I think I am becoming obessesed with the concept of design. I do the same thing when it comes to my art work so it should really be no surprise to me that now I've become obsessive about jewelry design.

First lets just say I am completely self taught when it comes to art and jewelry. That may not surprise some of you and may surprise others of you. Either way I can't seem to take a breath anymore without thinking about the shape of an earring, how to change that one little thing on a necklace so maybe it hangs better. Or what is a new interesting and unique shape that can be incorporated in to my designs.

I look at a lot of other designers work. If you are a designer and you say you don't study others work or if you are an artist and say you don't look at others work then well...I just don't believe it. We all do, we all try to learn from those around us and hopefully share our knowledge with each other. I'm always disappointed when other artists are unwilling to share simple techniques or sources for things. I'm always happy to share because I believe that even if they rip my design off...well, there karma will get them. And quite frankly (maybe I am just naive) I don't think very many indie designers would rip something off link for link, clasp, idea, everything.

There are some jewelry designers out there that I've come across whom I really admire. Not just because of their craftsmanship but also because they do really interesting work. I'd love to have a pair of Beth Lauren's earrings! (see left photo) They are fabulous! Unfortunately my husband would strangle me but I'd never rip off her designs. Come on - we all know when you see that design you know it is a "Beth Lauren". Just like when you see an Armani suit you know it is an Armani! Or a Balenciaga bag. I suppose people rip those designers off all the time. I guess I am just naive, I really wish designers would share amongst each other and support each other.

What brought this rant on? I found a really interesting jewelry designer in LA (not Beth Lauren) and sent her an email telling her how much I admired her work. I also asked her a question about a type of adhesive she used on a specific piece. We are talking about GLUE. Guess what? Nothing from her. Not even a thanks for appreciating my work.

Another time I was admiring the work of a designer at a tradeshow and the manufacturers rep kicked me out of the booth...and she wasn't nice at ALL.

So, today I wanted to share designer Beth Lauren's work. It is beautiful, intricate and very interesting. If you ever get a chance to see it in person you really should because it is a work of art.

http://bethlauren.com/mm5/merchant.mvc

Both photos in this entry are from Beth Laurens site. Please visit her site for details and pricing.

This is one of the most AMAZING necklaces I've ever seen. I'd wear it EVERYDAY.