Blog reader, Susan Tanner, asked me to share pictures of the jewelry I created while I made my living as a designer. She wrote, “I would love to see some of the jewelry you made when you were into that and even hear more about how you were set up to do it in that chapter of your life. I would love to do some of that as a hobby for myself.”
I started teaching myself to create fashion jewelry in 1989. I created and sold my designs to more than two hundred boutiques and galleries for the following ten years. I had several sales reps, and my work was displayed in all the major Fashion Marts in the USA.
I devoted a great deal of time and effort toward locating the findings, beads, unique stampings, chain, vintage glass stones, and polished semi-precious gemstones I used in my mostly one-of-a-kind designs. For thirty years, I made my living, first as a designer and then later as a supplier to other designers.
Two years ago, I sold my supply company to Mr. Mickey’s daughter, Regina. She still offers thousands of unique components for jewelry making and other crafts. Visit the Vintage Jewelry Supplies website here.
Hi Susan, what beautiful, unique pieces. You should be very proud of your achievements. I hope you are finding things to do now and are keeping safe and well.
These are stunningly beautiful! What an artist you are! Thanks for sharing!
Here’s a question for you…do you subscribe to any magazines? In this lockdown, I’m finding that like you, I enjoy my coffee table books…mine are picture books of places I’ve visited around the world, but I’m thinking of subscribing to some magazines for variety. I haven’t subscribed to any in the past, because it felt like clutter, but now I’m thinking they could be fun or useful.
Thanks, Susan!
I don’t subscribe to any magazines, but I do watch some fascinating YouTube documentaries. This morning I learned more about the marmots living in the Alps.
WOW! Beautiful!
Beautiful! Thank you for sharing!
These are beautiful pieces, Susan! Do you sell these currently? The color and designs are outstanding.
Thank you, Barbara. Those were from the final year of my designing career. My hands are no longer strong and steady enough to create those designs.
Beautiful work and creative designs! Sorry I saw your work too late to purchase.
Beautiful!!
Beautiful pieces. Thank you for sharing.
Beautiful pieces.
Wow! Those pieces are gorgeous! You have so many talents! Thank you for sharing.
Beautiful- you have an amazing talent. Thank you for sharing.
Stunning! You have such a creative talent!
These pieces are beautiful!! So unique. They are truly something to be proud of.
Very classy – just like you.
Susan, these are outstanding. I’d love to wear one.
Wow! So beautiful and impressive.
Beautiful creations!
Thank you for sharing your jewelry creations. Now I see why you like French Kande!
Beautiful!
Awesome just beautiful designs. Great quality findings! Why don’t you wear you jewelry?
I do occasionally wear a piece.
These are lovely with such incredible detail!
Thank you for sharing, Susan! Your creations are original, creative, and absolutely stunning pieces of art.
Dear Susan, my congratulations on your lovely creations, wish we have such a variety of accessories here in Europe
Thank you, Rosa!
they are lovely I am so surprised that you do not wear your own creations they are equal to what you wear only better
in my humble opinion
Kay Archer
Thank you, Kay. I still have and wear a few pieces, but I sold most of them.
They are beautiful! I would love to have necklaces like these in my collection. You are so very talented!
Susan, these pieces are so interesting and creative. What was the name of your design business? Thank you for sharing. You have certainly reinvented yourself over the years.
‘Susan Street Fine Art Jewelry’ was the final name I used. There were several names as I learned and developed as a designer.
Your work is beautiful and very classy. Congratulations.
Lovely and creative! I only wear gold or gold-tones. But these are outstanding!!
Stunning pieces! Thanks for sharing
Susan, Your designs are beautiful!
Your designs are wonderful! Thank you for sharing the pictures together so we can get a real sense of your style. Did you focus on necklaces or did you have other types of pieces (bracelets, earrings) as well? In the latter case, it would be fun to see some of the other pieces.
I created thousands of earrings, pins/brooches, belt buckles, and watches. I don’t have pictures of most of the other items. That was before everyone having access to the internet and digital cameras. 🙂
You have an engaging and visionary eye. I love the beauty, feeling, and harmony of your designs.
I’d like to ask a question to get a better explanation of what “self-taught.” means to you. What did that artistic process look like for you? Did you get inspired by designs from life and other sources, then try to buy the jewelry beads, elements to best represent your vision, idea, and feelings? I’m asking because I’m interested in learning how to design without going the “school” route. So I want to know, as a beginner in designing and making jewelry, how to develop things that are a true representation of my vision even though I’m not really sure about expertise and style. Any input or tips for me.
