Ken's Bracelet Page

Hi Ken! Welcome to your bracelet choice page!

If at any time you'd like me to give you LESS options - just let me know that, too =)
Text: 253.202.1500 for quick conversations!

Timing - Thanks for your patience - I pulled all of this from my personal collections and did photos just for you - but of course I have a great deal more and will be much faster (as we are back in town) going forward for your selections.

Your Choices - I have almost all of the "usual" stones and gemstones, but I felt like this project called for something special. So, I've built some options for you below with a lot of stones I know are rare, cut from a single stone or deposit, or reflect values I think would be something you'd resonate with. I've included the energy "properties" of each stone - either way, they are all beautiful. if at any time you feel like you'd like something different, just ask!

Cost - this will depend on the stones chosen, the difficulty of the cuts/settings, and the overall design. I can work within a budget given, or I can give you a cost based upon your choices. Since most of these stones/leather/silver are already in my possession and of similar value, the majority of the cost will center around the difficulty and time associated with the design. Each bracelet does NOT need to be the same, in fact, I'd encourage some variation as it will naturally occur in the stones anyway. The cost includes personal message(s)/stamped engravings however we decide.

Process Overview & Delivery -

Pick your stones, leathers, and any design components (timing depends on choices - but should be fairly fast now that we are communicating regularly and have options laid out - approx 3-5 days)
Finalize design(s) - as a whole or per bracelet (1-2 days)
Finalize sayings/message/dates etc. (per Ken, depending on design and length limitations)
Provide sizing and clasp preferences. (from Ken)
Bonnie lays out final components for approval by Ken
Upon approval, fabrication starts. Total time will depend on intricacy, difficulty, and any materials sourcing if not chosen from stock. (2-3 weeks avg for all to be complete)
During the process, any questions will be addressed
Final approval and delivery (total time- approx 4 weeks)

Current Assumptions (negotiable - ask if questions!):

- Settings, links, clasp(s), and other details will be hand-forged sterling silver
- Center of bracelet will be a stone of your choice. These can vary in type, cut, size, or shape. My suggestion would be one of the following:

Same stone type for all bracelets, different shapes OR
Different stones for each bracelet, same cut/shape OR
Different stone for each bracelet, specifically chosen

Style and Design -

Working off of something similar to the below, from David Yurman and independent designers. Yours will be more rustic than Yurman's - by this I mean, I handmade rather than manufacture my components. Some ideas based on our previous conversations - most include leather, a few don't.

Handmade Sterling Chains, Cuffs, and Components -

I often hand-forge chains and components, and offer a rustic/blackened or matte/brushed finish as well as polished. Here are some examples of what this may look like. If you prefer highly polished, that's available too.

Patterns and textures also available - trees, mountains, hunting scenes, cars, even circuit boards and tiretracks. Anything you think would be fab is possible!

Leather -

Same type of thing with a leather component - different colors and shapes available. I only use the finest European leather and/or Deerskin. I have many colors available outside of just black, tobacco, chocolate, tan - including bordeaux, marine blue/navy, oiled/rustic brown/black, etc. Photos here of examples - they vary in shape etc, some would be doubled and others are quite thick. These are from my actual stock - I can source others of course.

Clasp Options

For clasps, I recommend the following depending on what's important to you - material, Sterling Silver:
- Hand-hewn hook, PRO: easy, secure, simple, won't break CON: sizing must be correct for it to be secure
example photos -

- Swivel lobster with jaws, PRO: for ease of use and no tension due to twisting. CON: could break as it has mechanisms, but is typically quite strong - many styles

- Magnetic closure, PRO: looks good/sturdy, ease of use CON: can be pulled apart (by design) and is not suited to sports/outsdoorsy stuff - for office and daily wear it should be great

Different Idea? Let me know.

Center Stone Options

Don't like these? No problem, ask for something specific or give an idea. These were chosen from my personal collection because they are all rare and of excellent craftsmanship; I know the stone cutters and where the materials was sourced, etc. Most of these I have extensive collections cut from the same found material, making it ideal for families, couples, or any set of work in which the stones being cut from the same source material would be ideal.

