Jewellery News
Jewellery - luxury or necessity?
By definition, a luxury is the opposite of a necessity.
If that's the case... why then was jewellery apparently one of the first things made?
There are a number of explanations;
jewellery -
a) is nearly always made from the most durable materials,
b) is highly valued and so is taken care of, and
c) may be far more important to us than we may realise.
It may be that we find it attractive, rare, or an indicator of status or of a group, but whatever the case, jewellery has meaning and value far beyond that of the object itself.
;-)
Editorial Metropol February 2010
Hans from Metropol came around to my studio and interviewed me for an editorial about my upcoming exhibition Moana Whenua.
Thanks Metropol! ... and thanks for visiting!
Deanna Gracie : - )
Press release Moana Whenua exhibition March 7 - 15 2010
Moana Whenua
A celebration of Aotearoa through creativity
Deanna Gracie invites you to her exhibition of artworks created in beauty and with sheer joy...
Christchurch artist Deanna Gracie brings you Moana Whenua - an exhibition of jewellery and paintings, which express her deep love of Aotearoa - this wonderful land we live in. She has done this by the creating, and now the sharing of her artistry. You are invited to the opening, to be held Tuesday 9th March at Cloisters Gallery, North Quadrangle, The Arts centre of Christchurch from 5:30pm-8:30pm. The artist welcomes one and all to share in a joyful evening of beautiful visual art and jewellery.
For this solo exhibition Deanna has created precious objects by combining gorgeous gemstones, sleek silver, glistening gold, richly coloured indigo blue titanium and subtly patinated copper, finished with soft textures and tactile surfaces. Exhibited alongside these will be beautifully detailed paintings that reflect elements of her jewellery designs, all of which are alive with the colour and movement of nature.
Deanna creates her precious objects in a small studio-workshop in her garden, quite near to the sea at Southshore Christchurch. These objects quite often take on the form of a natural organic shape, with lots of texture and colour. "Jewellery making for me is quite a serendipitous process - sometimes I never know how the piece is going to work out until it's finished. I need to hold the materials in my hand as part of the creative process" says Deanna.
Moana Whenua - which is Maori for Ocean Land, is also the exhibition theme. "I like to live near the water so that I can embrace both the land and the sea," she says. Koru designs, feathers and fern shapes are recurring themes in her work, which range from lovely rings, pendants, bracelets, brooches and earrings to the exquisitely detailed paintings.
"I find joy in the most simple of things; the perfect shape of a ginkgo leaf, the ebb and flow of the tide, patterns left on sand by wind and rain, the gentle call of a gull as it soars in the air. These experiences fill my soul to overflowing and I race to my studio to start the next piece."
Deanna will be available at Cloisters Gallery every day from 10am to 5pm to discuss her work with visitors to the exhibition
Opening: Friday 9th March 5:30pm - 8:30pm
When: 7th March - 15th March, Open daily 10.00am - 5.00pm
Venue: Cloisters gallery, North Quad, The Arts Centre of Christchurch
"Made from my heart and by my hand no two pieces of jewellery can ever be exactly the same." Deanna Gracie
Moana Whenua Exhibition 7-15 March 2010
I've just finished creating the poster and invitation to the exhibition!
Next job is write a press release - which I will need to do really soon - I'll keep you posted : - )
Thanks for visiting - Deanna X
Sneak Preview of Moana Whenua Exhibition March 2010
Moana Whenua - an exhibition of contemporary jewellery and artworks by Deanna Gracie
Although I have been working towards this exhibition for over a year now - the past few months have meant long days and very hard work as I have been totally focussed on creating work for my upcoming solo exhibition Moana Whenua.
Moana Whenua will run from March 7th - 15th 2010 at Cloisters Gallery in the North Quad of the Arts Centre of Christchurch, New Zealand. I will available each day to discuss my work with visitors to the exhibition. I am quite excited, as this will be the very first time both my jewellery and paintings will have been exhibited together. Moana meaning ocean and whenua meaning land celebrate my deep love of this amazing land called Aotearoa - the place where I live. More details to follow.
Thanks for visiting!
Deanna Gracie : - )
Solo Exhibition - March 2010
In between making special commissions I have also been working hard towards my solo exhibition in March! I have lots of wonderful pieces in mind and so I thought I'd give you a sneak preview of some rings I have finished : - ) These three scrummy "New Beginnings"rings in this textured ring stack are some of the jewellery I will have on display during the nine days. The exhibition will run from the 7th - 15th March inclusive at Cloisters gallery in the North Quad at the Arts Centre of Christchurch. More details will follow closer to the time. The rings in the ring stack are created with sterling silver and red gold. The exhibition is inspired by the beauty of natural New Zealand.
Proudly made from my heart and with my hands in Aotearoa - Land of the Long White Cloud : - )
Thanks for visiting! Deanna Gracie
Pegasus Bay News article...
Thanks Robin from Pegasus Bay news : - )
Metropol Editorial November 2009
An editorial in the latest issue of Metropol - thanks Metropol
: - ) It's a great magazine and you can now read it online
Metropol
Thanks for visiting! - Deanna Gracie
Featured Jewellery Design #46 - Aotearoa Aroha pendant
.beautiful .natural .unique contemporary jewellery by Deanna Gracie
I wrote a poem illustrating some of the thoughts behind my "Into the Blue Nowhere" jewellery series.
Aotearoa - Aroha Pendant #11 from this series is created from sterling silver, 9ct gold, monel and garnet. I collected the feather from the beach here in Southshore and incorporated it into the design of this pendant. Perhaps the gull I mentioned in the poem left it behind on his journey into the blue nowhere?
All my jewellery is proudly designed and created by myself here in Aotearoa - New Zealand. Made from my heart and with my hand, no two pieces of jewellery can ever be exactly the same.
Into the Blue Nowhere
It's a red sky sunrise!
High above the beach
a gull glides,
then soars,
and slowly disappears.
Out of the blue nowhere
I hear a faint haunting call,
then nothing but silence.
Waves reach high,
they hover,
then tip forwards
and gently fold over.
One floats towards me
as if in welcome.
It recedes and merges,
and disappears,
just like the gull,
into the blue nowhere...
Deanna Gracie ©
Commissioned rings - Featured Jewellery Design #39
Instead of a featured jewellery design I thought I would show a selection of rings - so here are a few examples of special ring commissions I have made for clients over the past year. Some are wedding and engagement rings, some are commitment rings and some are birthday gifts - but all are tokens and expressions of love or friendship. These rings have all been hand made by me in precious metals and have been sent all over the world including France, America and England!
Thanks for visiting! - Deanna Gracie
To view more rings by Deanna Gracie click here
Secure Shopping added to website...
Paymate secure shopping has now been added to the Deanna Gracie Contemporary Jewellery website : - ) Bespoke jewellery is also still available. Contact me to discuss having a special piece made at info@Deanna.co.nz
Here is a link to the information page on how to order. Please also note the FAQ information below
: - ) Ordering Information
My Blog Link
Here is a link to my blog site - which includes jewellery, new designs, photography, techniques and exhibitions. Please feel free to leave comments there! I appreciate your feedback : - )
Click here to go to Deanna Gracie's blog
FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions
Can I purchase through your website?Yes you can purchase most items through Paymate secure shopping from my website. Here is a link to the ordering information page Ordering InformationDo you ship overseas?Yes I do ship overseas. I can give you the shipping cost when you order your piece.
How do I know how much it will cost in my currency?It's very easy to work out - here's today's exchange rate: Today's exchange rate and currency converterIf I want to purchase a ring how do I work out my finger size?A commercial jeweller can measure your finger - this is a courtesy service and is usually free. Because most of my ring designs are quite wide - you will need to get your finger sized using the wide ring sizing rings. This system is used world wide. Do you make to order?Yes I do commission work. Because I hand fabricate - I can adapt my existing designs to a different size, shape or change to a different gemstone etc... Do you mass produce your jewellery?No I don't mass produce! Every item I make is hand fabricated and originates from either sheet metal or wire. I can repeat a design but because it is hand made no two are exactly alike : -) Do you guarantee your jewellery?Yes I guarantee and stand behind all my work 100% and I have a policy that any of my jewellery sold via the internet is able to be exchanged for another item of equal value provided that the jewellery is returned safely and in its original condition. How do I care for my precious jewellery?With a little care your jewellery can last a lifetime. Please store each item separately to prevent scratching. Avoid harsh abrasives! To clean - wipe gently with a very soft silver cleaning cloth.
Where can you find my jewellery....
You may like to visit this retail store to see my jewellery close up, take it out of the cabinet and try it on : - )
ConneXion - Contemporary Jewellery Artists, Upstairs Gallery 27, The Arts Centre, Worcester Boulevard, Christchurch, New Zealand. This gallery is run as a co operative and I have been one of the contributing artists since 1995. You will find me there one day each week. I meet fascinating people from all over the world who admire my designs and end up taking a special piece of jewellery home with them, often as a memento of their trip! I have a large body of work on display at ConneXion - part of it is pictured here. : - )
If you would like to find out how to order any of my designs through this website click on the image you like and an email message will be sent direct to me!
: - ) To view more jewellery by Deanna Gracie click here
New display cabinet in my studio...
