Original Hardware Sterling & Stones

Filed in archive Sterling Silver Jewelry on August 6, 2007

Jewelry designer and owner of Original Hardware, Carrie Schafer, mixes sterling silver with wonderful gemstones in her hand-fabricated jewelry designs. Obviously, this sort of jewelry is not cast or created with any fancy machinery, just two hands and lots of craftsmanship. Carrie describes her design philosophy:

My design philosophy is simple: make pieces that reflect the strength, beauty and individuality of its wearer.

I like to make pieces that are off-the-beaten path and incorporate the cultures and colors of the exotic places I've travelled.

I live in Colorado-and there is plenty if inspiration here, too. From the rich earthtones to the vibrant hues of a blue sky or tangerine sunset, my pieces also reflect Colorado's ever-changing natural surroundings.

From the hand-forged silver pendants to the contemporary sterling silver designs tarnished by my own hands, I believe that details do make a difference. I choose only high-quality materials and semi-precious gemstones and prefer handcrafted components made by skilled artisans from around the world.

The last two lines of my favorite poem by Robert Frost touts the virtues of listening to the little voice that urges all of us to try something new, something original.

"Two roads diverged in a wood, and I- I took the one less traveled by," the poem declares, "And that has made all the difference."

My goal is to take a few unexpected turns along the way. My designs reflect that philosophy, too.

Each piece in my collection is made with passion and creativity, and each piece tells a story.

I look forward to sharing these stories with you.

Granted, I'm a sucker for anyone who quotes poetry, but even without that, I find her jewelry work unique and very wearable.

Pictured above are her Pearl Waterfall Chandeliers: Beautiful and delicate white Freshwater pearls cascade in varying lengths like a frothy waterfall spilling over the edge of a canyon.

The pearls are secured to handmade hoop style earrings made in Bali and finished with a leverback earring wire.

Earrings measure just shy of 3 inches long and all sterling silver components-including the wire-has been gently oxidized and rubbed out by hand for depth and drama.


These bracelets, which she calls Margaritaville Leather Bangle Set, have leather straps and include Chinese turquoise stones and orange carnelian.


Finally, here's her La Puerta Fine Silver Necklace, made of sterling silver and tourmaline.