The Jewelry Lover’s Guide to Birthstones: Etsy

Contributor post by Michelle of EviesToolEmporium

I am fascinated by trends. Are you? There are weather trends, work place trends, business trends, job trends, food trends, real estate trends, hair trends, fashion trends color trends and so on.

The definition of a trend is a general direction in which something is developing or changing. In college I took several classes on trends. I remember distinctly studying pre peak – peak – post peak timelines. I find trends intriguing. They pique my curiosity.

Trends unite us. Give us a common ground. A connecting point.

This article is inspired by the The Jewelry Lover’s Guide to Birthstones: Etsy article on the Etsy blog.

Explore birthstone jewelry on Etsy! January: Garnet, February: Amethyst, March: Aquamarine, April: Diamond, May: Emerald, June: Pearl, July: Ruby, August: Peridot, September: Sapphire, October: Opal, November: Citrine and December: Turquoise. Here are a few trend birthstone items from members of the Etsy Christmas In July team.

February – Amethyst

YOKO from yokojewelry says:

I used raw amethyst in this pendant. Amethyst is birthstone of February. And it’s popular stone all year around in my shop!

All raw amethyst stones has different shades of light to deep purple. I love all. The stone in this pendant has lavender color which is very soft and easy to much with any other color of your wardrobe.

I simply wrapped the stone so that stone speaks itself.

yokojewelry

If you’re on Pinterest here is The Jewelry Lover’s Guide to Birthstones: Etsy board!

While you’re on Pinterest please follow the Etsy Christmas In July team!

Top Etsy Trend Predictions For 2018

Contributor post by Michelle of EviesToolEmporium

I am fascinated by trends. Are you? There are weather trends, work place trends, business trends, job trends, food trends, real estate trends, hair trends, fashion trends color trends and so on.

The definition of a trend is a general direction in which something is developing or changing. In college I took several classes on trends. I remember distinctly studying pre peak – peak – post peak timelines. I find trends intriguing. They pique my curiosity.

Trends unite us. Give us a common ground. A connecting point.

This article is inspired by the Top Etsy Trend Predictions For 2018 article on the Etsy blog.

The trends are: are Home Decor (Wabi – Sabi), Jewelry (Choker Revamp, Mix-And-Match Earrings), Weddings (Jumpsuits) and Hot Hue (Ultra Violet). Here are a few trend inspired items from members of the Etsy Christmas In July team.

Jewelry

Mix-And-Match Earrings

Emily Tan from QuirkyEleganceEm says:

Monochrome + mother of pearl + brass wire-wrap = a pair of fashion forward and special handmade earrings.

I enjoy making wire wrapped earrings, and have been experimenting using this particular herring bone wrap with non-round beads. I chose these teardrop mother of pearl beads for their luster and decided it would be interesting and very modern to have one side white and the other black. Wire wrap can be associated with fanciful and heady designs but I find these wonderfully simple and yet bold.

QuirkyEleganceEm

YOKO from yokojewelry says:

I’ve been thought earrings should be exact same pair. But not anymore! I love to design asymmetrical jewelry. It gives you sassy look!

yokojewelry

Hot Hue

Ultra Violet

JO from alustrousjewellery says:

This Amethyst is a beautiful deep violet shade. This would make a lovely gift for some one special.

I set this natural Amethyst 8 x 6 mm oval gem, into a back set pendant setting, I choose to hang it on a diamond curb chain to complement the shape of the oval Amethyst. I have threaded the chain through the pendant setting so it hangs and slides along the chain.

alustrousjewellery

Marjorie Scenna from mscenna says:

I love creating home and garden decor items with colorful beads. This hanging pendant features bright shades of blue and purple and a fun moon and stars theme in ultra violet!

mscenna

Judy Merashoff from JAMsCraftCloset says:

Hot Hues…Ultra Violet…Yes! I have the perfect hand-painted serving plate for this…It seemed to be the perfect plate for painting using one of my favorite colors. Ultra violet and yellow are such ‘happy’ colors, so I now have a ‘happy’ plate!

JAMsCraftCloset

If you are on Pinterest here is the Top Etsy Trend Predictions For 2018 board!

While you’re on Pinterest please follow the Etsy Christmas In July team!

Victorian Gifts

Contributor post by Mairi of mairidesign

The Victorian era was a time of hard work and building for the future but, also, a time of opulence and heightened interest in the arts. Refined sensibilities, romanticism and mysticism influenced our fashions and home decorations to create an expression of the time. With this inspiration, our team have gathered their Victorian style items to celebrate such an innovative period of our history.