A couple of months ago I had a big clean out of my studio, repainted the walls and have now installed the gorgeous new display cabinet. I love the way shiny perspex and glass sparkle and of course we can't forget the sparkle from the jewellery inside : - ) I've also managed to source some beautiful perspex display props for a special pendant or two - so when the sun is shining I'll take an image of those to show you. In the meantime here is the image of the sparkly jewellery!
Thanks for visiting!
Wedding bands for a lovely couple....
Kirsty and Jason kindly sent me this photograph of the wedding bands I made for them recently. It's wonderful to have this image of them wearing their rings on their special day!
Thanks Kirsty and Jason : - )
Testimonials
The following are some of the comments I have received from clients. Ben, Auckland, New ZealandHi Deanna, A very belated thank you for the necklace you sent up in January for my wife, she absolutely loves it and many of her friends have commented on it. Really unusual, and striking. Thanks again. Ben Kate and Lyn, Bay of Plenty, New ZealandDear Deanna, We were very excited about getting the parcel and the contents certainly didn't disappoint - to say we are delighted with them is an understatement. We are absolutely over the moon. They fit very well and look so fantastic on. Although they are the same design I like that they are slightly different, showing they are hand-made. We have been emailing and sending pictures all this time but we had forgotten how beautiful they are. Very styley, and very special. Your service is really friendly and incredibly fast! Kate, EnglandHi Deanna - just to let you know, I'm the delighted wearer of my new Ocean
Blue bracelet... The bracelet is absolutely lovely - I'm trying to decide whether to wear it with my Extraordinary Interplanetary one or separate - ah, decisions,decisions!
thank you once again - with very best wishes Kate
Andy, AustraliaPendant delivered and Mrs B is delighted with it! Well done. Regards Andy Stephen, AustraliaDear Deanna, Just collected the mail and there was the beautiful ring you made for me. It is just magnificent!! And a perfect fit too. I am looking forward to showing my friends such a beautifully crafted piece of jewellery.
Thank you so much Deanna. Now to persuade Colin that he needs a ring by Deanna Gracie on his finger too!....... But that shouldn't be too difficult. Looking forward to seeing you again on our next trip to your wonderful country. Sincerest regards, Stephen Julie, AmericaHi, Deanna: The extraordinary bracelet has arrived. And it's perfectly named. I love the contrast of the metals and the stones are wonderful.
Now I'll have to return so that we can do another project without so many kilometers in the way. Many thanks. If you have an email list, please put me on it. I'd hate to lose track of your studio.
Take care ----------Julie Neil and Pat, AustraliaThe pendant turned up yesterday. It's quite beautiful. Very representative
of Antarctica!! Pat's very very happy.
Thanks again for your help. May get in touch one day in future. I'll keep
your card etc. Ian and Sheila,
EnglandWell Deanna you have excelled yourself. The ring is the prettiest I've ever seen. It fits perfectly and reflects our feelings. The way you reflect New Zealand in your work is outstanding and we shall be forever grateful to you. The brooch is just wonderful. Its better than I remembered and makes me think of walks and flying in the high country of Otago. Claire, Auckland, New ZealandThanks so much, it is so comfy and sooooooooo beautiful - even much better than the photo. You are a star!
Wedding Bands...
I design and create wedding or commitment bands for that special day : - ) It's fantastic being able to discuss different ring ideas with clients to get something that is unique and special to them! Pictured is a pair of rings I have recently finished. They are created in stg silver and red gold and both have been imprinted inside with a special message.
To view more rings by Deanna Gracie click here
My Studio
This is my little piece of paradise.....my space to create.....I feel very blessed to be doing something I really love!
Wedding Rings for another happy couple...
A lovely couple from Germany sent me this image of them wearing the wedding bands I made for them : - ) Thanks Stefan and Denise
Koru Inspiration...
We visited a New Zealand native tree nursery on Banks peninsula in order to find a ponga tree fern to plant in our garden. This lovely nursery has every type of fern you could imagine in the fern house and I was delighted to see so many tree ferns bursting with the new growth of Spring : - ) The new growth of a fern makes a wonderful curving spiral shape as it opens and is the inspiration behind many of my koru designed jewellery. I took lots of images of the different colours and textures from the different species of tree fern and of the gorgeous koru shapes in particular. The large tree fern in the montage is the silver fern - our national symbol : - )
Pongas and korus by Deanna Gracie ©
Thanks for visiting!
Featured jewellery design #45
A year ago a traveller called in to my exhibition at the Arts Centre and had a fantastic selection of beads to show me. Although beautiful I couldn't really see anything I wanted, as I don't really feature beads in any of my jewellery designs so I said thanks but no thanks. Then he showed me his selection of ancient glass beads from Afghanistan. I loved the subtle colour range, the imperfections, the matt finish and the 'ancient' feel of them. He said they had originally been used as anklets. I couldn't resist them so bought some strands and since then I have held these beads in my hands, run my fingers over them and admired the colours many times over the last year but couldn't think of a way to use them. I wanted the beauty of the beads to shine through and not be overpowered by anything else. I finally came up with a solution and here is the finished result. I have used sterling silver in between the beads and kept the silver matt and I've also oxidised (blackened) some pieces for contrast. I have created five strands all together and have called them "Earth and Sky".
"Earth and Sky" by Deanna Gracie - hand made necklaces created with sterling silver and ancient beads ©
Thanks for visiting : - )
Featured jewellery design #44
I have just finished these cute little koru stud earrings.
I chose to incorporate this gorgeous subtle texture into this design and as always they are hand made - in this case in very solid sterling silver. I love the beauty inherent in all things hand made - the tiny imperfections, the hint of tool marks...and isn't it great to know your piece is the only one exactly like it in the world. I love being an artist - to choose which finish, texture, colour or metal to use in my designs. There are no mass produced castings to ever come out of my studio! Each piece of jewellery I create, I guarantee has been created with labour and love - both of these in equal quantities : - ) Koru stud Earrings by Deanna Gracie ©
Thanks for visiting : - )
Featured jewellery design #43
Golden korus...butterfly wings...pounamu stone...passion and love...worn with pride...a treasured taonga....Deanna Gracie
My artist friend requested me to make a butterfly pendant for her as a commission. She paints beautiful butterflies and loves the symbolism behind them. So we got together, discussed some ideas and then she left it up to me to make something for her and this is the finished result. "Flying Free" pendant for Donna is inspired by nature and made by hand in sterling silver, 18ct gold and is embellished with a New Zealand pounamu greenstone. Donna loves the idea of butterflies symbolising freedom of flight. "In life it is your choice to be whoever you want to be and you can if you take a chance to fly and live your life with passion!" Deanna Gracie
There are many other symbolisms associated with butterflies. For example in China, butterflies are deemed as symbols for beauty in old age when linked with plum blossoms. The Japanese regards butterflies as symbols of one's soul, whereas two butterflies flying together are symbolic of a happy marriage. Ancient Aztecs believed butterflies to be the souls of warriors slain in battles, and that their fluttering wings were symbolic of energy and it is also no secret that from ancient days the butterfly has symbolized immortality.
Thanks for visiting!
Deanna Gracie
Bay Harbour News Article....September 2009
Samantha Carstens a reporter from Bay Harbour News came to my studio last week for an interview : - ) Samantha has written a lovely article about my work and also captured a nice image of me (I'm not photogenic) down by the estuary on a very windy day! Like most artists I'm used to making beautiful things - but I'm not so used to talking about them : - ) Thanks for visiting!
Deanna Gracie
Featured jewellery design #42
Featured jewellery design #42 is a bracelet cuff from my 'Over Land and Sea' series. This solid sterling cuff, inspired by nature and crafted by hand is imprinted with a beautiful feather design. The feather was collected from Southshore beach on one of my daily walks and the cuff is also embellished with a cluster of amethyst cabochons set in sterling and red gold :- )
Just like the migrating birds who inspired this piece and visit Southshore each year from the other side of the world - it will also soon be winging it's way on a return journey across the world as a gift to my very dear friend: -) Thanks for visiting!
- Deanna Gracie
Featured jewellery design #41
with another ring to show you..... ; - )
I'm still making lots of wedding and engagement rings at the moment so love is definitely in the air and all around us.... This one though is a little different in that I don't tend to use facetted stones much in any of the jewellery I create, as I feel my natural designs suit the more simple smoother gemstones called cabochons. So I must admit I was a little hesitant when I client asked me to make her one of my sterling silver and yellow gold koru rings as an engagement ring and set it with a diamond instead : - )
But the client was absolutely right with this one as the koru ring looks just gorgeous with the sparkly diamond and it really suited her beautifully manicured hands : - )
Thanks for visiting!
Deanna Gracie To view more rings by Deanna Gracie click here
Three rings - Featured Jewellery Design #40
Ringstack with gemstones....
