Table of Contents
Introduction
Brooches and Accessories
Eye of the Dragon ring
Hammered Scroll pin
Maid Marion tiara
Royal Potions pendant
Lady of the Lake armlet
Vassel’s Brooches
Necklaces and Chokers
Prisoner’s Chain necklace
The Chieftain choker
Ancient Dragonfly necklace
Tangled Roots choker
Stonehenge Metallic necklace
Mystic Crystal necklace
Magic Ring lariat
Claw and Crystal Torque
Fortune Teller’s necklace
Bracelets and Cuffs
Forever Entwined cuff
Mystic Warrior cuff
Dragon’s Claws bracelet
Stolen Dreams bracelet
Celtic cuff
Blacksmith’s Forged bracelet
The Tribal Queen’s Gauntlet
Hobnail Wrist wrap
Earrings
Trembling Scale earrings
Amethyst Alchemy earrings
Chainmaille Bellflower earrings
Lady-in-Waiting earrings
Serpent’s Scales earrings
Orb of Raven earrings
Dragon’s Gold earrings
Tethys earrings
Basics
Acknowledgments
About the Author
Reviews
Dragons, Crystals & Chainmaile; Jewelry to inspire your imagination, by Jane Danley Cruz, has just the right mix of magic, mystery, and beauty.The author has woven a fanciful book, sparkling with natural crystals, elegant chainmaille, lacy filigree, leather, and more. However, it has its feet solidly on the ground, thanks to the knowledge of author Jane Danley Cruz. She has been designing and creating jewelry for years. Her enthusiasm for what she does almost jumps off the page. As she mentions in her introduction, "Most of the projects in this book and materials you can find at your local craft and hobby store. I used a wide variety of techniques like wirework, basic stitching, simple chainmaille, and kumihimo so you're sure to find something you like...I hope the jewelry and techniques in this book will inspire you to create your own fantasy and medieval jewelry."
I loved all the projects, and liked the fact that a lot of them are versatile enough to go from one type of accessory to another. The very first one is a ring titled "Eye of the Dragon". Gleaming fiercely in its bezel setting, it looks terrific. However, the author suggests making a pendant of it if you prefer.
I was charmed by the second project as well; it is a beautifully done "Hammered Scroll Pin". The author adds underneath the title, "The night's dark mist splashes across your face as you charge to the castle. Keep your father's pin tight to your cloak; remember, his final commands must be honored." This pin is beautiful; definitely worth the effort you will put in.
In the necklace section, a project which will take your breath away is the "Stonehenge necklace". It is powerful. Part of the title states, "the souls of your ancestors surround you and fill you with strength."
I couldn't take my eyes off the metallic crystal spikes strung with black bicone crystals between them The piece ends with links of silver chain and an extender chain with a lobster claw clasp.You will want to fight an army for this one!
In the bracelets section, the "Mystic Warrior cuff" begins its tale with these words,"Through the smoke of the battlefield , an unlikely hero arises. A crash of thunder and the glint of a sword invokes the spirit of fallen dragons of old."
This cuff is made of fish leather, spikes, metallic bronze melon beads, and rhinestone spacers. It is completely one of a kind and passionate.
In the earrings sections, I found some gorgeous earrings titled "Trembling Scales earrings". Tiny dragon scales hang from swirl hooks, in constant motion. Wire wrapped above them are bright red 5 mm bicone crystals--just the right touch to add a kick of color.
These are just a few of the projects. There is also a basics section.
This is just the right book to stir up your imagination and, as the author urges on the back cover, "Make your own magic!"
I love this book! -
By Jean Baldridge Yates
blogger: http://prettykittydogmoonjewelry.blogspot.com/
Jane Danley Cruz's Dragons, Crystals and Chainmaille: Jewelry Designs to Inspire Your Imagination (9781627004008, $22.99) is recommended beyond the usual jewelry-making arts and crafts audience and will reach into new age circles with its focus on amulets, medieval jewelry, and stones and chain mail that blend antique and mystic sensibilities into the artistic focus.
A Mystic Warrior Cuff that evokes thoughts of spirits and battles and a Hobnail Wrist Wrap are only a few of the unique pieces perfect for festivals, medieval events and celebrations, and occasions where a touch of mystical dress up are involved.
Diane Donovan, California Bookwatch