Design Ideas
Designing jewelry is entirely unique when using antique, ancient or rare beads. I became hooked right away and began using old beads in my jewelry designs as soon as I became aware of them. This field is endless, and there has never been a quintessential cataloguing of antique and ancient beads! We discover in our personal quest new beads, pieces and parts which add to the rich fabric of our collections. I regard the spiritual aspect of wearing previously worn beads at the core of my interest in designing and recycling old components. Not only are the beads exquisite and breathtaking, they carry with them the stories which bind us together and cross bridges of understanding. Wearing these beads makes an undying fashion statement!
Colors in glass from one hundred years ago and earlier cannot be remade today, and the artist’s palette is rich and varied when laying out a new design using old beads. Signs of wear enhance the object, and a smooth patina from years of metal, glass and stone worn against skin and clothing entices one to touch and to contemplate ancient peoples and the far away places they lived. There is a connection in the wearing, and also in the design and placement of each component.
For beaded jewelry design ideas, please take a look at our design ideas shop category.
These are my own jewelry designs, showing here a few ways in which I have used these amazing beads for demonstration purposes and to help you find your own ideas. My enjoyment is endless as I explore new ideas using antique and ancient beads. New designs will be posted often… happy beading!
— Ruth
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