More ring images! I seem to be making lots of ring commissions at the moment - more than I ever have before. I think love is in the air...Anyway I've been working on these three rings (in between commissions) off and on for more than six months! Because I do everything myself from the original design itself to the end result - I often wonder where did the time go? Of course commissions or special requests always take top priority! These three semi-textured rings - inspired by the ocean are made from solid sterling silver, and 18ct gold. The gemstones are topaz (top ring) and tourmaline (bottom two rings). Thanks for visiting! - Deanna To view more rings by Deanna Gracie click here
Shape exhibition - August 2009
Christchurch artist Deanna Gracie has four new jewellery designs celebrating the beauty of her natural surroundings on display in the 'Shape' exhibition at ConneXion Gallery, Upstairs Shop 27 at The Arts Centre of Christchurch during August. "From the River to the Sea" series is rich in colour and texture and is inspired by the meeting of the waterways and tributaries of Christchurch. These waterways eventually all meet at the mouth of the estuary and disperse into the mighty Pacific Ocean. The ocean defines and shapes who we are - we are Islanders surrounded by water in this beautiful land called Aotearoa. "From the River to the Sea" pendant is inspired by nature and crafted by hand from sterling silver, 18ct, 9ct gold and titanium. "From the River to the Sea pendant" has been sold.
Thanks for visiting : - ) To view more pendants by Deanna Gracie click here
Landscape Rings....Featured Jewellery Design #38
It was fantastic to get back into my studio after having to spend time in bed ill with the Winter flu! Although I did enjoy catching up on some reading once I started to feel a bit better - I always miss my time at the bench and it was like slipping into a comfy pair of slippers once I ventured out into my studio again :-)
I have now finished a textured landscape ring design I've been working on
(I should actually say rings as there are two of them).
The wide ring is one piece and the textured silver part is another ring - it is quite narrow! I thought it would be fun to have the option of wearing the ring one way or another with the narrow textured silver part or without! A bit of playfulness in a design can only be a good thing :-) Textured Landscape Ring design (Two Rings) is made from sterling silver and 9ct red and yellow gold. Made from my heart and with my hands - no two rings can ever be exactly the same : - )
Thanks for Visiting!
Deanna Gracie : - )
Colouring The Winter painting workshop.....
I spent three days recently exploring colour at a winter painting workshop at Canterbury University with tutor Joanna MacKenzie. Wow what a fun time my new found friends and I had finding out which colours we loved, which ones worked well together, which ones came alive when placed next to another and which ones went muddy when mixed with the wrong colour! What joy to just play with no expectations on completing a finished artwork. I had some calico at home, so on the last day I ended up painting three
large pieces - one in red tones, one in yellow and one in dark blue! Laying them on the floor and making large sweeping stokes with a HUGE brush was a first for me! But surprise, surprise I was actually pretty happy with the results when I got them home and away from the fluorescent lights of the art room : - ) Thanks Joanna - I had a great time!
Mosaic of Shapes and Colours...
This visual mosaic of my jewellery designs was created by a lovely lady in Denmark and posted on her blog my2008blog it was interesting to see the different shapes and colours she chose as part to be part of the mosaic. Thanks Birgitte!
Featured jewellery design #37
Three Landscape Bracelets (detail) by Deanna GracieMy favourite part of making jewellery is the end result! I love putting the finishing touches to each piece I make and it's a fantastic feeling if I'm really happy with the outcome : - ) Hand made jewellery is very labour intensive and I can be working on some pieces for a long time. This has been the case with these three landscape bracelet designs. I've finally finished them and I'm really happy with the way they all turned out! On each bracelet, every component is cut out by hand and then using layering techniques, I solder different metals to create a different "scene" from nature to each one. Some "scenes" are quite representational and some more imagined. A Carpenters song inspires the smallest bracelet and I've named it "Extraordinary Interplanetary Bracelet". It's fun to imagine what textures and colours you'd see if you were floating far above the world.....
Extraordinary Interplanetary Bracelet is available for sale using Paymate secure shopping. To view the materials used and dimension details click here
Thanks for visiting!
To view more bracelets by Deanna Gracie click here
Featured jewellery design #36
Another piece from my Pathways to Aroha series.....
This series explores the idea that there are infinite ways to reach out to offer and receive love. To smile...to be the kindest of souls...to listen...to be there...the smallest gesture can make a difference to another persons day or life : - ) Imagine what the world would be like if we always followed the path of love and forgiveness : - )
'Pathways to Aroha' ring consists of sterling silver, red and yellow gold and an iolite gemstone. Made from my heart and by my hand - no two pieces of jewellery can ever be exactly the same. Deanna Gracie : - ) Thanks for visiting! To view more rings by Deanna Gracie click here
Jewellery with Heart on display in Christchurch during September....
Evocative, heartfelt designs from Deanna Gracie's "Pathways to Aroha" series are on display in the 'Heart' exhibition at ConneXion Gallery during the month of September.
Overlapping pathways have been imprinted onto a solid, sterling silver organic heart shape in Deanna Gracie's featured pendant. These pathways lead to a sparkling labradorite gemstone. A delicate golden koru nestles alongside a finely pierced fern form. These pieces depict, in an abstract way, how living in the moment and embracing small, special wonders found in the natural world can lead to a heart filled with aroha and joy. Deanna believes, if we enrich our own souls we are then able to enrich another person's life.
It's a cold frosty morning. I like the sound my boots make as I crunch through the ice. The mountains loom huge and white in the far distance, standing like a spectre against the bright blue of the sky. The sea makes a soft whish, whish, whish as it laps against the shore. The kingfisher sits still and silent in his cloak of many colours. My heart sings with Aroha....Deanna Gracie
Deanna Gracie is an artisan jeweller living and working in Southshore, Christchurch. Passionate about keeping an age-old tradition alive, her unique, hand crafted contemporary jewellery is inspired by nature and crafted by hand using time-honoured techniques.
The 'Heart' exhibition can be viewed at ConneXion Gallery, upstairs in Shop 27, daily from 10am - 5pm at the Arts Centre of Christchurch. Open 7 days. We hope to see you there.
Thanks for visiting : - ) To view more pendants by Deanna Gracie click here
Featured Jewellery Design #34
Crisp morning air...I walk fast to warm the chill from my bones then breathe in deep and fill my lungs with Autumn...Deanna Gracie
Although I don't have much time - I do love gardening! Autumn is a great time of year to pull out any weeds and trim back plants and bushes to have the garden looking nice before winter. I love the idea of tiny self sown seeds lying buried in the soil waiting to germinate and the idea of the garden resting over winter ready to burst forth in lush new growth when Spring comes around again
: -) "Regeneration earrings" are my response to the magic of nature. Inspired by nature and crafted by hand in sterling silver, titanium and 18ct gold. 'Regeneration Earrings' are for sale and can be purchased through the secure shopping site Paymate.
To view the ordering information for these earrings by Deanna Gracie click here
Thanks for visiting : - ) To view more earrings by Deanna Gracie click here
Featured Jewellery Design #33
I adore using texture and colour in the jewellery I create. With 'Regeneration Pendant #3' I was able to create a lovely contrast with softly textured silver set against the hints of colour from the deep blue titanium appearing through in places. I then added another dimension to the piece with a beautiful Australian opal set in red gold sitting next to a tiny fallen leaf. Although the image doesn't show this very well - the opal has beautiful rainbow colours running through it.
'Regeneration Pendant #3' by Deanna Gracie is inspired by nature and crafted by hand in sterling silver, 18ct yellow gold, 9ct red gold and opal. It is quite a large piece at 63mm x 26mm and hangs horizontally across the body on a 45cm sterling silver omega chain (not pictured). 'Regeneration pendant #3' is for sale and can be purchased through the secure shopping site Paymate.
Thanks for visiting!
To view more pendants by Deanna Gracie click here
What does Koru mean?
As a jewellery artist I use the koru design a lot in my work which can represent both ocean waves and new beginnings, inspired by the unfurling of the new growth of a fern frond - so thought you might be interested in this definition I found of the word koru. The word koru is defined in Williams Dictionary of the Maori Language as an adjective meaning 'folded, coiled, looped'. As a noun, the word means 'a bulbed motif or scroll painting' A popular explanation of the koru is that it represents the unfolding of a tree fern frond, as seen in the uncurling corm with its rolled-up inner leaflets. The koru also resembles a curling wave.
Symbolically the koru means new beginnings, harmony, growth and life.
Maybe you can now understand why I love to incorporate this wonderful symbol in nearly every piece of jewellery I create : - )
Featured Jewellery Design #32
This landscape bracelet is another commission piece I created for a wonderful friend recently. This was a gift to her, from her family to celebrate a milestone birthday. I incorporated some of the things she loves including the tiny butterfly, mountains, trees, birds and water. I also kept to her favourite colour palette - the wonderful hues of Autumn!
: - ) Made from my heart and by my hand - no two bracelets can ever be exactly the same : - )
Landscape Bracelet by Deanna Gracie is handmade in sterling silver, red and yellow gold, shibuichi, (an alloy of copper and silver) and the gemstones are peridot, citrine and tourmaline. You can contact me about having your very own bracelet made or any other item of jewellery on this website by email info@Deanna.co.nz To view more bracelets by Deanna Gracie click hereThanks for visiting : - )
Featured Jewellery Design #31
This 'Aotearoa Aroha' wide band ring is reminiscent of everything I love about living here in New Zealand. It's made from sterling silver, red and yellow gold and green tourmaline. Summer to me means pohutukawa in full bloom, the gentle lap of the ocean,
the horizon in the distance, stretching for miles with nothing to see except the deep green liquid colour of the sea. All the jewellery I create are my own unique designs and are all made by hand. This ring is available in Size S only - through Paymate a secure online shopping feature.
