Like the name implies, exotic gemstones are somewhat rare and naturally brightly colored. Unlike the big 3 colored gemstones, Sapphire, Ruby and Emerald (which are often heat treated to bring out color vibrancy), they are not so well known and the exotic gemstones are very rarely treated.
I'd like to introduce you to one of my transparent to semi-transparent favorites and tell you a little about it.. Because "exotics" are sometimes very hard to source I buy them when I am able and have created some pieces for you here in my shop, pzmdesigns.com
In this blog post, I will be featuring Apatite. Apatite, is a naturally occurring gemstone whose colors range from light blue and violet, to intense violet-blue, to blue, and yellowish green to green..... with all the color variations in between. The most highly prized color mimics the Paraiba blue tourmaline and is usually called neon blue.
Apatite can range from transparent to opaque. They are sourced mainly in Myanmar, Brazil, India and East Africa, among a few other places. They are a softer stone with the hardness of 5 on the Mohs hardness scale. That is why, in jewelry, apatite is better suited to necklaces or earrings. I have included some examples of the color variations in these translucent beaded necklaces.
https://pzmdesigns.com/collections/gemstone-necklaces/products/apatite-double-strand-necklace-blue-apatite-and-silver-necklace
https://pzmdesigns.com/collections/gemstone-necklaces/products/neon-blue-apatite-necklace-gift-for-her
The necklace above shows the different transparency qualities that can occur in apatite.
Next is an example of the neon blue apatite!!!
https://pzmdesigns.com/collections/gemstone-earrings/products/neon-apatite-tassel-earrings-with-blue-pearl-accents-art-deco-style-fine-jewelry
Stay tuned for another blog post about exotic gemstones. There are so many and they are all exquisite in their own way. Some of the stones I will cover are the transparent to semi translucent: Kyanite, Iolite, Prehnite, and Fluorite. I have already spoken about Peridot, Garnet, and the Quartz family.
There are also many opaque exotic gemstones that are just as beautiful. Such as Amazonite, and the pink beauties, Rhodochrosite and Rhodonite, and I will be writing all about these stones too.
Please visit my shop, pzmdesigns.com to take a peek at some modern tribal gemstone jewelry designs.
Springtime is the perfect season to wear silk mohair shrugs and sweaters. With its ability to take vibrant color dyes, silk mohair gives you the opportunity to brighten up your day, especially after a long cold winter.
Silk mohair is a textile that is very lightweight, not itchy and has a romantic feel. When it is crocheted or knitted into garments it has a transparent quality that is fashion-forward and also reminiscent of times gone by.
I love working with this luxurious yarn. It has a wonderful hand and creates a slight halo around the garments.
One of my favorite garments to make is shrugs. The style that is my favorite, covers the arms and upper back and does not close in the front. This keeps your arms warm or allows you to wear sleeveless tops and still cove your arms without covering up your outfit. I usually knit these shrugs in lace and crochet the borders in a lace stitch as well.
Here are some examples of this shrug style
I make other shrug styles, still with "bracelet friendly" sleeves which are set in. The sweaters are a bit longer. They go to the waist and they close in front, like a cardigan.
Here are some examples:
All of these fabulous sweaters are hand knit. They are hand washable and truly lovely. Stand out from the crowd in luxurious silk mohair.
Fashion-forward and yet romantic. Is this your vibe?
Check out more of our unique knitwear here.
Happy shopping!
I love knitting and creating shawls, ponchos, and cowls / Infiniti scarves. When I am not knitting, I feel anxious, and that something is missing. Knitting is a very relaxing activity, as it involves repetitive motion which relaxes the mind and allows us to think clearly. It’s just like when we are in the shower; the sound of the water relaxes the mind allowing “shower thoughts” to come in; my best ideas have always come from my shower time.
A fantastic parallel to the act of knitting being a kind of meditation is the different ways that people use shawls to comfort themselves. Not only can shawls be beautiful, warm, and comforting, but they have been used throughout the ages in many different religious ceremonies.
Prayer Shawls
Although prayer shawls can sometimes be controversial, like the many times women have been detained for wearing prayer shawls at the Western Wall. Prayer shawls have been used to heal the sick. This process of having a group of people focus their prayer on a shawl has been known to do wonders for the recipient.
Traditional science has not been able to prove or quantify that prayer works. However, we all know that prayer does have the power to heal. Almost all religions use some kind of shawl in their ceremonies. From Buddhist and Baptists to Jews, Christians, and Muslims, shawls are a symbol of holiness and piety.
Check out my shawl collection here,
Meditation Shawls
As I previously mentioned, the act of creating a shawl is very relaxing and puts the mind in a state of meditation. Many people use shawls to help them meditate better and enter a deeper state of relaxation. The feeling of something warm wrapping around your body gives you the feeling of one giant hug. It also gives you a sense of isolation, yet not a cold one, but a comforting one. Many Yogis and Tibetan Monks wear their traditional shawls to help with their meditation.
