light silk cords and delicate silver pendants lets me gaze at dragonflies a little longer.
Marisa’s Introduction to the World of Jewelry Findings
July 14th, 2010Hello, we may have discussed jewelry findings on the phone or sorted through silver charms at a tradeshow together, but this is our first meeting via the Nina Designs blog. As a new addition to the Nina Designs team and as a jewelry making novice, it’s been an exciting few months. From the basics of beading to the the history of the Bali bead, I’ve learned much from both my coworkers and our wonderful customers.
I’ve recently developed a greater appreciation for our Arang wood pendants. While I love the pretty Thai charms and the
delicate Javanese filigree, the depth and detail of these hand carved pieces really appeal to me. I’m especially fond of our new bear claw pendant. With such a strong, elemental centerpiece I can look as ready for an adventure as I feel!
Marisa in Japan
Some of my fondest memories from when I was a kid involve wandering busy street fairs, maybe with some garlic fries or a lemonade slushee in hand, and looking at all the jewelry stalls. I liked to see how the theme and style would change from table to table, from artisan to artisan. I got a thrill from seeing the old hippie craftsman with his pewter and glass dragons. Or the sharply dressed mom with her silver and gemstones. Even the young metal smith with wild hair and steel and leather work. It was the most eclectic band of personalities and backgrounds united by one commonality – the desire to make beautiful things.
Now, working at Nina Designs, I love the idea that I am part of the background workings for that community. Allowing others to express themselves in beautiful and creative ways always leaves me with a good feeling.