FEM

Jewelry

Definitions
These definitions are here to understand our descriptions on this site.

About the items in Re-enactor's Corner

   The Fem Jewelry site was originally started for custom-made jewelry. I then looked and realized, that a lot of what I made was in the style of 1800's pieces I had seen. The Venetian glass, lampwork, etc. glass that I made earrings of was of the same materials used during the 1800's.

   This section of the site was designed for re-enactors to feel comfortable coming, looking and buying things they like. We all get tired trying to figure what was worn and so forth. Ask questions if you wish, a stupid question is the one that is never asked.

   Re-enactors Corner contains: Broaches, Cameos, Pins, Necklaces, Scissors, Etc. They are for Reenactors, collectors, or those who just love jewelry.

Cameos

   I'm only one person and so I had to decide to start with something, so I chose Cameos. I think we're off to a good start, since this site has allowed  re-enactors to start having a variety of items to look at for a reasonable price. I also have tried to make matching earrings for some, if I have the supplies at hand. Although, trying to match colors and metals can a little confusing.

   Several cameos I make are made of old jewelry findings / parts, from old jewelry warehouses supplies and others from reproduction items / parts. They are limited in design and selection due to cost and availability. By the end of the year this site should start looking well balanced in variety, in all the different areas with items and design.

   Price is set by the availability, style and my cost.

   Right now we'll just cover Cameos, since that has been my heaviest request. Resin and acrylic allow us to bring the style of shell & stone back for a lot more reasonable price. I have also found some glass and china that have the old style transfers on them. Some have the antiquing on them, which was popular and some are just clean brass or gold plated. Even some have added parts, like collage pins. And of course during war times, as always, you used what you had along with your own idea of style was.

   Cameos are what most re-enactors think of first when it comes to jewelry. Then most of us think it's made of shell and has a bust carved on it. Cameo means: a gemstone or other hard substance, carved with a design in low relief, so that it allows the underlying layer to be darker. This give a background of one color / shade and a top layer design to be lighter in color. Cameos are not all bust, they were made with many different scenes carved on them. Most what I see is a variety of all things, sea life, plants & etc. They were carved from shell, stone, etc.

   Resin, is poured / molded and gives the look of what they originally had in the 1800's. Actually, they probably will last twice as long as the originals. Something we're not use to.