Thank you for sharing your jewelry.
I studied the finished pieces I was drawn to for the form, function, style, and color combinations. When I purchased components, I never had a particular design in mind. I started with the main stone and then built around it using random pieces like putting together a puzzle. It is important to tap into what appeals to you and then buy the components that fit that aesthetic. In the back of my mind, I always held that if I didn’t sell the piece, I wanted it to be something I would want to keep.
Absolutely stunning pieces
Beautiful designs, Susan. Not a surprise because you have great taste in everything you do.
Nancy
I have been buying supplies from you, and now Regina, for several years. No other company has the selection and quality. I was getting ready to place an order this weekend, and thought I would just browse the site a little more to find inspiration, and then I see your beautiful work!
Beautiful pieces!!!
How lovely! I thoroughly enjoyed seeing these beautiful examples of your work! Thank you for sharing that time of your life with us!
Gorgeous – what a talent and eye for design.
I’m so glad a reader asked. These are beautiful.
Several years ago you gave us the web site of Covered Perfectly. I loved their tops but unfortunately they went out of business. Now the company has been bought by new owners. Do you know anything about this and do you still recommend their products?
I highly recommend them! The new owner is also a friend. Kimberly and I worked together on Covered Perfectly modeling shoots a couple of times. She is very devoted to the company and very professional.
Yippee!!! Had bought some pieces just before they closed and love them. Tickled to know they are still going to be around! And, oh! Wouldn’t it be wonderful to retire to Spain!?! 🙂
I have dreamed of living in Spain ever since I was fortunate enough to visit it in the 1980s. It is a beautiful country!
Every design is unique and beautiful.
Beautiful!
Stunning, beautiful, classy pieces. Thanks for sharing your amazing artistic talent. I so look forward to your blogs!
You are so multi-talented!!!! I enjoyed seeing your creations…..very beautiful and creative!
These are truly some of the most beautiful necklaces I have ever seen.
Hi Susan, I enjoy reading your eletter. Your fashion style and clean eating ltips inspire me.
Loved seeing your handmade necklaces. They are more than jewelry- they are art
All the best,
Emily
Your designs are absolutely beautiful! I wish I owned several of them!
Love seeing your works of art! Thank you for sharing them for us to see.
They’re all beautiful!
I’m happy Susan Tanner asked to see your pieces! I enjoyed them very much.
The turquoise design as well as the grey and pearl are my favourites, however, they are all beautiful ❤️
Best,
Peggy Ann
Just beautiful!
The jewelry is spectacular!
Susan, your jewelry pieces are exquisite heirloom treasures. . What talent and creativity you have. Thank you for sharing a little glimpse of your jewelry creations..
Just gorgeous … the color selection, the design – amazing!
So pleased- I’ve always wanted to see your work!
Your work is stunning! I too use to make jewelry and I have bought many jewelry findings and bead items from you in the past! Small world! I don’t make jewelry anymore due to the loss of strength in my hands. Thanks for sharing Susan.
Beautiful necklaces! Thank you for sharing.
Oh my goodness, they are just gorgeous. You are a woman of many talents. Hope you are having a great day, Cheers, Carol
Susan, your jewelry is absolutely one of a kind. I wished I had a chance to purchase one of them. Would you wear one of them with an outfit? You are truly and an amazing artist who pays attention to details. Your beautifully decorated home, manicured garden, and photographs are a reflection of your talent. Thank you for sharing your lifestyle with us. Your blogs keep my spirits up during these challenging times. Stay healthy so you can continue to post and inspire others, as well.
I would wear any of the jewelry with a neutral combination of basics. I kept a few pieces and wear them occasionally.
Your jewelry is absolutely beautiful. You have an artist’s soul!!
Susan, what beautiful pieces. Absolutely superb. I have never seen anything this lovely in Australia. I now understand your love for French Kanye.
You are the most inspirational woman I know. You are so kind and caring.
I wish that you were my friend and that we could meet and have a meal and conversation. I would love to meet you.
You have absolutely inspired me. I have lost 11kg. My wardrobe has become much more successful although I still have more classic items to buy.
I find it really difficult to find suitable knitwear and tops at reasonable prices in Australia. Postage from America is prohibitive but I will keep looking.
