Here’s the Q&A with UntamedMenagerie :

►Where do you get your inspiration? — We are inspired by so many things, but our primary inspiration comes from nature and architecture. An unexpected influence is music. The music we listen to while designing can sway us from edgy to sweet or from subtle to bold.

 ►What is your creative process? — A design usually starts as a sketched doodle that Nikki both adds to and takes from until the paper is completely smudged and worn thin. When we are satisfied with the design, it is scanned to her computer where she cleans up the image so she can resize and perfect the lines and curves before cutting the test piece. From sketch to finish, this usually takes around 2-3 weeks. We’ve had some breakthroughs where we have worn the finished piece just days after the idea came, and at least half a dozen that we have been working on for more than a year. In-progress designs hang all around while we wait for ideas to spark until a piece feels complete — and wearable. Sometimes a design may not be practical for wear and we choose to start over. 

►What’s your favorite item you make? — Nikki’s favorite is Triple Threat (a very industrial feeling three finger ring). Penny loves the Eccentric bangles best.

►What’s your artistic philosophy? — We create what we love. We’re whimsical, bold, and quirky. We want to make you smile.

►When did you start creating? — We began making jewelry together in 2005. Nikki previously worked as a seamstress; Penny dabbled in interior design.

►What’s the future for your business? — We hope to expand our business to include household items and large wall art, and we want to explore different mediums and learn new techniques. It has long been our dream to open a brick and mortar shop to display our work as well as that of other artisans.

Here is a collection of beautiful handmade items that remind me of the color of fresh henna powder and henna paste (as well as some other items that are just a lovely shade of green!)

This is a great “everyday bag” by Marbled Bag . I really like the large bow and the functional yet appealing quality of the design.

Hope Johnson brings us these hand built ceramic dishes that are painted with chartreuse green to make this simple yet elegant decoration. I really appreciate the craftsmanship that goes into these.

We always need an effortless, fashionable accessory and Rayna Robinson gives us just that with this chartreuse turban headband. .. and how cute is she?! hah

Can you tell I’m diggin the chartreuse? I just love the color and how it just makes items POP! and this elephant from The Original Animal Magnet is no exception! I can think of the perfect spot on my bookshelf for this little guy.

Yummy watermelon scented bath salts by Sudz ‘N Saltz ! A great way to take your relaxing time in the tub and make it a spa-like experience .

From Angie’s Sweatshop is a really AWESOME screen printed octopus on a chartreuse green skirt. I like maxi skirts and all things octopus and this skirt falls right into those categories.

Asymmetry is a great way to shake up the expected. I dig this asymmetrical black and green Czech glass beaded necklace with small lime seed beads by chr designs .

This “chuplette” by Chuppy Love is a baby “chuppy” Amigurumi - read as: an adorable stuffed friend made of yarn. These are some adorable creatures and I want a whole collection!

Bright Bold & Beautiful brings us this lovely watercolor print of a hydrangea in all its green-hued glory!

Do you know an adorable little boy who this bow tie by Sharp Dressed Little Man would look so cute on? I know I do and the cuteness level he projects would go through the roof if he wore this!

I admire hand beading and embroidery because it takes serious devotion and concentration to bring an overall vision together. Not to mention the amount of time attaching each thread or bead takes. Hats off to MillieICARO for this intricate beaded peacock sash.

Heron and Lamb‘s rustic moss necklace is such a uniquely designed accessory! “This beautiful, earthy design features a lead-free soldered glass circle, which encases live preserved reindeer moss. An ode to spring, this necklace is finished with an rustic antique copper patina and and sealed for maximum protection.”

I am a big fan of stacked rings that’s why these peacock stacked rings by CameraSHY Photography really caught my eye. I like that each ring is different by fits together as a cohesive set very nicely.

I don’t often find statement bracelets so when I came across this wire wrapped bracelet by Vera Nasfa I knew it had a special place in this collection. I am fond of the craftsmanship and attention to detail.

