For Boston Marathon Victims: New Peace-Theme Charm Bracelet Line

Dove Charm Necklace, $28

Like so many other Bostonians last Monday, I stared at Twitter, online video, and news reports in shock. I found out at work about the Boston Marathon tragedy, and when I got home I watched the news in horror as it began to sink in. From the hour long drive from my office listening to somber radio broadcasts and the number of injured rising, to a woman hysterical crying in her car asking me for directions to get back on the Tobin so she could get to Boylston, it really hit home.

Double Heart Charm Bracelet, $28

I watched, as I'm sure all of America did, the video of the bombs over and over again. It's disturbing and unsettling. I've lived in Fenway for five years, Somerville for one, and in Chelsea - right off the Tobin- for one. I've walked down Newbury and Boylston countless times, shopping or going out to eat / drinks. This was my home, and I felt powerless.

Shortly after we began to process the news, Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick and Boston Mayor Menino announced the formation of The One Fund Boston, the purpose of which is to raise money to help those families most affected by the tragic events that unfolded during the Marathon.

I found as an artist the best way I could process this was to donate as well. I don't have much, but I have seen success with my She's the First Cupcake Necklace design, of which proceeds go to support girls' education in the developing world. So I designed the Ash Tree "Peace" Bracelet Collection, where 50% of proceeds will go directly to One Fund Boston. I chose a dove and a peace sign, to hopefully promote the idea of peace in this world. The last charm is a double heart, designed to represent and remind us of our loss here, but give us the strength to move forward.

“I am humbled by the outpouring of support by the business community and individuals who are united in their desire to help; The One Fund Boston will act as a central fund to receive much needed financial support. At moments like this, we are one state, one city, and one people.”

 - Governor Patrick

Peace Sign Charm Bracelet, $28

I propped and photographed all next to my favorite Boston Red Sox visor, and got them up on my Etsy site as soon as I could. I'm hoping that something as small as this can make a bit of a difference and we can all move through our own healing processes.

Thanks to all of my customers for your continued support - we'll all get through this together.

God bless,
Ashley

Rune Charm Necklaces

In the 5 years I've maintained this blog, my Rune Necklaces post from 2010 continues to be the most popular post on my site. So I decided to give an update to the post with some fresh new images and feature my latest rune necklaces now available for purchase online at my Ash Tree Designs etsy shop. Read the four available now below, and let me know if you're looking for any specific rune that I haven't posted yet - I'll be happy to get it up for you.

Raido - "Journey" Necklace, $12

Journey Rune Necklace - Raido, $12
Raido is the rune of the journey. Meaning arrival, departure, or reunion, Raido stands for an movement and direction, as well as an overseas adventure. Those who wear this rune carry the knowledge to follow the cycle of life to progress quickly and efficiently. It's time to embrace the hard times knowing that the harder it is now, the easier it will get in the future. It is the perfect gift for someone who has been going through a difficult time, and is a symbolic reminder of their struggle.

Jera - "Success" Necklace, $15

Success Rune Necklace - Jera, $15
In the Runic Alphabet, "Jera" is J or Y: A year, a good harvest. The results of earlier efforts are realized and a time of peace and happiness, fruitful season. It can break through stagnancy. Hopes and expectations of peace and prosperity. The promise of success earned. Life cycle, cyclical pattern of the universe. Everything changes, in its own time. Makes a thoughtful college or graduate school graduation gift.

Othila "Prosperity" Necklace, $15

Prosperity Rune Necklace - Othila, $15
Othila is the rune of prosperity. Meaning home or homeland, hearth, or family, Othila stands for an adventurous nature, culture maturity, adaptability, and personal skill. Those who wear this rune carry the strength of their family with them, as it can represent your spiritual home: very unique and recommended housewarming gift.