Thank you again for being you. I was worried that you were unwell again. Best wishes to you and Mr Mickey.
Ceri
Thank you for your kind words, Ceri. It would be so lovely to have lunch together and spend the afternoon talking.
Wow! What lovely jewellery. As soon as I saw your first piece, I understood your love of French Kande.
I love your blog. You have taught me so much and I have sorted my wardrobe so I can now now build an outfit easily. I can go into shops now and tell myself I don’t need extra new tops as I already have nice classic pieces that mix and match. Thank you. I just wish that we had the selections you have ,here in New Zealand.
Take care of yourself.
Your designs were lovely. I love jewelry that is classic and unique. The pieces that you shared were all beautiful. It would be hard to pick just one. Thank you for sharing.
Beautiful, do you still sell pieces?
Thank you. I haven’t been able to create jewelry for about ten years, so I no longer offer pieces for sale.
Yes I thoroughly enjoyed the pictures. Thank you. I love to make jewelry myself and find it so relaxing since I just made pieces for myself, friends and family. I can’t imagine the treasures you had at your disposal while you were making beautiful jewelry. I also love to do beading on wedding dresses and formal wear. Did you do beading too?
Hi to Mr. Mickey and have a great week!
I never tried beading, but I enjoy the works of other artists very much.
Wow! Stunning!
These necklaces are works of art. So beautiful. Thank you for sharing. Peg
Your designs are stunning, unique and gorgeous!
Exquisite!
YOU ARE THE BEST SUSAN! Thank you for sharing
Stunningly beautiful!
Beautiful work!
Gorgeous! So lovely! Thank-you for sharing!
So beautiful! You are very talented!
WOW, all the pieces are so creative but my favourite is the first one it’s stunning.
Thank you for sharing Pamela , Wales UK
Those are all lovely!!
Beautiful work. Love the pieces shown.
Wow your jewelry is fantastic, unique, inspiring, each piece more beautiful than the last. So nice to see yet another of your talents. Thanks for sharing.
Absolutely Gorgeous!!!! Thank you for sharing!
Truly exceptional talent. I can picture you wearing these pretty items. Beautiful jewelry.
Outstanding! You have such an eye for detail. Thank you for sharing.
Beautiful!
Wow, the necklaces are beautiful! Glad you shared the photos.
Beautiful.
Gorgeous pieces – hope you kept some for yourself…..you are a very talented artist….Glad that you sold your baby to someone whom you can observe and see how your company is doing…
Beautiful!! Please continue to share your life experiences.
What a fabulous surprise. Your work is beautiful and compliments your style. I love the detail in each piece.
Hi Susan,
Thank you for sharing your jewelry “one of a kind” pieces of art. Lovely, wow you were a very busy lady, lots of balls to juggle. As you may recall we owned a sales and marketing company for over 32 years. Working 24/7 is not an easy task.
I admire your creations. What a blessing you were able to sell your company.
Sending Smiles,
Katherine in Arizona
Beautiful. You are such a talented lady and I love following your blog.
Mary Ellen
I so enjoyed seeing your work. Very creative. Bravo!
Hi Susan
I have been reading your posts for the last few months and have really enjoyed them. They are positive and uplifting.
Thank you .
Mary Grufferty, Ireland, Europe
YOur designs are absolutely gorgeous!
Susan, The jewelry is stunning. How lovely that you donated the unsold pieces to charity. Thank you for sharing the pictures with us.
Your designs are gorgeous, Susan, especially because they are one-of-a-kind. Thank you so much for sharing these beautiful photos. Those of us who also design and sell jewelry know how much time, energy, and creativity go into each and every piece. I’m sure anyone who owns one of your stunning designs will treasure it forever. You are always an inspiration to each of us who follow your blog.
Thank you, Helen.
Susan, you are such a talented artist in so many ways-your exquisite jewellery designs, your beautifully decorated house, and the classy way you style outfits. Your blogs brighten up my day and I so look forward to your posts because I learn something new each time.
My closest long time friend (since 1963, when we were kids) just gave me this gorgeous, very detailed book on jewellery:
Portrait Jewels – Opulence and Intimacy from the Medici to the Romanovs by Diana Scarisbrick. I have also read books on the jewellery of the Duchess of Windsor as well as Chanel jewellery. All such relaxing reading that you might enjoy.
Thoughts for future blogs-how & when to apply facial serums; how to be sure that a Shapeez bra fits correctly; caring for leather & suede shoes and handbags.