To view more rings by Deanna Gracie click here
Awaken - Jewellery Exhibition - April 2009
The warm tones of red and yellow gold, sensual silver and sparkling crystal are combined to create this charming koru ring by Deanna Gracie - one of her latest designs on display at ConneXion Gallery in the Awaken exhibition. These four elegant designs are beautifully showcased in small hand made boxes. The exhibition will run during April, upstairs in Shop 27 at the Arts Centre of Christchurch. To view more rings by Deanna Gracie click here
Featured Jewellery Design #30
Something a little different this week!I love adding random text occasionally to my jewellery - sometimes hidden and sometimes visible. Visually appealing and also very tactile - it adds another textural dimension to my work. The written word is such a wonderful and powerful tool! What joy to curl up with a good book or listen to stories on my tape deck as I work: - )
'Cross pendant' by Deanna Gracie was a special commission for a client - so has been sold. It is made of stg silver, red gold and garnet. Made from my heart and by my hand no two pieces of jewellery can ever be exactly the same : - )
Thanks for visiting!
To view more pendants by Deanna Gracie click here
Featured Jewellery Design #29
I seem to be focusing on making hearts, leaves and koru designs at the moment! I'm creating lots of wonderful pieces around the theme of peace, harmony, new beginnings and love : - ) Making these pieces is a constant reminder of how very blessed I am to be following my dream!
This Aroha ring is one of these new designs. The band of satin textured sterling silver features a glistening crystal gemstone set in red gold on top of the tiny heart : - ) Made from my heart and by my hand - no two rings can ever be exactly the same. Thanks for visiting : - )
To view more rings by Deanna Gracie click here
Featured Jewellery Design #28
Engagement rings for men are becoming more popular! I designed and created these "Horizion Line rings" for a lovely couple recently.
They wanted something a little different to the norm that incorporated a garnet gemstone, some texture and copper. The ring on the bottom is his - a Size W and looked great on his finger. The line of copper impressed into the band complemented his skin tone and brought a warmth to the silver. : - )
Thanks for visiting! To view more rings by Deanna Gracie click here
Featured Jewellery Design #27
This is another commission piece - a pair of koru stud earrings. I made some koru wedding bands for a wonderful couple last year and he wanted to surprise his wife with some earrings for their 1st wedding anniversary - using the same colours of red gold and silver I had used in both their wedding bands! These earrings are the result : - ) It is such a joy creating special pieces for special moments in peoples lives. Koru stud earrings by Deanna Gracie - Made from the heart and by the hand - no two pieces of jewellery can ever be exactly the same. Thanks for visiting : - ) To view more earrings by Deanna Gracie click here
Featured Jewellery Design #26
I have just finished these funky new 'Aotearoa/Aroha' rings and they are now on display in a gallery here in Christchurch. The three hand made rings in the stack are made from sterling silver, 9ct red gold and 18ct yellow gold. The fern design represents peace, harmony and new beginnings.
I am an artisan jeweller living and working in Christchurch, New Zealand - designing and creating hand crafted contemporary jewellery using age old techniques.
Thanks for visiting! To view more rings by Deanna Gracie click here
Footprint - new jewellery exhibition March 2009
I have been very busy and will have four brand new designs on show in Christchurch during March. Here's the press release for Footprint : - )
'Footprint' highlights four lovely new designs made by Christchurch jewellery artist Deanna Gracie. Silver jewellery with delicate feathery imprints, embellished with gorgeous gemstones and golden korus feature in this latest group exhibition at ConneXion Gallery. These striking designs from Deanna's 'Aotearoa, Aroha' series celebrate her deep love of the land, sea and most especially her home in Southshore.
Deanna is inspired by simple pleasures found in nature during her daily walks along the beach and estuary. These experiences are then translated into beautiful and unique pieces of contemporaryjewellery.
"Bare feet, soft sand, scorching summer sun, gentle lap, lap, lap of cold water. The haunting call of a gull, cool ocean breeze. I am home..." Deanna Gracie
'Footprint' will be showcased at 10.00am on the 1st of March at ConneXion Gallery.'Footprint' will then run for one month until the 31st March. ConneXion Gallery is open daily from 10am - 5pm. Image as pictured 'Aotearoa,Aroha' pendant consisting of sterling silver, 9ct gold and blue moonstone.
Featured jewellery design #25
Here is a pendant I designed and created for a wonderful lady from Germany. I met her during my solo exhibition in November : - )This pendant was a special gift from her - to her daughter reminiscent of their fantastic holiday in New Zealand. She wanted the pendant to include some New Zealand jade - pounamu, a ginkgo leaf, a fern design and the richness of the blue titanium :- )
travelling this land of Aotearoa collecting shells and memories along the way....having a lovely time together in their little campervan....Deanna Gracie Thanks for visiting! To view more pendants by Deanna Gracie click here
Featured jewellery design #24
I designed and created this landscape necklace for some lovely friends in England. It was a year in the making as she wanted to see different coloured stone combinations 'in the flesh' before it was finished. She decided on the gorgeous purply/blue iolite stones pictured. They came over to New Zealand on holiday and collected it this month and it will be presented to her soon as a special anniversary gift from her husband: - )
Landscape chain by Deanna Gracie consists of sterling silver, iolite, 18ct yellow gold, 9ct red gold and shibuichi (an alloy of copper and silver)
Thanks for visiting! To view more pendants by Deanna Gracie click here
Fresh - new jewellery Feb 09
This is the poster and press release for
'Fresh' - new jewellery exhibition
February 1- 28
Stunning contemporary jewellery can be seen at ConneXion Gallery, upstairs at the Arts Centre in Christchurch, New Zealand during February. 'Fresh' combines the work of six jewellery artists and highlights four lovely new designs made by Deanna Gracie.
Deanna designs and creates her naturally New Zealand inspired jewellery from her home studio in the beautiful beachside suburb of Southshore, Christchurch.
Delicate flower and leaf forms pierced from softly textured silver are set against vibrantly coloured, indigo blue titanium. Made from her heart and with her hand, Deanna's 'Regeneration' pieces are inspired by the freshness of new beginnings and how magical things found in nature can keep life in perspective.
"A mighty tree casts cool shadows against the clear blue sky.
Vibrant colours create joy in the silent garden.
A bird bursts into song.
My spirit soars..... "
Deanna Gracie
Featured Jewellery Design #23
These stud earrings are a commission I made for an Australian client who visited my Aoteroa/Aroha exhibition in November. During the exhibition she purchased the pendant I used as the image for the publicity posters and wanted a pair of earrings in the same vein. These cute little earrings are made from stg silver, copper and amethyst To view more earrings by Deanna Gracie click here
Aotearoa/Aroha exhibition
After many hours of very hard work and sleepless nights, it's all set up and ready to go! Aotearoa/Aroha exhibition is now being extended until Sunday November 16th in Cloisters gallery, North Quad, The Arts Centre of Christchurch. If you can make it - I'd love to see you there!
Deanna : - )
Aotearoa/Aroha - an exhibition of contemporary jewellery
Here is the press release and poster for my solo exhibition in Christchurch in November
Aotearoa/Aroha
an exhibition of contemporary jewellery by Deanna Gracie
3rd - 9th November
BEAUTIFUL, NATURAL AND UNIQUE PIECES OF WEARABLE ART ON SHOW IN CLOISTERS GALLERY AT THE ARTS CENTRE OF CHRISTCHURCH
Precious objects created with gorgeous gemstones, sleek silver, glistening gold, richly coloured indigo blue titanium - combined with softly textured finishes and tactile surfaces feature in this solo exhibition by Deanna Gracie.
Deanna designs and creates her naturally New Zealand inspired contemporary jewellery from her home studio in the very beautiful and inspiring beachside suburb of Southshore, Christchurch. Made from her heart and with her hand no two pieces of jewellery are
ever exactly the same.
"I find joy in the most simple of things; the perfect shape of a ginkgo leaf, the ebb and flow of the tide, patterns left on sand by wind and rain, the gentle call of a gull as it soars in the air. These experiences fill my soul to overflowing and I race to my studio to start the next piece," says Deanna.
On the 3rd of November at 10.00am,'Aotearoa/Aroha' will be showcased at Cloisters Gallery, in the North Quad at the Arts Centre of Christchurch and will then run for one week only until the 9th November. Open daily 10am - 5pm.
Featured Jewellery Design #22
I design and create jewellery for men too! My featured item this week is a tiepin made from sterling silver which has been oxidised and mokume-gane - an alloy of sterling silver and copper layers. This intriguing and labour intensive technique was invented by the Japanese. The random patterns produced from revealing the different layers depict the flow of water beautifully l I feel : - ) Entitled 'River and Shore' this tiepin is inspired by nature and is for sale for NZ$245+P&P : - ) This original and unique design is hand made by me in my studio here in Christchurch, New Zealand. Made by heart and hand no two pieces of jewellery are ever exactly the same : - )
Thanks for visiting!
