Merry Christmas!

We ALL wish you a Merry Christmas! Hope you have a fun, peaceful and safe holiday with friends and family.

Time to look back ... And to the future!

So ... 2014 is just about to hit the history books. Another year gone by. For a business, this is the perfect time to take a look at what has been accomplished; where we have fallen short; and how we can improve in the coming year.

It really is important to establish goals. But we can't do that without understanding where we stand right now. This is a good time to really look at our businesses and possibly set a new direction, steering us toward a more productive and profitable business year.

We all have different circumstances. Some of us are just beginning; some have been doing this for a while. Some just want to satisfy a need to create; some of us need income. Whatever your situation is, this is a great opportunity to make things better and stronger.

Did you sell more this year? Less than last year? Has your average "ticket" gone up or down? Are you getting more custom orders or "special requests"?

Who is your customer? Do you target that group, or do they just "find" you?

Where can you curb expenses? Or is it time to spend more and invest in your business?

Lots of questions. No firm replies, because we are all different, and only you can answer.

A pad, a pen, your checkbook register and last year's sales / expenses holds the key. Honestly look at everything and see where your strong points are; make those stronger.

The weak points can be worked on if you feel you must. Sometimes it really is better to make radical changes; let the weak stuff go and just keep what works, making that stronger than ever. This is probably the best way. I can think of a couple of current JET members who have done exactly that, and it seems to me that they're stronger because of it.

Terry and I are planning big changes; we are going to target a new segment of the market.

Our ETSY shop may not change, but ... then again, it may. We shall see. One thing is for sure - we have given everything a really hard look, and we know we need to evolve. Its impossible to go over here and now. But I can say this ... it WILL be different.

Just a thought. New year; a new way of doing things. Businesses must grow. The only alternatives are to stagnate or recede. That will not happen to us; we will radically change the way we do things before anything negative occurs.

This is not anything new or surprising. Etsy has done this themselves. To make the site more profitable they have changed many things beginning with redefining "handmade" to suit their purposes. What ETSY has done makes it important to be willing to change and "roll with the punches". Consider doing things that will make your shop stronger in light of their changes. Target a new customer. Create new things that are unique. Cater to the custom made / personalized jewelry shopper. Do anything you need to that will bring new customers into your shop. Etsy is still a great venue; use it to YOUR advantage!

JET of the Day: ELEVEN13

A visit to ELEVEN13 makes it clear that this jewelry designer is a very well rounded artisan. The varied types of jewelry Michelle creates all contribute to her collection, making her shop unique and fabulous!

On the left is an example of her minimalist, contemporary silver and gemstone jewelry. This Blue Iolite Gemstone Necklace features a simple and gorgeous design that can be worn pretty much every day.

There is much more to ELEVEN13, though. Michelle has been exploring new and different ways to expand her skills, and it has paid off with a really varied collection.

Even within categories, you'll find lots of choices - styles, materials and price ranges. In the Gemstone Earrings section you'll see earrings made with gem beads like the Black Spinel pair on the right, or with briolettes and bezel set cabochons. All gemstones, but ... very different!

In the Mixed Metal Jewelry section, you'll
see some pretty spectacular pieces.

 Michelle marries copper and silver beautifully, creating cuff bracelets like the Geometric Cuff on the left.

In this section you'll find rings, necklaces and earrings.Contrast is the word here, and this artisan uses more than color - hammered and smooth textures are also front and center in these designs.

There really is a lot to explore in this shop, and I recommend you visit. There's something for everyone, and this artisan creates very affordable jewelry with a lot of value. Browse ELEVEN13 today: https://www.etsy.com/shop/ELEVEN13

JET of the Day: EarthEnergyGemstones

I love color, and EarthEnergyGemstones is jammed full of beautiful earrings, necklaces and bracelets that are made with really nice quality gemstones in a rainbow of colorful tones. The shop looks amazing!

