Mixin' Metals

Nah, I'm not talking about the ole' two tone silver and gold spiel. We've all made it, seen it, worn it, so why sit here and rehash it? I'm talking about a nice copper with plenty of patina mixed with an "aged" brass (some call it vintaged brass). It adds a warm touch to your autumn pieces.

In another project I mixed a brighter copper chain with sterling silver. Yes, copper will warm up any piece but the contrasting silver kept it fresh...crisp if you will. The two metals were a different style chain link but I think using the same would be just as interesting. Especially when more than one focal bead is incorporated into the design. That's when different links can get to be a little too much. With the spring piece below I was careful to add colors that went well with copper such as olive greens, cream instead of stark white, and caramel. Adding a giant silver focal kept the copper from overtaking the look.

I realize that this piece has rather small chains and that the "mix" is subtle. If you want to mix the larger chains, I would say keep the beads to a minimum. The piece below for example...I mixed a bright brass filigree with a vintage brass chain (around 1970) for a monochromatic contrast using the same metal. The chain is bold so I kept the beads to a minimum. Using only Jade, I made sure that the stones were complex with varying bronze matrix which complimented the brass nicely.

Also try to keep an open mind when mixing metal as at first it may look all wrong. Before you break it apart or start swapping out the chain, let it sit overnight. Come back the next morning and try it on...heck, go shopping with it on and see how people react to the piece. If you get odd looks....mmmm you might want to rethink the design. Compliments? Awesome!

~LeeAnn M.

imagine-create-enjoy!