Judy Merashoff from JAMsCraftCloset says:

When I think of Victorian, I think of doves, hearts (love), soft colors, intricate patterns, has a romantic feel, and is classy. This heart wreath was made and painted by me forty plus years ago from a kit. I’m not sure how ‘classy’ it is, but it does bring out the feeling of love and romance. It would be beautiful on a door or wall.

Wreath Wall or Door Vintage

Natalia from KMalinkaVintage says:

I love this Victorian cameo ring with Marcasite sparkle accents very unusual composition mother of pearl Abalone iridescence within a decorative 14k gold twisted rope edge.

Victorian Cameo Ring

YOKO from yokojewelry says: 

Antique Victorian taste earrings with lapis lazuli. Beautiful lapis lazuli stones are set like a picture on a gold picture frame.

Lapis lazuli cabochon earrings

Elisabeth Perez from LizPOriginals says: 

I love keys and I think this key fan pull could fit this era. Boudoir comes to mind and hot summer days in English posts in India.

Ceiling Fan pull

willowvalleyvintage from WillowValleyVintage says:

I was drawn to the triangular stones on this beautiful Victorian brooch. Another Shop owner, who specializes in jewelry, shared her knowledge and proof read my description. She told me it is Czech Glass and was able to determine the age of the piece by the style of the clasp.

The Lily of Valley Tea Cup and Saucer belonged to my husband’s grandmother. The colors of the set complimented the brooch.

Victorian Czech Brooch

Rita Szöllősi from RitzySelection says:

In 1846 John Livesey made a curtain machine based on Heathcoat. The XIX. In the second half of the century, Victorian UK products are highly popular. The bobinet curtain is an upgraded version of lace upholstery that provides a more diverse base structure and greater patterning options. My lace cushion is made with this technique!

Victorian Lace Pillow

Items Of The Week: Circles

Contributor post by Michelle of EviesToolEmporium

1. Silver Poppy Earrings by YOKO from yokojewelry

2. Wooden Circle Wine Glass Charms by Cindy Humphrey from Cynhumphrey

3. Circle Confetti by Susan McCarthy from WellDressedCupcakes

4. Large Circle Bead Earrings by Emily Tan from QuirkyEleganceEm

No Tricks, Just Treats

Contributor Post by Sheila and Shannon from BeadyEyedBird 

Here comes my FAVORITE holiday! (Yes I know I’m strange!) But I do enjoy it when all the little ghouls and goblins roam the streets in search of candy. We wanted to know what our teamies love about Halloween (and what they offer); here’s what they have to say about how they celebrate this special, spooky day!

Gari Anne from beadloverskorner says

I love Halloween too! Love all the creepy decorations, costumes, etc.

Zombie Necklace Horror Jewelry Walking Dead Inspired

Susan McCarthy from WellDressedCupcakes says

These vintage  Halloween cupcake wrappers are perfect for your treats.

Vintage Halloween Cupcake Wrappers

Cristal Hughes from DesignsbyCristal says

I love it to see the kids dress up and search for candy not so much all the gory stuff though.

Halloween Over The Collar Dog Bandana, Halloween Pet Neck Wear, Halloween Pet Clothing, Orange and Black Dog Bandana

Sue Kenny from SusySewandSew says

Love this cute day of the dead pups fabric…

Cross body bag , Dog hipster bag, Dog handbag, Dog zipper bag, Cross body purse, Day of the Dead Pup bag

Nancy Duncan from EponasCrystals says

Halloween is my favorite holiday! This skull necklace would be perfect for Halloween or Dias de los Muertos!

Skull Necklace, Beaded Necklace, Gothic Jewelry, Halloween Jewelry, Dia de los Muertos, Day of the Dead Jewelry, Skull Jewelry

Judy Merashoff from JAMsCraftCloset says

A special mug for your special Halloween ‘Brew’…

Halloween is NOT just about getting candy.

Mugs Cups Halloween Trick or Treat Hand Painted by ME Unique One of a Kind Awesome Gift Idea Holiday Decor Halloween Decor Kitchen Decor

shannon stoner from CorkyFriendz says

Jump into fall with our spooky witch hat wine cork reindeer’s! We can also make you a whimsical cork moose featuring these handmade ribbon bows and bewitching hat.

