Tucson Treasures are Here!

The Tucson Treasures are here and we’re excited to finally share some of what we brought back for you. We have added colorful Cloisonne Beads, easy-to-use lockets and cute lampwork beads!

When we saw the Copper Bee Pendant by Patricia Healey we knew we had to buy all that we could that day. I was able to talk a bit with Patricia about her unique products and what inspires her to create.

Patricia said the thing that most inspires her is nature. Everyday, she has to be outside for a walk or run and soak it all in. You can see the southwest influence with the organic look of her pieces and you often see leaves, butterflies, birds and flowers.

There was a sign on her table that described how Patricia creates her pieces.

Handmade Copper Beads
Original work by Patricia Healey

Fabricated from sheet metal. First, we cut the shapes out, then put form to metal using the technique of Repousse, (beating the crap out of the metal from the reverse side, giving it form). We use a bronze solder. To get the gorgeous color we use our top secret patination formula, then fire it up with a torch. Finally, the color is sealed in with a metal lacquer.

“I’m not fully dressed…’til I’m adorned in copper!”

These two were my favorite new Patricia Healey pieces I saw. I have a lot of ideas for the heart bezel!

I think the clear lockets are really interesting because you can twist the top off and add a picture or flat object as a pendant for a necklace. We have them in three shapes: round, horizontal oval and vertical oval. It’s easy to change out and you don’t have to worry about waiting for resin to completely cure. You can get really creative without having to make the commitment.

Here are some examples of what you can do with the lockets.