Featured Jewellery Design #21
My featured design this week is 'Ocean and Land' bracelet. The bracelets I create are all made by hand, by me, in my studio in Christchurch, New Zealand - from start to finish using layering techniques to create a tactile 3D effect. I find myself subconsciously running my fingers over the contours of each piece whenever I wear my bracelet - perhaps as a form of meditation - who knows? Each component on the bracelets I create is different and is inspired by the colours and textures of the land and sea. Made by my heart and my hand no two bracelets are ever exactly the same. You can contact me about this bracelet or any other item of jewellery on this website by email d-gracie@ihug.co.nz To view more bracelets by Deanna Gracie click here
In Perspective New Jewellery Exhibition Oct 08
Leaf and flower forms have been delicately pierced from softly textured sterling silver and make a striking contrast against the luminous indigo blue titanium backdrop.
Four lovely new works from Deanna Gracie's "Rebirth" series explore the beauty of Spring, the freshness of new beginnings and how the simple things found in nature can keep life "In Perspective". "Bird song, spring rain, the perfect shape of a ginkgo leaf - these experiences fill my soul to overflowing as I make my way to the studio to start the next piece". Deanna Gracie
October 1st - 31st, 10am - 5pm, Open 7 Days, ConneXion Gallery, Upstairs Shop 27, The Arts Centre,Christchurch, New Zealand Image as pictured "Rebirth" Pendant #4 is made from sterling silver, titanium and 18ct gold : - )
Featured Jewellery Design #20
Whenever I'm working at the Arts Centre in Christchurch I look out the window and see the most glorious sight of a beautiful ginkgo tree. I love to observe this mighty ginkgo tree through each changing season and this wonderful tree inspired these "Rebirth " earrings.
The Ginkgo tree is a phenomenon, an object of veneration, a sacred tree of the East, a symbol of unity of opposites, yin yang by some seen as a symbol of changelessness, possessing miraculous power, bearer of hope and of the immeasurable past, a symbol of love. Made from hand and heart in sterling silver, titanium, 18ct gold and measuring 14mm x 12mm. These earrings are hung from safe earring locking clasps and are for sale for NZ$205+ P&P Thanks for visiting : - ) To view more earrings by Deanna Gracie click here
Featured Jewellery Design #19
I went to a design workshop many years ago and one of the tips the tutor passed on to us to try to free up our drawings and take away the precise and laboured look was to draw an object blind. So I tried this technique with an amazing seed pod I found on one of my walks. I examined the pod, drew it carefully a number of times - then sped up the drawings and when I was confident I knew the pod inside and out I closed my eyes and drew it as I remembered it. This organic heart shape was the result of this technique. I have used my organic heart design many times since - sometimes emphasising the texture of the pod and sometimes not. "Aotearoa/Aroha" pendant #5 is made from softly textured sterling silver and copper and is imprinted with the word AROHA - this word means love in Maori. This pendant is part of the Rapture exhibition at ConneXion Gallery during September.
Thanks for visiting! To view more pendants by Deanna Gracie click here
Featured Jewellery Design #18
"Dawn Light Over Southshore" Pendant consists of sterling silver, titanium, 18ct gold, nickel, garnet. It is another of my layered designs and represents in an abstract way the beautiful colours and impressions of dawn - as the sun begins to rise over the ocean. I love making land and seascape pieces that reflect the beauty of my surroundings : - )
Thanks for visiting! To view more pendants by Deanna Gracie click here
Featured Jewellery Design #17
Spring is here! Morning dew, delicate new leaves unfurl, clear blue sky, bird song in the garden - such a wonderful sound it immediately lifts my spirits. Rebirth bracelet is my response to the wonder of Spring. Made from sterling silver, titanium, 18ct gold, tourmaline, amethyst. It measures 183cm long x 13cm wide and is for sale for NZ$950+P&P You can contact me about this bracelet or any other item of jewellery on this website by email d-gracie@ihug.co.nz To view more bracelets by Deanna Gracie click here
Featured Jewellery Design #16
I've just finished these funky new rings : - ) I'ts great to try out some of the new ideas I've had in the back of my mind for some time. "Aotearoa/Aroha Rings" by Deanna Gracie - sterling silver, 9ct red gold "I find joy in the most simple of things; the perfect shape of a ginkgo leaf, the ebb and flow of the tide, patterns left on sand by wind and rain, the gentle call of a gull as it soars in the air. These experiences fill my soul to overflowing and I race to my studio to start the next piece. "
Featured Jewellery Design #15
These landscape inspired rings combine both my loves of colour and texture and do it in a very spontaneous way. Hand made rings feel solid, special and are very unique. These landsacpe inspired rings have been made by my hand and my heart and because of the way I make them - no two rings can ever be exactly alike. : - )
Image as pictured - Landscape ring stack by Deanna Gracie - sterling silver, gold and gemstones
Rapture - New Jewellery September 2008
September and the arrival of spring brings a brand new exhibition of contemporary jewellery to ConneXion Gallery in Christchurch. Rapture also includes the latest designs by Southshore jewellery artist Deanna Gracie. The recipe for Deanna's Aotearoa/Aroha series was conceived by placing the warmer tones of copper and red gold against the cooler tones of softly textured silver. Deanna combines these coloured metals onto the natural shapes she designs and then finishes each piece by hand, polishing glistening highlights or adding gemstones for contrast. Upstairs Shop 27, The Arts Centre, Christchurch, New Zealand - September 1 - 30
Image as pictured Aotearoa/Aroha Pendant #7 by Deanna Gracie - is made from married metals of sterling silver and copper and is set with a garnet. This pendant hangs on a 45cm stg silver snake chain (not pictured)
and measures 18mmx17mm and is available for sale for NZ$275+P&P
Thanks for visiting and I hope you visit again soon!
To view more pendants by Deanna Gracie click here
Featured Jewellery Design #14
Here is a sneak preview of one of my new jewellery designs for the Joy'ance exhibition in Wellington on the 29th August - you will have to wait for the rest to be revealed at 5.30pm! All the details for this exhibition are below : - ) This organically shaped piece entitled "Rebirth" by Deanna Gracie is made from sterling silver, 18ct gold, titanium and the gemstones are garnet and tourmaline.
re·birth n
1.the regeneration of something that has died or has been destroyed
2.the revival of important ideas or forces, usually as part of broad and significant change
3.the act or process of reincarnation
Featured Jewellery Design #13
These layered earrings are part of a series of designs inspired by the way the rivers and waterways meet up at the estuary and eventually flow into the ocean. In my mind I picture the journey of the water, from snow and ice melting on the mountains, trickling down into the braided rivers of the Canterbury plains and ending up in the mighty Pacific Ocean - an awesome thought. "From the River to the Sea" earrings are inspired by this water flow and are made from sterling silver, titanium and 18ct gold
Thanks for visiting: - ) To view more earrings by Deanna Gracie click here
Deep Jewellery Exhibition August 08...
Four brand new jewellery designs by Southshore artist Deanna Gracie from her "Our Land " series will be revealed in the group exhibition "Deep" during August.
"Deep respect for the awesome beauty of nature inform many of my designs- from the rugged textures of the mountain ranges to the mighty force of the ocean. I don't seek to replicate nature - merely salute it! Deanna Gracie
Pictured is "Our Land" Pendant #1 - sterling silver, nickle, 18ct gold, titanium, and topaz. This pendant alongside three other designs will be on show at ConneXion Gallery from August 1st - 31st at the Arts Centre, Christchurch, upstairs Shop 27
Featured Jewellery Design #11
Koru ring with pearl - I love the way the pearl picks up the colours from the red gold koru design and red gold setting in this New Zealand inspired I have made this design with other gemstones which look lovely too. Made from hand and heart no two pieces are ever alike. To contact me about this ring my email is d-gracie@ihug.co.nz
Winter Exhibition NZAFA...
Winter Exhibition 08, Academy Galleries, Wellington.
The New Zealand Academy of Fine Arts Winter Exhibition opens on Saturday the 9th of August and runs until Sunday the 31st of August. I will be able to see the exhibition this time as it is on the same time as the joy'ance exhibiton in Featherston Street in the CBD of Wellington city!
The NZAFA Gallery is just a stones throw from our National Gallery Te Papa, along the beautiful Queens Wharf.
I will have three pieces of contemporary jewellery in this exhibition including these Pukekororo earrings made from Sterling silver, titanium and 18ct gold.
Featured Jewellery Design #10
This "Impresssions" ring is inspired by the colours and textures of Summer and from living in Aotearoa. It is a wide ring and consists of sterling silver, yellow and red gold. I'm excited to try out some more pierced designs as I love the effect it gives. So watch this space as I'm working on some brand new designs for the Joy'ance exhibition in Wellington at the end of August! Thanks for visiting
Featured Jewellery Design #9
I decided to feature another pendant this week as I seem to be concentrating on making mainly pendants at the moment. I love the fact you can really make a statement to an otherwise dull outfit by wearing a striking pendant. I know whenever I wear my favourite piece it never fails to get comments! People are really intrigued that they too could dare to be different and wear a unique, one of a kind piece of jewellery to really stand out from the crowd. I celebrate the fact we are all unique individuals with our own personality and style - after all there is no other person in the world who is exactly like us - so why should our jewellery be the same as everyone else? : - )
'Gulls Over Ocean Pendant'by Deanna Gracie is made from sterling silver, 18ct, 9ct gold, titanium and hangs on a 45cm stg silver omega chain (not pictured). I
Thanks for visiting and I hope you visit again soon!