On the right is a pair of Red Garnet and Gold Filled Earrings. These sparkling beauties were created by Gloria with 14k gold filled metal components and glittering AAA grade  faceted red garnet briolettes. These are a great gift for a January birthday!

There is so much dyed howlite and magnesite masquerading as turquoise these days, its hard to find the real thing.

Gloria offers genuine turquoise jewelry, like the bracelet you see on the left.

Made with beautiful Arizona turquoise rondelles and Karen Hill Tribe silver beads, this fabulous bracelet could easily become a favorite to wear every day. Turquoise is a December birthstone ...

The gemstone bar necklaces shown in the photo on the right are a popular item at EarthEnergyGemstones.

They easily coordinate with a wide range of styles and colors, and the gold filled chains and beads give the stones a truly rich and luxurious appearance.

These top quality gemstone necklaces are sold separately and are a great value.

If gemstone jewelry is your passion, you'll enjoy browsing Gloria's beautiful creations. Visit EarthEnergyGemstones today!

JET of the Day: DonnasArtisanDesigns

This morning I'm visiting JET member shop DonnasArtisanDesigns to see what's new!

I love Donna's approach to design. She's completely unafraid to try new techniques, which is one of the things we have in common. This is because we are both self - taught.

It is the nature of a self taught artisan to experiment and push boundaries; to design "outside the box". Its how we learn.

I'll start with my favorite category. Its named My Own Lapidary Work. The artisan jewelry in this section showcases gemstones that were cut and polished by Donna. The pretty pendant on the left is set with a hand cut blue chalcedony. This is a totally handmade piece of jewelry (except for the chain). Donna did it all, from creating the gemstone from rough rock to making the wire components and assembling them to produce this necklace!

On the right side of the page is another one that was created entirely by Donna. This labradorite cabochon is amazing! As someone who has polished many cabochons, I can say she did a great job orienting the stone to maximize the iridescent effect; and the finish is like glass! I also love the contemporary setting ...

There are other sections in Donna's shop ... and a lot of items to see. Over three hundred items!

There's a big Necklaces and Necklace Sets section. Within are many types of handmade necklaces, many with matching earrings.

There are four pages of bracelet listings! Many of these are available in sets as well. I should also mention Donna's Rings section. If you love wearing jewelry for fingers, take a look!

We all create jewelry for sale. We have to. It isn't why we began making jewelry but selling it IS what we do. But sometimes the artisan thing pokes its head out and we create something that really IS special.
Yeah, it may be a cubist interpretation of life on the moon. Some people will look at it, scratch their heads and say "huh?"

But it truly is art. And Donna has done just that with this amazing Peacock Pendant!

It has a beautiful form. Many different elements, bonded together to become something really unique. She gave it varied textures. The multiple layer construction gives it a 3 dimensional appearance.

Only an artist - someone who creates from imagination, with that special thing creative people have within them - can make things like this.

If you love art jewelry, you owe it to yourself to check out this amazing artisan. Visit Donna today!

JET of the Day: DesignsbyCher

Purple / Blue Antiqued Brass Earrings

At DesignsbyCher, affordable, fashionable and top quality go hand in hand! Cher's original, classic looking jewelry designs are much loved by everyone who buys them, and the reasons are easy to see.

You can shop for jewelry made with your preferred metal at DesignsbyCher. Choose from brass, silver and copper metals, so there is something for everyone.

There are over 250 items on display to choose from! Many are made with Cher's handcrafted ear wires, clasps and other metal components.

Expect lots of color as you browse through DesignsbyCher. Gemstone beads, crystal, Czech glass, lampwork glass and more find their way into these gorgeous creations. This is not the kind of jewelry you put in a box and forget. Cher's creations are made to be worn for a lifetime or even more! You can see the type of jewelry this is from the photos ... the wire wraps are neat and secure, the metal components are substantial, not flimsy at all ... and the beads are the best you can buy!

On the left are a pair of Cher's handcrafted hoop earrings with Rhodonite beads. These are made with round sterling silver beads, silver plated saucer rondelles and non - tarnish artistic wire, which keeps them affordable. You get all the fashion value of a much more expensive pair for a great price!

