I’ve not had a lot of luck with this ‘making something for myself’ business’. The first bracelet I spent loads on, and it got lost on the subway. The second bracelet was just as lovely if not quite as pricey and I managed to lose one of the earrings. This time I’ve learned; not only did I go for an even sturdier construction (light gauge steel cable, doubled throughout the piece) but my mom paid for all the supplies, thus removing the guilt factor from making myself a third (and hopefully not doomed) item.

Mom bought me two ropes of my favourite semi-precious stone; Aquamarine. (I know, it’s a shocker. I mean, I hardly ever wear turquoise…) I decided to make the clasp the main event – so two little bejewelled arms come together over over a ring to close the piece. Strung through the ring is a fine silver chain with silver filigree cones at each end, and each cone has another bead of aquamarine nestled within.

I like the way the weight of the charms pulls the necklace down in the middle.

The earrings are similarly dangly.

The bracelet is doubled steel cable as well, with double crimps on the end. I could get into a super huge, multiple opponent, fight to the death match on the ttc, during rush hour, and still karatefy every last son-of-a-motherless-goat, while engaged in a Mexican knife fight… and this bracelet would survive. I’m sure of it.

I think it’s a little on the dressy side for me to be able to pull it off daily, but it’s definitely work-worthy. Hopefully this one lasts!