These are actual photos I took from my collections specifically to show you =). If you prefer to make your final choices in person, we can arrange for that as well.

1. Amygdaloidal Agate

This is a very rare stone, and an amazing chocolate color with clear-blue-green inclusions of silica. I have several suitable shapes. It can only be sourced in a few places in the world. These are all expertly cut and polished by a craftsman friend of mine. I love how these are formed - by volcanic explosions, when steam and water become trapped in the molten lava, it forms these silica inclusions after the water escapes/evaporates. Very very rarely, the water stays trapped - these are referred to as "en hydro".

2. Black and Red Moss Agate

Moss agate in these colors is extremely rare. This is a strong and unusual stone, a distinct flair of masculinity. The shapes and cuts I have differ but are all excellent and strong. They have a beautiful shine and some are beveled. These stones are thought to bring peace and serenity to anyone holding/wearing them.

3. Multi-color Opalized Petrified Wood

This is a hard material, from Sumatra Indonesia. The stonecutter has become a friend. It varies in color and texture, but is always rustic. I can pick similar or dissimilar colors, cuts and shapes. These tend to be thick and rounded. These stones are said to bring a deep sense of peace and wisdom to the wearer. They may also bring healing

4. Multi-color Plume Agatized Petrified Wood

These are truly special. A very rare petrified wood type from Java Island, Indonesia. They are so petrified as to have been fully agatized/turned into stone. There are inclusions of plumed color. These have been sourced and cut, most also beveled, by an expert craftsman. They tend to be smaller pieces. These stones are ancient and were once living (wood) - now opalized/agatized. They are said to bring a deep sense of wisdom, clarity, and peace to the wearer. They also bring a sense of balance and awareness of the universe and our place as a tiny speck (perspective).

5. Confetti Chalcedony, or, Native Chrysocolla in Chalcedony

This stone is native to Indonesia, and a fairly new discovery. Chrysocolla, which is a parent material to both Malachite and Turquoise, has been suspended in flakes and beautiful pieces inside a smooth clear agate (chalcedony). I have a huge collection of different cuts, sizes, shapes, and even color shades. Chrysocolla brings wisdom, harmony and discretion, and agate/chalcedony is the stone of peace.

6. Native Copper and Chrysocolla in Chalecedony

This stone is similar to the one above, but also contains flakes of native copper and hues of red and orange. Just gorgeous, and with the added benefits and energy of native copper. This is super high quality rare material. Chrysocolla brings wisdom, harmony and discretion, and agate/chalcedony is the stone of peace. This mix also brings copper, which is a native conductor of energy and spiritual awareness.

7. Black Chalcedony with Native Copper and Chrysocolla

This is essentially the same stone as above, but instead of the clear agate/chalcedony host, it's in a black agate/chalcedony. Very stunning and rare. Chrysocolla brings wisdom, harmony and discretion, and agate/chalcedony is the stone of peace. This mix also brings copper, which is a native conductor of energy and spiritual awareness.

8. Malachite with Azurite

I'm sure you're familiar with Malachite - it's a relatively soft stone formed in stalactite and stalagtites in caves over time. The mineral content in the dripping water crystalizes in this lovely green shades and patterns. It is similar to lapis lazuli and turquoise in content, so often there are blue and brown inclusions, called Azurite. This stone is said to help with clarity. I also have (as pictured) solid Malachite with no Azurite. This stone is said to be the "stone of Heaven" and provide clarity, awareness and vision about one's life.

9. Bio Chrysoprase

Chrysoprase is a beautiful and hard/strong stone. The "Bio" part means half/partial in the host stone, which is a rich brown. It is formed in a variety of green hues depending on the concentration of the minerals. This stone is said to give one confidence and poise, and bring prosperity and good fortune.

10. Labradorite

This is a stone originally found in Labrador, Canada - hence the name. It is formed in unique planes which gives it a sheen or glow. This can occur in many colors - orange, yellow, blue, or purple. I tend to lean toward the blue - the smoother and higher the sheen (usually visible as you turn the stone to different angles), the higher the quality. This stone is sought after for for its metaphysical properties - it is considered one of the most protective stones in the earth.