To view more pendants by Deanna Gracie click here
Joy'ance Exhibition
Joy`ance
a celebration of joy through creativity
Wellington visual artists Cassandra Gaisford and Amie McCarron along with Christchurch jewellery artist Deanna Gracie have collaborated to bring you an exhibition of new works that expresses each one's obvious feelings of joy. This they have done through the creating, and now the sharing of their artistry.
Deanna Gracie designs and creates contemporary jewellery from her home studio, in the beach side suburb of Southshore, Christchurch.
"I find joy in the most simple of things; the perfect shape of a ginkgo leaf, the ebb and flow of the tide, patterns left on sand by wind and rain, the gentle call of a gull as it soars in the air. These experiences fill my soul to overflowing and I race to my studio to start the next piece. "
Opening: Friday 29th August, 5:30pm - 7:30pm
When: 30th August - 13th September, 10.30am - 5.30pm
Venue: 128 Featherston St, Wellington
Featured Design #8
Inspired by Memories of a Long Hot Summer....bare feet....hot sand....burning sun....freezing cold....silky water.....drifting....
'From the River to the Sea' Pendant - sterling silver, titanium. gold and shibuichi.
d-gracie@ihug.co.nz To view more pendants by Deanna Gracie click here
Thanks for visiting : - )
Featured Design #7
I have always wondered what it's like to soar above the earth as birds do and just disappear into the blue. I made a whole series of jewellery around this theme entitled 'Into the Blue Nowhere. I feel this to be an analogy of life - who knows where this wonderful journey called life will take us and what is around the corner - exciting times- challenges? This pendant design is one of the pieces from 'Into the Blue Nowhere' and is made from Sterling silver, nickle, titanium and rivetted with 9ct gold rivets. It is a large textured piece at 85mm x 30mm and hangs horizontally across the body. To view more pendants by Deanna Gracie click here
Thanks for visiting : - )
On the Surface - New Jewellery
Four new jewellery designs from Deanna Gracie's ' River and Shore' series will feature in the latest group exhibition at ConneXion Gallery in Christchurch during July. Each piece will include two intriguing textures - one invented by the Japanese called mokume-gane and the other was discovered by chance by Deanna in her studio many years ago. Mokume-gane meaning wood grain metal is made from multiple layers of sterling silver and copper. The hammer effect discovered by Deanna is created from sterling silver sheet and then darkened by a process called patination. The pendant pictured also features a gemstone called labradorite. 'I love the way the light dances across this beautiful stone in such a playful way'. To view more pendants by Deanna Gracie click here
Thanks for visiting : - )
Featured Item #6
'Full Moon' Earrings
When the moon is full it can affect people in very bizarre ways! I know I always have problems sleeping! But I love the way it lights up the night sky : - ) These earrings are inspired by a midnight stroll on the beach on a moonlit night many years ago. I love creating jewellery that evokes a memory of a special time or place : - )
'Full Moon' earrings are made by hand in Christchurch New Zealand. The materials are sterling silver, moonstone and red gold.
Thanks for visiting: - ) To view more earrings by Deanna Gracie click here
Featured Design #5
I love using texture, colour and dimension in my hand made jewellery designs and 'The Sun' pendant is no exception. I had a lot of fun with this piece - especially working out how to make the little gold snake appear life like. 'The Sun' consists of sterling silver, gold, titanium and citrine and measures 55mm x 33mm. I used age old techniques such as hand piercing and rivets to make this contemporary pendant. 'The Sun' is for sale for NZ$425+P&P
Featured Design #4
I chose to feature 'From the River to the Sea' pendant this week. I have created a whole series around this theme and these land and sea designs would have to be one of my favourite series in my landscape jewellery range. This particular piece is quite small at 29mm x 14mm and hangs on a sterling silver snake chain (not pictured). It is made from sterling silver, titanium and gold and is inspired by the way the rivers and waterways end up meeting at the estuary and then eventually flowing into the ocean. Being surrounded by such a vast amount of water from living so near the ocean and estuary inspires so many of my jewellery designs. The ebb and flow of the water feels to me like the heart beat of life.
To view more pendants by Deanna Gracie click hereThanks for visiting my website : - )
Featured Design #3
Mother and Child pendant is hand made in sterling silver and 18ct gold. It has a softly textured finish and measures 41mm x 28mm. Mother and Child hangs on a 45cm stg silver snake chain (not shown)
This penguin pendant has been sold but I could make a similar one.
If you are interested in this piece you can contact me via email at d-gracie@ihug.co.nz To view more pendants by Deanna Gracie click here
Thanks for visiting : - )
Back to Earth Jewellery Exhibition - June 2008
June's group exhibition at ConneXion Gallery includes the latest original jewellery by Christchurch artist Deanna Gracie. These four contemporary hand made jewels from her Artefact series celebrate her deep love of nature. Each unique piece has been gently coaxed to life by Deanna, using subtle colour contrasts and textured finishes including silver, gold, titanium and gemstones. ConneXion Gallery, Upstairs Shop 27, The Arts Centre, Christchurch, New Zealand Artefact Brooch as pictured is hand made in sterling silver,18ct, 9ct gold, monel, titanium, and labradorite. It measures 46mm x 28mm To view more jewellery by Deanna Gracie click here
Featured Design #1
Each week I will feature a piece of jewellery from my range. The first featured design is 'Longing Pendant#2'. This series evolved after a recent trip to Australia when I was pining for home. I wanted to represent in an abstract way these feelings and longings. This pendant is hand fabricated from 925 sterling silver, gilding metal, nickle silver, titanium and 18ct gold rivets. The Size is 50mm x 28mm and is hung on a 45cm stg silver omega chain (not pictured). Although the piece looks simple - it is quite deceiving the amount of work that has gone into it. It covers a range of techniques including finely piercing the gulls out of the silver, marrying the silver with the gilding metal and nickle silver, then finally layering the waves on top by riveting them on. Married metals involves cutting out the mountains and trees from 925 sterling silver sheet, then replacing these cut out shapes with the gilding metal and nickle silver. These replacement metals are then all soldered into the gaps cut out from the sterling silver, filed and sanded back smooth. This piece is available for sale for NZ$395 + P+P You can contact me by email at d-gracie@ihug.co.nz
Ring Commission #1
I have just completed two ring commissions - which are commitment bands for a very special couple. This is the first one made in stg silver, 18ct gold and garnet - quite an organic shape.
Ring Commission #2
This is the second commitment band made in stg silver, 9ct red gold and blue topaz - it was fantastic to make rings that were so unique to this couple and the rings suit them to a tee!
Ashburton Society of Arts Annual Exhbition - June/July 2008
I have been invited by the Ashburton Society of Arts to be one of the guest artists at their 44th Annual exhibition in June. This exhibition is being held at the Ashburton Art Gallery, Baring Square East, Ashburton from the 24th June - 11th July. I will have 12 pieces of contemporary jewellery on display and these will also be available for purchase. If you're in the area then please head on down to the Ashburton Art Gallery to check out this exciting exhibition.
Here is a link to the Ashburton Art Gallery website with more information on the exhibition
Ashburton Art Gallery
Aspects Exhibition - May 2008
I have been invited by Southland Education to be one of the guest artists in an exhibition during the weekend of May 17th and 18th at the WEA building in Invercargill. Opening night is Friday the 16th at 7.30pm. This exhibiton is being held in their brand new gallery space, in the heart of the central business district in Invercargill and is part of Arts Festival Month in Southland. I will have 17 pieces on display and these will also be available for purchase. If you're in the area then please head on down to the WEA to check out this exciting exhibition of diverse works by South Island artists.
Autumn 08 Exhibition - Acadamy Galleries...
I will have three jewellery pieces on display in the Autumn 08 Exhibition at the New Zealand Academy of Fine Arts in Wellington. The Exhibition runs from Saturday 10th May until Sunday 25th May at the Academy Galleries, 1 Queens Wharf, Wellington, New Zealand.
Here is one of the pieces entitled 'Over Land and Sea' Necklet. The materials I have used are 925 stg silver, 9ct red gold and fire opal. It's quite a large semi-domed and textured piece.
Two Small koru Pendants...
These two small koru pendants are hung on stg silver snake chains. I have imprinted one of my koru designs onto the stg silver and then oxidised it to create contrast. These are small but solid! To view more pendants by Deanna Gracie click here
Koru Earring Design
This is a pair of koru earrings with an overlay of copper. I use safe locking clasps on all the earrings I make. These earrings are a very popular design - I have made them in different sizes but because they are hand made no two pairs are ever identical
: - ) To view more earrings by Deanna Gracie click here
Koru Wedding Band with Red Gold
This is a beautiful wedding band I made for a client recently. It's a solid sterling silver ring with a cut out red gold koru overlay. Contrasting red gold against stg silver can bring a warmth to the silver and it suits so many different skin types! The client was thrilled with the ring : - )
To view more rings by Deanna Gracie click here
Flourish - New Jewellery Exhibition - May 2008
Sparkling silver, gleaming gold and stunning gemstones form a luscious contrast of texture and colour in the latest beautiful collection of original jewellery designed and made by Deanna Gracie at her studio in Southshore, Christchurch. These four special pieces will be on show in the Flourish group exhibition during May.