Comfort Shawls
In a secular sense, shawls are merely comforting. We all deserve our little space to retreat and do what we like. Whether that is reading a magazine or book, or watching our favorite episode – all while drinking a glass of our favorite wine – doing while wrapped in a big warm comfort shawl will make that “retreat” so much better. It is essential to take a break from our hectic lives to maintain the balance needed for a healthy mind and body. Having the right tools to achieve that balance, such as an elegant handmade shawl, is just as important as making sure you put effort into relaxing. Here is one that just perfect for that occasion:
Shawls are also very practical to wear when wearing a dress on a cold night. They can wrap you up and protect you from the elements while you are outside, just like this beautiful one I designed and hand-knitted
I have been knitting for decades, and if you know me, you are bound to see me knitting anywhere that I am sitting and waiting for something. Whether it is at the doctor’s office, at a friend’s house, or relaxing at home, it is by far my favorite past time. I hope that my passion comes out in the knitwear that I create. Again, you can browse my collection here, and don’t hesitate to contact me if you would like me to make you a custom design.
PZM Designs
Jewelry has always been a way to show wealth, love, and possession. However, in the modern world, most jewelry and accessories have been about celebrating our individuality and uniqueness. This new attitude towards jewelry has spurred countless creative individual jewelers to create extraordinary and unique designs, especially with handmade metal jewelry.
Jewelry has evolved with our technology, getting sucked into the era of mass production and finally finding itself in 3D printers. However, there has been an “Arts & Craft” movement bringing back the individual jeweler and metalsmith to the forefront. Despite technology being an excellent tool, it lacks the warmth and soul of human hands.
At PZM designs, every piece of jewelry and knitwear were designed, shaped and crafted in-house by hand. The metal used is of the highest quality and sourced from verified and trusted merchants. And while there is countless metal jewelry in the store, here are 10 unique handmade metal jewelry you won’t find anywhere else:
Copper Shield Ring, Hand Hammered and Adjustable – Price $32
This copper shield ring is handcrafted, and hand hammered over specialized stakes. It’s very light, comfortable, and highly polished for the perfect occasion. It would go very well with one of our cuffs, and since each one is made to order it might look slightly different than the picture.
It will fit size 7.5 – 11.5, but if you need it smaller, send us an email letting us know. Purchase it here.
This gorgeous and unique handmade metal jewelry necklace is based on the shape of lightning. Wear the power of the gods around your neck and evoke the goddess within you. Entirely conceptualized and handcrafted by PZM Designs, this necklace is sure to impress even your most unimpressible friends and family.
It is so light, you can hardly feel that it is one, but don’t let that fool you; it is made from the finest German silver and will not tarnish. This beautiful example of handmade metal jewelry is one of a kind and usually ships the next day. You can purchase it here.
Science says that symmetry is one of beauty’s core features. But that does not apply to this stunning asymmetrical necklace. Conceived and handmade by PZM Designs, you won’t find anything quite like this excellent piece of handmade metal jewelry.
This necklace is made from the highest quality nickel silver, so it will not tarnish and is extremely light to wear. Every piece of this silver collar necklace was individually cut out, hammered, then tumbled for a beautifully shiny finish.
We usually ship the next day, so make sure you get this before it gets sold out here.
Another beautifully designed asymmetrical necklace, but this time using brushed gold brass metal. Each piece you see is individually cut and formed using particular jeweler's tools, then hand finished and brushed giving you that beautiful glow you see pictured.
Like most of the handmade metal jewelry found in the store, each one is one-of-a-kind. So hurry up and claim this one here.
This is one of those unique handmade metal jewelry pieces that not many jewelers can pull off, but PZM Designs has perfected the art of handcrafting many different cuff bracelets and armbands. This copper cuff bracelet is an excellent example of a deceivingly simple design that will communicate your uniqueness and great taste.
This cuff bracelet is made from pure copper and is designed to order, so make sure you accurately measure your wrist. You can purchase your one of a kind bracelet here.
The title "Silver cuff bracelet" is an oversimplification of this intricately curved handcrafted cuff. Conceived and designed by PZM Designs, this bracelet is handmade to order but only comes in one size. However, it is adjustable. It has been hand-hammered then brought to a beautiful shine and polish.
Unique handmade metal jewelry is hard to come by, but there are plenty in the store. You can purchase this one here.
When it comes to creating unique handmade metal jewelry, one must dig deep and find inspiration. This sterling silver choker necklace grabs inspiration from tribal jewelry and was created from one sheet of silver metal. As always, hand-forged and shaped, made from non-tarnish nickel silver, and very lightweight.
