Blog

Recently, I collaborated with Philadelphia wedding photographer Kerasan R. LaMar, of Kerasan R. LaMar Photography. We've done several photo shoots together in Philadelphia, and he has a knack for coaxing authentic smiles out models for all of his portrait photography and head shots. For this photo shoot, I decided to use the more organic, handmade silver jewelry that I create for Navona Handmade. These accessories have texture, toughness, and a rustic feel that I love! Every year we make two collections of fun and fresh handmade goods that make perfect gifts. These shots include some of my current favorite stacking...

Now this is my kind of social distancing! Photo: Alexis Brooke PhotographyFlorals: Topiary219Jewelry: Christine Alaniz DesignsVenue: Appleford Estate  

I made this pear halo engagement ring (with a 1.51ct center diamond!) in November for a holiday proposal. The halo is set with a sparkly split prong setting, and the shank has pavé diamonds to match. My customer provided a few images that he knew his girlfriend liked, and we created this classic engagement ring in just a few weeks. If you want a unique, custom engagement ring, send me a message! I'd love to help you create the ring of your dreams.

For WJA Philadelphia’s first virtual event, we hosted a webinar with gem dealer and world traveler, Yvonne Jiew. She gave a short presentation via Zoom, which was followed by a Q&A discussion. Then, we had exclusive access to a private screening of her upcoming short film, Chasing Color. Image source: Rockstoc LLC on Facebook   Yvonne's passion is colored stones. Originally from Australia, she is a global gem sourcer and the founder of Rockstoc LLC. She spoke to us about how she spends many months of the year traveling around the world to buy directly from miners, cutters, and dealers,...

At the beginning of this year, I was at home on maternity leave with my new baby, Michael. In the weeks leading up to March 9th (my return to my day job), I did a few test runs at daycare, practiced using my breast pump, and labeled everything my son owns with a marker. I was so busy getting ready to go back to work that I wasn't paying any attention to the approaching health crisis: coronavirus, or COVID-19. After only six days back at work after maternity leave, Philadelphia was shut down. We've been staying home as much as...