Romance in Metal - Valerie Ostenak Jewelry

Sometimes I dream about

the gorgeous jewelry created

by Valerie Ostenak.

Her work is so beautiful

it takes my breath away and

 sets my unconscious mind

into overdrive. 

It's easy to interpret my dreams --

I want to wear this jewelry!

 

Fluid and flowing designs are

brought to life in metal.

Her collections celebrate

the contours and shapes suggested by all sorts

 of complex forms found in nature,

such as raging rivers, swaying branches

and delicate tendrils of flowers.

Also, one can see Art Nouveau

influences in her work.

 

 

 

Her Elemental Collection features

silver, argentium silver, 14k gold, freshwater pearls,

gemstones and Swarovski crystals

in myriad curvilinear designs.

 

 

 

 

 

Each piece overflows with movement and energy

and an enchanting play of light on metal.

 

 

 

 

Skilled as both a blacksmith

and as a metalsmith she combines techniques

from both disciplines

to create this sculptural jewelry.

 

 

In her Garland Collection she incorporates

freshwater pearls, glass and/or Swarovski crystals,

silver and/or 14k gold with mild steel.

The steel gives this collection bold

emphasis and structural design.

Her work is an ongoing dialogue between

her blacksmith forging techniques, her

silversmith craftsmanship and her

design skills in art jewelry.

Each is superb.

 

Much of the charm and beauty of

these pieces lie in the wonderful variations

of form, shape and feel

that this artist offers.

These variations are seen in

her bracelets and earrings also.

But most of all,

this artist infuses her work with

the essence of romance.
And you can't go wrong with Romance.

For many more images of this

lovely work you can visit her

website.