ConneXion Gallery, Upstairs Shop 27, The Arts Centre, Christchurch, New Zealand
image as pictured 'Over Land and Sea Pendant with blue moonstone' Pendant - Stg silver, 9ct gold, blue moonstone and monel.
To view more pendants by Deanna Gracie click here
Flourish - New Jewellery Exhibition - May 2008
This is another of the pendants in the Flourish exhibition.
image as pictured 'Dawn of a New Day' - Stg silver, 9ct gold and rutilated tourmaline. The pendant is double layered and measures 38mm x 29mm on a 45cm stg silver omega. This pendant is for sale for NZ$425 To view more pendants by Deanna Gracie click here
New Pendant Design...
This is my latest pendant design created in sterling Silver, 9ct gold and fire opal. The fire opal is gorgeous and sends out shots of colour when the pendant moves. The quote imprinted around the outside of the pendant reads
"A SECRET IS LIKE A DOVE: WHEN IT LEAVES MY HAND IT TAKES WING" To contact me about this piece or any other items of jewellery email me at d-gracie@ihug.co.nz
Metropol Editorial - April 2008
An editorial in Metropol - Thanks Metropol : - )
Sanctuary Series - New Jewellery
A harmonious blend of subtle colour contrasts and simple forms comprise the latest contemporary jewellery designs by Deanna Gracie on display in the group exhibition 'Home'. These four pendants from her Sanctuary series convey her deep love of home and land as she continues her exploration into the intriguing technique of married metals. The Sanctuary series can be viewed through all of April at ConneXion Gallery in Christchurch. Two of these pendants are available for sale for NZ$295 each
ConneXion Gallery, The Arts Centre, Christchurch, New Zealand
To view more pendants by Deanna Gracie click here
Peace and Harmony....
"There is no noise in the world. There is no peace in the Himalayas. Both are within you" Paramahamsa Satyananda
Gorgeous and unique new amethyst ring
Here is a sterling silver and gold wide band ring I have just finished. The amethyst is set in 18ct gold. This ring really has presence and looks stunning on! Made from the hand and the heart - no two rings are ever exactly alike : - )
To view more rings by Deanna Gracie click here
Press Release - Inscape Exhibition
BEAUTIFUL, ELEGANT AND DISTINCTIVE JEWELLERY ON SHOW IN CHRISTCHURCH
Established Artist, Deanna Gracie, Brings a Refreshingly Different Approach, to an Age Old Craft at ConneXion Gallery in Christchurch.
In this group exhibition, Deanna Gracie reveals her exquisite married metal "scenes in nature " to the jewellery world.
Deanna's 'Longing' series consists of four married metal pendant designs. Married metals involves cutting out shapes from 925 sterling silver sheet, then replacing the cut out shape with a different coloured metal or metals. These metals are then all soldered together, filed and sanded back smooth. "Married metals is a challenging and labour intensive technique, but well worth persevering with, in order to achieve this subtle but very beautiful effect. It really suits my natural, New Zealand inspired designs".
On the 1st of March at 10.00am, Inscape will be showcased at ConneXion Gallery, at the Arts Centre in Christchurch and will then run for the entire month.
Image as pictured - Three Married metal pendants from the Longing Series. 925 sterling silver, gilding, titanium, monel To view more pendants by Deanna Gracie click here
Inscape Exhibition - March 2008
This is the poster for the new INSCAPE exhibition at ConneXion Gallery in March. I am the featured artist and will showcase some of my new married metal designs including the pendant image on the poster entitled 'Longing For Home" To view more jewellery by Deanna Gracie click here
Gorgeous and Unique New Ring Design....
I adore using gemstones and one of my favourite gemstones is tourmaline. These come in a range of different colours and the cabochon style, which is a domed, smooth stone really suits my designs. I have been working on a completely new range of rings recently which are semi-textured and quite wide so they really make a statement! These rings are very popular as they are so unique. The latest of these semi textured rings pictured here has a gorgeous plum coloured tourmaline which looks fantastic on. To view more rings by Deanna Gracie click here
Featured Design #2
Featured design #2 is 'Aotearoa - Aroha' bracelet - which represents my feelings of belonging and love of the land. It is made of sterling silver, 9ct gold, garnet, tourmaline and measures 178mm long x 22mm wide. Each bracelet component has been cut out by hand and then softly textured for a matt finish. Some of the pieces have been imprinted with Aroha which means Love and Aotearoa which means New Zealand in Maori. I have also used the koru and spiral design as imprints and finely pierced out others with a jewellers saw. This piece is available for sale for NZ$950+P&P You can contact me about this piece or any others on the site by email at d-gracie@ihug.co.nz
To view more bracelets by Deanna Gracie click here
Merry Christmas...
Wishing all my friends and clients a safe and happy Christmas....and many, many thanks for all your support during 2009 : - ) Love and best wishes from Deanna X
feeling well again....
Chill morning air creates pinpricks of sensation as it touches my dormant skin. I feel charged with life and stand tall to enjoy the lightness of my tread falling upon the frozen ground....I know I'm on the road to feeling well again as I slowly move forward and meet the day....
Deanna Gracie : - )
Exhibition in Southland - New Zealand...
I have just sent nine of my jewellery designs from the "Pathways to Aroha" series and also two of my latest landscape bracelets to the 36th Annual Mixed Media Art Exhibition in Riversdale. The exhibition runs from 17th - 26th July at the Riversdale Community Centre. Riversdale is situated towards the bottom of the South Island not far from Gore. If you're travelling through Southland and Otago or you live down that way please drop in and support this vibrant and exciting premier art event.
Steam train tiepin
Here is a fun steam train tiepin I finished recently for a client. The tiepin is made from three different metals - stg silver, copper with nickle silver wheels - I made matching cufflinks too : - )
Married Metals Jewellery Technique
Married metalsI had a fantastic time in Australia at a Summer School in January practicing a technique called married metals. This technique involves cutting out shapes from sheet metal (in my case 925 silver) then replacing the cut out shape with a different coloured metal or metals. These metals are then all soldered together, filed and sanded back smooth. It is a really subtle but very beautiful effect. I have just finished one piece I started at the Summer School and it will be featured in ConneXion in the 'Inscape' exhibition in March. Pictured is my first finished piece of married metal entitled 'Longing' by Deanna Gracie. To view more jewellery by Deanna Gracie click here
Designs...
People often ask me how I design my jewellery and the answer is drawing and lots of it!! I am also a collector. I use all my senses wherever I may be and collect these 'impressions' in my memory. Most of my designs are not representational but an impression of something I have seen, felt or remembered. I have always been compelled to pick up that smooth rounded stone, the beautifully preserved Autumn leaf or the finely woven bird nest.... I love taking photographs too especially macro - I like to get really close, magnifying the textures and also to see how something has been created in Nature. All these things combine and make me a designer. I believe everyone has the ability to be creative and find their own voice. I have scanned a page from my design sketch book of some initial loose designs - brainstorming I call it! 'Longing' (see above) was the finished piece from one of these design brainstorming sessions for married metals.
Sea Change Jewellery Exhibition Feb 2008
Tranquil Summer days spent by the seaside is the inspiration behind the four latest jewellery designs by Deanna Gracie. From the indigo blue waves dancing on the shoreline to the glint of the fire opal gleaming in the sky, these evocative contemporary jewels sing out to be worn. The Drifting series consisting of earrings, pendant and a brooch are on display in the Sea Change exhibition at ConneXion Gallery during February.
Image as pictured 'Drifting' Pendant - 925 silver, titanium, 18ct gold, fire opal
Where and When: February 1st - 29th, 10am - 5pm Open 7 Days, ConneXion Gallery, Upstairs Shop 27, The Arts Centre, Christchurch, New Zealand To view more pendants by Deanna Gracie click here
Hard at Work....
This is me hard at work at the Summer School in Australia in January. As well as jewellery making the Summer School covered a wide variety of Craft and Art disciplines including collage, wood turning, puppet making.... It was great to be surrounded by creative people passionate about their chosen field, all in one place at one time to learn, expand their horizons and have fun! I met some wonderful and really clever people there.
