Feronia's Artisan World

Spot Feronia?

2010-08-23T21:14:00.002+08:00

Lately, we have been featured in a couple of ArtFire Members Curated Collections. Spot us?

Thank you to those lovely ArtFire members! I must apologise for the late acknowledgement!

Mortifying Reality

2010-08-01T09:15:00.002+08:00

It ought to have been a well deserved relaxing weekend. I had just completed a month of intensive factory-style training and the man had just finished his exams and a week of some verbal and mental diarrhoea. Alas, whoever is up there decided that it was high time to let us look at reality and from that moment, our world turned upside down.

I know I am deliberately vague here but some things should never be exposed or loaded online. They will come back to haunt anyone, which brings me to recall that the strawberry generation does not seem to grasp this concept very well.

Ah well, I am hoping to be able to go over to SJS event later. I want some real gems!

Being Powerful...

2010-07-24T10:28:00.001+08:00

...means

1. to be looked up to
2. to be able to procure all the Manolos, Miu Miu, Mulberry, DvF and Chanel she wants
3. to receive fat pay cheques
4. to sip tea from the third floor of the house on a hill
5. to be able to walk away from all pointers above

No PR, just plain hard work and a dose of luck

2010-07-17T12:38:00.005+08:00

Every week, I come to this blog with a bothered conscience. I have not been trying hard in the store and the updates in this blog are so sporadic that even the author is kind of perturbed.

It thus becomes a over-the-moon pleasure when happy clients and admirers tell me that they have featured Feronia / The Daily Classics on their blog such as this latest score. If Chanel thinks the best compliment is to be copied, then I think my best compliment is to get featured without even arranging for some PR magic.

On the paycheck front, I have finally cleared two darn weeks of tests with a few major ones to go for. I had been lamenting that I must have entered into a contract with a vampire who leaves me nauseous in torpor every day and night. The only food I could finish without wasting is porridge during the weekdays and miraculously I can eat ribs heartily over weekends. If every turn in life is for a reason, then I am beginning to understand why I ended up teaching in the first half of the year - just so I could be re-trained to wake up before 6am everyday for work.

Darn.

Gloomy Week

2010-07-11T11:03:00.003+08:00

The past one week had been particularly trying. These are times when I am forced to acknowledge the difference between a lady in the mid-twenties and the late twenties, with the three-o looming nearby. Gone are the days when I can handle a few hours of sleep and still appear fresh and energetic the next day. The coffee machine has been my best friend lately.

To be rational, energy lies in my psychological make-up. I have been feeling low, wondering what I've been doing these past six years to end up in a training class with mostly fresh graduates. It struck me that I had really not been working as hard as I thought I was and my career choices were dumb to begin with. There might have been those times when I was hailed as an achiever, high performer, but apparently, some parts of the world do not wait for people who take a year of break. I have to begin from the bottom again. Crap.

Hence, I tell myself, even if I have to appear anti-social, to be the odd one who is always seen studying during breaks, then let it be, for this time, my destination is crystal clear.

Amid these gloomy thoughts, I got a call from someone with an incredible offer. It's even better than a job. Feronia is going on TV! More details coming up. Thank you, Watti!

Walk-in Library, oops, Closet

2010-07-03T15:16:00.001+08:00

I had to laugh when I saw this. Maria Carey converted my dream of a library in the house into a shoe closet.

Loving it Long

2010-06-18T14:00:00.001+08:00

Long necklaces never fail to deliver. From Satorialist.

In Print

2010-06-16T10:00:00.003+08:00

I am tired of seeing printed flower dresses (Zara, New Look, Mango are churning too much of those for this season!) but Jason Wu's soft chiffon poppy-like prints are a fresh sight. Not too feminine, not too wild. I like. Who wants to buy this for me?

Looking Stupid

2010-06-15T13:46:00.000+08:00

"Why are you putting that cream on?" I asked.

"Because you're having checkup," the doctor replied.

That answer struck me as a bit off the mark. I wonder if he responds like that to ordinary people? Perhaps I look stupid because I have both a physical handicap and a speech disorder.

- From One Litre of Tears

Though not handicapped in any way other than in experience, I get that a lot too from the so-called seniors.

Value still Wins

2010-06-14T10:13:00.003+08:00

According to idazzle, yellow gold is back in vogue. White diamonds stand out even more against the back ground of the warm yellow. Hey, I knew that all along! *snickers with a self-satisfied nod* See our wedding bands? We designed it. =P

Work in Progress

2010-06-13T11:50:00.001+08:00

One of my endless dreams is to design and make wedding bands and engagement rings. I guess I am still very FAR off but there has to be a start, yeah?

The Evil Two

2010-06-12T09:39:00.002+08:00

Two years into the marriage, Mr Big prefers take-outs and couches to dating. Carrie, at least, it's just the newspapers and the TV. You still have your uber-big walk-in wardrobe and the company of three very good girl friends.

Logo-storming

2010-06-09T13:14:00.002+08:00

Playing around with the logo design; what do you think of this?

Dream House

2010-06-08T22:43:00.003+08:00

I need something to keep me focused. Otherwise I'll be languishing away. These two pictures are some of the dreams that can keep the ennui away.

Featured - Cornflower Blue

2010-05-22T18:32:00.002+08:00

For a good couple of months, I have sadly neglected the store. Other than catering to the demands for the ribbon series from thedailyclassics, honestly, I have not been active in brainstorming for new designs. It is heartening to know that despite the lack of updates, loyal clients still patronize my store. On top of that, even more so in such demanding times, to see my creations in a featured treasury is a thrill that money cannot buy.

Featured: Cornflower

I love exams (when I am not a student)

2010-05-03T22:28:00.002+08:00

It's the examination period for the kiddos and oh boy, I have come to love it. There might be nausea-inducing papers to mark, but the incorrigible students actually became tame enough to sit through one hour of lesson. I didn't even need to glare at them with piercing laser-like eyes. Never has a grammar lesson been so tranquil.

Above: Princess Peacock Green Amethyst

Ephemeral

2010-04-17T12:28:00.001+08:00

Etude

Just a brief note that I am still alive. The shops are still around. =)

Pretty Neck featured Again!

2010-03-29T00:15:00.002+08:00

Pretty Neck scored another hit on Etsy's Treasury. This time, it is selected by AddieDesigns, a store focused on handmade cards. I like this treasury for its crisp and clean feel. Thank you, Addie!

Meanwhile, I have noticed that my marketing strategy had been copied. Not that I should be complaining since there is nothing unique about it, still, to approach the same party just right after I did, it starts to get on my nerves. In this business, the barriers to entry are indeed very low. Anyone can claim to be able to make jewelry, with some even touting to learn from books and magazines. I cannot write such people off since some seem to be doing even better than me. Only a professional eye can discern the standards. Consumers seldom bother, especially when these are not fine jewelry. Hence, my next step is to raise the bar for myself. Discipline, creativity and commitment are factors that can never be copied without my will. Watch out for some exciting announcements soon!