“This necklace started out as a sheet of metal. I hand drew the designs on the metal and cut them out, hammered them to give them shape and strength and then they went in to the tumbler for more strength and shine. The final step was to hand file the pieces before I assembled them into this fabulous necklace.” – PZM Designs.
Grab this necklace here before anyone else!
It’s not a surprise watching the rise of CosPlay in the world, especially that it is coinciding with the rise of huge blockbuster superhero movies, such as Wonder Woman. And although PZMDesigns has always been making forearm cuff bracelets, there has been an increased in demand for these wonder woman cuffs.
This design is made to look like a stack of bracelets, but it is only one cuff and is very lightweight. Made from the most beautiful brass then finished off with a nice bright shine. You can purchase this particular wonder woman cuff here.
Some of us just like to be a little strange and unique. The term boho means socially unconventional, and that perfectly describes this gemstone cuff bracelet. Unlike other PZM Designs, this one is not lightweight because of the gemstones being showcased by the wire wrapping.
This piece features a sizeable unakite gemstone, freshwater pearls, and pink aventurine quartz. The metal used for the wire wrapping is pure silver nickel. There is only one of these in existence, so make sure to purchase it here.
Want to impress and make a statement? Then this gold brass necklace is for you. Originally conceived and designed by PZM Designs, this brass necklace was made from one sheet of pure brass. It is perfect for formal events and goes really well with a black or white dress.
As you can see, it has been folded and twisted to a form the shape of a ribbon giving it a three-dimensional design that is undoubtedly to garner many compliments. You can purchase this stunning brass necklace here.
There are much more unique handmade metal jewelry in the store. Feel free to browse and see which piece speaks out to you. If you have any questions, you can always reach out to us here. PZM Designs continually creates new designs, so make sure to follow us on social media for any new arrivals.
Silver is not just a precious metal, it is very important to our modern world. The Founders thought so highly of Silver that they wrote it into our Constitution to be used as legal tender. Furthermore, silver is a vital part of our electric-civilization, being installed in every single smartphone and computer because of its excellent electrical conductivity. Surprisingly, despite all that, it is also known as the outcast of the commodity markets, That said, silver is a beautiful precious metal that is used in countless of jewelry pieces and designs, including upper arm cuff jewelry.
Working with Silver is a joy, and many jewelers enjoy designing, hammering, and bending the precious metal into intricate pieces of beautiful jewelry. And since Silver is known to tarnish and discolor, we use nickel silver so you won’t have to worry about that ever happening.
At PZM Designs, we have plenty of silver upper arm cuff jewelry that is all handmade and handcrafted to order. So make sure to take your measurements if you decide to order one (or more!). Here are 7 silver upper arm cuff jewelry pieces you won’t find anywhere else:
This simple, yet mesmerizing silver spiral bracelet is gorgeous, but at the same time subtle. It is made from nickel silver, so you don’t have to worry about it getting tarnished. Remember to send us your measurements before ordering. You can use a measuring tape, rope or cloth, and we’ll handcraft it so it can fit and look perfect on your arm. Make your order here.
Also handmade from nickel silver, this double wrap spiral bracelet will not tarnish. It is wrapped twice to enhance the coil design and is one of our most popular pieces. It can be worn on its own or with another of our upper arm cuff jewelry. Because all of our pieces are made to order, send us your measurements, so that it will fit flawlessly on your arm. Visit this page to begin your order.
We all wear upper arm jewelry for different reasons, but they are eye candy and allow us to celebrate our individuality. This particular piece was inspired by summer festivals and raves, which is why it is double wrapped. That way it will not slip off during physical activity, like dancing, but it will glimmer and shine when hit with lights.
Take your measurements when ordering, since each item is custom-made and fit to your upper arm. You can check out this arm bracelet here.
Gypsies are found across the globe and are true vagabonds, yet they are miraculously able to retain their culture even while being surrounded by the modern world. This piece was inspired by Gypsy culture and will wrap around your upper arm, but it is designed to fit just above your elbow.
Remember to give us your measurements, since all of our items are handmade and handcrafted to order. You can use a string, cloth or measuring tape, and can order it here.
This upper arm bracelet is very popular with our customers. The spiral design is inspired by nature and the vortex-like shapes we observe in plants, flowers, and DNA. Feel like the goddess that you are when wearing this gorgeous upper arm cuff, but just remember to take your measurements. You can find it here.
Designed for the summer so your skin can breathe, this stunning upper arm bracelet is perfect for those summer parties in your favorite summertime outfit. It is an elegant and unique way to look your best, but still very affordable!
All of our items are handmade to order and might look slightly different than the picture, just make sure you take an accurate measurement before ordering your individualized item.