Dagaz "Hope" Necklace, $15

Hope Rune Necklace - Dagaz, $15
Lastly, we have Hope. This particular listing is black and gold, but is also available in the silver/black combo and vice versa. In the Runic Alphabet, "Dagaz" is D. Meaning breakthrough, awakening, awareness: daylight clarity as opposed to nighttime uncertainty. A time to plan or embark upon an enterprise. The power of change directed by your own will, transformation. Hope and happiness, the ideal. Security and certainty. Growth and release. Balance point, the place where opposites meet.

Don't see the rune or the meaning you are looking for? There are many more runes available for purchase that haven't made it into listings yet. Shoot me a convo to get your own special order, and carry the energizing rune meanings with you every day :)

Brushed Silver Shamrock Charm Necklace

Brushed Silver Shamrock Charm Necklace, $28

Well, the dreaded / much celebrated St. Patrick's Day has just about arrived, and what better way to welcome it with a lovely brushed silver shamrock charm necklace?

As with many other pieces in my Ash Tree design collections, this Silver Shamrock Necklace has a meaning behind it. The most popular shamrock meaning was from in Ireland around the fifth century, where St. Patrick was introducing and establishing Christianity among the people there. He utilized the three-leaf clover as an illustration of the holy trinity, with each leaf representing the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. The tree sections are also symbolic of the three theological virtues found in the first Corinthians 13:13 - "Faith, Hope, and Love".

To this day, the spiritual meaning of the shamrock continues to be iconic of St. Patrick's teachings, though it was also revered by Ancient Celts because of its trinity as well. A myriad of their beliefs were also based on triads according to the artists of the time, and the occurrence of 3's were aspects of goddesses, gods,  time, and the balance of energies.

(Source: What's Your Sign? Symbolic Shamrock Meaning)

Now that you more thoroughly understand the symbolism behind the shamrock, get your own Silver Shamrock Necklace at a reasonable price for this St. Patrick's day - also makes a great gift for the Irish gal ;)

Lips Charm Necklace Jewelry

Red Lips Necklace, $28

Jewelry featuring lips has been very popular recently - fashion jewelry icons like Jules Smith have released lines featuring kiss kiss "lips", so I decided to create a piece of my own. I just released the latest Ash Tree handmade necklace design Red Lips Necklace, now available for purchase in my Etsy shop.

The lips - also available in a sassy hot pink - are gorgeous enameled charms and strung on a stunning silver plate chain. Since much of the Ash Tree jewelry collections relate to symbolism in some way, I looked up what "red lips" signify - turns out, there's a back and forth when it comes to the meaning of red lips: on one hand, the red lip is a favorite color among men for women to wear. On the other, a red lipstick is considered "fierce", that is, a bright, bold, and powerful fashion statement among women. 

Red Lips Necklace Design, $28 by Ash Tree

What does a fiery red lip (or hot pink) mean to you? Makes a great gift for Valentine's Day for yourself, a daughter or friend - and definitely adds a "kiss" of style to any wardrobe ;)

Chinese Symbol Charm Necklace

Chinese Symbol for Love Charm Necklace, $28

Continuing along the "symbolic" design element for all Ash Tree jewelry, the latest creation now available for purchase and customization in my shop is the Chinese Symbol Charm Necklace line. I've been wanting to create something like this for a while: as a calligrapher, I really admire the intricate symbols that make up the Chinese language. Written Chinese comprises characters used to represent the Chinese language, and are often composed of parts that may represent physical objects, abstract notions, or pronunciation.

All Chinese symbols above can be ordered at my Etsy shop

I took several words and have made them available to my customers online: now, you can order a necklace with the Chinese characters for LOVE, LONG LIFE, GOOD LUCK, GOOD-HEARTED, AND FRIENDSHIP. Just select which charm you want from the drop-down when you order would be a great, affordable but beautiful Valentine's day gift for a friend!

Elegant and simple, each charm is about 17x11mm in size, and though they are listed on a silver plate chain, but I bet they would look just as great on a black rolled-leather necklace as well. Definitely check out the "LOVE" character - especially if you are in the marketing for something different this Valentine's Day!

Cupcake Necklaces Have Raised over $500 to Support She's the First!