Designed for ease of wear, these hoops are very comfortable and secure. The Rhodonite is a nice deep color!

While earrings are a very important part of DesignsByCher, there IS much more to love in this amazing handcrafted collection. There is a treasure trove waiting here for necklace and pendant fans, with over 50 choices currently available. These feature some really unusual and beautiful components. The example on the right, the Mystical Crystal Ball Pendant Long Gold Necklace illustrates this perfectly. The attention grabbing AB glass bead is accented with gold plated components for a luxurious look everyone will love!

Whether you love bracelets, nature inspired fashion, matched jewelry coordinates or just want to shop for truly gorgeous, well made fashion jewelry DesignsByCher has a lot to offer. Visit today and get some last minute gift shopping done at this amazing shop!
https://www.etsy.com/shop/DesignsbyCher

Holiday Pep Talk: from Ida of AdroitJewelers

Holiday Pep Talk

The holiday season is filled with get-togethers, lights, trees, food, presents, and more. It can be a really fun time of year. But it can also be a really hard time of year for many people, and for a variety of reasons. I thought it was important to take a moment to remind people not to put too much pressure on themselves during this holiday season. The grass may LOOK greener on the other side, but nobody has the perfect family, nobody is the perfect cook, nobody always does or says the right things, and nobody has the perfect holiday. What we see is not always other people’s reality. Instead of comparing your situation to others, focus on the positives in your own life. And we all have them.

Beauty comes in many forms and is on the inside as well as the outside. Just because someone else might not see your beauty doesn’t mean it’s not there. What makes you who you are? What do you like about yourself? Love is something we all need to feel. And it starts with loving ourselves.

We need to be proactive around the holidays. Find an activity to do. What do you enjoy doing? What do you like about the holidays? Doing something for someone else can make us feel better, too. If we want things to be good, we need to make them good. That will look different everyone. It is important to take things one day at a time and to never give up. The new year will be here before we know it and the holidays will be a memory. We determine what kind of memory that will be. I hope you find a way to make it special for yourself (and maybe for somebody else, too).

Wishing you peace, joy, and love!

From Ida of AdroitJewelers

Maintaining a Holiday Schedule: by Mollie Ann of RoughMagicHolidays

Organizing our online shops for the holiday rush can be, and usually is, a daunting task, but a doable one nonetheless.

Here are a few quick and easy tips to make your days in the workshop, at the computer and in the packing room less stressful and, yes, even enjoyable.

Make a list. No, make that make several lists! You wouldn't think of heading off to the supermarket without your grocery list, so why face the multi-tasking required to keep up with the holidays without one?

Here's an blank template of my weekly check list, in chart form, that I look at every day to make sure I've covered all necessary bases … and often a few unnecessary ones too.

Nobody can do everything every day, and everybody's schedule will be different, but making your own check list and consulting it daily will definitely keep you on track.

If you have orders that absolutely must be finished and on their way, don't get distracted. Concentrate on getting them done and out!

For less pressing tasks, find a couple of simple kitchen timers, one for your computer desk and one for your work space. Determine how long you can spend on any given task, and set your timer. When it goes off, set if for 5 more minutes, to give you time to reach a good stopping place, and when it goes off again, STOP. No "ifs, ands or buts". Just stop, take a breather, go back to it if you have time, or move on to the next project on your agenda.

Don't tire yourself out by trying to do everything in one day. Remember, "Slow and steady wins the race," and we'll all get twice the work done in half the time if we don't allow stress or panic to creep up on us.

No matter how busy you get … breathe, breathe, breathe! You'll get it done. Indeed you will. We all will.

JET of the Day: DeetaByDesign

Our JET of the Day, Deena Roberts does things her own way, and that's probably why her jewelry stands out from the crowd!