11. Lapis Lazuli

This is a well-known stone. The best material has gold or pyrite flakes in it, and comes from Afghanistan. Many show a bright color, whilst others have a darker, navy hue. It can be mixed with a beautiful grey host stone, as well. This stone has been used in jewelry and by healers since ancient times - very precious in the middle east and Egypt long before other peoples discovered it. It is said to promote inner vision and clarity, healing and power. Some of my personal collection variances below.

12. Common Opal

The irony of the name of these stones! They are anything but common =). I can't look at them without thinking of Michaelangelo's "The Creation of Adam" painting - raw humanity and masculinity. The "common" part probably comes from the fact that it's not the sparkly, inner-glow type of precious opal they put into rings, etc. This stone brings grounding, clarity, and power. It comes in browns, greys, ivories -but most importantly, streaks of deep purples and blues. I have a huge collection of cuts, colors, sizes, etc. It is strong with a high polish.

13. Pacifik Moss Agate (a form of Timor Agate)

Timor agate, originally from the area of Timor, is an ancient stone with amazing plumes of "moss" (minerals) and banding. This particular version is a newer discovery in the Pacific Rim area, and I only have a few stonecutters with this variety. I bought it all! It's just gorgeous. A beautiful shine and coloring. It looks like tiny landscapes. This stone is said to aid with grounding, stabilizing and emotional/intellectual balance.

14. Ancient Fossilized Coral

No worries - these corals were buried under ancient oceans and now these creatures have become stone. They are beautiful and the patterns are like snowflakes, because each one was once a living being. This stone comes in many patterns and earth-tone colors, depending on the species of coral and the host stone, as well as whether it agatized. A very strong stone with a good polish. Fossilized coral brings grounding, and also change! It is thought to assist with healing of the body and even increase longevity.

15. Seam Tide Agate

This is a newly discovered deposit of agate and I love it so much. They are calling it Seam Tide agate. It is naturally formed like this with the blue edges, and looks like ocean or mountains - so amazing. It's limited material and not found anywhere else (yet), so considered rare and may end up being the only deposit of this type and pattern. Seam agate (without the "tide") is usually an orange and green, with the same crazy patterns - in general the stone is a grounding stone and thought to bring confidence and clarity. The color blue brings healing, and green wisdom and prosperity - so I believe this to also bring healing and prosperity.

16. Orange Fire Agate

This is another recently found deposit which is unique. I purchased the entire lot from the stone cutter! It comes in hues of orange, pink, white, grey and black, with some pops of bright yellow. It is rare and can only be found on Java Island, Sumatra. My cutter/craftsman (actually a woman!) is amazing with this material - it is hard with a shiny polish. Some of the stones have a "raw edge" which is so cool. As an agate, this is by nature a grounding stone, imparting calmness. The orange, pink and yellow inclusions bring happiness, positive disruption/ideas and a bold creativity and passion.

17. Nickel Plume Chalcedony

This is an agate with minerals like Chrysocolla (the blues/greens) and the super dark, chocolate/dark grey plumes of nickel making the color and patterns you see. A hard stone with a nice shine. As an agate/Chalcedony, it is a stone of grounding and clarity. The Chrysocolla offers prosperity and good luck, and the nickel plume enforce this with the energy of good luck and strength.

18. Opalized Petrified Wood with Blue Silica

Blue Silica is a prized stone. When polished and clean, it can sell for more than many precious stones like diamonds and rubies/sapphires. This opalized petrified wood has deposits of gorgeous blue silica along with various shades of opalized petrified wood. Some of these look like the beach or a scene. All are beautiful, and the variations and cuts are endless. I have a very large collection. Petrified wood, along with blue silica and the opalization, bring a plethora of energies to the wearer.

19. Crystallized, Petrified Palm Wood with Pocket Druzy

Petrified Palm Wood comes in many forms, but this is one of the rarest types. It has a symmetry to it that's unusual. The parts of the wood (pockets) that were liquid/water and were trapped inside became druzy (clear crystal) deposits. Up close, it is mesmerizing to look at. The colors are usually within a tan to deep cognac color, with black and grey. Petrified Palm Wood is said to bring a strong protection against evil, and aid in willpower, creativity, and intelligence.