Purchase a STF Cupcake Necklace: 75% of proceeds
Go directly to She's the First!

Thanks to the generous and fabulous supporters of She's the First over the holiday season, I've actually surpassed the next few tiers of my goal to help raise $1,600 to this great organization with cupcake necklace sales with a whopping $500 donation that was made in 2012: and I can't thank all of my customers enough!

With Valentine's Day soon upon us, I thought this would be a great time to show how through a cute cupcake necklace purchase for your best friend or little sister, you can help support girls' education in the developing world during the season of love :)

If you look on the She's the First website, $500 is enough for an essential sponsorship for the Selamta Family Project in Bethel, Ethiopia.

Holiday Sales Raised over $500!

About the Selamta Family Project

“Selamta” means “be at peace.” in Ethiopian Amharic: the goal of this project is to help orphaned children regain the sense of peace they lost when they lost their family. The Selamta Family Project protects Ethiopian orphans, vulnerable children, and marginalized women by establishing permanent, stable family homes and providing access to continuous medical care, education, and social safety nets. Selamta works to maintain the cultural connections that sustain healthy families, neighborhoods, and communities - so that loving families may build strong citizens.

Selamta has several family homes located in Bethel, a suburb of Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia. To reduce the stigma that often plagues orphans, homes are dispersed throughout the neighborhood, allowing kids to be easily integrated in the larger community. Each family is organized around a permanent, stable Selamta-trained mother, who assume parental duties and provide respectful, loving care for her children. The Selamta staff support the mother in every way to ensure her successful parenting, and the staff is responsible for sustaining her healthy living arrangement.

All of the school-aged kids receive an amazing education at the Alpha Keranyo School, a private school located in the Bethel neighborhood. After-school tutors provide extra support to help children succeed. Despite the fact that many children could not attend formal school before joining the Selamta Family, many kids excel at the top of their class.

What Does This $500 Do?

There are several tiers for this sponsorship, ranging from $360 to $800. This $500 amount can cover the following:

STF Cupcake Necklace, $20

• Continuous education at a rigorous K-12 private school
• School supplies including uniform, backpack and notebooks
• After-school tutoring programs
• Sports and soccer registration fees
• Summer enrichment programs
• Small budget for birthday and holiday celebrations
• Small savings account each child

Interested in helping to sponsor a girl in the Selamta Family Project, or any other girl around the world? Here's how to help!

1. Give the Gift of Awareness for yourself or a friend for this Valentine's Day: 75% of these specially designed Ash Tree She's the First Cupcake Necklace go directly to She's the First
2. Explore the Directory on the STF website to read more about girls who need your help
3. Organize your own Bake Sale to sponsor a girls' education in your school with these great tips from She's The First.

Thanks again to all my customers for your support - I look forward to posting another fundraising update soon for 2013!

Gold Wishbone Charm Necklace

Gold Wishbone Charm Necklace, $28

As with most of the pieces in my design collections, this Gold Wishbone Charm necklace has a meaning behind it. The wishbone symbol is something we're all familiar with after having a "bird-meal", and we've all been on both the winning and losing end of the wish bone break. But what is the tradition behind it, and what does it actually mean?

The wishbone-breaking contest / ritual actually dates back to the 4th century, where civilizations such as the Romans and Etruscans would pull a dry turkey or chicken bone until it snapped - or gave them a "lucky break". The winner was left holding the larger piece of the wishbone, and it was believed that their wish or dream would come true.

Delicate Gold Wishbone Charm Necklace, $28

The tradition has continued, as many believe now that the symbol will bring good luck, "catch" dreams, and make wishes come true. It's also become a channel of good energy, and astrologists have linked it to the horoscope sign Sagittarius - who are born between November 22nd and December 21st.

Knowing the rich history behind this energizing symbol, why not take that with you every day, or give it to someone who will? What would you wish for?