A BIG thank- you for not having ads jumping out of your blog posts, like others have now allowed (and whose blogs I have now dropped).
Thank you for the suggestions and kind words.
Elizabeth, I enjoyed reading your comments because I feel the same way. And your special thanks to Susan for not allowing those annoying ads. I have occasionally purchased items through her blog so I feel grateful for her sharing her taste, her life, and her wonderful outlook for life!
Those pieces are just stunning. Thank you for sharing the pictures.
Beautiful jewelry Susan. You are very talented! Thanks for sharing your story and the jewelry with us. I am hoping you kept some designs for yourself to wear!
Absolutely beautiful! Truly works of art. Thank you for sharing as I have wondered about your jewelry work as well. I do believe you must have inspired some of the current designers as I see elements of your design in some designers as French Kande and Whispering Prayer jewelers.
So beautiful Susan..God has blessed you to bless others and you certainly have reached thousands, I’m sure. Me being one of them.
Susan, Your designs are beautiful!
Thank you so much for sharing!! Beautiful designs! I have promised myself that one day I shall own a REAL Italian byzantine bracelet. Someday!
Your jewlery is amazing!
Beautiful. I especially loved the first one.
Beautiful jewelry!
They are very beautiful.
Hi Susan I’ve got so involved in this blog about your jewelry that have me fascinated and inspired me to go and make jewelry for me, for the fun of it! I am 77 and I feel I still have lots left in me to create things. I, like a lady from Australia wish she could be your friend and have lunch with you. Well, I live in the US and maybe I’ll be able to have lunch with you some day, why not? I look forward to your blogs. Thank you so much for sharing!
Thank you, Nancy!
Beautiful!!!!
These designs are incredible! I missed out on collecting your jewelry for all those years and would have loved to have some of those pieces. Thank you for sharing the photos.
Thank you for sharing, Susan. Your designs are lovely.
Wow, Beautiful jewelry!!
Those are really beautiful! Thanks for sharing. I love the use of stones and metal, plus they are classic and elaborate at the same time. Kudos!
Your jewelry is lovely and unique! Thanks so much for sharing it with us. The women who own your pieces must treasure them.
I look forward to your blog posts and love reading them, but I understand the need to reduce the number of hours you spend on each blog post…I retired this past year so I can certainly relate! I admire how you’ve changed focus a bit due to circumstances and wanted to let you know that I’ll be looking for your posts, whenever they come!
Thank you, Yolanda. I look forward to returning to traveling and having more interesting subjects and images to share with you.
These are so beautiful. Honestly, you are amazing. Take care, Bette O’Connor
I’d like to reread your earlier blogs but don’t know how to get to the first blog in Fifty Not Frumpy. Pls let your readers know how to access this info. Thanks!
Here is my first ever blog post. Move forward to Newer Posts at the bottom of the page.
Simply elegant classic jewelry Susan! Every piece is a statement. Thank you for sharing your talents and lifestyle.
These pieces are beautiful. I wish I had found your work when you were making jewelry. I love the look of vintage items and the quality of your pieces is outstanding. Thanks for sharing.
So Beautiful! Very unique.
You are incredibly talented! Beautiful designs!,
They are stunning. Thank you for sharing.
Susan, I absolutely love your jewellery designs and wish I could find similar here in the UK.
The jewelry is beautiful and very creative for their period in time.
Do you still make these? I would love to find a tourquoise necklace similar to the one shown here.
I had to stop making jewelry about ten years ago. My hands are no longer strong enough to do this work. You may find similar designs on Etsy.
susan
all of your necklsces are beautiul but I love Love love the first one with carnelian? or Garnet?. Do you still make any like this or have one like that to sell now?
thank you
lisa crandall
Thank you, Lisa. I don’t have any of those necklaces anymore. They were all sold or donated. My hands are too weak to make jewelry these days.
Beautiful designs.
These pieces are beautiful, Susan. Your life story is a wonderful example of making lemonade out of lemons. Blessings!
Thank you, Belinda.
I’m not sure why I just received your email today. So late! I really enjoyed seeing your beautiful work. Each piece is so unique. I’m sure owners of your art treasure their jewelry. Thank you for sharing!
Wow. Beautiful. Impressive. Do you wear your own design/pieces often?
Wilma
Thank you, Wilma. I have sold most of the pieces I created, but I still have a few that I held on to and sometimes wear.