Reserve your limited edition ROSE GOLD Ribbon and Pictures of YOU in our Ribbons and Bows series

2010-03-18T20:48:00.008+08:00

As seen on Amber's Notebook

As seen on Karen Cheng's Snippets of Life

I am wearing Pretty Neck

I seldom make more than four of the same design but when I created the first ribbon and bow asymmetric necklace, I knew this would be a permanent fixture in the shop. It looks simple but so classic and chic that it completes a day-look effortlessly. Amber from Amber's Notebook loves this design to bits and I am thick-skinned enough to post up every picture of her wearing it!

If any of you has bought the necklace too, you're most welcome to post some pictures too! Maybe I can create an album showing clients wearing it and put it up on Feronia FB page...

The asymmetrical design is available in 14k gold-filled ("Remember this Moment"), sterling silver and a mixture of both ("Pretty Neck"). I am introducing a limited edition of rose gold ribbon (with sterling silver chain) very soon. For those who are averse to yellow gold, rose gold makes a lovable alternative to sterling silver. Go ahead and reserve one now! Just drop me a comment in this post and include your contact email.

Why I will never be a Perfect Housewife

2010-03-17T09:10:00.003+08:00

I will never be a housewife. I swear, not in this lifetime at least.

I will only be a tai-tai, who doesn't need to lift a finger to cook, wash and clean.

If you observe the following traits, you would follow my footsteps too.

1. You roll your eyes when your mum shows you her latest bargain purchase.

2. He complains that your new egg recipe tastes funny just when you are about to congratulate yourself on that brilliant idea.

3. He gives you the "Are you stupid" look when you have problem figuring out the outlandish way he lines the dustbin.

4. Ironing for more than 30 minutes gives you leg cramps.

5. If he forgets to bring in his keys, it's your fault.

6. You dream of nice flowery expensive apron which will stain anyway.

7. You don't have kids and may not even have one.

8. Funnily enough, without kids, you still need to work your ass off.

9. You keep toying with the idea of having a part-time maid to come in. It costs S$270 a month, if you're keen.

10. He thinks he is smarter than you.

I am clearly feeling belligerent. Watch your ass.

Sleep when you're dead

2010-03-15T06:58:00.002+08:00

The week-long school holidays has finally arrived! I really need the break before I have to look up any psychiatrist, coach, counsellor or any medicine that can induce the state of sanity, even if for just a moment. Confident that I would be doing my utmost best to relax and recharge, I woke up bright-eyed, only to realize the time was 5.30am. Hell, I slept after midnight.

!!!!????!!!!!

Sigh. I am probably meant to work like a bull after all.

Angelic Bloggers

2010-03-10T21:33:00.006+08:00

Recently, I contacted a lovely Amber to ask her to put up a giveaway on her blog. I came to know her blog through a client. Amber not only agreed, she also promptly bought two necklaces from the daily classics. How charming of her! Small-timers like me adore and appreciate bloggers like Amber. As we try to get the world to acknowledge handmade items, when our peanut budgets cannot bait PR firms and sponsorship comes nothing close to a three-digit sum, angels like Amber and some of her readers who also gamely spread the news on their blogs, allow our flicker of hope to hold. Thank you for making such a beautiful difference to lives.

Meanwhile, the giveaway will end on 13 Mar 10. Just be a fan of the Feronia FB page and leave a comment under Amber's post. To increase your chances, follow her blog and/or post about the giveaway on your blog. I am giving away one piece of "Remember this Moment" and 5 sets of vouchers. Good luck!

Illusionary Romanticism in 5 points

2010-03-01T21:58:00.006+08:00

1. I cut and straightened my hair. Now it's at a chic length around the shoulders. My form class gave their wildest applause when I came into the class with the new hairstyle. One of them gushed in her journal that I looked 8 years younger. Now, I am sure that's not for extra marks, yeah? HAHA!

2. It has been more than a week since I uploaded any new listings in the shop. There ARE new jewelry made but I am always too tired to take pictures of them.

3. My kiddos provide me, unwittingly, an endless stream of entertainment.They rationalized that since it is "swim, swam, swum", then it should be "think, thank, thunk". They also felt that men who are laid-back are decidedly known as "laid-men". Bless their analytical minds.

4. I sprained my left wrist two weeks ago. Then, over the last weekend, I strained the right hand. Fantastic. I should consider insuring my hands.

5. By April or May, get to see a new line of work in Feronia - not just new series but also a new form of skill. I am so excited!

Above: Romantic Fantastique

How it has been, in 10 points

2010-02-16T20:11:00.003+08:00

Did anyone miss me when there're no updates on this blog? Let me just summarize the events.

1. Remember the Moment necklace is proving to be a hit. The sister variation "Pretty Neck" is also loved for being so classy. A client actually got this for herself when she found out that she was going to have a baby girl. Congratulations!

2. For the first time, the hubby and I gave out red packets of money away. I am so tempted to categorize this expense as donations but they're really gifts.

3. I just realize that the coming metalsmithing course will be held on weekends which is just perfect for me! Alas, I am writhing in agony over the 2.5k fees.

4. We finally concluded that we didn't want a condominium after all. The target had simply been set higher. I should stop dreaming of holidays and start to work harder (smarter) instead.

5. I also figured that since we're not getting a car any time soon, I should just postpone the driving classes indefinitely.

6. I meant to mark papers over the four-day holiday break but I ended up picking up slips of Japanese phrases by watching and re-watching anime.

7. It's time to lose weight. Hmm, that's old news anyway.

8. I love to teach but I hate those kiddos' guts to submit incomplete homework and their integrity, or rather, the lack of it.

9. I finally cooked fried nian gao correctly this year.

10. After window shopping around Mandarin Gallery, I started to wish that I had paid more attention during Home Economics class - the sewing section.

I love

2010-02-06T10:16:00.002+08:00

I discovered a local gem. So in love with all her creations that I could just buy it all! Alas, I only have US$20 to spare. Which one should I get for my little house???

Pretty Neck featured!

2010-02-03T22:32:00.004+08:00

Pretty Neck was actually a special request from a client. She wanted a gold ribbon strung on a sterling silver chain. The effect was marvellous. In fact, I am such a big fan of using both silver and gold in one piece that even my engagement ring is designed this way too. Apparently, I am not alone. This has been a popular piece with many other clients ever since I listed this as part of the ribbons and bows collection. Thank you, loveartworks, for the feature!

Ushering the New Year with Citrine

2010-02-03T22:19:00.003+08:00

Gosh, the first month of 2010 has flashed past! It's terrifying at times to realize the speed of time. Have you been doing well? If you have not, do something to make yourself feel loved!

For the Chinese, February is a busy month this year, in anticipation of the Chinese New Year. It will be a Tiger year which many do not really adore. If you need that extra boost of luck, there are always alternative "remedies" you can look into, such as gemstones.

Until the end of this February, you will get a free Citrine nugget with any purchase from our new collection in the Feronia shop. Citrine is a stone of good fortune, promoting success, prosperity and abundance. The nugget can be put in a shop's cashbox, carried along or put in the wealth corner of the house.

