Pennie's
Sculptured Designs
Sculptured Jewelry & Wood Designs
Created in Sacred Space
You can contact me through this FAQ's link. |
Frequently Asked Questions |
Where do you get your wood?
Many times I harvest the domestic wood myself and mill it from trunk to plank. During the stormy seasons in different areas many trees are fallen as a result of storms, hurricanes and tornados. These, I consider, are Nature's gifts. Even if I cannot harvest the trunks myself, I can acquire the wood from those who do.
Whether domestic or imported exotic woods, I make it a point to purchase my wood from sources that respect the forests from which they come. A great deal comes from plantations that grow the trees for the purpose of harvesting for sale. This ensures the protection of our rainforests and natural ecosystems. Some of the woods we consider rare in North American, like Cocobolo Rosewood, is actually used commonly where the wood is native.
I am concerned about toxic chemicals. Do you use them in your designs?
Great question! I am concerned about toxicity as well. I use no solder or toxic glues or chemicals in any of my jewelry designs. The sculpturing technique just doesn't require any.
In regard to the wooden items, all finished products are completely natural and biodegradable with the exception of a synthetic lacquer-based coating I use on the jewelry box designs. This lacquer is a synthetic form of shellac and is potentially harmful before it completely dries and cures. It does, however, provide a degree of UV protection and I have come to trust its increased durability.
If you object to this type of finish, I can custom make a design for you with only a natural shellac finish.
Please contact me directly for this type of custom order to discuss cost.
Are your gold pieces real gold? How can you price them so affordably if you use real gold?
All Gold is REAL Gold. Never gold-toned. The difference is the amount of gold used in the process. Most gold accessories used in creating pens, pencils and the like are simply gold-plated. This means they are simply dipped in gold and the gold content is actually very small. Some "plating" techniques are more durable than others, however, over time, this dipped coating will eventually wear off even with normal use.
The material I use in creating jewelry is Gold-filled or Rolled Gold. I use 14/20 wire, which, in short, means that at least 1/20th or 5% of the total material is 14K gold. This allows fine designer jewelry at an affordable price. The process of applying gold in this manner is more than simply dipping and drying, it requires the same heat and pressure techniques as creating a diamond or CZ. This ensures the durability of this finish. This process became popular over a century ago and the beauty of these pieces still exist today.
I can custom make a design for you in solid 14 karat gold.
Please contact me directly for this type of custom order to discuss cost.
What do you mean when you say all items are created in "Sacred
Space"?
This question comes up a great deal. Let me explain. All jewelry items are constructed in one specific area. It receives, through the large due east window, rising morning sun and the moon beams directly in at night as it comes up over the mountains. Nothing is done in this area except the conception and creation of jewelry designs. Even conversations and phone calls are handled outside of this area, to ensure its dedication. Before I start, this area is cleaned and cleansed both physically and metaphysically.
As I work, I begin with and remain in a constant state of prayer, asking for Divine guidance in the materials and design. I ask and focus on the intent that the person for whom this particular design is meant, will ultimately find it.
Be assured that along with a great deal of prayer, quality materials and techniques are also working together to bring you a beautiful heirloom quality piece of gemstone sculptured Art.
Do you really believe gemstones have healing qualities?
Yes, I do. But it is not necessary for anyone else to believe this. It is only necessary for you to enjoy your purchase.
I have an item that I would like made into a necklace pendant. Do you do this type of work?
I really do enjoy custom work of this nature. I had one lady give me her grandmother's wedding ring, an heirloom piece, that was too small for anyone in the family to wear, and I sculpted a pendant around it so it could be passed on to the great-grand-daughter. She was very pleased.
For this type of work - I would require photographs and measurements of the item ahead of time. If items are sent through the mail, please insure and register them with return receipt.
How long does it take you to make a piece of jewelry?
The short anwer is - it depends on the design. A very small simple earring set, for example, can take as little as 15 - 20 minutes. The more elaborate bracelets can take 12 - 18 hours. Of course, I take small breaks for bread and water. : )
I absolutely love the jewelry box design you named 'Prayer' but it is listed as sold. Can I still order this design and will you make it again? The wood you've used there is beautiful. I want it just like the picture.
Thank you, Trinity, for your kind words. I am truly pleased that the design "Prayer" has impressed you so. Unfortunately, because of a recent back injury in February 2006, I am still not able (July 2006), to safely work in my woodshop. Only three designs remain that are for sale. I will keep your email and postal information on file and contact you when I am able to complete special orders of wood designs.
Thank you for your patience.
Namaste,
Pennie