This stylish linen dress by Camellia Tune is custom made for each person! How cool is that?

Laura Kingrey presents a handmade bracelet with matte light green sea glass as the focal point accented with Czech glass, copper wire and bronze framing. I appreciate when something has such a hands-on & made-with-love look as this bracelet does.

A stunning blue-green turquoise cabochon ring with silver bezel from Bones & Stones finishes up the feature today. The long natural stone is just the right accessory for some henna-ed hands!

I had to share this because of how adorable it is.. <3

I hope you enjoy them!

First we have Karen’s Fine Art print of an original oil painting of hers. Look at how vibrant those colors are and how much movement is captured! Her painting is described in this way : “Karen’s oil paintings express her appreciation of nature with a simple intimacy that conveys a quiet emotion and a gentle strength. A versatile impressionist, her forte is plein air landscape. With a subtle play of light, color, and composition, her paintings have a moving sculptural quality.”

We move from literal interpretation of the beautiful peacock to an abstract representation with these gorgeous statement earrings by mint lilly . “Elegance, romance and simplicity. Vintage and nature inspired hand crafted jewelry ” is the description given for these decadent jewels and I think there’s no better way to describe them.

When I stumbled upon this peacock hobo bag by  Erica Maree I was stunned at the elaborate embroidery and design. The colors are so vivid! I would just love to own this bag…

This collar with peacock feathers and hand painted Viennese lace with a brooch and copper studs by Haus of Mirth is a total show-stopper! Walk into any event wearing this and you will have the most unique accessory (as well as the most coveted).

Katy Marie Creations has crafted these killer peacock-blue swirled polymer clay gauged earrings that make me seriously reconsider having just regular (boring) ear piercings.. I mean how awesome are these?! I love the curves and design of them. They are two pieces of artwork that mimic a fantastical version of a peacock feather that you can wear as earrings! Yowza!

Let’s get serious about having fun here. Take a good look at the amazing details of this Peacock Queene costume by Fairy Nana Land. From the whimsical peacock feather head piece and the velvet choker to the hand-stitched belted bodice and detachable silk train you have a handmade, unique peacock costume that is the best one I have ever seen. Amazing craftsmanship.

Would you like to rest your pretty head on some lovely artwork? Sure – we all would. This pillow cover from Pictorial Boom is designed with a print reproduced from an original painting of his. Its just adorable and super cute! The colors are perfect and I really like the henna design quality it has.

 We all love TOMS shoes and the great cause that each purchase goes towards- but what if you could have  a pair of TOMS and the donation to needy children PLUS a custom piece of artwork designed JUST FOR YOU? Well…. you can thanks to B Street Shoes . Each shoe pattern is custom designed for YOU, in your size, color and specification. This is a pair with glitter and hand painted peacock feathers.. could you get any better than that?

This peacock-blue Rivoli Swarovski Crystal bracelet by Ts Studio Jewelry would be a stunning addition to your jewelry collection. Look at the depth of color in the stones and the juxtaposition against the pure silver color of the setting. eep! so lovely..

Sofisticata offers a great way to jazz up ANY shoe with these “pearl and peacock” shoe clips. Add them to heels in the front, back, strap or the side to get a completely customized look. Great accessory for a glam Indian wedding, too!

Handmade from brass stamping and plated with silver, we have this beautifully designed pendant necklace of two peacocks in perfect symmetry by rossana. There’s something about the delicate balance of this piece that gives me a peaceful sense of calm. Wonderfully done..

From literal to whimsical and everywhere in between! I hope you enjoyed this selection of peacock art – I know I have.

When I had my son, he loved to be held snuggly and close. This deep garnet red ring sling from BabyEtte is superwide for extra close snuggles (and security). I always preferred this sling design and I would suggest this one to any mom-to-be.. plus, how cute is this picture?!?