Gold Wishbone Charm Necklace, $28

Elegant and simple, this gorgeous golden wishbone charm suspends beautifully on a stunning silver 16" silver plate chain with 1" of extender chain. The charm is in the shape of an unbroken wishbone,made of bronze with a golden shine. The strong material ensures that it will never "break", keeping your future wishes fulfilled. The bone rests on your neck at approx. 20mm in size.

Source: Symbols and Their Meaning

This piece is one of those designs I've been thinking about for a long time and finally was able to make it come to fruition - as well as being one of those pieces I secretly want to keep for myself :) Makes a great gift for your best friend, daughter, or even bridesmaids at your wedding - contact me if you'd like to inquire about a bulk order, or additional chain sizes.

I hope that you'll see the meaning behind the charm, and that all your wishes will come true!

Press for Ash Tree Creations

What an amazing year it's been here for Ash Tree! From wedding calligraphy features in online magazines and blogs, to a fabulous partnership with She's the First selling cupcake necklaces to help raise money to fund girls' education, 2012 has certainly been busy. Here's a summary of all the recent press this year -

She's the First Cupcake Necklace, $20

A Charm for Charity - Shopaholic
Jacquelyn Mysliwiec, South Shore Living Magazine

"Teaming up with She’s the First, a not-for-profit in support of girls’ education across the globe, local jewelry designer Ashley Osgood of Ash Tree Designs has designed a unique handmade cupcake pendant which acts as the bright and whimsical charm on her $20 cupcake necklaces, in which $15 for every one purchased will go toward the charity. 

Osgood, specializes in sea glass jewelry, as well as recycled sail products, but her innovative outlook on jewelry design constantly leads her to all sorts of mediums, designs, and projects— such as—her keepsake vibrant "tie-dye" cupcake necklace. If you’re looking for a gift for a special lady of any age, this 100% handmade necklace is a steal. It’s a gift that will make more than just the receiver smile."

Holiday Gift We’re Loving: She’s the First’s Cupcake Charm
StyleWatch, People Magazine

"What’s better than a cupcake? A cupcake that’s calorie-free! She’s the First, an organization that sponsors girls’ educations, helping them become the first in their families to graduate, is doing a modern bake sale this holiday season. 

The non-profit partnered with Etsy’s Ash Tree Creations to design this cute cupcake charm, which stands just 1-in. high and hangs on a 16-in. silver plate chain. It mirrors the organization’s rainbow cupcakes, which are sold nationwide to raise funds for its cause. And this cupcake will help, too: $15 of the $20 price will benefit She’s the First’s important programs."

Buy a Cupcake Necklace - 75% is Donated to STF!

She's the First & Cupcakes!
Sprinkles and Style blog

"This cupcake necklace, which you can buy from Ash Tree Creations, would be a great gift for your sister, niece, friend, the little girl you babysit, or even yourself! The handmade tie-dye cupcake charm is adorned with sparkling Swarovski crystals on 'vanilla frosting' that's fun, vibrant, and eye-catching - would certainly be a happy addition to your jewelry collection."

Birthday Bazaar: A Rainbow of Fun

NYC Metro Parents Magazine

"We’ve compiled a bazaar of ideas, products, and tips in this birthday party package. Read on for our favorite new party products, other momentous birthdays we're celebrating in April - 

Want a one-of-a-kind gift that gives back? This handmade magenta-and-teal special edition cupcake necklace donates 75% to She’s the First!, a nonprofit that sponsors girls’ education in the developing world ($20; etsy.com/shop/AshTreeCreations; learn more about the cause supported by artist Ashley Osgood at shesthefirst.org)"

Calligraphy feature on BravoBride.com

The Art of Calligraphy
BravoBride.com

"I love the white script against the black envelope, making for a traditional look. The place cards are given extra pizazz with a handwritten calligraphy note by Ash Tree Creations."

Broke Ass-Bargains
Broke Ass-Bride Newsletter

"Love the look of calligraphy but your budget won't allow it? Ash Tree Creations is giving away an entire calligraphed reception package! Visit her Calligraphy Giveaway page for more information on how to enter!"

