Sustainable Upcycled Jewelry Blog

Ever wondered why the beautiful bronze dress that looks amazing on the hanger makes you look washed-out? Or why gold jewelry just doesn't look as stunning on you as it does others? It's the intriguing, and sometimes confusing skin-tone credo.

Like you, jewelry is an ever-evolving narrative; you are the unique canvas for exquisite pieces of art. Jewelry reflects your individuality, personality, and style, and the right statement piece can bestow a beauty that lights up you and your wardrobe.

During these economic times, it pays to use all your resources just a little more wisely and that includes the resources in your jewelry box. Because let's face it, we would all like to buy new necklaces, bracelets and earrings for special occasions but our budgets might not have room. Learning how to optimize what you already have in your jewelry box and by adding some key pieces to your collection, you can make the most of your jewelry.

It's often true that one person's trash is another's treasure, and when you're poking around garage sales, thrift shops or flea markets and find old jewelry at must-buy prices, don't worry about any annoying details. You can take that string of cast-off jewelry home and have it turned into something uniquely yours. Some of the beads may have damage or the clasp may be broken, but your find could be transformed into a treasure simply by reworking it.

Jewelry is one of those favorite Valentine’s Day gifts that keep on giving. It’s a gift that symbolizes a moment in time and is a reminder of someone’s love and thoughtfulness. All of Victoria Tane’s limited edition pieces have a story behind them, whether it’s the materials that are used to craft the jewelry, or how the piece itself was inspired. Following is a selection of jewelry for all tastes on the vintage spectrum:

It’s 12 days ‘til Valentine’s Day! Have you found the right something for that special person in your life? Choosing Valentine’s Day gifts can be a challenge, especially if your Valentine has particular taste.

Tangy, tropical, juicy, tart. Orange. Pantone named Tangerine Tango the color of the year for 2012. A vibrant reddish orange, this uplifting hue brought bursts of color to the runway for the coming year’s fashions. Vivacious without being overbearing, this warm tone brings heat to even the coldest of wintery January days.

The idea is that I never buy large quantities of anything. The nature of my business is finding unusual things in unusual places. It’s what keeps my business interesting and fresh because it’s seldom that I have enough inventory of beads and findings to last more than a few iterations of a design. York Beads fits with my need to find the unusual. Their approach to buying beads is similar to my approach to designing. They carry small quantities of unique beads and finishes and colors that are not available through the large wholesalers.

You've chosen an outfit for your next holiday party, but have no idea which jewelry pieces to wear. Jewelry choice is very important, but it does not have to be difficult. Keep a few suggestions in mind and you will be able to walk into any party with confidence.

Holiday shopping time has arrived. Many people enjoy giving gifts of jewelry, but it can be difficult to find the best place to shop.

Victoria Tane Studios makes elegant handmade jewelry. Victoria uses natural, recycled, and vintage materials to create affordable, wearable art. A small selection of Victoria's favorite holiday jewelry are presented below. Each piece is priced below $100.

One piece that shows off Victoria's talents is her Gold and Pearl Patchwork Chain Necklace. This 6' necklace made from vintage chains and beads can be worn many ways. It can be worn as one strand, a multi-chain bracelet, a multi-chain necklace and a belt.

Another lovely choice for holiday jewelry gifts is the Jet and Crystal Bracelet. This simple, yet stunning piece is made of Czech glass beads, Austrian crystals, and pewter findings. This silver and black piece is beautiful on its own, but would also make quite a statement with several of the bracelets stacked together.

The eye-catching color combination in the Rajah Amethyst Necklace makes it a must-have for the woman with an artful eye. The yellow-green of the olivine combined with the eggplant, amethyst and antiqued bronze pewter work together in the most beautiful way in this double-strand necklace.

The gorgeous Azure Comet Necklace is a celebration of blues that includes azure, cobalt, aqua, and cornflower hues of vintage faceted glass from the 1940s along with a new Czech rhinestone centerpiece and pewter flower castings.

A great choice for someone who enjoys modern, stand-out jewelry is the Crinkle Necklace. This piece is made by stamping brass or pewter squares in a way that crimps and folds the metal in an artful, architectural design.

No matter the age or taste of the ladies on your list, they would surely all enjoy a special gift of Victoria Tane jewelry.