When we try to be more eco-friendly and walk to the farmer’s market, the store, post office etc. its always best to have the perfect backpack to put all your goodies in. That’s where ottobags come in! A sea foam-green waxed canvas bag with a perfect red strap accent is light enough to carry around everywhere but study enough to tote your special things.

Handmade red flower statement earrings by Sysimust are ideal to add a FABULOUS flair to your day! I just love the different mediums used : fabric, bronze and beads! What’s not to adore?

Glasshouse Designs brings us these cute beaded bobby pins that can take your simple, everyday hairstyle up a notch with incredible ease! Place this pins in your hair and you’ve amped up your look without taking a lot of time. .. because we can use all the extra time we can get.

Another great way to jazz up your everyday look is this rockabilly hair bow by Oh Honey Hush. The red and white striped design is just one of the dozens of designs available. I think I love them all.

This necklace by Dawning Light  has a Moroccan henna design that is ornate and terrific. The design is really inspiring to me as a henna artist! Makes me want to get out a cone and do a detailed Moroccan pattern. She also added a “black diamond” bead to give it more drama.(and awesomeness)

A medium I have never been able to become skilled with is clay. I think we all have considered a clay hobby after that certain scene in Dirty Dancing *sigh*……… anyways….

I cannot form clay into anything other than a big squishy ball which makes me have a real admiration for very talented sculptors like Clay Lick Creek Pottery . This hand thrown bowl is made with red earthenware clay and dipped into a homemade majolica glaze. Its hand painted, glazed and fired in a kiln over and over until something like this perfect red poppy is created. wow..

Hope these red and lovely items fueled some creativity in your life today as they have in mine!

I came across Norah Downey – a jewelry designer – on etsy and I liked so many of her pieces, I couldn’t choose just one to feature here so I decided to just feature a bunch!

She has two shops on etsy: Your Daily Jewels and Rustic Rock Jewelry  .

Here’s a little about Norah from her profile:

“I love designing jewelry in my mind, creating it with my hands, and knowing someone is wearing my work and it is making them happy. Since childhood I have collected shiny and sparkling things: beads, stones, and baubles. As a new Physical Therapist, I needed ways to motivate my young patients with multiple disabilities. So, I dug into my lifelong collection of goodies that had been untouched for years and made some simple jewelry for them. I told them the funny little stories behind each bead or stone in their jewelry and they loved it! My pieces were a hit, my patients progressed, and I discovered a new creative outlet. 

Now, everyday I am excited to get home to my workbench, to study and learn more about the art of jewelry design, and to create modern, glamorous and affordable jewelry that women will feel great wearing everyday.

I proudly use 100% reclaimed 99.9% pure silver combined with gemstones from ethical vendors in many of my pieces. As I grow, this number grows. The options for custom design in reclaimed or recycled metals are endless. When using recycled or reclaimed metals, the negative impact on the environment during mining, and the potential for human rights abuse and poor/dangerous working conditions is eliminated. As much as possible, I purchase gemstones from Fair Trade businesses that commit to fair wages, cooperative workplaces, consumer education, environmental sustainability, respect for cultural identity, and public accountability.”

That’s the kind of business owner we should all strive to be and to support. I’m very happy I found a business woman like Norah who is a great inspiration of creativity and environmental responsibility. 

This handmade necklace by Chocolate Angel is such a yummy, warm honey yellow with such intricate detail in the tiny seed beads. It has a Moroccan feel which would go great with symmetrical Moroccan henna designs.

Amber browns, oranges and reds melding perfectly in this nice necklace by Beca’s Beaded Jewelry. I also really like the added beauty with the copper clasp at the ends.

Michele Buttons  brings us a beautiful piece of art.. that can also be a reusable grocery tote bag! Seriously, can you think of a more lovely way to support your “green spirit” other than this? Made from  100% cotton canvas, this unique tote is great! You can have these for party favors at your mehndi party!

Whimsical and adorable, this handmade polymer clay pendant by Flowertown Originals is hung on a hand-braided cord as well. Super cute!

