Sensational Silver Horse Jewelry

There’s no doubt about it: silver horse jewelry is one of the hottest picks for the spring. But don’t make the mistake of thinking this is just the latest ‘new thing’ — silver has long been a favorite metal: it is mentioned in the earliest books of the Bible and turns up in archeological digs from civilizations long buried.  We’ve been using silver for forever and a day to craft beautiful, detailed jewelry to adorn our wrists — as this sterling silver cable bracelet with an 18K gold stirrup accent does exceptionally well — necks, ears, and fingers.

Looking at the beauty, style and distinctive shine of silver, many people assume that the  majority of this metal winds up in jewelry.  After all, it’s so perfectly suited to that purpose!  However, if you want to discover where most silver goes, you need look no further than your cell phone, computer, television, GPS, or any of a million other technological gadgets that surround our daily lives! Batteries contain silver.

Confusion crops up around the term sterling silver. Sterling silver is an alloy, which consists of 92% silver and 8% other metals. Mixing the metals results in a more durable product, as pure silver is exceptionally soft.   Most fine jewelry artisans work far too hard to want to see their artistry obliterated when someone bumps a bracelet against a tabletop accidentally. Sterling silver horse jewelry is durable and beautiful, tough and exquisite — not at all unlike the horses we hold so dear!

When selecting silver jewelry, remember that you’re looking at a material that has timeless appeal — yet is priced to allow you to keep up with the trends without breaking the bank.  Every horse jewelry collection should include some silver!  (And yes, if for no other reason, silver has been known to keep werewolves away.  Talk about peace of mind!)

No Purer Love: Mare and Foal

Is there any sight more heart-warming, more guaranteed go make you go “Awww!” than a newborn foal nuzzling up to its Mother? No matter how many times you’ve seen it, it never fails to be a miracle.

It’s almost that time of year again, despite the snow you might see out your window.  Foaling season is on our mind this morning, as we’ve read that the Bureau of Land Management has agreed to delay some of their annual wild horse herd roundups until after foaling season. Wild horse roundups are controversial in and of themselves: some people say they’re essential for herd control and health, while others say they’re dangerous and inhumane.

What isn’t open to debate is the sheer magnificence of seeing a new foal: the filly’s wobbly legs and flickering tail as she teeters upright, delicate and determined at the same time as she seeks out her mother’s milk — or the unbounded exuberance of a colt who’s just discovered he can do more than stand, he can walk — and then he can do more than walk, he can run — and maybe, just maybe, if he could get these tiny hooves off the ground long enough, he might just be able to fly.

Wouldn’t you be able to capture that energy and joy in your heart? You can do the next best thing and wear it close to yours!  This pendant is a particular favorite of ours.  Rendered in 14K gold, with diamond eyes and exquisite detailing, this mare and foal pendant is the perfect piece for so many looks: the ideal accent for a romantic look, sporty enough to wear as an everyday piece — perhaps a signature piece!

Also an ideal gift, especially for a new mother — or from a child to their mother!  Love transcends all, no matter what species we are.  Horses, in this instance, just say it best.

Hoofprints on Your Heart: Valentine’s Day Means Love!

People have always cared me a bit, you see – they’re so complicated. I suppose that’s why I prefer horses. This quote from the 1950’s movie Separate Tables, always comes to mind around Valentine’s Day.  Whether you’re married, single, or in the suddenly popular “It’s Complicated” situation, this is the time of year when thoughts of love, romance, and passion come front and center for many people.

We’re inundated with advertisements for roses and chocolate and romantic pajamas delivered to the front door — and yes, more than a few ads for jewelry.  Who hasn’t heard that every kiss begins with Kay?