Jewellery For Men
People often ask me if I also design jewellery for men and the answer is YES! I design and create rings, cufflinks and tiepins. An example of a pair of landscape cufflinks and a tiepin is pictured. I do make to order also so feel free to contact me if you are interested in discussing any other designs. You can contact me directly through the email link on the About Deanna page Here is a link to the About Deanna page
New Pendant Design from Deanna Gracie's studio
I was inspired to create a new design recently and came up with this pendant entitled 'By the Seaside'. The materials I have used are fused and textured stg silver, titanium with 18ct gold rivets and a shibuichi fish. Shibuichi is an alloy consisting of stg silver and copper. I wanted the piece to 'feel' solid and chunky and really had fun making this whimsical sea inspired pendant : - )
'By the Seaside' is available for sale for NZ$395 and includes a 45cm stg silver omega chain (not pictured) To view more pendants by Deanna Gracie click here
Song Exhibition - Dec 2007
December's group exhibition at ConneXion Gallery showcases the latest original jewellery by Christchurch artist Deanna Gracie. Four pendant designs celebrating her deep love of nature have been gently coaxed into life using subtle colour contrasts and soft finishes consisting of silver, gold, titanium and gemstones in this beautiful new collection. Image as pictured - 'Long Life' Pendant - stg silver, 18ct gold, titanium
Where and When: December 1st - 31st, 10am - 5pm Open 7 Days, ConneXion Gallery, Upstairs Gallery 27, The Arts Centre, Christchurch To view more pendants by Deanna Gracie click here
Escapism Exhibition - Nov 2007
Escapism - Group Exhibition - includes four new works by Deanna Gracie
Gulls appear to swoop and hover in the indigo blue sky, while tiny fish silhouettes glide through a silvery ocean in the latest jewellery designs by Deanna Gracie. These contemporary and unique pieces of wearable art, inspired by Maori myths and legends from New Zealand are on display at ConneXion Gallery in Christchurch through all of November. Image as pictured - Pukekaroro Pendant - stg silver, titanium, 18ct gold
Where and When: November 1st - 30th, 10am - 5pm Open 7 Days, ConneXion Gallery, Upstairs Shop 27, The Arts Centre,
Christchurch To view more pendants by Deanna Gracie click here
Intrinsic Exhibition - Oct 2007
Intrinsic - Feature artist Deanna Gracie
October's group exhibition at ConneXion Gallery showcases the latest original jewellery designs by Christchurch artist Deanna Gracie. Finely crafted from precious metals and gemstones, the 'Aotearoa / Aroha' series celebrates her feelings of belonging and deep love of the land. Subtle colour contrasts and soft finishes add a touch of lightness to this very elegant collection. Image as pictured - 'Aotearoa / Aroha' pendant #1 - Stg silver, 9ct red gold, iolite
Where and When: October 1st - 31st, 10am - 5pm, Open 7 Days, ConneXion Gallery, Upstairs Shop 27, The Arts Centre,
Christchurch To view more pendants by Deanna Gracie click here
Intrinsic Exhibition Press Release
INTRINSIC Contemporary Jewellery Exhibition
The next exhibition at ConneXion Gallery is called 'Intrinsic' and
runs all through October. 'Intrinsic' combines the works of six
Christchurch jewellery artists and features the work of Deanna Gracie.
Originally from England, Deanna came to New Zealand as a very
young child and now identifies deeply with it as her home. Her
designs draw inspiration from her long walks on the beach and
estuary that surround her home in Southshore. Her Aotearoa/Aroha
pendant for example conveys love of land, love of home, love of
Aotearoa. The gentle sinuous lines of a feather, the foetal form
of the koru, the watery indigo of the iolite all combine to bring
a sense of calm balance to the piece.
This contemporary yet evocative piece plus many others may
be seen at ConneXion Gallery, Upstairs Gallery 27, at the Arts
Centre in Christchurch, all through October.
Image as pictured - 'Aotearoa / Aroha' pendant #2 by Deanna Gracie - Stg silver, 9ct red gold, iolite To view more pendants by Deanna Gracie click here
Aug 2007
Pendant as pictured - entitled 'Maui's Fish' by Deanna Gracie - which is my interpretation of the Maori myth Maui and how he caught the fish which turned into Aotearoa. It is made of sterling silver, titanium, 18ct gold, amber -
Size 45mm x 41mm To view more pendants by Deanna Gracie click here 'Maui's Fish' will also be featured in the 'Escapism' exhibition at ConneXion Gallery in Christchurch in November.
Recent Commission
Recently I was asked to design and make a honey bee tie pin for a client. I really enjoyed figuring out how best to represent the colour and texture of the honeycomb. This is the result - the client was very happy with the tiepin
: - )
Organic Exhibition - Aug 2007
Organic - Group Exhibition
Christchurch artist Deanna Gracie uses a splash of colour, subtle feather impressions and inspiring words with fascinating effect in her latest jewellery designs on display at ConneXion Gallery all through August. Sterling silver, gold and gemstones have been combined to produce these four truly unique pieces of wearable art.
'Truth Brooch' by Deanna Gracie - As pictured - Stg silver, 18ct gold, moonstone To view more brooches by Deanna Gracie click here
Where and When:
August 1st - 31st, Open 7 Days - 10am - 5pm , ConneXion Gallery, Upstairs Gallery 27, The Arts Centre, Christchurch, New Zealand
Solitude Exhibition - July 2007
Migration Bracelet by Deanna Gracie
Solitary walks by the ocean often inspire the jewellery I create. I love observing the changing tides and watching the fascinating bird life on my daily walks around Southshore. For part of the year Southshore plays host to the migratory Godwit. The Godwits travel from Siberia and apparently make the longest non stop migration of any known bird. My four latest seascape designs featured in the group exhibition at ConneXion Gallery in July are inspired by these amazing little birds. To view more bracelets by Deanna Gracie click here
Khensu - The Moon July 2007
'Khensu - The Moon' Pendant was fun to create something entirely different to what I usually make!
Pendant as pictured - entitled 'Khensu- The Moon' by Deanna Gracie. It is made of Stg silver, titanium, 24ct yellow gold, 9ct red gold and moonstone.
To view more pendants by Deanna Gracie click here
Finding Joy and Inspiration in the Most Simple of things....
Finding joy and inspiration.... for me could be as simple as watching a beautiful sunset, or a heron gracefully fishing in the shallow water of the estuary, a gull in flight, or a happy dog wading through the waves - these are all soul enriching experiences to me, and best of all they are free: - )
Back to Earth #1 Photograph...
I woke up this morning to the sight of wonderful cloud formations in the sky and took these images
"Whenever I want to feel grounded I look to the sky "
by Deanna Gracie
Back to Earth #2 Photograph ...
"Whenever I want to feel grounded I look to the sky "
by Deanna Gracie
Beauty in Nature....
This beautiful spider web appeared in all it's glory after watering the garden yesterday. I raced inside to get the camera to capture this image before the water had a chance to dry! I'm sure this image and the memory of the prisms of coloured light dancing on the droplets of water will inspire jewellery designs some time in the future : - )
Jewellery Photography...
I love taking photographs and so taking photographs of the jewellery I create was a natural progression. It has taken me many years trying different lighting, cameras and backgrounds to produce images I'm really proud of. Some of the backgrounds I use are unique to me such as this one representing water behind the 'Erosion' Brooch and also the pendant below 'By the Seaside'.
For God's Sake Exhibition - Oct 2007
For God's Sake is being held to celebrate the cross as a symbol of spirituality, religion and culture whilst showcasing the talents of contemporary New Zealand jewellery artists.
'The Lord's Prayer' and 'Prayer for Serenity' have been impressed into five sterling silver cross designs, embellished with gemstones and darkened to create an interesting contrast of texture and colour by Christchurch artist Deanna Gracie. These unique designs, exploring the idea of contemplation, and more will all be able to be viewed during this exhibition at the Aotea Centre in Auckland.
Image as pictured - 'The Lord's Prayer' pendant by Deanna Gracie Stg silver, 9ct red gold, garnet
To view more pendants by Deanna Gracie click here
Where and When:
October 26th - November 1st, The Edge, Aotea Centre, Auckland
Photography - Aug 2007
'Light'. I know this isn't a jewellery image but a lot of the jewellery I create is inspired by birds, migration and flight so I just had to share this beautiful feather.
'Light' by Deanna Gracie
'A Glimpse Beyond' - July/Aug 2007
This exhibition consists of 16 exciting new jewellery designs in 'A Glimpse Beyond' at the Art Boutique in Tauranga. A combination of sterling silver, titanium, gold and gemstones have been transformed into vibrant, eloquent art forms. Bracelets, earrings, pendants and brooches will all be featured.
'A Glimpse Beyond' - Deanna Gracie
The Art Boutique, 514 Cambridge Road, Tauranga, New Zealand
27th July - 24th August
Pictured - 'Pale Moon Rising' Brooch - Stg silver, titanium,18ct, 9ct gold and tourmaline To view more brooches by Deanna Gracie click here
Christmas in Aotearoa...
For fun I made a Christmas decoration celebrating all the things I love about Christmas here in New Zealand. Christmas in Aotearoa...Pohutukawa in Full Bloom....Blue Sky....Scorching Summer Sun....Warm Breeze....Cool Water.... Made from Nickel, copper, titanium and measures 800mm x 28mm
Featured Jewellery Design #12
I decided to feature some rings this week. These hand made sterling silver koru ring designs are inspired by the traditional Maori symbols of growth and life. They depict a young fern as it opens and represent peace, harmony and new beginnings. These are very popular rings and are priced from NZ$160 + freight. The width at the widest point is 12mm and the diameter is sized to fit.
"Made from heart and hand no two rings are ever exactly the same." Deanna Gracie To view more rings by Deanna Gracie click here
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