Jewelry artist: Karen Sugarman
April 6, 2009 by Cyndi Lavin
Filed under Beading, Mixed Media, Other Bead & Jewelry Sites, Wearable Art
Artist: Karen Sugarman
Website: Sugarman Designs
Karen Sugarman Designs is a handcrafted couture jewelry line with a twist. The collection features one-of-a-kind pieces including necklaces, bracelets, and earrings, all individually designed with unique gemstones, pearls, vintage beads, and antique pendants. The line incorporates a variety of styles, assorted color palettes, and seasonal themes, allowing for versatility and designs that look stunning with everything from blue jeans to ball gowns.
Considered “bridge” jewelry, a category between fine and costume jewelry, Karen Sugarman Designs utilizes sterling silver or vermeil as the metal basis for all of its pieces, thus eliminating most jewelry allergies. Semi-precious stones such as amethyst, citrine, turquoise, jade, topaz, fresh water pearls, garnet and others, along with antique adornments and Czech and vintage beads complete each design.
Karen writes: “My mission is to create exquisite and timeless jewelry designs that hallmark impeccable style and awaken the fashionista in every woman. My goal is to make jewelry that is suitable for work and play, while simultaneously worthy of any “red carpet” moments.”
I am not a large fan of shells, at least not the kinds I find in big box craft stores. There’s a certain amount of “boring” when bought that way. However, these are amazing. The bottom picture really pops with the ammonite and gemstone. The cameo is an interesting piece for the top, since it’s colours mesh so well with the shells.
These are a far cry from traditional “cowrie shell necklaces”, huh? I think Karen’s work is inspiring and fabulous
Those cowrie shell necklaces that make me cringe, especially ones made with plastic shells and uninspired string. They are not “timeless” like thee items.
Oh, but I loved the one I had as a kid! Karen’s are much much much better though!
I would have never believed shells could look so elegant. Very unusual creations.
Ooh, I love the juxtaposition of the cameo with the shells – really beautiful and unexpected. Karen’s designs are of the type that I personally like to wear – big pieces that make a statement, but that can be dressed up or down as the occasion requires. Thanks for sharing her work! As far as shell jewelry generally goes, I have to admit that I am a fan. My husband and I were married in Hawaii, and he bought me a Niihau necklace as my bride’s gift – made of nothing but the delicate little shells from Niihau Island.
The earring are also beutiful. Some time ago I had similar shells, but it’s true it’s not so easy to come with such a nice and elegant design.
i love the necklaces and earrings…beautiful…