Above: Key to my Heart from Feronia

A Golden Heart in Knots

2010-01-24T13:30:00.002+08:00

Honestly, I am getting really slow with new creations at the shops. The day job is sucking the life out of me. To be exact, it was the scripts that I had been marking. The kiddos beat me hands-down with their remarkably limited imagination and grammar which I suspect to be of an alien language rather than English. I took pains to circle and underline those offending mistakes, giving comments worth a chunky paragraph with loads of shocked exclamation marks. Some kiddos had me tied in knots with their spelling. Gosh, was I that bad before? Bless my teachers for their patience and may I have the golden heart too.

Above: A Golden Heart in Knots from The Daily Classics

Oh Look! We are on Karen Cheng's site!

2010-01-15T21:08:00.004+08:00

After a week's hiatus of blogging, I am finally back in the virtual world, albeit for only a short while. The snoozing monster is creeping in and it would be wise to get this mini post up before I succumb.

I've always been a fan of Karen Cheng's blog. So naturally, it was an over-the-moon experience when she agreed to review Feronia on her site. Check it out here! The ribbon designs from The Daily Classics especially, have been flying off the shelves ever since. Thrilling!

The review made my week, which otherwise was looking bleak and hopeless...Thank you, Karen!

Caught on Etsy Project Embrace

2010-01-09T23:00:00.002+08:00

Rose Cream was picked up by NimiJewelry to be included in her soft and feminine treasury, yippee!

I have been lagging severely in the blogging scene. Now that there is a day job to cope with (and it is coming to 12 hours on many days a week), I've been fighting fatigue and figuring the quickest way to reach the nearest post office before it closes. In fact, I've been so tired that the fingers don't seem to have the usual strength to twist wires. Cross my heart, fingers, toes and even eyes if I have to, that I can build some routine and momentum very soon.

Hello 2010

2010-01-01T13:33:00.005+08:00

How has the start of 2010 been like for you? I slept in, posted the first item in shop and the hubby ghost in much later as always. A peaceful start.

Oh, just a quick update, OYP is now at 84! (The story of OYP)

And the workroom got a good clean-up and more space!

Moving Forward by Going Backward - A 2009 End Note

2009-12-30T22:51:00.002+08:00

So the year is finally coming to a close. It's time for reflections and resolutions for the new year. Just that this time, I am not doing it. For a damn good reason.

Year 2009 has been a year of hard knocks for me. It taught me humility and patience, admonishing me for my airy ambitions and pulling me back to the basics of life. It was also a year that opened my eyes to cultures and the state of the world we live in. I don't mean the environmental or the physical aspect but the psychological being of people in this world. I see hunger and yearnings in eyes. I hear dying hearts. I feel their pain and numbness. It wasn't a financial crisis that brought the world to its knees. It wasn't failures to reach a consensus that threaten to increase the earth's temperature. It was spiritual starvation. Humongous terms were invented to cover the lack of integrity. The governments blamed everyone else but themselves and everyone else were just as unwilling to take up responsibilities. The rich and poor, powerful and helpless, have merely been feeding on fear and greed to survive. Survival, no matter how evolved we are, seems to be the only thing on our minds. And likewise for me.

So when I caught myself degenerating into the survival mode, a whirlwind of realizations kicked in. Resolutions are merely attempts to continue the survival game. Someone of a rather high rank in the education system commented that children live in the moment. They have not come to look towards the future. She meant it as a caution note but she did not realize that this is the beauty of children. They are not driven by anything but life itself. With the purest intentions, they dare to experience the fullest of life, only to be thwarted by adults who insist that they should focus on the future. And the same adults would lament about unfulfilled bucket lists in another conversation. And they attempt to fill up the emptiness on the pretext of work or other obsessions. What irony.

We simply need to acknowledge what has been in our hearts all along, accept it and pluck the courage to fulfil it. Abundance will come when we follow our hearts with no doubts. Trust in the universe and do not think the world is out to dismiss you. The world has just not seen your glow yet. Let us go back to the innocence of time. By moving backwards, we are really moving forward.

Zelda featured!

2009-12-28T18:46:00.002+08:00

While I am in the midst of settling down in between jobs, and waking up at ungodly hours (anything before 9am qualifies for the label), here's a treasury shared by a fellow Etsian and beeps, my earrings is featured!

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-23T21:13:00.003+08:00

Christmas Eve is in a few hours' time! Are you ready for turkeys, log cakes, carolling and most importantly, share the love?

It's been slower at the stores for me as things are getting busier in my other life. Nonetheless, interesting innovations are coming up. I am particularly proud of the Ornaments and Momentos series I am developing. Take a peek here!

Feronia the Santa is giving away on Fash Eccentric

2009-12-16T10:29:00.003+08:00

Did I not mention that this is the season for giving? And so more vouchers are gifted by Feronia the Santa Claus. This time, we are on Fash Eccentric. Basically everyone gets to win SOMETHING. But the real winners of "GUESS MY AGE" will get bigger prizes of course! Check out the post on Fash Eccentric.

p.s. Friends of mine, I am happy you know me and I know you but you're not qualified to participate in this competition this time! Another round, ya?

A Peek into my Workshop

2009-12-15T16:30:00.001+08:00

Peek into my mini workshop - when it is tidier. I have been crippled by this incredible weight of tiredness and so creations are slowing down.

New in stores and OYP at No. 66

2009-12-11T11:56:00.004+08:00

There're loads of new stuffs uploaded into the stores. I am simply in the mood for spring and summer, flowers and butterflies!

Available at Feronia

Available at The Daily Classics

Available at Feronia

Available at Candy Village

Available at Feronia

Available at The Daily Classics

Available at Feronia

Available at Feronia soon

Available at Feronia

(The story of OYP)

Featured in Treasury - Virginia White

2009-12-11T08:59:00.002+08:00

It's a first for Candy Village! Our earrings Virginia White got into a treasury, aptly themed virgin. Credit goes to RedHenStudio!

Attraction and Affection

2009-12-10T20:46:00.004+08:00

Lately there have been more customization works. The latest is for a lucky winner who won the Guess the Stone competition recently. The answer was diamonds - rough diamond chips, in fact. This is a genre that many are not familiar with. The sparkling white diamonds we often see on advertisements were actually once rough stones. It is indeed rare to see a ring with diamond in its most authentic form for it takes more than an eye for prettiness to be able to appreciate rough diamonds. To make an analogy, lame as it might be, but how many would take raw food in comparison to processed ones? Yet, sushi is coveted for being freshly raw.

The ones I have are platinum silver rough diamonds. I match them with crimson red garnet and a single argentium silver band. The choice of garnet to match the diamond is not by whim or fancy. I did extensive research, and even imported a reference book (note that a lot of online information in the metaphysical area is misleading). Garnet is a stone known for attraction and success. When given as a gift, it is said to grant loyalty and affection. Diamond brings longevity, particularly to relationships, balance, clarity and abundance. Both stones complement each other very well in the arena of relationship, making it a perfect gift for your loved one.

Argentium silver is an eco-friendly silver and highly resistant to tarnishing, in contrast to sterling silver. It requires little care and shines even more. See more about argentium silver here.

In short, this is a ring that screams Attraction and Affection.

