Metalworking technique Repousse vs. Chasing

This locket is a great example of repousse. The word repousse (with an accent on the e) is French and means "pushed up" ultimately from Latin; Pulsare, which means to push. Repusse is a metal working technique in which a malleable metal is ornamented by hammering on side. This technique creates a raised design on the front side. This is a relatively economical method that produces a diversity of effects. 

Chasing is the opposite of repousse. The background on the backside of this locket has used chasing to create the sky.  Chasing is from the noun "chase" which refers to a grove, channel or indentation, also known as embossing. Often these two methods are used in conduction to create a finished piece. Both these methods date back to Antiquity. 

Inspired by Spring 

The Daffodils by William Wordsworth 

I wandered lonely as a cloud

  That floats on high o'er vales ad hills, 

When all at once I saw a crowd, 

A host , of golden daffodils;

  Besides the lake, beneath the trees, 

Fluttering and dancing in the breeze.

Continuous as the stars that shine

And twinkle on the milky way,

  They stretched in never-ending line 

  Along the margin of a bay:

 Ten thousand saw I at a glance, 

Tossing their heads in sprightly dance.

The waves beside them danced; but they

Outdid the sparkling waves in glee:

  A poet could not but be gay, 

In such a jocund company:

I gazed-and-gazed-but little thought

What wealth the show to me had brought:

For oft, when on my couch I lie

  In vacant or pensive mood

They flash upon that inward eye 

 Which is the bliss of solitude:

And them my heart with pleasure fills,

And dances with the daffodils. 

Flowers are the gems of nature 

Brussel Sprouts like you've never had them - Crisp, light, nutritious and easy

Try this - Yummie Brussel Sprout Salad

Happy Valentines

                              I love this video and the dreamy imagery, and Kate Spade  Happy Valentines Day

Thimble Necklace

Thimbles have a long history and were often given as love tokens in the Victorian era when gifts between men and women were discouraged.  When married the women would remove the bottom of the thimble to form a wedding band. The one above has a beautiful grape motif and is sterling silver (English hallmark) with a frame for engraving. We have hung it on a sterling chain with Labradorite and it can be worn long or wrapped around your neck - lariat style. We love these forgotten treasures of an era that has changed but not forgotten.