But not every kiss begins with Kay, or K.  That’s not true at all.  Some kisses — some of the best kisses — come early in the morning, when you’ve gone out to the barn and frosty curls of warm breath come from your favorite fuzzy noses.  Is there a feeling in the world that matches the way your heart leaps when you hear that whinny of joy at your arrival, the thunderous pounding of hooves across the pasture as your horse runs to the fence, wanting nothing more than to be near to you and perhaps a scratch on the forehead? Okay, those carrots you’ve brought aren’t exactly unwelcome…

Those of us who are fortunate enough to have horses in our lives know something of love that perhaps the rest of the world does not.  We know that it is possible to have passion without expectation, that each day presents us something new to learn about those we love, that there are sure to be challenges in the relationship, but that they can be overcome with love, patience, and understanding of a mindset perhaps totally different than our own.  And that a few carefully timed sugar cubes can cover a multitude of mistakes!

On this Valentine’s Day, let’s certainly celebrate the love of those people around us who make our lives complete.  Romance is wonderful, and it should be treasured.  The love we have for and from horses adds another layer of wonderful to the whole thing.

American Art: Silversmith Bill C. Ilfield’s Equestrian Jewelry

The work of American artists has long been popular with lovers of horse jewelry, particularly silver horse jewelry. That’s why we’re thrilled to present this amazing silver and turquoise horsehoe brooch/pin/clip from silversmith Bill C. Ilfield.

The passion for American horse jewelry is easy to understand.  Speaking to the rugged, adventerous years of our country’s history, a time when cowboys rode out on the range, and a good horse was all the transportation you needed to reach your dreams, this piece is perfect for the individualist who appreciates tradition, history, and exquisite craftsmanship.

This piece was handmade and signed by Mr. Ilfield, who lived in New Mexico until his death in 1944.  We’re not sure exactly when the piece was made, but it was definitely after he’d become an accomplished artist: the bezel set bright turquoise stones are surrounded by applied twisted silver wire, evoking the look and feel of rope.

Who’s wearing American artist jewelry? You need look no further than Hollywood, where stars have been accenting outfits from the carefully casual to red carpet elegant with American pieces.  The Old West is a perpetual fashion favorite, and speaks to individual strength and personal vision.  It’s a innovative fashion choice for those in leadership positions, who have to forge a path to success that isn’t traveled by just anyone.  After all, not every man is a cowboy — nor every woman a cowgirl!

Turquoise is thought to promote good health and healing, and coupled with the traditional horseshoe shape, could you ask for a luckier piece to wear? Ideal for gifting to the person you hold most dear — tomorrow’s classic, delivered today!

Vintage Glamour Never Goes Out of Style

Quality always shows!  You can tell when you’re looking at a new foal: the quick feet of the colt, the fine line of the filly, clearly identifying the finest points of thier sire and dam.  And you can tell when you’re looking at jewelry.

Now, it’s no secret that we at Show Stable Artisans have a certain fondness for Estate and Antique Horse Jewelry. There’s something almost otherworldly and beautiful about these pieces from yesteryear, when everything wonderful was made by hand, and detail was captured by a fine eye.

And among the great jewelers, of course, we must give credit to Hermes.  Founded in 1837, Hermes is renowned for being the French jeweler (they did some bags and such too, you may have heard of them.)  The relationship between Hermes and the horse world is well established — the family, after relocating to France from Germany, worked making harness and tack. Their saddles were so magnificent that they were the choice of the Czar of Russia!

Over time, the Hermes family moved into apparel.  They became famous for their scarves, and their distinct approach, which one of the family described as “Leather, sport, and a tradition of refined elegance.”

You can see that refined elegance in this Amazing rare vintage Hermes horse bit bracelet. We’ve taken far more pictures than usual so you can really look at this piece — frankly, it’s not the type of thing most of use get to see often enough! It’s a gorgeous sterling silver Hermès snaffle bit bracelet circa 1950-60. This was the era when Hermes was seen being worn by Grace Kelly, the Princess of Monaco!  Talk about glamour!  Today, you’ll see Elle MacPherson, Madonna, Nicole Kidman and other celebrities turn to Hermes when they’re striving for that elegant, polished, ultimately sophisticated look.