A Happy Customer and feeling Loved

2009-12-09T13:36:00.003+08:00

I feel like the happiest woman on Earth at this moment. The hubs just bought me the acclaimed Iphone. I am currently stuck at a moment when I have to justify to myself every purchase that is over two digits. And the silly telcos had to choose this period to launch the phones so aggressively that it would be a waste not to get it now. The hubs saw through my agitation =P. I love my hubs! (and not just because of a gift...)

Then, just an hour ago, I got an email from a happy customer. Apparently, she bought a necklace from my Feronia shop not too long ago for a friend who then blogged about it with a picture of her wearing the necklace. Honestly, a blog post from a happy recipient beats a feature or a sponsored review. Even her picture looks so much nicer than mine!

After 7 months into the business officially, I am starting to see some fruits of labour. I have whined, shed tears before and even gotten so mad at myself that I literally tore chains. The stress of a handmade business in this country, especially while trying to make it a day job, is unforgiving. At the end of the day, appreciative customers and supportive loved ones make my world go round again.

Featured by Paper*Cakes!

2009-12-07T23:09:00.002+08:00

I had a nice surprise waiting in Flickr this morning. Apparently, Snow White made it into Paper*Cakes Flickr Friday finds! Yaay, a little hooray dance is in order. See more of Snow White here.

Featured in Treasury - Geometry 101

2009-12-06T09:40:00.002+08:00

I got a mail from a fellow Etsian to inform me that one of Feronia's necklaces, Geometry 101, was picked for her Treasury West. And it was a very interesting theme - Round that Square! I seldom see such innovative ideas in Etsy, truly speaking. And so this treasury collection tickled me a lot. Meanwhile, Geometry 101 is now on 50% sale, along with 70 other items. Hurry to the store because "once sold, no remakes"!

Featured by EyesOnEtsy

2009-12-05T13:27:00.003+08:00

Grecian is so honoured to be picked by EyesOnEtsy as one of the stocking stuffers under $15! Actually I didn't know about it until I noticed an abnormal number of @FeroniaJewelry on Twitter. Lovely lovely!

Meanwhile, we still have 72 items going on 50% discount plus the treat of a free pair of earrings worth $20 for every $100 purchase. AND free shipping worldwide too! I promise this mega sale will be the last for a very long time. Visit the store now....

We are giving away on Lady Melbourne!

2009-12-02T21:27:00.002+08:00

It's the season for giving. So Feronia is in the mood for sponsoring giveaways too. The latest is now on Lady Melbourne! Check out this post, just leave a comment and stand to win either of these 2 earrings plus a Peppermint magazine!

Candy Village, OYP now at ...

2009-12-02T14:07:00.004+08:00

Candy Village is now open for business! I am still building up the store with more pretties, feathers, laces and vintage. My biggest weakness is the inability to focus on just one line. While I was playing with gemstones, I wanted to play with glass beads. Then when I was into glass, I wanted to dabble into vintage. To the extent that the mother shop, Feronia, became overly cluttered with too many diverging styles. So, the decision to split the shop was made. And I am so thankful to the kind soul who suggested it. I am beginning to see some consistencies now.

Meanwhile, OYP is officially lodged on this blog to 55 but there's really more than that. There're new things in Feronia and The Daily Classics too. I simply cannot catch up with myself! (The story of OYP)

p.s. The 50% SALE in Feronia is still going on. Now, we're down to 76 discounted items. Have you uncover the hidden gems yet?

Featured in Treasury - Citrina

2009-12-01T07:56:00.002+08:00

Lovely Alman on Etsy picked out an all-time favourite of mine and listed in her treasury! Honestly I have no idea why this is still sitting around in the store. The citrine is so smooth, so glistening and sparkling that I feel sorry for not being able to find her a owner to date. Citrine brings abundance so this is definitely a good stone to gift or wear. See Citrina here.

My Favorites

2009-11-28T10:10:00.003+08:00

I've been happily loaded with lots of orders and each visit to the post office is accompanied by a bag of heavy packages. Surprisingly, this time round, I had a lot of new local clients and that totally wiped out my illusion that locals do not appreciate semi precious stones. Apparently, I just did not meet the right people all along! On Etsy, things are getting frenzy with lots of shops pitching free shipping and sales. Alas, 4 out of the 5 shops I am targeting - they're not having any sale. Ugh.

Think you've seen it all? OYP to Date = 45

2009-11-26T13:15:00.003+08:00

"Swinging Cube in Blue" As seen in The Daily Classics

"Swinging Cube in Pink" As seen in The Daily Classic

"Lacy Macy" As seen in Feronia

"Freshly Made" As seen in Feronia

Think you've seen it all from Feronia? No way am I going to let you have that idea! Today's uploads into the shops are all new designs, first in the history of Feronia. Okay, we ain't that old. By this December, we will only be 7 months. Still, I like to keep things fresh. After all, I always find it difficult to stick to a certain look! OYP is now at no. 45. Not even halfway through! (The story of OYP)

Tell Us What You Think

2009-11-25T13:07:00.001+08:00

You can see this in the sidebar, at the top. I am not working on some thesis or theory but simply need the data to help understand the market better. So, take your pick, alright? It's free =p.

END OF SEASON SALE - 50% off AND Free Gift!

2009-11-24T13:50:00.007+08:00

::::::: END OF SEASON SALE! :::::::

More than a hundred items in the Feronia Etsy shop are going off at 50% of its original price. Also, You can get a free pair of earrings of your choice worth $20 for purchases of over $100.

Only items in the NEW category are excluded. I simply don't have space in my small house already, so everything is going off dirt cheap but the quality is way too good! AAA luxe gemstones, precious metals etc...I am almost wailing as I offer this crazy sale....

p.s. Vouchers are not applicable during this mega sale of the year. Save it for the non-promotional period, for the new season designs, yeah?

New Store for the Classics and OYP Updates

2009-11-23T10:26:00.004+08:00

I have been awfully negligent in uploading the pictures for the OYPs. But I swear I had good reason to be.

Things were stalling, thanks to the setting up of a new store - The Daily Classics - a new member of the Feronia Jewelry. The mother store was getting seriously cluttered with too many different styles. A PR guy advised me to focus and that is a feat for me! So, I decided to cut the store up. Classic designs for daily wear will now be in The Daily Classics. Feronia Jewelry will start to carry the more deluxe gemstones and bridal designs. Upcoming is a store that will carry the uber cute and feminine styles.

Things are still in the transition process and I have yet to complete the moving. On the other hand, new designs are coming up. Bear with me and enjoy the newbies! We are now at OYP No. 45. (The story of OYP)

"Ties" As seen in The Daily Classics

"Wintry Wonderland" As seen in The Daily Classics

"A Moment to Remember in Sterling Silver" As seen in The Daily Classics

"Daily Glamour Pearls" As seen in The Daily Classics

"Silver Lining" As seen in The Daily Classics

"Sapphire Trinity" As seen in The Daily Classics

"Cubic Ink" As seen in The Daily Classics

"Apple Diamond" As seen in The Daily Classics

"Dainty White" As seen in The Daily Classics

"Dainty Pink" As seen in The Daily Classics

"Sweet Lotus" As seen in The Daily Classics

Featured in Treasury - Love and Hope

2009-11-22T13:42:00.002+08:00

Someone called Cyn loved Joy and Hope so much that she included it in her Treasury of Spiced Cranberry! What a lovely change from the dreary winter and fall colours - it's Christmas, folks! Thank you, Cyn!