Her shop, DeetaByDesign has a familiar, comfortable, earthy aura that is enhanced by her boho style. This is organic jewelry design at its best; the polar opposite of the mass produced factory fashion you see on virtually everyone these days.

Call it Bohemian, boho, hippie ... you really can't label this jewelry and fit it into a neat little niche. This is bold stuff. Just look at the Heart Necklace you see above. Even the chain is handmade; the natural, hammered links leave no doubt an artisan made this!

Long Boho Braided Necklace

Browsing through Deena's shop reveals a great variety of styles and types of handmade jewelry.

In the Wire Wrapped Jewels section, you'll find gorgeous pearls and gemstones that have been wire wrapped to form links - which are then connected to create handcrafted necklaces, bracelets and earrings. Many of these feature focal pendants and dangles, making them truly spectacular.

Find Beaded Necklaces like the one at left here ...

Knotted Jewelry is exactly what it sounds like. But while I expected to see handmade jewelry like this Long Hand Knotted Pearl Necklace, I truly did not expect to see this gorgeous Bohemian bracelet!

Deena's creations have a beautiful look that really is hard to duplicate. Every piece is different, because the components and arrangements change and varied techniques are used to produce them.

One of a kind is the rule here; for fashion conscious women who want to express their individual sense of style, wearing OOAK jewelry like the amazing Long Labradorite Necklace seen above can add just the right touch to their unique look!

Visit and bookmark https://www.etsy.com/shop/DeetabyDesign today!

JET of the Day: DebrasDivineDesigns

Today its time to visit Debra's shop and see what's new. DebrasDivineDesigns focuses on real Butterfly Wing jewelry. These wings are taken from farmed butterflies that have lived their life cycle and died naturally.


The colors and patterns are simply amazing.

The bracelet above left is made with six links, each containing a trimmed portion of a unique butterfly wing. There are MANY different wings available to this artisan, and the wings in every bracelet will vary according to availability at the time.

Debra has become very skilled at making this unusual jewelry. Just take a look at the Morpho Zephyritis Butterfly Necklace on the right. Debra has reconstructed the entire butterfly, creating a fabulous statement piece that will catch the eye of everyone who sees it!

Even portions of the wing can make striking jewelry. I love this pendant. There are many pieces here that use smaller pieces, and they're fabulous. These earrings are made with the same wings - they're beautiful!

I also love this Sunset Moth ring (below) ...

 There are lots of great pieces here. Shop through the categories to find OTHER types of jewelry Debra makes, like her cool Metal, Leather Jewelry and Fused Glass Jewelry.

Visit this amazing artisan today to see nearly 200 items - mostly Butterfly Jewelry including rings, Dangle and Stud earrings,
Pendants, necklaces and bracelets.

Remember - add this shop to your favorites!

https://www.etsy.com/shop/DebrasDivineDesigns

JET of the Day: Dashery

Dashery is THE shop to find certain types of silver jewelry. You can't get a better looking Silver Spider Web Necklace than the one you see on the left.

Carefully wire-wrapped in a natural manner so it resembles a real web, this piece is a great example of high quality casual jewelry! Worn on a black tee or sweatshirt, this amazing design really stands out ...

This pendant can be worn year round ... not just on Halloween. You'll get compliments every time you put this one on!

Chainmaille is traditionally a technique for creating armor but in this case, it is used to create jewelry - from wire ring shaped

links. Lori makes some really nice chainmaille jewelry, and there are several examples of her work in the shop. This chainmaille ring is one example; the photo on the right side is a look at one of her bracelets.This looks like it is hard to make, and to be honest it is.

Mastering the patterns is difficult enough, but it isn't that simple because ...

The rings have to be the correct size and thickness to make a tight fitting, solid looking bracelet while leaving the chain loose enough to be comfortable when worn. If the links are too close fit, the chain won't move.

Dashery is currently one of the best places to find unique handmade sterling silver toe rings! Hand stamped with cool designs like butterflies, stars, hearts and more, these handcrafted toe rings are very popular. They're affordable, and make great gifts.

