SB115 Brooch

This wonderful brooch from Ortak is inspired by Archibald Knox (1854 – 1933). The designer became well known for simplifying the traditional Celtic knots to create minimal and subtle lines. A trademark of the English Art Nouveau movement.

The brooch is available with a Black Onyx, Amber, Opal triplet, Moonstone or Solid Opal stone.
Also available in Silver.


Price: £ 55.00  BUY IT NOW from Ortak

Argento - The Autumn Catalogue Is Out Now!

To get 10% OFF your order just enter the code AUTUMN11 at the basket stage.

Oh, and do it by 14th. October 2011!

And by the way, before you rush off, the Autumn catalogue is now out!

There’s oodles of stuff but we’ve featured a coupled of items from the ‘Karma’ range (yes and stop singing the Culture Club song at the back!)

What with all this lovely stuff around, it’s a great time to take advantage of this 10% OFF deal, but do remember, the offer expires 14th. October 2011.

Karma Ribbon Tie Necklace Choose this statement bib necklace, whose design is inspired by African tribes, to enhance every look with statement glamour. Featuring a cascade of thirteen mix metal discs, which are embellished with crystals and attached to grey ribbon. Designed to fit all, it measures approximately 100 cm/ 40 inches in length. This necklace is a must-have this season. Complement your look by teaming matching accessories from Karma. The crystals are reflective and catch the light, therefore they will change colour. Priced at £25.00

Karma Gold Effect Stretch Cuff The statement design of this stretch cuff will add instant glamour to every look. A gold plated stretch cuff with a textured, high shine and antique finish. Designed to fit all, this piece measures approximately 16 cm in length. Wear it stacked with similar bracelets for an eclectic look. Priced at £25.00

The New Ortak Birthstone Range

The New Ortak Birthstone Range has got some beautiful pieces of jewellery in it’s collection of Birthstone months.

Of particular note is the September sapphire range.

“September?” You say. “Already!”

Yep, sorry to be such a bearer of bad news but it’s nearly (not quite … yet) September.

But on the flipside it’s a great excuse to lust over some nice jewellery.

So if you have a craving for some Sterling Silver and lovely sapphire stones then browse no further, Ortak Birthstone Range has all you could desire.

Mmm, so on second thoughts, September … I’m coming to get you!

	September Sapphire Earrings Sapphires for September – These elegant sterling silver drop earrings are set with sapphire stones, the birthstone for September. Sapphires are believed to give qualities of clear thinking and wisdom to people born in September. Priced at £45.00
	September Sapphire Pendant A collection of subtle designs crafted in 9ct white gold complimented with quality blue and pink sapphires and garnets. Priced at £270.00

Swarovski - The Wings of Fantasy Collection

Swarovski has just released it’s brand new Wings of Fantasy Collection.

Swarovski has lots of new goodies!

Swarovski has created an Autumn range of Modern jewellery inspired by birds, wings and feathers – Swarovski’s eye-catching new collection features exquisite craftsmanship and feather-inspired silhouettes, creating a very unique and feminine look that is mysterious, refined and dramatic.

This season’s trend colors are Deep indigo, purple and shades of turquoise and are present in abundance in this new Swarovski Collection.

But I wouldn’t want you to take my word for it. Check out some of the items below or have a look at the entire Swarovski collection by clicking on the link above with the pretty picture.

	Swarovski Nirvana Petite Amethyst Ring A gorgeous, petite version of Swarovski’s iconic Nirvana ring. Beautifully crafted in trendy Amethyst crystal, this silver-plated creation sparkles from all angles. Its elegant coloring lends a glamorous, feminine note to any outfit. Priced at £100.00
	Swarovski Parade Large Necklace Inspired by Amazonian warriors, this stunning ruthenium-plated necklace elegantly combines different signature Swarovski techniques. With intricate beading work and a vintage-inspired centerpiece, it sparkles in a trendy gradation of indigo, purple and turquoise crystals. Priced at £315.00

So, what more could you possibly want?

“FREE Delivery!” I hear you say.

Well that’s no problem, there is free standard shipping on orders with a value above £50.00!

Gemondo - Get Your Gems Half-Price!

As you’ll have guessed from the title of this blog (I just know what a smart lot you are!) the Gemondo Half-Price Jewellery Sale is now on!

I know that it’s the season of all high street (and online) sales but this one really is worth checking out. Bargain it is, bargain basement it is not!

There’s literally pages and pages of jewellery to look at but I quickly picked out these half-price jewellery gems to flash in your faces!

	Jade Silver Loop Bracelet Cai Wild Thing Collection contemporary design loop bracelet features polished fixed square silver metal links accented with round blue jade stones. Fasten with lobster claps fitting. Was: £98.00 Web Price: £49.00 You Save: 50%
	Silver Synthetic Pink Sapphire and CZ Earrings Silver Synthetic Pink Sapphire and Cubic Zirconia Earrings. Sapphire is the Birthstone for the month of September and the Zodiac stone for Taurus – April 21st to May 21st and the 45th and 70th Anniversary stone. Was: £35.00 Web Price: £17.00 You Save: 51%

There really is something for everyone. Hmm … I know that sounds a bit cliched (well, okay, a LOT!) but they still have plenty of items in stock at Gemondo’s Half-Price Jewellery Sale but as they say, “as the word gets around, the stock goes down.”