Guess The Date Competition on FB

2009-11-20T09:50:00.003+08:00

A particular award-winning blog will be hosting a giveaway sponsored by Feronia Jewelry. So, I am launching this challenge - WHAT DATE WILL THE GIVEAWAY BE ON?

Frankly, I don't know the answer myself. All I know is that it will be within the span of next week (23 Nov 09 to 29 Nov 09). *hint hint* You could also get clues by finding out what that blog is from the image above.

Leave your answers on Feronia FB Page. The first person to get the right answer will walk away with a $25 voucher. Just nice for a decent Christmas gift!

Guessing Game Competition on FB

2009-11-19T13:41:00.003+08:00

It just came in by mail today. Can you guess what this stone is?

Put in your answer on Feronia FB Fan page. The first person to get it right will get a customized jewelry piece made out from this stone!

P.S. YOU MUST BE A FAN IN ORDER TO QUALIFY. So just join us with a click!

Vintage Couple Dolls

2009-11-19T00:35:00.001+08:00

I am a sucker for Vintage and COUPLE DOLLS! So sweet! Seen via Kootoyoo.

Featured in Treasury - Tulip

2009-11-18T10:17:00.003+08:00

I love Etsy for its Treasury. Never mind that you can never be picked for its gift guides, frontpage, featured, spotlight etc by the Admin. You can always rely on the good Etsians who have a good eye for the most unique things.

Tulip has now been moved to The Daily Classics and within a day, it's been featured by the lovely dekorart! The treasury is temporarily located here.

Walking Precariously

2009-11-18T10:00:00.004+08:00

How do you walk in these shoes? Lady Gaga was wearing this in her "Bad Romance" video. I am sure she was just posing but how do model walk down the runway in this??? Via The Glamazon Diaries.

Anyway, there are so many things to update that I gave up and went to surf the net - escapism!

Featured on Etsy Fashion Blog!

2009-11-17T11:41:00.004+08:00

I submitted diamonds but Justine from Etsy Fashion loved this too much to let it pass by! So, it's on Etsy Fashion blog now. Yaay...

OYP No. 30 to 34 and Gemstone Therapy

2009-11-17T09:59:00.004+08:00

OYPs have been made, photographed, put on store but not blogged! So, OYP No. 30 to 34 is here at one go!

OYP No. 30 - Golden Clovers

OYP No. 31 - Aqua Turquoise (Vintage clip-ons!)

OYP No. 32 - Sweet Abundance, Cellulite-free

OYP No. 33 - The Pumpkin Essence of Slimming

OYP No. 34 - A Woman's Health Guardian

You are probably thinking, what's up with me??? The names are getting weirder and weirder. Well, recently, a customer and I have been discussing a lot on gemstones' properties. I swear they do carry some form of energy and that is definitely not a spam comment. My customer practice gemstone therapy and shared some tips with me. It struck me that I could design according to a condition, state of health or some desirable outcome. My current techniques are far better than months ago so I could play around even more. Wearable, unique and beautiful designs with a target purpose to heal - how cool is that? (The story of OYP)

International or Protectionism?

2009-11-16T09:50:00.002+08:00

It was supposed to be a OYP post or a post about another feature. But something else got my feathers ruffled. A seller on Etsy wishes for an implementation to search only for American or Canadian made products.

This is a very sensitive topic. I have no intention of turning it into some political warfare. Not that I have the ability to do that. I am a seller and designer whose market is more than 90% international and whose country size has been seen as just a red dot on the map once. To see such a sweeping remark on the forums made me reconsider the reasons behind the not-too-great-sales record for many Asian stores on Etsy.

I can empathize if she rationalizes that it's cheaper to buy supplies shipped from her own country. Or maybe she is being patriotic. But to imply that the stuffs made in US or Canada are better in quality, I take offence. I've received vintage supplies from the States that never ought to see light again while the best I've ever bought are actually quality controlled from Singapore. The best stones I've ever seen come from India while one of my suppliers from the States often mix my orders up. I have surfed Etsy more than I work on my business and there's never been a correlation between country origins and handmade standards.

I buy my gemstones from all over the world, mostly from India, my chains from the States, my links from Korea, my gift bags from Hong Kong, my boxes from Thailand. My shop banner is UK designed. I have no qualms to go international because I judge the integrity from the descriptions, pictures, feedback and shop sales, not country.

Etsy might be very American-based now but didn't we read between the lines from the APEC forum? No longer can the world rely on the US consumers. We start to look at Asia. Honestly, it's not easy to break into the China market. They can literally create their own world. They don't need the rest of us. We need to work very hard to win them over. We might even lose a limb or two in the process but this is what business is about - risk and management. The way to react is not protectionism. Or giving sweeping remarks that "ours is better". It will just serve to alienate. To want others to come to you, you need to go to them. No one-sided relationship is sustainable.

So, if you want Etsy to implement something that allows you to search selectively only for materials made in the States, think again. You are actually also wishing for Etsy to prevent you from having international sales and help you to miss half the world.

Quit your Day Job, at your own risk

2009-11-14T11:33:00.002+08:00

Now that I am more awake, I shall rant here. If you're not in the mood to read, move on.

See, I was pretty irritated by the "Quit your day job" posts in Etsy. Because it is the other way round for me! I need a day job in order to feed this business or hobby, whatever you call it. I was reminded of a conversation with the hubs yesterday. He was talking about professional gamers. In my mind, I was like "yeah right, how many really can feed themselves by being a gamer?". Well, I am sure there is but they are probably statistically insignificant, i.e. less than 5%.

Still, at some level, it can become stressful when you start relying on your hobby as a livelihood. I know it because I stopped working on creations based on my whim, but based on trends. I couldn't just keep making things that I like but to take popularity into consideration. It became very detrimental to my mental health as my ego struggled. I stopped enjoying it in order to help the pocket. A couple of days ago, I had a chat with a fellow Etsy seller who made it into wholesale selling, a level-up from retail. She said, wouldn't it be great if your business could sponsor a family trip? Still, she hopes to work on jewelry as a hobby. Such is the paradox of life.

Yeah, I would still love to eventually make Feronia my day job. I still want my studio and workshop. I still want a DSLR camera to take damn cool pictures of my creations. But life gave me a tap on the head to remind me of some practicalities for now.

p.s. Can Storque run posts on struggling artisans?

OYP No. 29 - Black Diamonds!

2009-11-14T10:11:00.003+08:00

OYP No. 29 is about black diamonds against a backdrop of moonstones. I hoarded these black diamonds for the longest time ever. If you are a woman with everything, check if you've black diamonds in handmade jewelry. For guys, this gift will impress your girl! Black diamonds are even rarer than colorless ones and known for its magic touch in healing couple conflicts. I still have more black diamonds and am thinking if I could just turn them into earrings for the guys!