Also here are necklaces and Lori's Spinner Rings - made with a tube bead that spins ...


Stop by and see why Dashery could be your favorite Etsy shop for handmade jewelry!

JET of the Day: cserpent

Today we're browsing through cserpent! This shop features contemporary one of a kind jewelry. Most creations are made with gemstone, crystal and glass beads ... but Susan likes to experiment so you'll also see things like the pretty yellow / green enameled earrings pictured on the right.

These earrings are made with torch - fired copper discs. They dangle from handmade sterling silver shepherd's hook ear wires ...

This artisan does like to be creative, making things you might not see elsewhere.

The earrings (see below) may look simple to make, but to do this requires several skills: Drawing the design, forming the wire shape, fusing, hammering, assembly and polishing:

Not an easy task unless you know how ...

These cute Dogbone Earrings are made with Argentium Silver that resists tarnishing, so they'll remain bright and sparkling with very little care and effort ...

Most of the jewelry pieces currently offered are earrings. There are a few other creations available - bracelets and watches, key chains, and some necklaces.

You'll also see many items featuring gemstones or art glass. Crystal, lampwork, cane glass and more splash bright color throughout these pretty jewels. Susan makes top quality handmade items ...

  The bracelet on the right is made with rose quartz and pearls. This is a delicate, very feminine bracelet with a lot of fashion appeal. This is fabulous bridal style jewelry - but of course would be appropriate for any special event or occasion. It would be a really nice holiday gift for a woman with a June birthday (Pearl is the June birthstone).

So head over to cserpent today and get some Christmas gift shopping done. There's still time to get your purchases delivered in time for the big day! Everyone loves handmade items and you can't go wrong with a jewelry gift. Oh ... and the prices are really good, too ... You'll probably end up shopping for yourself as well. Visit: https://www.etsy.com/shop/cserpent today ... it's a fantastic shop!

JET of the Day: CoolJewelryJR

Today we're looking at CoolJewelryJR. This shop is owned and run by Pam, who also is the owner of CoolJewelryDesign.

CoolJewelryJR offers earrings, bracelets and more. Pam uses the same design ideas to create the jewelry sold here. The components in it may be a bit less rare and costly, so this jewelry has that great look, but a lower price.

Some styles may be made with copper or brass instead of sterling silver. There are less stones.

There is more art glass here, as in the beautiful Teal Glass and Sterling Silver Dangle Earrings you see on the left. These earrings are very well made, with sterling silver wire, silver rondelle beads and ear wires. The glass is excellent quality. Because glass is less costly than stone, the same earrings made with gemstones could be a lot more expensive.

At CoolJewelryJR you do not have to give up anything! The same great artisan is making this jewelry a piece at a time, using her talents for composition and color to create wearable art you will love.

Just one look at the amazing bracelet on the right and you know it really is unique. The Bright Blue Orange Beaded Bracelet is fun, flirty and really chunky! Perfect for casual wear, this bracelet is a true fusion of colors, shapes and textures. A great gift for a friend!

Head over to https://www.etsy.com/shop/cooljewelryJR for some Holiday shopping today!

What’s Cooking?

The smells of the season bring back so many memories. And a lot of those memories involve food; Gramma’s cookies, Mom’s casserole, and Uncle Phil’s chili. The JET TEAM has some recipes they would like to share so you will have something new to try whether you are hosting a party or going to a potluck.

From Gemstones on My Mind:
Easiest and tasty meatballs: go to the store, pick up some Farm Rich original meatballs (not italian). Pour them in a crockpot. In a bowl mix 1 jar of sugar free Apricot Preserves with 2 bottles of standard (not sweet like Baby Rays) BBQ sauce. Add to meatballs and simmer for several hours.. mmmm good.

From Chickie Vintage Love:
Easy appetizer: Tortillas, brie and grapes is all you need. Make a quesadilla basically, cut grapes in half, space around the cheese, heat, cut and serve- so easy and always a hit.