I was shocked (in a great way) to find out that these beautiful red floral beads were made by hand! Here’s how Blue Morning Expressions explains the creating process “My handmade polymer clay beads were created on a lemon yellow base, with yummy blue berry flowers, pink cherry and orange flowers and lime green wire wrapping woven in between the beads…Every polymer clay bead has been completely handcrafted and hand rolled and all the flowers have been added individually before baking.”   bravo!!

If you are looking for something orange & fabulous for an upcoming mehndi party or Indian wedding, this pendant necklace by TartanHearts, inspired by The Hunger Games, is a great accent to add to any outfit.

And who doesn’t love bright red and orange poppies? They make me so happy when I see them … but pair them with a turquoise background and an antiqued chain you can see me do a happy dance! This necklace by Wear It Out!  is one I would cherish in my collection. ( I’m sure you would, too)

That wraps it up for red and orange accessories (today, at least..) Hope you found some pieces that you adore.. I know I have!

Without further adieu, let’s check it out some of the best druzy jewelry on Etsy.

First off is this stunning natural druzy necklace that is brown quartz from Little Metal Merchant. Raw and lovely.. the brown in this would be amplified against the brown henna stain.

This Citrine cluster of druzy really has a special sparkle. Its large and makes a statement naturally, but 443Jewelry paired it perfectly with a delicate gold colored feminine chain that would go great with a dress for a mehndi party.

Druzy can be both bold and quietly understated as we can see in these next two examples of rings:

This white druzy agate ring by Vivid Design is classic and delicate. A perfect accessory to add just a touch of glitter to an elaborate bridal henna design.

Sharply contrasted to the white druzy ring is this luscious, rainbow show-stopping ring by NaturalGlam . Wowza!  Look at the differences nature can produce…

Need sparkly mint-colored druzy? Who doesn’t. Find what you are looking for in these lovely earrings by The Wooden Nest with antiqued brass.

This next piece I would wear everyday – a bracelet of pure white druzy centered between lilac-blue angelite beads from Julianne Blumbo.

Another great rainbow druzy piece is this wire-wrapped pendant by Bead Bargains  . I really dig the variety of colors.

A great example of the beauty of pure amethyst druzy is this pendant by Magic Loot . Its also set in gold- how awesome is that? (very!)

And that wraps up my overall obsession with druzy.. hope I spread it to some of you.

This vintage 1950′s art deco necklace from Kettle of Fish has pretty turquoise-colored floral accents.

When you get your ankle & foot henna-ed, you can accent it with a pretty bracelet like this brass and turquoise anklet from Xtra Virgin.

Ah! Gorgeous turquoise cuff! from Startup Sterling!  I love the bezel and how it has a henna quality, but in metal . Picture a full arm covering in lovely red henna and with this turquoise wrist cuff.. *sigh* so nice!

If you’re going to get all henna-ed up, you’re going to need a beautiful mirror to gaze upon the loveliness right? Well that’s where this gorgeous, vintage turquoise hand mirror from EightySix56 comes in “handy” .. heh

The combination of turquoise pieces and freshwater pearls here with the statement necklace by AudreyJewelry is chunky yet feminine – in a perfect balance.

I know I always have a purpose for a cute clutch.. and this one would be no exception! This unique, Russian floral print clutch made by JordaniSarreal is a cozy home for any items that can be easily misplaced.

Delicate, paisley, turquoise bead, silver… what’s not to adore here? Nothing?… exactly. This handcrafted necklace by Noria Elements would be a great gift for someone special in your life (even yourself) .

A turquoise shirt with a henna print? The loveliness of this speaks for itself. NaturalHennaArt’s  line of henna print shirts are just fantastic!

And to round out the turquoise post, let’s remember that henna-ed feet are happy feet – anyone will tell ya that! But what makes them even happier is having a CUTE turquoise and copper toe ring like this one from The Whimsy Wire . Oh.. I can barely get over the cuteness..

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