Just in case you thought that our double wrapped upper arm jewelry wasn’t enough, we designed a triple coil upper arm bracelet that is sure to impress the eccentric in you. Each piece is handmade with the ends hand-hammered and flattened for design and comfort. This is an amazing looking arm bracelet that can be worn every day, or at a special event. Be sure to send us accurate measurements of your arm so that it will fit and look fantastic. Purchase this one-of-a-kind beauty here.
Silver is a miraculous precious metal that is perfect for so many applications, but especially for jewelry and accessories. We hope you enjoyed the silver upper arm cuff jewelry that we have as much as we enjoy designing and handcrafting them.
Make sure to check out our upper arm cuffs page for more unique items that you won’t find anywhere else. Also, be confident that when you purchase from PZM Designs, you are getting the highest quality handmade jewelry and handmade knitwear designed by Pamela McCombs, a certified GIA Gemologist. Check out the rest of the store here.
Jewelry has been with humans since the beginning of time. It allows us to express ourselves, celebrate our individuality, and show love to one another. The way we wear our jewelry hasn’t changed much over the years, and neither has the reasons for wearing jewelry. Take for example upper arm cuff bracelets. They are worn for many reasons, such as, covering-up tattoos, cosplay, or to just look great.
At PZM Designs, everything is designed in-house and hand-crafted from scratch. Our artisan jewelry, handmade gemstone jewelry, and handmade knitwear are one of a kind and can’t be found anywhere else. Moreover, the upper arm cuff bracelets are one of our most popular items. They are also super affordable, especially considering the metals/materials being used. Here are 3 handmade upper arm cuff bracelets that you have to check out.
This beautiful upper arm cuff is handmade from bronze and hammered over special molds. Notice that the ends have been meticulously turned up so that it doesn’t dig into your skin. Each one of these is custom made to order, so you will be a getting a one of a kind version that might differ slightly from the pictures.
The measurements are 1.25 inches wide, but you’ll need to measure your arm around your biceps to get your size. Then when you receive it, pull it up your arm, squeeze it gently, then you are ready to go! Check it out here.
Copper is an amazing conductor of electricity, and has been used over the years for healing purposes— it’s also a stunning-looking metal. We only use the purest and highest quality copper with a smooth finish. Every item is custom-made and handmade to order, so each will have its unique look, just like you.
The measurement is 1.25 inches wide. Just make sure to input your correct arm size. You can find that out by using measuring tape or string around your biceps. That way, once you get it, gently squeeze it around your arm for that perfect fit. You can buy this one-of-a-kind arm cuff bracelet here.
Brass is not just for trumpets and saxophones, but it has an amazing ability to mimic gold. These gorgeous arm cuffs are made from the purest NU-gold, or Merlin’s Gold, which is 85% copper and 15% zinc.
This original design is handcrafted and smoothed out for an amazing look you won’t find anywhere else. Because each item is made-to-order, you will be receiving a truly individualized piece of jewelry. That said, you will need to take your size when ordering.
The cuff is 1.25 inches wide, but you’ll need to enter your size. Just use a string, piece of cloth, or measuring tape to measure your arm around your bicep. That way it’ll fit you perfectly to bring out the Wonder Woman in you. You can purchase this item here.
While there are many reasons to wear upper arm band cuffs, we cannot deny the sense of power it gives to the wearer. It is also very appealing to the observing eye, especially when worn with the right attire.
We are also very open to custom orders, so if you have a design in mind, we will easily work with you on creating the perfect handmade upper arm cuff bracelet that you envision. Please contact us here for custom orders.
Be confident that when you purchase from PZM Designs, you are purchasing a quality product that is made by an experienced and passionate jeweler. Pamela McCombs is also a GIA Graduate Gemologist that creates beautiful handmade jewelry, in addition to handmade knitwear. Visit the main store here.
At PZM Designs, every crochet infinity scarf is designed intuitively by Pamela McCombs and crocheted/knitted by hand. You won’t find these anywhere else, and there is only one of each. With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, you really should give these original and gorgeous scarfs a look. Here are 10 Crochet Infinity Scarfs you won’t find anywhere else
Are you a fan of handmade gemstone jewelry? In this post, we explore the world's 5 best selling gemstones, and the jewelry I have created with them.
Quartz is one of the most plentiful minerals on the planet. Humans have been using quartz in jewelry for thousands of years. Read on to learn more about the colors of Quartz.
Members of the quartz family may look different but they are essentially made up of the same elements, silicon and oxygen. They crystallize in the trigonal crystal system and they differ mostly in the size of their crystals.
Amethyst is the Zodiacal Stone for Aquarius and the birthstone for the month of February. Amethyst was the most prized member of the quartz family for centuries and was considered as an equal to ruby, emerald and sapphire.
