Oooh! Sparkly stuff at a discount! Intergem (The International Gem and Jewelry Show) is in town for your yearly dose of DIY diamonds, bargain baubles and price-cut precious metals. It's true, retail jewelry is a wicked racket and the mall markup is always outrageous, but selecting your own stones and setting, though often with awesome savings, can be stressful. For important pieces the convention is a great place to preview the possibilities but beware of an uninformed impulse purchase. Even the prettiest pair of perfectly matched studs should come with a certification of authenticity.
If serious stones aren't your style (or budget), the gem show offers all the makings for every imaginable accessory, with an abundance of Swarovski, semi-precious beads and the range of rhinestones. With endless options at hand, the only issue is what to do with them. Wendy Simpson Connor, author, award-winning documentarian and beading aficionado, will hold free classes Friday, Saturday and Sunday to teach showgoers her techniques. From a simple silk cord-stringing to custom chandelier earrings, Wendy's methods easily apply to any project and are helpful hints for even the seasoned seed-beader.
Her accomplishments include 13 how-to books about beadwork and The Best Little Beading Book, her basics bible for an informed foundation when festooning yourself or embellishing anything else. The convention classes include Wendy's pearl-knotting workshop, Tin Cup necklace tips to make your very own version of Renee Russo's sophisticated single string, an earring and wire run through from wrapping stones, creating chain links and her seed-bead sit-down with demonstrations of various stitching styles.
Known for her cost-conscious approach, Wendy isn't shy about knocking off costly designer creations. She suggests studying your favorite celebrities, fashion magazines and brand-name accessories for inspiration, insisting that any girl can lavish herself in luxury if she knows how to attach a clasp. "You don't need to buy a ton of stuff, a $20 investment is all you need to get started," Wendy says, but warns that beading can be addictive, making convention attendance a must for the best bead buys. Seats to Wendy's classes are available on a first-come, first-serve basis and aren't likely to last long, so stop in early and shop the convention floor for everything you'll need to bead.
For more info about the convention visit
www.intergem.com.
Jennifer Henry's got the goods on what to get & where. E-mail her at
[email protected].