SPOOKY Halloween Wine Craft, DIY Whimsical Cork Reindeer, Wine Craft Kit, Witch Hat Reindeer, Fall Home Decor, Halloween Wine Party, Gift

YOKO from yokojewelry says

I love Halloween because you can enjoy unique outfit official :p
Here is little ghost for your 9-5 style!

Halloween earrings, Ghost stud earrings, Gold studs, Raw brass studs, Color resistant, Hypoallergenic ear post, Unique gift

pam colangelo from PearlsVintagebyPam says

Trick or treat time! I just love pumpkins so I chose a pumpkin cookie jar. Store candy or cookies in this treat pumpkin jar.

Vintage Clear Glass Pumpkin Cookie Jar Halloween Candy Jar Vintage 1980’s Holiday Cookie Jar Thanksgiving Fall Decor Jar Home Decor Gift

Susan-Sharon Passmore from MsPDesignsUSA says

Trick or Treat! Our digital download quilt pattern features cute animals who are all dressed up for Halloween. Stock up on candy- they might be coming to your house!

Halloween animals trick or treat applique PDF quilt pattern; whimsical skeleton or vampire or superhero or witch kid’s quilt pattern

Marjorie Scenna from mscenna says

I love decorating my house, inside and out, for Halloween! This colorful Halloween ornament features repurposed jewelry in orange and black and a cute black cat!

Black Cat Ornament, Repurposed Orange Black Ornament, Upcycled Sun Catcher, Hanging Garden Art, Beaded Window Charm, Halloween Decoration

Olena from Rainbowsmileshop says

My favorites!

Halloween Decor Cute Halloween ornament Halloween party favor Spooky Cute Felt Toy Ornaments Halloween Decorations

Kristen from KestrelCollection says

Halloween is my favorite holiday too. My Mad Max Fury Road inspired earrings are great for a fan of the film but also perfect for the spooky season.

Mad Max Inspired Earrings- What a Lovely Day! One of a Kind- Steampunk

Many thanks to all who shared, and happy Halloween!

Until next time,

Sheila

Neutral Gray – Pantone Fashion Color For Fall 2017

Contributor post by Michelle of EviesToolEmporium

Color trends are a wonderful way to celebrate the seasons!

According to Pantone one of the top colors for Fall 2017 is Neutral Gray.

PANTONE 17-4402 Neutral Gray

The standard bearer of all neutrals, Neutral Gray shares the anchoring role with Navy Peony in this palette. It can be used as an accent or a head-to-toe statement shade.

Laurie Pressman
Vice-President of the Pantone Color Institute

PantoneFashion Color Report Fall 2017

Members of the Etsy Christmas In July Team have been inspired by the color Neutral Gray! They have created items in their shops reflecting this inspiration! Here are a few!

Sherri from ButterflyFeetDigital says:

I knew I didn’t have much in my shop that could be considered “wedding colors” but I thought silver gray and white would be great for that – so this is the printable paper pack I created.

ButterflyFeetDigital

Stock Lane Studio from StockLaneStudio says:

Yay for Gray!

I love the neutral background of our printable party poster because the cement gray makes the bright pink stand out even more and it’s a nice fit for some party planners who are sick of mundane white backgrounds. I’ve used this digital design for sending congratulatory emails to friends and family on many occasions. I’ve changed the font color from pink to Red and Blue and I can do the same for our customers. I love custom designs.

StockLaneStudio

Diana from joliefemmebydiana says:

Gray is an amazing neutral! These cases are made for protecting your eye wear and the gray with black is just right for any age or gender! Great for everyday elegance!

joliefemmebydiana

YOKO from yokojewelry says:

This gray stone is labradorite. It’s my favorite stone. It’s stylish and has mysterious look! you can match with any color!

yokojewelry

Linda B. from lindab142 says:

The pink and gray tassel component inspired me to create this feminine gemstone necklace.

The pink rhodonite gemstones have neutral gray in them and they’re a perfect combination with the pink rose quartz gemstones. Imagine this gemstone necklace worn with a smart white top and a gray skirt.

lindab142

Dawn Whitehand from DeeDeeDeesigns says:

This neutral gray ring is the ideal fashion accessory. Made from upcycled vintage buttons it is sure to create a conversation!

DeeDeeDeesigns

If you’re on Pinterest here is the Neutral Gray board!

While you’re on Pinterest please follow the Etsy Christmas In July team!