Goat cheese roll: can of diced Italian tomatoes, red pepper flakes, olive oil, thyme and fresh french bread for dipping. In casserole type dish add the cheese, pour in the canned tomatoes, drizzle oil, add pepper flakes to spice level you want and sprinkle thyme around. Bake for approximately 15 min or until cheese is warm and soft. Slice bread and you have a cheap, fast appetizer :)

From Adroit Jewelers
Broccoli Slaw: 1 pkg broccoli slaw, 2 pkgs beef Ramen noodles, 1/3 C. white wine vinegar, 3/4 C. vegetable oil, 1/2 C. sugar, sunflower seeds, almonds, (anything else you want to put in). In a bowl make the dressing mixing the sugar, veg. oil, vinegar, and 2 seasoning packets of Ramen noodles. In another bowl, put the broccoli slaw. In a plastic bag, crush the 2 pkgs of Ramen noodles. Do no cook them. Add the crushed noodles to the broccoli slaw and add the dressing. Mix all together. Add sunflower seeds and almonds.

From Anyonymous:
Appetizer ~ Always a hit! Just like a Reuben sandwich!

Reuben Dip
• 2-1/2 cups cubed cooked corned beef (thick sliced deli meat is great)
• 1 can (14 ounces) sauerkraut, rinsed and well drained
• 2 cups (8 ounces) shredded Swiss cheese
• 2 cups (8 ounces) shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup mayonnaise
• Snack rye bread

Directions
1. In a 3-qt. slow cooker, combine the first five ingredients. Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours or until heated through and cheese is melted, stirring occasionally. Serve warm with rye bread. Yield: about 5 cups. **if you need this fast, a microwave on low setting, stirring constantly, will work to get it going as will a double boiler. Then transfer to crock pot. **Reduced-fat cheese and mayonnaise are not recommended for this recipe

Calico Beans
• package of bacon, diced
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1 can (21 ounces) pork and beans
• 1 can (16 ounces) kidney beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 can (16 ounces) butter beans, rinsed and drained
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 1 tablespoon cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon prepared mustard
• 1 teaspoon salt

Directions
1. In a large skillet, cook bacon over medium heat until crisp. Remove to paper towels to drain. Discard drippings.
2. In the same skillet, cook beef and onion over medium heat until the meat is no longer pink; drain. Combine the beef mixture, bacon, beans, brown sugar, ketchup, vinegar, mustard and salt. Spoon into a greased 2-qt. baking dish.
3. Bake, uncovered, at 325° for 45-60 minutes or until the beans are as thick as desired. Recipe can be easily doubled for a larger group

The JET TEAM on Etsy would like to wish you all a very Merry Christmas!

Please feel free to share your own recipe in the comment section.

A JET Team Christmas tree

By Ida of AdroitJewelers

It is always exciting to unpack the Christmas ornaments every year. Getting ready to put them on the tree brings back memories of past holidays and special people and places. Some of the most special ornaments are ones that have been handmade. Knowing someone put a part of themselves into something that will hang from your family’s Christmas tree adds to the sentiment. I have found some beautiful ornaments by searching jetteam on Etsy. Take a peek…

www.etsy.com/listing/168518744/christmas-beaded-ornament-cover
Made by Donna from DonnasArtisanDesigns in Oklahoma

www.etsy.com/listing/83172367/rustic-snowflake-metal-christmas
Created by Mollie from Rough Magic Holidays in Maine

www.etsy.com/listing/210402897/starfish-ornament-with-genuine-blue
Made by Michelle from ELEVEN13 in California











www.etsy.com/listing/171361093/golden-brass-poinsettia-ornament-or
Handcrafted by Barbara of Capital City Crafts in New Jersey








www.etsy.com/listing/209640369/personalized-christmas-ornament-wire
(Ida from Adroit Jewelers in Maine)

www.etsy.com/listing/169477802/personalized-ornament-bible-verse-or
Handmade / hand painted by Tammy from Art Made by Tammy in Illinois







In the comments we would love to hear about one of your most treasured ornaments - one that adorns your tree each year!

