New Valerie Tyler Designs storefront!

I'm happy to announce that today was the soft opening of my new Valerie Tyler Designs storefront.  You'll soon be able to buy my new spring line direct from me (and no longer have to sign up for an etsy account!)

I'll be expanding the shop as time goes on to include new collections and many new items! 

valerietylerdesigns.bigcartel.com

Jewelry Trends : Personalized Jewelry

This morning I shipped off three more initial rings to their recipients, and thought about expanding the my custom initial jewelry line even further. Initial jewelry has been popular this year for bridesmaid gifts, to celebrate relationships, anniversaries and even the birth of children. I've even sold initial jewelry for those looking to commemorate the initials of a special pet. Lots of people simply want to even wear their own initial. I offer my custom initial jewelry in the Miscellanea Collection by Valerie Tyler.

The Making of the Personalized Initial Rings

My adjustable initial rings are my #1 seller. Then they were featured in the US weekly holiday gift guide, and now there's a literal frenzy over them! While I'm waiting for some material to arrive so I can make more to meet the demand I thought I'd share with you the process of how they are made. They're extra special in that I create each and everyone especially for the recipient, one at a time by hand. Each ring is individually hand stamped with the letters the buyer chooses:

Here I am looking pretty exhausted after having hammered about 25-30 rings.

Below you can see some of the stamps I use.

Then each is formed on a mandrel with a rawhide mallet until they're the desired shape and size

The letters are oxidized to make them stand out, then the rings are lightly sanded to remove extra color and smooth them slightly.

Finally I give each a wax coating to protect and preserve the finish.

The finished product:

Rings can be purchased at http://www.valeriemiscellanea.etsy.com (when available! They sell out quick!)