Thank You For Coming To #CIJPopUpMarket #3 2017

Contributor post by Michelle of EviesToolEmporium

Good night everyone! Thank you for joining us today for #CIJPopUpMarket #3 2017 here on the Christmas In July blog! It was a really fun day!

It was a party in the streets of our blog! The streets were shut down and their tents were up and ready to showcase their unique items for you.

We had a fantastic line up of Christmas In July team member shops for you to get to know. These shops were here for you and they are loved interacting with you here on our blog!

Each shop at our #CIJPopUpMarket #3 2017 was individually introduced so please look in their tent, get to know them and shop!

Christmas In July Team

Now let’s shop!

1. Gillian / Gillisflowers / London, UK / #CIJPopUpMarket Tent

2. Elisabeth / LizPOriginals / MA, USA / #CIJPopUpMarket Tent

3. Lynn / LoveNStitches4U / NJ, USA / #CIJPopUpMarket Tent

4. Valerie / Samanthasunshineshop / OH, USA / #CIJPopUpMarket Tent

5. Jennie / FromBasementToArt / KY, USA / #CIJPopUpMarket Tent

6. Yoko / Yokojewelry / MI, USA / #CIJPopUpMarket Tent

7. Nancy / EponasCrystals / KS, USA / #CIJPopUpMarket Tent

8. Karen / timetalentjewels / IL, USA / #CIJPopUpMarket

9. EasyLifeInspirations / EasyLifeInspirations / IA, USA / #CIJPopUpMarket Tent

10. Shelly / ShellysSelectSalvage / TX, USA / #CIJPopUpMarket Tent

11. Lisa / Sparklejar / OR, USA / #CIJPopUpMarket Tent

12. Diana / joliefemmebydiana / USA / #CIJPopUpMarket Tent

Please use #CIJPopUpMarket on social media!

Thank you so much for joining us at our #CIJPopUpMarket #3 2017!

#CIJPopUpMarket #3 2017 – Yokojewelry

Contributor post by Michelle of EviesToolEmporium

#CIJPopUpMarket #3 Shop – Yoko from Yokojewelry

yokojewelry

1. What is the name of your shop and where do you look for inspiration?

My shop name is “Yoko’s Jewelry”. I used my name simply and wanted everybody know what I do!

2. How has your shop evolved over time?

I started as a gemstone bead jewelry. I’ve been learning metal smith these few years. My design work is getting more full of variety.

3. What do you love most about your work?

To express what in my mind to jewelry and to hear my customer loved my jewelry!

4. What motivating music do you listen to? Share your playlist that gets and keeps you going!        

I always listing a radio. Sometimes country music station, sometimes pop music station. I love listing DJ’s talks as well!

5. What book are you reading right now and where is your favorite place to read?

” Go set a watchman” I’m joining a book discussion group at a library. I love reading a book with them!

6. What are your social media sites?

Facebook: yokosjewelry

Instagram: yoko450

Pinterest: yokosjewelry

Twitter: yokojewelry

Welcome To #CIJPopUpMarket #3 2017

Contributor post by Michelle of EviesToolEmporium

We are thrilled about our third annual #CIJPopUpMarket #3 2017!! A party in the streets of our blog! The streets are shut down and your tents are up and ready to showcase your unique items for you.

We have a fantastic line up of Christmas In July team member shops for you to get to know. These shops are here for you and they are looking to interact with you here on our blog!

Each shop at our #CIJPopUpMarket #3 2017 will be individually introduced so please check in throughout the day to look in their tent, get to know them and shop!

Christmas In July Team

Now let’s shop!

1. Gillian / Gillisflowers / London, UK / #CIJPopUpMarket Tent

2. Elisabeth / LizPOriginals / MA, USA / #CIJPopUpMarket Tent

3. Lynn / LoveNStitches4U / NJ, USA / #CIJPopUpMarket Tent

4. Valerie / Samanthasunshineshop / OH, USA / #CIJPopUpMarket Tent

5. Jennie / FromBasementToArt / KY, USA / #CIJPopUpMarket Tent

6. Yoko / Yokojewelry / MI, USA / #CIJPopUpMarket Tent

7. Nancy / EponasCrystals / KS, USA / #CIJPopUpMarket Tent

8. Karen / timetalentjewels / IL, USA / #CIJPopUpMarket

9. EasyLifeInspirations / EasyLifeInspirations / IA, USA / #CIJPopUpMarket Tent

10. Shelly / ShellysSelectSalvage / TX, USA / #CIJPopUpMarket Tent

11. Lisa / Sparklejar / OR, USA / #CIJPopUpMarket Tent

12. Diana / joliefemmebydiana / USA / #CIJPopUpMarket Tent

 

Please use #CIJPopUpMarket on social media as you visit all the fabulous shops today!