20. Petrified Palm Wood

These are also forms of Petrified Palm Wood, but it has been fully agatized. The lighter color parts are where the liquid made silica deposits. Colors vary from black to light blue to tan and black, with various patterns. It is strong and has a high shine. This form of Palm Wood brings protection, freedom from fear, and brings a grounding. It also aids in helping with stress and depression.

21. Pietersite

Pietersite is named for the first place it was ever found, outside of what was then St. Petersburg, Russia. It is now found in other places, notably the blue form in Namibia. Is has planes and a direction to the fibers, resulting in a "chatoyancy" or inner glow/reflection. It has versions tending to blues and others tending to oranges/reds/yellows - making it look like fire and ice. Sometimes both colors can be found together. It is considered very masculine but is a powerful stone for anyone. This is often called the "Tempest stone" and repels negativity. It helps ease mental or emotional distress, and is known to be cleansing. It is said to help "make all things new."

22. Stromotolite

This stone is formed from shallow water, where layers of simple life forms crystalized and formed these colorful stones. It usually has orbicular shapes, and can be found in any color ranging from reds to yellows and browns. The unique patterns are mesmerizing. It is said to bring ancient wisdom and knowledge due to the age of the stones. It is also said to keep the wearer in the realm of the here and now, the physical present. One of my favorites.

23. Rainforest Jasper (also called "Rylolite")

This stone is also found right here in Washington! It is formed from volcanic ash or lava, and is found in such places around the world, or where there was once such an area. It comes in many colors, but usually is a green or orange base or mix, with "pockets" of clear/white silica where moisture was once trapped. It is an earthy stone, and is said to bring clarity and healing to the wearer. It is considered powerful for self-love and helping reconcile internal turmoil. It is a stone of harmony and new life.

24. Rosetta Lace Agate

This particular variety of lace agate is usually found in southern US and Mexico. It forms in concentric circles, which brings about the formation of the textures and colors that are seen. Agate, is formed individually when water fills a cavity in the host rock, containing the minerals, and then crystalizes with time (this sometimes leaves a natural pocket, or void, in the stone. In ancient times lace agate was highly placed in society as an amulet or talisman. It was said to help heal fever, and also quench the thirst of the wearer. It is said that the Persian magicians could turn away storms using this gemstone (protection).

25. Polychrome Jasper

Formed in huge, megalithic rocks from volcanic activity, hydrothermal deposition and the settling of minerals in layers under immense pressure. This is a hard stone with a high polish, usually showing colors of typical jasper - blues and browns and yellows, in a "landscape" type of presentation. This jasper is said to inspire change and transformation, personal growth and creativity.

26. "Fordite" or Detroit "Agate"

This is the only type of "stone" I have that is actually man-made. I have Fordite, Jeepite, Kenworth-ite, and a few others. The name depends on the factory it was recovered from. Fordite, also known as Detroit agate, Motor City agate - is a lapidarist term for polished pieces of finely-layered paint masses from automobile factories. The masses consist of automotive paint which has hardened sufficiently to be cut and polished. It was formed from the buildup of layers of enamel paint slag on tracks and skids on which cars were painted with acrylic lacquer, which have been baked numerous times. I have several version - love Cars? This may be a super cool option.

27. Ocean Jasper or River Jasper

These are found only on the ocean or river floor, or where they used to be. Originally found in Madagascar, but that mine has been completely stripped for many decades. New material has been found in Indonesia, in the river beds. It looks different based on the place it is found. Here are a few varieties. The colors and patterns vary wildly, but it can be cut from the same mine location and therefore look similar. This stone is said to be protective of the wearer from all negativity, and bring joy and peace. It also promotes stability.

28. Moss Agate - green/yellow/red varieties

Moss agate isn't actually moss trapped in agate, but it sure looks like it. Every piece is unique. It is formed when water has certain minerals trapped in it and as it crystallizes, the minerals plume and form what you see inside the agate. It is a hard, high polish stone. Many of the pieces I have are beveled and expertly cut. Often the stones will look like underwater scenes, a landscape, or just beautiful designs. Moss agate is said to bring vitality, wealth, and self-esteem. It strengthens the soul and invites deep creativity.