While I do see sales year round for cupcake necklaces and other handmade jewelry, the holiday shopping season is over - so it's time to ramp back up for wedding calligraphy for 2013 clients and weddings. 

I've already booked several clients for Jan-Feb, but if you're interested in having your invitations addressed in calligraphy, contact me on how to get started! 

Cupcake Charm Leather Bracelet

I understand I have a cupcake problem.

With the success of the She's the First Cupcake Necklaces and how much fun they are to make, I starting fooling around with sketches of simple cupcake bracelet designs. I know that many people already have a favorite necklace that they wear every day, so I thought a cupcake bracelet may be a perfect, logical next step for my cupcake jewelry line to take.

Cupcake Charm Leather Bracelet, $45

The result was this "sweet" handmade cupcake charm bracelet - elegant and simple, I strung a high quality black leather bracelet with a single antiqued silver-plated pewter cupcake bead. The cupcake charm is available in either pink or white frosting (aka, strawberry and vanilla), with"sprinkle" rhinestone colors including red, blue, light blue and green.

Each frosted cupcake charm measures 11x11mm in size, and the black leather bracelet with sterling silver clasp is available in the standard size of 7.5", and larger sizes are definitely available. I just thought that this would make a perfect gift for a little sister, daughter, or best friend!

White Cupcake Leather Charm Bracelet, $45

The high-quality black leather also makes a fantastic base for other large-hole bead charms, available at a fraction of the price - so grab yours today @ the Ash Tree Etsy shop! :)

Cupcake Necklaces Reach First Goal to Support She's the First!

Cupcake Necklace Sales Have
Raised $300 Towards our goal!

We did it! Thanks to the generous and fabulous supporters of She's the First, I've reached the first tier of my goal to help raise $300 with cupcake necklace sales to reach my goal of donating $1,600 to this great organization.

With She's the First now going to be on NBC's American Giving Awards, I thought this would be a great time to spotlight some of the great work they are doing. STF are currently the running to win $1,000,000 - which comes down to Facebook voting. So if you have a moment, please vote for them to  help to unlock this tremendous donation to send girls to school and share before December 4, 2012.

Back to stunning little cupcake necklace sales: if you look on the She's the First website, $300 is enough for an all-inclusive yearly package for everything a girl needs to go to school in Kopila Valley in Surket, Nepal.

About Kopila Valley School

The girls who go to school here come from poor circumstances. The girls all come from poor or illiterate families, and fall into the “high risk” category of being married off to a man, work as domestic servants, have to work in hotels, or by dry riverbeds to earn a living for their family. These girls are the first of their generation to be educated and literate. Kopila Valley is a co-ed primary school that is a safe place for students to spend the day, receive an education in basic English, Nepali, Math, Science, Health, and Social Studies and have their basic needs met. School runs from Sunday-Friday, with Friday being a half day for extracurricular and fun activities, i.e. racing, sports matches, dance competitions, debate, art, and other activities.

What Does This $300 Do? 

This is enough to provide the following for one girl for a YEAR:

• School uniform: $28 (includes 1 skirt, 1 pair of pants, 2 school shirts, 1 sweater, 1 hat, belt, school tie, a pair of shoes, socks, and warm tights for winter)
• School bag, supplies, and set of the year’s text books: $22
• School lunches: $75  (this includes, rice, fresh vegetables, and lentil soup 5 days a week)
• Tuition: $120 (goes towards everything needed to keep the school functioning and sustaining itself, i.e. staff, teachers, and cook salaries, repairs, and construction, school materials, and classroom needs)
• Medical needs: $55 (i.e. vaccines, vitamins, sanitary napkins, medical emergencies, and dental care for the year)
                                     
Total: $300

Interested in helping to sponsor a girl Kopila Valley, or any other girl around the world? Here's how to help!

Puchase a STF Cupcake Necklace: 75% of proceeds
Go directly to She's the First!