Thank you so much for joining us at our #CIJPopUpMarket #3 2017!

Member Feature: yokojewelry

Contributor post by Michelle of EviesToolEmporium

Please join us in welcoming Yoko of yokojewelry, our featured member!

yokojewelry

Tell us about yourself.       

Hi! My name is Yoko. I’m a jewelry designer. I graduated Fashion College and learned designing and pattern making for women’s fashion. My policy is if you can’t find what you want, make it by yourself. I love-making original things. I believe power of fashion. It makes life much brighter! So I always try to create something makes people happy.

I live in Michigan with my husband and a little dog. I came to Michigan two years ago from Japan for my husband’s job. We were living in NY couple of years ago as well. I’m happy to be an artist since I can continue wherever I go.

When did you open your business and what make you decide to do so?

I opened my Etsy shop in 2008 when I was living in NY. I was looking for the place to sell my jewelry. When I found Etsy accidentally during browsing internet, I thought this is it!

I have two shops on Etsy. My second shop is selling Japanese style upcycle kimono fabric items and accessories for kimono. I opened 2013.

Tell us a bit about your products.           

I’m making simple and feminine jewelry which you can enjoy daily. I’m using gemstones and wires for most of the items. I also do some metalsmithing as well. Small stud earrings are popular in my shop. Also I’m enjoying mixing technique of wire wrapping and metal work.

What inspires your work?           

Stones give me big inspirations. I try to find the best design for each stone. There are just flawless beautiful stones. On the other hand, there are stones which has imperfect part but it makes stone look charming. I’m enjoying working on each stone and it’s my favorite time.

What are your future goals for the business this year? What is your dream for this business?         

I’d like to reach 100 sales. Hopefully within one month! I want to have sales constantly too.  My goal for this year as an artist is to have hit items in jewelry line which I can renew and make sales more than one time. I make many types of jewelry now. I always feel I should work on variations of one design deep down instead of having many lines. It’s little difficult to shift to limited line since new design keep coming up on my mind and can’t stop working on it! But if I think it’s not hobby. Its business, I think it’s time to move on.

What makes your business stand out from businesses that sell similar products?

Simple design but something different like you can’t find anywhere else. Also many of customers chose clip-ons earrings from findings option. Most of my earrings are available to convert into clip-ons. I hope everybody don’t have to give up buying their favorite jewelry cause of findings. It’s not about designing but I’m still happy when my customer tells me she’s satisfied with available on clip-ons.

Tell us a bit about your work space. Do you have a separate studio?

I call my room as work space (atelier). I have everything there. Tools, books, materials, desk, shelf, iron, photo shooting space, sewing machine (I also work on sewing project for another shop) I spend most of time there with listening radio.

What have you learned since opening your business that you wish you had known before hand?

I learned about SEO about a year ago. I wish I had known for years!

Any advice for those thinking about selling on Etsy?

Know about SEO. Of course you can learn it after opening store. I’m still learning and it’s kind of endless!  Join team(s)! You’ll get great tips from etsy fellows. Get and share ideas! As an artist, passion is biggest weapon I believe. The passion reflects in your pieces. That attracts buyers.

When you’re not working, what do you like to do to unwind and have fun? Do you have any hobbies?

I have many hobbies! Golfing, playing ukulele, Wearing kimono and go somewhere… Since I’m working alone, to enjoy hobby with my husband and friends is good to unwind!

What is your favorite quote?

Yesterday is history. Tomorrow is mystery. Today is a gift.
Eleanor Roosevelt

Where can people find out more about your business?  

Yoko’s Jewelry
https://www.etsy.com/shop/yokojewelry
Wayoko (my second shop)
https://www.etsy.com/shop/WAYOKO
FB page
https://www.facebook.com/yokosjewelry/
Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/yoko450/
Twitter
https://twitter.com/yokojewelry
Pinterest
https://www.pinterest.com/yokosjewelry/

________

If you would like to be featured, please go to the CIJ Etsy Forum and fill out the questionnaire. Please note you must be a member of the CIJ Etsy team to be featured.