Beading with Cabochons

For me, cabochons create the basis for each of my custom jewelry designs.  The fun part is selecting which cabochons to use, which pair well together and create the desired look you want.  What I love about working with cabochons is that you can work with gemstones, crystals, art glass, clay and pretty much anything that doesn't have a hole!  I've used seashells, bottle caps, rocks (from the first walk as husband & wife).  Because of how I create my custom designed jewelry, I can work most any object into a design.

In the past, I've used cabochons to create detailed, magnificent cuffs and earrings.  I'll share a few photos of some of my favorite works in a little bit.  But for this challenge, I was inspired by the colors of fall.  The weather in Lake Geneva, WI where I live is turning a bit nippy.  While the leaves aren't changing yet, give it two weeks and they will be.

Apple & pumpkin season are in full bloom.  We're getting excited about having a fire in the fireplace.  Football is on all weekend long - and yes, I'm one of those women that love football!  Go Badgers!  So for this challenge, I chose a pair of jasper cabochons that showcase a beautiful palette of burgundy and gold.  I used the natural veining in the jasper cabochons and the natural coloring as the foundation for the design.

Now if you ask any college aficionado (or more specifically my hilarious, football-loving brother) I designed these earrings inspired by Florida State University - the college of Deion Sanders, one of his idols. Or if you ask my mom, surely I chose this elegant, luxurious color palette in honor of her beloved San Francisco 49er's.  Either way, everybody is happy and that makes me smile!

I have to thank Sally Russick who organized an incredible group of artisans that are all working with cabochons for this challenge.  Some have never used cabochons, others are old pros. Either way, please take a moment to visit Sally's blog where you'll be able to connect with all the participants!

Click here to visit Sally's blog!

And for further inspiration, here are some of my favorite designs I've created with cabochons!  Many were custom orders and received with squeals of happiness and joy as the women opened their boxes.  If you live in or around the San Diego area, I'd like to invite you to an event I'm participating in October 10-12th as my VIP guest!  Linda P. Jones' Be Wealthy & Smart Intensive is going to be an incredible event.  If you're looking for a sound plan to create the income and type of lifestyle you want to live, then touch base with me about this event.  It'll be at the Rancho Bernardo Inn, and I can tell you having been there last year, it's an amazing experience!

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Have a terrific day!
{Hugs!}
Dawn

And of course... the necklace inspired by my small town, Lake Geneva Wisconsin... With cabochons, the design possibilities are infinite! ♥