• Give the Gift of Awareness for yourself or a friend: 75% of all specially designed Ash Tree She's the First Cupcake Necklace go directly to She's the First
• Explore the Directory on the STF website to read more about girls who need your help
• Organize your own Bake Sale to sponsor a girls' education in your school with these great tips from STF. 
• Vote for She's the First before Dec. 4th to win the American Giving Awards so they may receive their $1 million grant!

Christmas Tree Pendant Necklaces

The holidays will be here before you know it, so let's get ready for them with this elegant and simple Christmas tree pendant. While I've already sold the first one of this series, you can still snag this gorgeous silver-finished pendant with Swarovski green crystals.

Silver Christmas Tree Pendant Necklace, $28

It suspends beautifully on a stunning 17" silver plate chain, and rests on your neck at approx. 34x11mm in size. Would definitely make a fabulous holiday gift for yourself, or someone important in your life - (especially those with Christmas birthdays!)

I also have this same piece available in a beautiful gold finish with a red, green, and yellow Swarovski crystals, suspended on a gold chain for another sophisticated look - it's currently listed in my etsy shop as Gold Christmas Tree Pendant Neckace.

Gold Christmas Tree Pendant Necklace, $28

Get ready for those fabulous holiday parties this year and order yours today! :)

Sterling Silver LOVE Necklace

I saw something like this on Pinterest, and just had to try my own. The newest listing to my Ash Tree Designs Etsy shop is this gorgeous sterling silver "LOVE" pendant necklace - which is at a handmade, budget-friendly  price of $28.

Sterling Silver "Love" Necklace, $28

Perfect for the newly engaged bride or just because you want it, the necklace is strung on a 16" silver plate chain and is about 34mmx19mm in size. I love how elegant yet modern it looks, and think it would make a great gift this holiday season.

Always looking for symbolic jewelry, I definitely have a few more ideas up my sleeve for new products this holiday season. Stay tuned, or shoot me an email to get your own custom order today!

Silver Rhinestone Horseshoe Necklace

Just because we could use all the good luck we can! Check out the latest creation from Ash Tree, two of which are now available at my Etsy shop for purchase this holiday season.

Always looking to incorporate symbols into my work, I took a look at the horseshoe symbol's actual meaning. Did you know that the horseshoe was another ancient emblem used to ward off the "evil eye"? After the Evil Eye Bracelet I designed, the horseshoe (and eventually four-leaf clover!) was a logical next step for the "good luck" line :).

Silver Rhinestone Horseshoe Charm Necklace, $28

Common legend is that the ends of the horseshoe must be pointing up in order to keep all the good luck in. There are theories that the magic of this symbol is in its shape, which is that of the horned moon. Then again, most are satisfied with the notion that the shoe protects the horse, so the horseshoe must work for people, too.

Pretty cool, huh? As I mentioned, this is a limited-edition line: so when these two pieces are gone - they're gone! And with an affordable price like this, it makes a great gift - especially for those needing a little extra luck on final exams, or wedding days :) so don't wait, check out my Silver Rhinestone Horseshoe Charm Necklace etsy listing to see more pics, and get yours today!

NFL Logo Jewelry: New England Patriots Necklace

New England Patriots Necklace, $28

With football season in full swing, it's time for the perfect gift for that diehard Pats fan. And being one myself, I kickstarted this sports charm necklace line with my own Massachusetts football team: The New England Patriots. (We also beat the Jets yesterday, which I am both very happy and relieved about. Overtime, man!)

GO RED SOX!
Contact me to order
an MLB Charm Necklace!
(same price)

The official NFL licensed Patriots logo featured in this necklace is an enameled pewter charm, and is strung on a strong 18" black rolled leather necklace with 2" of extender chain (please inquire for larger sizes!). The Pats logo rests on your neck at approx. 27mm x 13mm in size. There's also an option for a stunning silver plate chain, if the black necklace isn't your thing.

This charm sports jewelry line is also not limited to the National Football League - you can order any Major League Baseball sports team logo necklace as well! Even though baseball season is out, it doesn't mean she's stopped thinking about her team :)

Order yours today - makes the perfect holiday or birthday gift for that girl who never misses a Brady game!