Merry Christmas from the JETS!

JET of the Day: CoolJewelryDesign

Today we're taking a look at CoolJewelryDesign to see just what this artisan has to offer. Browsing this shop is always fun, because Pam has a great natural sense of design - and also because there is just so much to love here!

You can expect the unexpected at CoolJewelryDesign. Many of these pieces have a strong eclectic design paradigm, as you can see in the Boho bracelet pictured above right. Complimentary but different colors, shapes and textures can be found in Pam's creations. The thinking behind these off-kilter designs may sound wrong - but it very obviously works. Pam's jewelry is fabulous!

For those who like a more traditional but contemporary approach to design, the outstanding Modern Beaded Bracelets line will be very attractive to upscale shoppers.

The gemstone bracelet on the left is a premium quality piece of jewelry. A large faceted tourmaline is the focal; the golden yellow citrine slices are AAA grade; the round matte finished beads are black onyx.

There is a lot more. Currently, 386 items!

 This shop is full of handmade goodness! There are wire wrapped and Boho beaded necklaces. I love the wire-wrapped bracelets. And the earrings are ... well, cool!

Pam's Colorful Boho Dangle Earrings  - see them on the right - make great use of contrast and bold primary colors. This is an example of her Dangle Earrings collection. There are post earrings here as well!

Be sure to take a look at the Pendant Necklace category. These pieces are made with crystal, pearls, Murano glass and more!

Visit https://www.etsy.com/shop/cooljewelrydesign today!

JET of the Day: ChristalDreamz

Bright, colorful, bold and very fashionable.
These are the thoughts going through my head as I browse ChristalDreamz. The Boho, hippie feel is everywhere.

Big fabulous hoop earrings like the pair on the left are offered in a rainbow of colors. But not just earrings. You'll find lots of surprises here!

Fashionable necklaces and bracelets also play a large role in this shop. This is very affordable jewelry, a real plus because you get a lot of value for your money here.

This is handcrafted jewelry, and very good quality components go into each piece. A

Color Block Bracelets

mix of glass beads, stone beads, wood, shell and metal parts - brass, copper and more - are crafted into trendy accessories you'll love to wear!

On the right is a photo of several bracelets made with brightly colored beads and memory wire, so they require no clasp. These "color block" style bangles look great and are easy to wear. They'll go with any casual outfit or a dress with similar colors. These pretty bracelets are sold in sets of 3.

The Purple Cube Necklace on the left is an example of how less can be much more. This simple design may be small but it definitely will demand attention.

This time of year is perfect for a visit to this shop. If you have teen girls to buy gifts for, this jewelry will make them very happy! You just might find a little gift for yourself, too!

Take a break today at ChrystalDreamz ...

https://www.etsy.com/shop/ChristalDreamz

JET of the Day: ChickieVintageLove

Most Etsy shops offer handmade items. But Etsy is home base to many Vintage and Supply shops as well, and ChickieVintageLove fits right into both categories very nicely!

On the left, you'll see one of the vintage button lots sold in this fantastic shop. These are all Mother of Pearl and shell; new buttons like these are very expensive. Supply lots like this one are a great value!

Buttons like these can be used to make all sorts of craft items ... including jewelry. A simple wire wrapping technique turns them into links, making them perfect components to create necklaces, bracelets and earrings. Another wire wrapping project creates rings.

Buttons are good for making everything from sock puppets to greeting cards!

There are more traditional jewelry supplies here also. While browsing the shop I found these great vintage glass Millefiore beads from the 1970s. They're just waiting to be made into new jewelry. This is typical of this shop - you can expect to find crafty bargains on every page - so be sure to dedicate enough time!

Maybe you just love vintage things ... and if you do, this shop could become a favorite. Fabulous clothing ... cookbooks from famous authors, cool household items and a whole lot more are hidden among the 200+ items offered for sale at bargain prices!