Black Diamond Moon is in store now. Meanwhile, I am nursing my first cuppa black coffee for the day. I am still very groggy....

(The story of OYP)

Almost vintage

2009-11-13T17:14:00.003+08:00

There were many surprises inside the post box today. And one of them is this dress! I bought it online after a lot of considerations. Honestly, I've put on some weight ever since Feronia started. The "staying at home to do work" reason is a huge contributing factor. So, I was really apprehensive about this lacy black dress but I really love the puffy sleeves - almost vintage! Good news was that it turned out to be lovely. Not very slim, but acceptable, yeah?

OYP will have to wait till tomorrow - the rain is really bad for photography...(The story of OYP)

OYP No. 27, 28 - It's back to the Classics!

2009-11-12T16:38:00.002+08:00

I find myself gravitating towards gemstones and classic designs again. As much as I try to make the store funkier, it had been an uncomfortable ride. So, instead of stressing myself up over fashion trends that don't go down well in my little world, I've decided to stay away. Agnes B. said before that she never look at what others are talking about. I get her totally.

OYP No. 27 and 28 features a pair of butterflies earrings and a cross pendant necklace respectively. Classic and elegant - the Feronia style. Both are in store now. (The story of OYP)

Leanne's Eco-friendly Gown

2009-11-11T23:53:00.003+08:00

Leanne is back! This is probably the only store in Etsy with one item but for which I so heart heart heart! Check out the eco-friendly wedding gown. I am loving it so much.

All the way to OYP No. 26!

2009-11-11T18:36:00.002+08:00

I will be honest. I just don't have the discipline to blog one OYP by one OYP! So, it's four in a go - three rings and one pair of luxe earrings. All are in store now. Do you feel the snow yet? (The story of OYP)

Advertising 101

2009-11-11T11:22:00.002+08:00

Beautiful visuals with a short and sweet message. Full marks! Seen via Notcot.org

Featured in Gift Guide for Jewelry plus a petition

2009-11-11T10:47:00.003+08:00

It was a double-edged sword this morning. I woke up and my brain crashed to the ground when I saw a very tacky orange tab in my store. It spelt "GIFT GUIDE". Read the petition against this orange thing. Uproars are all over the forum now.

Then I spotted one of my items' views jumped 20% higher within an hour of idling away on FB, uploading new items, posting new items and most importantly, signing the petition. It turned out that Ice Clinks Necklace was the latest item to get into Gift Guides for Jewelry - first item too!

See the power of that tacky orange tab. Still, I hope the petition goes through. If not, add in a tab that says "FERONIA". Haha!

OYP No. 22 - Inky Wavy (my own make)

2009-11-10T16:22:00.004+08:00

A customer saw something in my list of sold pieces and asked if I can make one more pair of it. I seldom buy my materials in bulk and so I just didn't have one more set of the same wavy links. I suggested to twist it myself. Waiting for the next shipment would take a month. The customer did not want to wait for a month and was more keen that I twisted it myself. Okay, I thought, it should not be that difficult...

And I almost died while working on these. Half the spool of wire was wasted during experimentation. It wasn't easy trying to get the waves and the strength of wire right. Imagine my relief when the waves turned out presentable finally. Now my fingers shake, my back is tired and my eyes are crossed. But I am swelling with pride.

This will be OYP No. 22. It has sterling silver ear wires, non-tarnish silver wavy links and water sapphire iolite teardrops. It's not in store yet as I am showing it to the customer first. (The story of OYP)

Featured by Laissezfaire plus a Giveaway!

2009-11-10T00:58:00.002+08:00

Feronia Jewelry is a new sponsor for Laissezfaire! Check out the feature post =). To celebrate our first feature on this long-favourite-of-mine blog, we are giving US$25 voucher away to a random winner. Just leave a comment on Laissezfaire (on our feature post) and tell us which item from our store that you love the most.

Meanwhile, I really need to sleep now. I can barely open my eyes anymore.

OYP No. 21 and Feronia Assets

2009-11-09T22:29:00.003+08:00

I dread the days when I have to go to the office. At least half the day will be gone and I can't do much blogging or work on more OYPs. It will be worse next year and I am still trying to figure out how I can ship out on a daily basis by then.

OYP No. 21 was actually completed on Saturday. It is a modification of a previous necklace. I took it apart and linked it with a different sterling silver chain. This little baby swiss blue topaz is AAA in quality, uber luxe. Checked puffed diamond in shape, it became a gift for a friend too. Check out the story here. (The story of OYP)

Meanwhile, I did a quick check on my store's inventory yesterday.

If I can sell half my inventory, the DSLR dream will be fulfilled in no time...

Featured by Cuteable!

2009-11-08T17:16:00.005+08:00

It had been hectic since Friday and I did not surf the net as much as I normally would. So it took me 2 days to realize that Ribbons and Bows was featured on Cuteable for its Flickr Friday. Yahoooooo! What a week of features. My heartfelt thanks and gratitude to all fellow bloggers who love and believe in Feronia. Meanwhile, the giveaway on Green Laundry is closing soon. Stay tuned to check who's the lucky winner.

Why I prefer AF to E sometimes

2009-11-06T23:02:00.003+08:00

This is why I sometimes very much prefer ArtFire to Etsy. Although Etsy was the place that put my jewelry creations on foreign lands, it is very often an uphill struggle. After 6 months, I finally saw myself on Etsy frontpage. On ArtFire, it took only less than 2 months (see Celebrations necklace in the picture above). The concept of random picks from newly listed items is much more democratic. The downside is that the frontpage of ArtFire does not look as appealing as Etsy's. Possibly there's no general theme or it's simply too cluttered. Given ArtFire is still in beta stage, let's just keep our fingers crossed that healthy competition makes users the winners!

p.s. Not much posts and OYPs will be coming in this weekend as I will be occupied with a friend's wedding and subsequently catching up with some badly needed rest...Visit my store while I catch forty winks, yeah?

To OYP No. 20! Sideways...

2009-11-06T17:59:00.002+08:00

I am falling in love with sideway necklaces which I design to highlight the beautiful curves of our collarbones. I always like the side profiles of people. A side profile has a mysterious and elusive feel. From the side, you can see the curves of bones and bodies. You can't see the full face but you can see the body language. You can admire from afar without being noticed. Or you can run away without being seen! Both necklaces are in store now. (The story of OYP)

Featured! Winter Rose Necklace

2009-11-06T08:13:00.003+08:00

Winter is coming! A nice lady from JustBecuzz dropped me a note to tell me she included one of my creations - Winter Rose Necklace, in her treasury collection for winter princesses. The whole collage looks so romantic. It really makes you feel more than a princess. An ice queen!

OYPs from 16 to 18, From Ribbons to Rocks

2009-11-05T22:22:00.004+08:00

As you can guess from the title of this post, I am cramming in 3 OYP creations in one post. I simply had no time to blog during the day (though I seem to have the time to facebook, make more jewelries...).

