MIXED METALS CACTUS ABSTRACT EARRINGS

• Handmade 1.50" x .75" copper smooth abstract disc with approx. 24.5x9mm cast prickly pear skeleton mismatched sterling silver earrings
  
• The actual skeleton from inside the prickly pear pad that died is cut and is burnt out than cast in sterling silver
  
• Sterling silver wire hooks measures .75" in length & .25" in width has a 3mm copper ball accent
  
• Total earring hangs 1.75" in length
  
• These earrings are antiqued and polished the beautiful mismatched skeleton makes them very attractive and unique
• Mixed Metal Cactus Abstract CZ Pendant to compliment the earrings
• Signed by artist

From the beginning I was always mixing metals together because as a woman I sometimes need something to go with lots of outfits. I love the contrast of different metals flowing together in a design. The mixed metals I use together look awesome with different textures and patinas. You’ll find me not just adding two metals like copper and silver but with three colors like brass to accent an outfit for any occasion.

I found that copper has natural anti-inflammatory properties that can be used to ease pain caused by arthritis or inflamed joints.  Copper helps keep iron levels up and regulates blood flow for improved circulation.  I feel better when I'm working at my jewelry bench it helps with my hands and wrists.

When our prickly pear cactus froze and died one year.  We decided to save some pads and see what the skeleton structure looked like.  The webbing structure was so cool that we had to do something with it.  Karl came up with the idea of pulling it apart and casting pieces to make jewelry.  The skeleton structure is burned out in the kiln and leaves the cavity to shoot the metal into the casting. This is a special hand-made piece that is part of nature from the desert. 

~Audrey Hoffman

Taking care of your jewelry:  These pieces of jewelry are brushed and high polished but not sealed. It will naturally patina over time which gives it a duller sheen with amazing coloring.  We recommend a polishing cloth because it's been oxidized.