On the left is a "craft lot" made up of cool vintage clip-on earrings. These look like they're from the 1980s and many of them look like they could be worn today.

Even broken earrings can be used to create other jewelry, like a pendant. In many cases as long as the front looks good they may be converted or "upcycled" to a different style - or even repaired. Many commercial costume pieces are made with glued connections so repairs are pretty simple.

To the right person this lot is a bargain! Lots like the three shown above have a huge profit potential. ChickieVintageLove is a fantastic place to find amazing deals on crafting supplies!

Visit and browse https://www.etsy.com/shop/ChickieVintageLove today ... its a great shop!

JET of the Day: ChayaGallery

If you love a traditional but organic, natural style ChayaGallery is a shop you will want to put on your favorites list. This artisan crochets with pearls, crystal beads and 14k gold filled wire to create superb handcrafted jewelry with a classic appearance.

The beautiful Pearl Hoop Earrings on the right are the most amazing Bridal Earrings ...

This type of jewelry is perfect for the Bride. You'll find customizable Bridal Jewelry items like pearl necklaces and earrings offered at ChayaGallery. You can even order pearl or crystal jewelry for your Bridal Party, color coordinated to match your Wedding theme!

Here's a fashion accessory idea for a special occasion ... This Swarovski Blue Crystal flower necklace will be a stunning compliment to any wardrobe!

Add instant color to a black or white dress ... or color coordinate with a blue based outfit. Or wear for contrast - on a vivid yellow sweater to really stand out ...

This versatile crystal necklace was hand knit and could easily become a jewelry favorite!

Many people may think of hair accessories as a distinct category, and they are to some extent. But in many cases, they're another form

of jewelry. Hair combs and barrettes are important devices to hold hair in place for special events such as a wedding or formal occasion, but they still have to look good.

The Flowers Hair Comb with Swarovski Crystals shown on the right is a good example. This comb was hand wired by Chaya; it can be made in a huge range of colors so if you need eight color matched hair combs you can easily purchase them.

Stop by ChayaGallery today and browse for a while! Its a great time to buy a couple of sparkly gifts for friends and family. This is beautiful, truly handmade jewelry!

Crystal Necklace - Forest by ChayaGallery

JET of the Day: CapitalCityCrafts

CapitalCityCrafts is our JET of the Day for December 1 2014! When you visit this shop, you'll find a fantastic collection of original designs in copper, brass, silver and gold.

With a full range of handcrafted jewelry including earrings, cuff bracelets, rings and artisan made necklaces, you'll find a lot to love at CapitalCityCrafts!

The amazing silver acorn pendant seen on the right is one of the best, most natural looking acorns I've seen made in metal. Hand carved by the artisan in wax, this pendant is cast with the top and bottom as separate pieces, then they're soldered together to assemble the pendant. This opens up possibilities, and makes it easy to order an acorn pendant in mixed metals - with contrasting colors for a striking appearance as in this example.

A favorite in this shop is the very pretty and feminine Petite Modern Butterfly Necklace seen on the left. This is a smaller version of the beautiful, original full sized butterfly necklace offered in this shop. If you'd like matching butterfly earrings, they are available as well.

Some of the designs in this shop are one of a kind, but most are made in small batches and sold exclusively by CapitalCityCrafts.

If you're shopping for a Christmas gift, you may want to consider the gorgeous Sterling Silver Peace Dove Unisex Necklace shown on the right. This flowing, graceful symbol of peace is a perfect Holiday gift for a friend or family member.

Another design you'll find only in this shop are the Organic Pool Pendant and matching Sterling Silver Pool Earrings.

Barbara is the creative jeweler who designed all the jewelry you see above. Recently Barbara has partnered with her friend Jeff, who makes silver art jewelry. The Sterling Silver Open Heart Necklace on the left is one of Jeff's creations.

The heart is amazing enough - but the chain is an outstanding piece in itself.

So take a break for lunch today and do some shopping at CapitalCityCrafts!