I am beginning to indulge in necklaces. Ribbons and Bows is not just sweet. It stands out with a ribbon tucked at one side while a hot pink quartz teardrop and a AAA pink amethyst twisted drop hang in the centre. The resulting look is one of sweetness with the touch of luxe and "I am special".

Like enlightenment out from the depths of darkness, this pendant is full of character. With black onyx, pyrite and a large white swarovski pearl in the centre, the pendant is linked by antiqued brass chain. I am starting to enjoy the beauty of layered necklaces. In the picture, I layered it with a 16" lucky horseshoe as shown below.

I like to use gold filled chains for their value (gold has broken record high levels!). Their colour is much nicer and lustrous than gold plated chains. Unlike gold plated chains, they can withstand tarnishing and are suitable for individuals with sensitive skin. They can also be worn over a lifetime. In short, you're getting the benefits of solid gold at a small fraction of price. All three necklaces are in store now. (The story of OYP)

As seen on Craftgawker!

2009-11-05T10:38:00.004+08:00

Over the last weekend, Immortalized was accepted by Craftgawker! This necklace comes with 14k gold filled chain for value and long lasting wearing.

There's some customization work today, some OYP designs waiting and more ideas brewing. Yum Yum, I am excited!

Giveaway on Green Laundry

2009-11-04T11:45:00.003+08:00

I have not had my coffee today. I am trying not to but the sleep bug can attack me even when I am working on the computer. It's awful but it definitely shows the extent of the addiction...

The rain is here again. I was fuming before the rain over a matter. The rain dampened my spirits more when I realize I would have no bright natural light to take shots of the creations later. Then, I found the room temperature nice and cool. Show some gratitude for the timely rain, I thought.

Meanwhile, no OYP is up yet but there's a generous giveaway sponsored by Feronia on Green Laundry blog. Check it out here!

OYP No. 15 - Clover Fleurs Earrings

2009-11-03T21:46:00.002+08:00

OYP No. 15 is here! These are the earrings that came from a simple concept and ended up with pricked fingers and lots of broken stones. But the end result was so worth it. These are shoulder duster sparkling earrings with swinging belts of swarovski crystals - glamour for the bride too. This glamorous piece is available in store now.

(The story of OYP)

Featured by Large Black Diary!

2009-11-03T18:49:00.005+08:00

It's a day of features for Feronia Jewelry! Sweet Freya from Large Black Diary gave such a fabulous review that my cheeks are blushing red. =) Like her, I also belong to the group of people who buy their accessories before clothes! Check out the blog post here. Large Black Diary is a fashion blog that picks up some of the most unique trends.

OYP No. 13 and 14 - Buttons

2009-11-03T11:46:00.003+08:00

Vintage 60s fashion is fascinating to me. In fact, I prefer them over most other trends. They can make a woman look really feminine and yet so creative. Not expensive too!

OYP No. 13 and 14 feature BUTTONS. Yeah, these are buttons covered with cream canvas cloth and designs are stitched onto them. I have them mismatched because they actually say a sentence in pairs. Very cute. They cost below USD 10 dollars only! Get it from store.

(The story of OYP)

Featured by the Sisterhood!

2009-11-03T08:43:00.003+08:00

Lovely Diana from The Sisterhood of the Travelling Bloggers gave Feronia a fantastic review. As she described very aptly, "a wide and beautiful variety of jewelry that is elegant, chic and very very functional, you can wear it with a plain white shirt and it will transform an ordinary outfit into something fabulous or it can add that extra touch of elegance to your already fabulous outfit."

Check out the blog post here. Written and operated by a pair of sisters, Diana and Lauren are two 20 something girls who "love fashion, food, photography, traveling, cute things and of course blogging." I always enjoy "stalking" their blog for they have the knack of picking up some of the most out-of-the-world tidbits for you to enjoy.

New Attempts - Mosaic Pendants

2009-11-03T00:01:00.003+08:00

I didn't upload any OYP posts on Monday. Not because I took the day off or got lazy. I was having a terrible time with a design. Thinking it was easy, I ended up pricking my fingers and broke 6 moonstones too. The end result was really beautiful but I ended up too tired to take pictures. So, I thought I try out a new technique I just picked up. The top picture is my first attempt at making mosaic patterned pendant with gemstones. I meant it to take after a sea Goddess but it turned out to be more spiderly. The bottom picture is my second attempt. Wouldn't you agree it's much neater? Third time's the charm so I'll try again tomorrow. And yes, I promise OYP will resume tomorrow too.

(The story of OYP)

Jewelry of Sentiments

2009-11-02T11:05:00.000+08:00

Carol Besler wrote about how she lost her jewelry and the terrible heartache that followed. As she described, "It was losing the jewelry that hurt the most – more than my clothes, more than my shoes – because it had special significance beyond the financial loss".

I was reminded of how I lost a Tiffany heart locket necklace, given to me by the husband to commemorate our 2nd Valentine's Day. I wore it almost everyday - for a jewelry maker to wear other brands, that means a lot! Alas, the entire necklace was lost on a trip in Malacca. I was devastated. From then, I didn't really dare to ask the husband to buy anything else for me. He had taken a lot of trouble to personalize the locket and even asked a friend to send it to him from the states because he could not get the same one in Singapore. Moreover, it's Tiffany! In fact, the guilt was impressed on my memory and will be there for quite some time, I suspect.

Like what Carol Besler said, it's more than about the financial loss. I miss the locket so much for the memories tied to it.

Project Runway Winner on Etsy

2009-11-01T14:20:00.005+08:00

If you have won a competition as big as Project Runway, would you still keep selling your creations on Etsy? After all, Etsy is usually a stepping stone for most artisans and designers.

Leanne Marshall, winner of 2008 Project Runway, has no qualms about it. Right now, her store is closed for 3 weeks while she vacations. If Feronia Jewelry becomes as big as the Leanne Marshall brand, I promise I'll keep the Etsy store too. Meanwhile, I am so looking forward to buying my first dress from her!

p.s. I am not going to divulge the URL of her Etsy store, heh heh, because I want to get my dress first! But...let me give you a hint...the store URL is on her official site. There...ain't I kind enough?

Maintenance and Upgrade, Flickr too

2009-10-31T23:37:00.003+08:00

You might have noticed I have not updated OYP today. During the weekends, Feronia Jewelry carries out "maintenance and upgrade" - stocking up supplies, checking out new techniques and giving the slave a break. The work desk gets a good clean up too. And it is during the weekends that inspirations come in greater waves. I promise that you'll get to see some really cute stuffs coming next week.

Meanwhile, the one-day old Flickr Group - This is so Me! - has 23 members and 63 photos pooled from all over the world. Slow start but promising. The pictures range from babies, adults, animals etc and some are caught in the most honest expressions and positions =P. Join in the fun here!

Featured! Hugging Under the Oak Tree

2009-10-31T11:17:00.002+08:00

Craftgawker has such stringent criteria that out of 10 submissions, only 2 got accepted. So I am over the moon that this picture finally got in!

We are looking for YOU

2009-10-31T01:16:00.000+08:00

What makes you UNIQUE?

There are two kinds of pictures we are looking for:

1. Pictures that most express YOU - No offensive pictures please. No nudity or discriminations of any kind. If you like to express your naked side, think creative =).