That is what they say, isn’t it?

Argento Summer Sale

The Argento summer Sale is now on and will run until stocks run out!

Remember: that’s Whilst stocks last!

And they may not!

And you will realise why when you see what’s on offer …

Don’t worry about there not being anything for you – there will be!

With so many things on sale there’s plenty of choice.

But do be quick – a good bargain never hangs around for long!

katrina alexander - oval cast ring

It’s our pleasure to feature the work of British Jewellery designer Katrina Alexander in this, the first of our ‘Designers’ interviews.
We hope to feature more designers in the near future.

katrina alexander - drop necklace with leaf and pearl

How would you describe your work?

Tactile and organic in form – I don’t work to structured drawings or shapes and pieces tend to evolve on the workbench. For example, I don’t make perfect round circles – deliberately.

How have others described your work?

“Wearable” rather than statement pieces, “timeless” and “classics with a contemporary twist”

How do you make your jewellery, what techniques do you use?

My preferred method is using the art of lost wax carving whereby I carve the shape into wax before it is cast into silver or gold. It is a lovely way to work, although very time consuming, and I am happiest when working this way. I made quite weighty silver and gold pieces this way.

katrina alexander

Who, or what, has influenced you?

That’s very difficult to answer off the top of my head. It depends on whether you mean inspirational influence. So many people along the way with wise words …. I suppose the strength and support of my parents and my grandmothers and latterly my husband has made me determined to move into a different career. As far as creative influence, I am inspired by so many different people from all sorts of creative backgrounds I guess.

Well, the obvious question … where do you get the ideas for your collections?

Some come straight away whilst others grow and may have been in a sketchbook for years but then suddenly develop one day. I see shapes in everything, all of the time, which can be quite distracting. Literally anything, from everyday objects such as a bunch of hangers, to lighting effects, designs on bars in restaurants, typography, curves on textiles, ironmongery, leather textures on handbags….I also collect pebbles, seed pods and leaves constantly.

If you could name one, what would your “I wish I had designed that” be?

Angkor Wat in Cambodia. It’s the most incredible 12th century temple complex. It is architecturally fascinating and very beautiful. I love the way that nature is entwined with it now amongst its ruins.

katrina alexander - infinity

Where are you happiest?

At the moment, on my terrace checking out my endless vegetable pots!

Where do you sell your work?

Good old Great Britain mainly, galleries and shops in England and Scotland stock my work but it would be good to get some outlets in Wales/Ireland to balance things out!

When you think of jewellery per se, what comes to mind?

I believe that jewellery can become a part of you. You instinctively love a piece of jewellery (or it grows with you and comforts you). It’s like clothes, shoes, etc – you wear pieces to give you confidence, to comfort you, to cheer you up or just for fun – a piece can make you smile every time you look at it. I don’t make collections in line with fashion trends though, I make pieces to be worn for a lifetime.

katrina alexander - multi cluster pearl bracelet

What is your latest collection?

My latest collections consist of solid sterling silver pieces which are always popular and a collection made using different coloured and shaped freshwater pearls which are also currently selling well.

Any plans for the future?

Yes, lots. I have just taken on a Jewellery Consultant who specialises in PR, marketing and sales, so watch this space! Exciting times ahead…

Thank-you Katrina and best of luck in your forthcoming endeavours!

Once again, you can view (and purchase!) Katrina’s work on her website: Katrina Alexander.

katrina alexander silver heart pendant

Swarovski Sale - On Now!

Like the sign says, take advantage of the Swarovski Sale now!

With discounts starting from a fantastic 30% to a mouth-watering 50% on a large assortment of selected products, this special offer is too good to miss!

The Online SALE from Swarovski includes timeless and fashion jewellery, charms, watches and sparkling accessories.

Spoil yourself or your friends and family with some Swarovski crystal creations. A few of the bargains available in Swarovski’s Online SALE are shown below but this is only the tip of the Swarovski crystal iceberg (!) so have a good look at what they have on offer.

Remember! the offer is only on for a limited period of time only. Don’t miss this opportunity to purchase the pieces you have always wanted!

	Neo Long Pendant A beautifully crafted rhodium-plated pendant with medallion and stylised motif. Inspired by nature, it sparkles in colourful pavé covered in transparent epoxy for a smooth finish. The elegant and trendy long silhouette adds a fashionable touch to any outfit. Size: 90/6 x 6 cm Regular price: £ 112.00 Sale price: £ 78.40
	Monogram Cuff Symbolising elegance and purity, this majestic rhodium cuff sparkles in clear crystal pavé. The openwork featuring the Swanflower pattern adds a sophisticated and original touch. Complete the look with the matching choker. Size: 5.8 x 2.8 cm Regular price: £ 305.00 Sale price: £ 213.50

EB78 Brooch

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A classic silver brooch standard enamel.

Price: £ 80.00  BUY IT NOW from Ortak