Jewelry Knock Off

I got this catalog in the mail last month, the store's name is Sundance and I have no clue how I got on this mailing list. It has nice stuff, but is soooo expensive! I really liked their jewelry as it is all handmade and uses custom made finishes, but this does not justify the prices. Below is one of the bracelets I saved as I knew I could make it, before I show you my version of this beauty I want you to guess how much they are charging for it... I'll give you some more info, it is sterling silver, fresh water pearls and a custom hand hammered clasp. So maybe $100, $200 tops right?

Nope! $318, can you believe that? Don't believe me? Here's the website www.sundancecatalog.com, there is a beaded bracelet for $1600 and there aren't even any diamonds on it?!?! People are nuts! Here is my version: Mine has a mix of freshwater and faux pearls, only because I wanted a mix of sizes, the beads are a mix of sterling silver, glass and metal.

My photo isn't as good as theirs but I think you get the idea. Mine costs a total of $16 meaning I saved myself $302 and I have enough to make at least 2 more! Now, I should tell you that this project did take some time, as my mom will I'm sure share her version about forcing her to work around the clock, blah blah.

She had all the jewelry making tools and knowledge to make this possible, so I may have suggested that she should stay up with me until 2:30 a.m. helping me clamp off the ends of each of the 10 strands. We started late though as we had to wait until Nolan was asleep, can you imagine trying to do this with a toddler running around...NIGHTMARE! I knew I had to get it done that night or risk having a half done project sitting around for weeks until she could come back up again! So thank you mom for your hard work and determination, it turned out great!