We only have one of these bracelets, and if we had our way, would likely keep it for ourselves.  But the boss has informed us that our mission is actually connecting horse lovers with the ultimate in horse jewelry — and for the lucky customer who buys this bracelet, we’ll have certainly done that!

Merry Christmas From Show Stable Artisans

Who among us has not as a child asked Santa Clause to bring us a pony on Christmas day?

What’s better than a Christmas with horses?  From the frosty curls of morning breath sneaking from velvety-soft noses to the soft thud of hoofbeats pounding through the snow, the sheer magic of a midnight Christmas ride beneath the slick, slim crescent of a new moon, horses and holidays just go together.

Of course, you can carry that experience in your heart, but you can also wear it! Throughout the year, we’ve been fortunate enough to find some magnificent vintage and estate pieces for those of you who appreciate the timeless style and craftsmanship of some of history’s finest jewelers.  For as long as women have adorned themselves with gold and silver, gems and jewels, artisans have been crafting these precious materials into the objects they desire — which includes horses!

Consider the Cameo Pin and Pendant we’re showcasing today. This piece is hand carved by  Gennaro Borriello, an artist with a true eye for equine beauty.  This large cameo with two lively horses is loaded with  elegant detail. The horses have a keen and alert expression, and their detailed mane, tail and bridled faces exude the ethereal and mystically wonderful scenes which can be typical of classical works of art.

May your stockings be full of the finest horse jewelry! That way you can share your passion for riding, eventing, and plain old hanging around the barn with everyone you meet!

Merry Christmas from the Show Stable Artisans team!  As the big day draws near, we’d like to take this time to thank you for your support, your thoughts, your ideas, and your passion.  We couldn’t do this without out!

What Does She Want for Christmas? Horse Jewelry, Pandora Compatible Equestrian Beads, and More

If you want her holiday to be merry and bright, give her the horse jewelry she’s been longing for! We’ve been watching the trends this holiday season, so let us tell you what’s showing up most often on wish lists:

Charms Mean Cheer

Gold horse charms, whether a classic like this 14K Gold Roman Horsehead — a piece that just radiates classic elegance and style — or one of our Pandora Compatible Charms are the season’s biggest hit. These small bits of beauty allow the wearer to craft their own life narrative in beauty, remembering the happy hours spent with horses: riding the trails, eventing, even working in the barn!

The beauty of giving charms is the personal, individual nature of the gift.  You can commemorate a special time you shared with the recipient: a great day spent together, years working with your horses, the coach who helped you and your horse reach the next level –even when you thought such a thing was never possible.

Charms are not only the trend of the moment, they have a timeless appeal.  This is a gift your recipient can cherish and wear for years and years to come — receiving compliments all the while!

Asian Style and Sophistication

An emerging trend, and one that is sure to be adored by your fashion forward horse lover, is jewelry that includes the subtle sophistication and distinctive appeal of Asian design.

These Sterling Silver Earrings are a great example.At just 3/4 of an inch across, they’re large enough to make an impact yet always appropriate.  Wearing these earrings will allow your recipient to share their love of horses subtly and effectively, in a timeless, elegant way.

And of course, if you really can’t decide, you can let your special someone select their own present! Gift certificates allow your loved one to be absolutely delighted with their gift — and thrilled by your thoughtfulness and generosity!

Tell Your Story With Horse Jewelry

The latest trend in the jewelry world is for what some are calling ‘narrative pieces’.  These are pieces of jewelry — pendants, bracelets, necklaces, and especially charms — that come with a story.  Jane Seymour’s eloquent tale of her mother’s advice to always keep your heart open led her to design a pendant that’s become remarkably popular.

But you don’t have to be a jewelry designer to tell your life story with jewelry.  You can convey the tale of your life with the jewelry you wear!