2. Pick out items from our store (http://feronia.etsy.com) that shouts YOU!

Put up your ideas in this Flickr Group -

“That is so ME” http://www.flickr.com/groups/1277913@N23/

OYP No. 12 - Unfolds Stunningly

2009-10-30T14:08:00.002+08:00

These few days, a lot of realizations unfolded for me. Like petals of flowers slowly peeling apart, the final pearl is revealed in its full glory. And that is the story behind OYP No. 12 - Unfolds Stunningly.

It is a huge amazing flower gemstone set on an adjustable ring. Read more here.

p.s. it's on sale!

(The story of OYP)

OYP No. 11 - Presents, how I wrap mine

2009-10-29T16:47:00.002+08:00

What a twist =P. OYP No. 11 is out - It's a bracelet actually, with pink sapphires and precious watermelon tourmaline wrapped like christmas presents (or more like how I would wrap the presents). See more pictures here.

With that, I am off the blog till tomorrow! The shoulder is whimpering.

(The story of OYP)

OYP No. 10 - Pillars of Strength

2009-10-29T16:03:00.002+08:00

More vintage! It seems like I am digging for some archaeological findings.

OYP No. 10 - Pillars of Strength. She is pretty organic looking, with that "pock marks" texture and the scroll bead caps. See more pictures here.

(The story of OYP)

OYP No. 9 - Blue Robin Eggs

2009-10-29T15:22:00.003+08:00

I am coming close to a year of being in this business. It all started with the angels. We wanted to create something for our wedding guests and at my sister's suggestion, I went a beading store to learn to make Swarovski Angel with crystals and fish wire. A week later, the store closed down. I should have seen it as an omen but I did not, obviously.

OYP No. 9 features a vintage make - blue robin eggs (vintage glass). It looks big but it is really a lightweight. The blue sheen caught my fancy a lot. See more here.

(The story of OYP)

Oops and a better deal

2009-10-29T10:43:00.003+08:00

I swear I did not see this prior to making my own version. Heck, they look so downright similar, except that Molly Sims had better photographs than mine. For a similar price, I am proud though, to point out that mine comes with 14 gold filled chain and free shipping with guarantee. In any case, I am going to need more creative ideas, hard-to-get-similar ones.

Feronia has a official website now

2009-10-29T10:27:00.003+08:00

It took a year to accumulate experience, a couple of months to plan, some friends' help and finally, the official website is up! Check out http://www.feroniajewelry.com

OYP No. 8 - Queen of Diamonds

2009-10-28T17:23:00.002+08:00

Just 2 posts today as I had to make a trip down to TWM today plus some grocery shopping. But I won't forget the OYP! In fact, I made quite a number of jewelry last night and they are waiting to be photographed...

OYP No. 8 spells glamour in simplicity. Inspired by the Queen of Diamonds card (I've been watching too many magic shows), the 14k gold filled frame is made in a diamond shape and is twisted with lots of arghs and ughs by yours truly. I fancy this pair of earrings to be worn as a everyday accessory or when you want to look posh without bursting the pocket. In store already.

(The story of OYP)

OYP No. 7 - All the Same Eggs (Gratitude)

2009-10-28T13:49:00.004+08:00

Before I fell asleep last night, groggily, I was thinking of "gratitude". Too often, I waste time lamenting about sales, lack of ideas, competition, weather, getting fat, so on and so on. If I ever did appreciate anything, it was to console myself. No, gratitude is about plain acceptance and acknowledgement, not as an act of defiance. In the alpha state last night, I started to count my blessings and this morning, wrote down "My Gratitude List". It became emotionally charged. Being brutally honest about my current affairs made me uncover revelations that cannot be learnt from others. Here goes one of the items on the list:

"I am so broke that it disgusts me. Perhaps that's a wake-up call about this business' feasibility. But perhaps it is the start of a great business. I recall how Liu Li Fang started. The founders spent all their capital and came to naught. One even had to mortgage her house and borrowed. Who am I to whine? I have learnt the fundamentals by failing. Success is built by failures. I have no reason to beat myself up but congratulate myself for having gained the most valuable lesson of operating a business. Better suffer when it's small than being declared bankrupt when I am at the level of Lacroix and Yamamoto."

OYP No. 7 is a very meaningful creation. Originally meant to highlight the odd ball, I decided to see things from another perspective. Mothers with more than one child will know what I mean. No matter how different the child is from the siblings, all children will be the same to the mum. All the same eggs. In store already.

(The story of OYP)

Stoop and talk

2009-10-28T09:20:00.002+08:00

Never mind that Singapore is actually lined with seats and benches for us to walk less and get fatter. Never mind that it's mostly the old folks, couples and some other nationals who usually use them. This stoop chair from the States is actually portable! Of course, other than fats, it facilitates social gathering. Imagine the steps from building entrances being portable. Back in the university, we used to sit like that in the open space auditorium - "stoop" way. Whether or not that imposes another set of problems is really up to the civic standards. But I am liking this stoop chair! Sleek and sophisticated, it spells vigour. From Core77.

OYP No. 6 and Rantings

2009-10-27T17:19:00.003+08:00

This is going to be the last post of the day before the shoulder gives way.

OYP No. 6 is my ultimate favourite. I call it "Blooming in your Presence". This design has been running in the head for weeks but I did not have the heart or courage to work on it. The thing about fancy designs is that they don't sell as well as simple ones. Sometimes I get really upset with the jewelry that is sold in the market, even Etsy too. The same designS repeat in at least 5 stores but sellers brand it their own. It's like identical 3-ply tissue paper sold by different companies. I could be nasty enough to do a blog post on these shops so that consumers can see for themselves what they're exactly buying. Then again, karma, karma, karma. Or I might be accused of eating sour grapes.

Blooming in your Presence features

* AAA black rutilated quartz with lots of gorgeous needles
* AAA honey citrine (yummy)
* Precious Red and pink Spinel
* AAA HUGE lemon quartz teardrop, 22X17 MM - the cutting is perfect!
* 925 Sterling Silver chain and toggle

In store now.

(The story of OYP)

OYP No. 5 - Hugging under the Oak Tree

2009-10-27T16:46:00.002+08:00

I am starting to feel the familiar pain in my shoulders again. I swear I need to prop myself against a cushion as I work on the laptop.

OYP No. 5 has a cute name - Hugging under the Oak Tree. I was thinking how romantic the oak leaf looks and imagining it whispering, swaying and rustling as two people share a warm hug under the tree.

In store already.

(The story of OYP)

OYP No. 4 - Celebrations

2009-10-27T15:48:00.003+08:00

Did I mention I am a Chanel addict now? Not just a fan, but an addict. Of course, the prices are beyond me to date but I am in love with layers and layers of pearls with vintage components now. It's simply classy!

OYP No. 4 features Celebration - marked prominently by a vintage 3-strand golden tone rose clasp with layers of freshwater pearls. The rose clasp is remarkably textured. This necklace allows for flexible wearing - twist the strands around or lie them straight, it's up to your imagination. Coming to store in a jiffy.

(The story of OYP)