Sterling Silver Dove Necklace

Sterling Silver Dove Necklace, $28 

Every once in a great while, I design a piece that I'm so in love with that I wish I could keep. I made one of these Sterling Silver Dove Necklaces and put it in the 6 In the Shipyard store...then I made another one which is now for sale in my online shop. And I have to not wear it everyday because it's for sale for my lovely customers :)

I fell in love with this Sterling Silver dove link charm the second I saw it. It's just so delicate and elegant, and is very understated - I think it would also make a great bracelet, so I'm definitely going to make one up next. It suspends on your neck on a silver chain, and is such a subtle and beautiful representation of hope.

Very understated and elegant -
perfect for those who don't wear much jewelry.

My style of jewelry is usually pretty in-your-face and chunky because I'm quite a tall person, so I simply can't keep it. I think this would make a great birthday or thinking-of-you gift - and in some way matches the theme of my "When Pigs Fly" charm necklaces as well, which have been very popular recently. It's also at a great price point, which I try to

What do you think? Check out my Etsy shop listing to see more pics and to purchase - I definitely think this may be a *limited edition* item!

Beach Wedding Gift Ideas: Swarovski Crystal Flip Flop Necklaces

Swarovski Flip Flop Necklaces, contact me to order

This was such a fun commissioned project to work on! This woman came into the 6 In the Shipyard store earlier in the summer and noticed my latest antiqued silver flip flop necklaces embellished with real Swarovski crystals. She liked them so much that she commissioned three necklaces as gifts for her daughter's flower girls in her upcoming wedding.

The custom handmade necklaces were for her daughter's wedding colors were a beautiful lime green and deep purple colors. I was able to get the exact color match of the crystals, and they came out perfect! The three girls were a set of twins and a six-year old, so the twins received flip flops with a bright green center stone and purple bands, while the oldest received a deep purple center stone with the lime green bands.

If you are interested in commissioning some flip flop necklaces for a wedding or as a customized gift, contact me on how to get started!

Handmade Rose Rings

Pale Pink Rose Ring, $12

Announcing the newest handmade jewelry line from Ash Tree Designs: the Rose Ring!

I saw a similar design while doing some research online for the newest jewelry trends, and understated rose rings are very hot right now. After seeing a few turquoise blue and cream pieces, I started making some sketches to figure out how to construct my own.

Turquoise Blue Rose Ring, $12

I found some ring bases at Micheal's that would provide the sturdy foundation for the rose itself. Then I ordered a rose mold from my favorite mold store, WhysperFairy, on etsy. I then used some clay I had purchased for my Handmade Cupcake Pendants and made a few roses in colors I thought would be great for spring.

After making four selections, I made the roses using the mold, baked the clay, sprayed with a smooth glossy finish, then attached to the rings using jeweler's HYPO cement. And I love the results!

White Rose Ring, $12

There are currently four rings available in my etsy shop, and the plan is to roll out more colors and create more for the 6 In the Shipyard store location. Right now, the colors available are Turquoise, Pale Pink, Black, and White. I thought the white seemed so bridal to me - and the pale pink such a perfect delicate touch to your spring outfit! And the black rose on the bold silver just makes a straight-up statement.

Click the links above to visit my shop and to purchase - and enjoy! :)

Swarovski Valentine's Day Heart Necklaces

Guess what, guys? Only a few weeks left until Valentine's Day! How is your shopping going?

Devoted 2 You Heart Necklace, $18

If you're like most men, you probably haven't even started. And that's OK - I've got this.

Featuring the newest line of handmade jewelry, the Ash Tree 2012 Valentine's Day Collection. In it, I've featured a selection of different shape hearts all within the "Key to My Heart" theme. Here are some images and breakdowns of the symbolism of each heart that you can then lovingly explain to your Valentine this year.

