If you're looking for something special, "truly one-of-a-kind" special, you might want to have a look at Alba Urbina's creations. She's a Colombian-American jewelry artist who draws from many years of metalsmithing experience. In a fabulously sunny garden studio in Oakland, she mixes her own alloys to produce the precious metals that are the foundation of URBINA DESIGNS, her unique jewelry collection. (see www.urbinadesigns.com)
I've known Alba for many years, and own many of her pieces. Any time I wear them, people ALWAYS comment, or ask where I got it and or try to touch, seemingly unable to resist the beautiful energy that radiates from each piece. Perhaps that sounds a bit 'over the top', but it's absolutely true. People just can't seem to keep their hands from reaching to touch the beautiful stones or the links that she patiently hammers with her talented hands.
From the tiny little hinge on her 'Potion Ring' (one of my personal faves) to the pretty little hearts that accompany her signature on the larger pieces, she gives new meaning to the term "attention to detail". It's obvious she takes great care in choosing each stone to perfectly match the energy of each piece. And there's no missing the fact that each creation holds her special energy, which is probably why people can't help reaching to touch them.
Another of her wonderful offerings is MOXIE METAL. (see www.moxiemetal.com) Moxie Metal was born out of her need for an innovative way to showcase her jewelry. Using ancient forging techniques and the skilled assistance of her best friend, also a talented metal artist, they create unique and one-of-a-kind jewelry holders/displays from raw steel. They are finished with a Blackened Bronze patina and sealed with enamel clear coat.
Although she does travel a bit to showcase her work, she's not especially fond of the whole marketing process. Most artists aren't. In my experience, most will say they'd rather stick slivers under their fingernails than 'market' their work. I understand. I'm an artist. However, my art is writing and my tools are words. So it seems perfectly natual that I use my tools to share the stunning works of Alba Urbina. She deserves the attention. Her pieces are exquisite gifts that contribute so much beauty to our world! So if she's not crazy about 'marketing' her work, I'm happy to do it in her stead. Actually, I feel honored to do it...because I want more than anything for this woman to bathe in the success she so truly deserves.
So, if you're looking for something unusual, whether for yourself or someone you love, go have a look. You can also email or give her a call. She wiill be happy to make something just for you. She enjoys 'special orders' and has many regular customers who come back again and again, for their very own custom pieces.
OH! I almost forgot! Alba also holds Wedding Ring Workshops. This service allows you and your betrothed to go to her studio where she'll assist you in designing your rings and then craft them (by hand, of course!) from platinum, gold or white gold, with the stones of your choice. The ULTIMATE in "one-of-a-kind"!
You reallly do owe it to yourself to have a look. Here are just 2 of my favorites, but you can find more on her sites.
 (my fave stand)  ("Potion Ring")
Camille Olivia Strate is an author, empowerment coach and critter keeper in search of the perfect pasture. Among her many passions is assisting people in returning to their 'true selves' by way of empowerment coaching. She believes strongly in 'paying it forward' and lives by 'do what you love and the money will follow'. Her latest book, "Whispers" is now available in eBook format. Hardcopy to follow soon! Visit her personal site at http://www.joyzachoice.com
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