Blog - Page 19 of 21 - Mary Ellen Beads

“Treasure Necklace” conjures up different images for each of us. For me, the treasure necklace introduced me to the wondrous world of beading and I’ve been beading ever since. (link to post) Nothing compares with the joy of wearing and sharing stories about a great treasure necklace. In response to popular demand, I agreed to share my version of treasure necklace in a class for Elinor’s Art & Beads, beginning this November. In preparation, I spent a day in my studio working on treasure necklaces to demonstrate. Inspiration began with a treasure box, and I encourage every class participant to place the beads they intend to use as a base, in one container. Then, begin adding charms, or treasures. I visited this treasure box several times before I sat down to create. It’s my practice to gather items, consider everything, and then work with the pieces that resonate. Three pendants grabbed my attention and became the focal for necklace one along with some Hebron beads, copal and vintage African trade beads. The combination of something new and unusual with something odd makes for interest in a treasure necklace. “Dare to be different.” I say. “Dare to make a statement.” Consider old pieces (treasures) you have and think about re-purposing them. As I began to assemble the three-strand necklace, I found myself drawn to coin silver telsem boxes, small charm necklaces presented to infants and then added to as the child grows. Typically a telsem box is strung on blue cotton, which represents the birth cord. I determined I’d string blue beads inside the bail to retain the blue/birth theme. Vivid colors, beautiful beads (especially African trade beads) and coin silver (silver from coins melted down and reused) make treasure necklaces stand out. Frequently, several strands can be worn together as you see here. The single necklace adds easily to the three-strand. Or, choose one or two types of beads, a fabulous focal and call it done. Here's a different sample done with amber and silver. To read more about treasure necklaces, sign up to receive Soul Juice, my monthly newsletter, and as your gift you’ll receive my free e-book: “Treasure Necklace: An E-Book Guide to Your Most Cherished and Perhaps Over the Top Necklace Ever.” And do sign up for my Treasure Necklace class at Elinor’s Art & Beads. Each of the necklaces from this post are on display there. Purchase the kit or bring your own treasures. It is up to you. One thing’s for sure: together, we’ll create a treasure necklace - something new and wonderful for you to treasure for a long time to come. Will I see you there?

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