Passion Pink Wild Heart Necklace

Devoted to You Heart Pendant. This pendant necklace features a fun heart shape, with the Swarovski crystal heart itself sweeping down in a simple, different, and yet elegant, shape. Like all of the Ash Tree Valentine's 2012 Collection, this features a single pewter key charm, tying the concept of "Key to My Heart" into the beauty of the piece.

Wild Heart Pendant. The innovative shape of this piece represents a passionate love, and is perfect for the "wild" girl, or one who cherishes her individuality. The Swarovski crystal pendant features an elongated shape with asymmetric faceting, and the elegant shape offers a modern twist Valentine's Day jewelry.

I Love You Pendant. This is the simple and elegant heart shape piece that is perfect for the traditional, sophisticated woman. The Swarovski crystal one-of-a-kind brilliance and intense luminosity is a result of alternating large and small facets throughout the pendant.

Miss You Heart Pendant

Miss You Heart Pendant. The Miss U Heart crystal pendant features a surface is covered in irregular long and short flat facets for a hip, modern flash of light. The absence of a the complete whole heart represents a symbolic placement, conveying a sense of "You Are In My Heart".

It's a fabulously modern spin on the classic heart pendant, and is great for the long-distance relationship - or as a simple love reminder every day.

With all these options, boys, you don't just have to settle for Valentine's Day! If by chance you're too late to take advantage of these pieces, you can always get one of these affordable Swarovski Crystal Heart Pendant Necklace for her birthday - any time of year - by contacting me, visiting the Ash Tree Shop, or stopping by the retail store location, 6 In the Shipyard!

Cupcake Necklaces for She's the First

I've decided to take on my first charity jewelry project. I've found a great charity called "She's the First", a non profit organization that sponsors girls’ education in the developing world, helping them be the first in their families to graduate: and I'm all for young women's education and empowerment!

She's the First Cupcake Necklaces, $20 Each

The primary method of fundraising for this nonprofit is through cupcake sales: but not just any cupcakes, tie-dye cupcakes! Using creative layering and food coloring, the end result is a powerfully colorful confection that perfectly represents the blossoming young girls who are trying their hardest to just find a place in this world. I have now placed a limited selection of cupcake jewelry available for purchase at the 6 In the Shipyard Hingham Boutique, and online at my Ash Tree Etsy Shop.

These Cupcake Necklaces are going to be sold for just $20 each, with $15 of each necklace going directly to She's the First. These necklaces are adorable, speckled with rhinestone "sprinkles" and available in teal and bright magenta tie-dye "cups", which are the She's the First brand colors. Cupcakes are also available in red, green, yellow, purple, pink, and red "cups". So help support a worthwhile cause - please purchase an adorable cupcake necklace - makes a great Valentine's Day gift!

I've been working closely with the Charity's Founder herself Ms. Tammy Tibbets, and Ash Tree Designs will be an active partner in helping this charity reach their goals!

PURCHASE A CUPCAKE NECKLACE TO FUND GIRLS' EDUCATION!

Silver Bangle Charm Bracelets

Nautical Charm Bangle Bracelets, $25 each

Now that we're into the bitter cold January weather, it's the perfect time to remember summer. Remember how warm you were? Remember being out on your boat, walking around outside without a jacket on?

Simple Starfish Charm Bracelet, $25

Well I do. At least, I try to. With the newest line of silver charm bangles, I think summer can be worn every day. With Christmas over, there are still birthdays, anniversaries - (and don't forget Valentine's Day, which will be here before you know it!) all perfect times to give her a beautiful and elegant piece of jewelry - that's not only handmade by a local artist, but won't break the bank.

Bangle secures by squeezing the hook to secure over the ball.

 Because of their simplicity, they are the perfect piece for any outfit. You can see from the image above that you simply squeeze the bracelet together to secure or remove the hook over the silver ball to hold the bangle in place. Very sturdy, and nearly impossible to lose!

There are several nautical charm bracelets available: starfish, quahog shell, scallop shell, anchor, and sailboat charms. Visit the Ash Tree Designs online store, the 6 In the Shipyard retail location, or contact me to order your piece, or talk about other charm options that you may have your heart set on ;)