For example, take this piece, which we’re calling The Ultimate Rider’s Charm Bracelet. At first glance, it’s immediately apparent to even the most casual observer that the wearer loves horses.  Look at the horseshoe charm, and the finely detailed horse head.  Closer examination reveals more: the gloves, boots, and hat that speak to hours preparing for the show arena, the training, the grooming, the nerves fluttering like so many wayward butterflies in your stomach.  And of course, the show ribbon — and who couldn’t use a little good luck, delivered in the form of a four leaf clover?

Selecting jewelry that tells a story is an intensely personal process.  You want to think carefully about what’s important to you, and then take the time to really browse through all of your options. It’s possible to be fashion forward and still very individual: Charm Jewelry is one great option. A golden wheelbarrow might remind you of wonderful days working in the barn, or a childhood when you were so excited just to be around the horses that you’d do anything — even muck stalls — simply to be there. It’s about YOUR memories, YOUR story, and YOUR look.  So don’t delay: start telling your story today!

Cuff Bracelets for Horse Lovers: Sleek Silver Elegance

Seen on fashionable wrists everywhere this season, sleek, slender cuff bracelets are the accessory of choice for those who favor an elegant, polished look.

What could be simpler than a cuff?  The beauty of this piece rests in the quality of the materials used — in this case, sterling silver — the measured grace, and the intricate detailing.  Look at the horse’s head.  You can almost see the light in the horse’s eyes as he looks ahead to the next jump, or prances eagerly in place, ready to enter the ring.

Part of the beauty of cuff bracelets is that they’re always appropriate. You could wear this piece casually — paired with a sweater and jeans, it’s a nice, bright, sporty accent — or in an office environment, where it pairs nicely with more formal attire while still conveying a sense of style and timeless elegance.

Not all cuff bracelets for horse lovers are strictly figural, either. This sensational Yurman-style cuff bracelet with satin matte silver curb links outlined by a shiny basketweave border embodies the equine aesthetic without being over-the-top, in-your-horse centric. It’s possible to be subtle and fashion forward at the same time, and this stunning cuff accomplishes exactly that.

Silver horse jewelry really shines in the winter, capturing the cool elegance of November skies, the frosty clouds of  your horse’s breath in the morning when you go out to the barn, the shimmering beauty of a dappled mare’s coat as she runs across the pasture… how could any horse lover resist?

Buying Horse Jewelry Online: Who Do You Trust?

You know you love horse jewelry. You know you want to build a horse jewelry collection, full of fine gold, silver, and even platinum horse jewelry .

Shopping online can make building your horse jewelry collection much easier.  No longer are you limited to the offerings of your local jeweler.  No longer do you have to plan special trips in search of that one astonishingly beautiful horsehead locket nor hope that your perfect gift for the horse lover in your life will spontaneously appear. You can shop from the comfort of your own home or office. (Don’t worry — we won’t tell the boss!)

But how do you know who to trust when buying horse jewelry online? When you’re purchasing jewelry that costs hundreds, sometimes even thousands of dollars, it’s important to know and trust the people you’re doing business with.  Reputation is everything: you want to deal with a company that not only knows fine horse jewelry, but  is committed to ensuring that customers are pleased with thier purchases.

That’s why testimonials are so important.  We could tell you all day how fabulous and wonderful we are — but really, doesn’t it mean so much more when someone else — someone who has bought from us and experienced our quality — says it?

We think so, and that’s why we were so thrilled when we received the following message:

I can’t tell you enough what a fantastic job you do with your catalog and website! You have an excellent eye – and for me, it is a huge benefit in that I don’t have to ‘hunt’ around for a tasteful, unique piece of jewelry! Thank you for your excellent taste and amazing job of making jewelry shopping a real pleasure!

–Allison Butash

We work hard to be worthy of your trust.  We know that you place high value on your horse jewelry collection, and that you’d like each piece to be of high quality, superior workmanship, and unique design.  It’s our honor and privilege to do so each and every day, and we’d like to take this moment, before we head into the busy holiday season, to thank each and everyone of you for your support.  It means a lot to us — and to other customers!

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