VIRGOS UNITE! Shine on with My Handmade September Birthstone Sapphire Necklace

September is almost here: the kids are shuffling back to school, autumn is waiting in the wings, and...it’s almost my birthday. Not that I’m excited about turning another year older, but this time of year holds a special place in my heart because it’s Virgo season and I get to proudly don my September birthstone necklace.

Each necklace may also be personalized with up to 3 letters in a small circle. Personalized circles are either solid brass or solid polished aluminum. Some great personalized ideas include monograms, initials, or the word “mom.”

We Virgos are a special bunch. We overthink, over-organize, and apparently, we’re reviled by Jennifer Lopez! Personally, I’m fine with that because Beyonce is one of us.

What’s Inside the September Birthstone Necklace

Sapphires, along with rubies, are a type of corundum — a mineral that is naturally hard and transparent (insert your favorite Virgo joke here). The cool blue Sapphires in my September birthstone necklace are raw and arranged by hand, making every necklace unique — just like you. This September, wear Jenny From the Block’s shade like a badge of honor with my September birthstone Necklace. Grab yours here.

Pendants measure about 1/2 inch and are available in lead-free pewter plated with .999 fine silver in a bright finish or antiqued 24kt gold plated onto lead-free pewter. Chains are available in 18 inches or 20 inches. Please see last photo to compare lengths on a model before selecting. Silver chains are sterling silver, twisted rope chains. Gold chains are gold-filled cable chains.

Getting to Gnome You: My New Garden Gnome Necklace, Inspired by Nature's Guardians

Last spring, I was taking a slow stroll through an idyllic garden that had been dampened by an afternoon rain shower. The air was crisp, the soil cool under my feet. Just ahead, hiding behind the leaves of an emerald fern, I spotted the humble keeper of this place: a garden gnome. He smiled and tipped his pointy hat to me, granting me a bit of good luck and protection on my journey. I even heard the faint echo of a flute in the distance.

Okay, so maybe that didn’t happen, but couldn’t we all use a little good luck these days?

The True (Less Whimsical) Story of the Gnome Necklace

A few months ago, I was at the fantastic Round Top Antiques Show in Texas where I spotted this exquisite, faded gnome statue with a red hat:

I knew immediately that my father-in-law would love it, so I snatched it up for his Father’s Day gift. At this point, Father’s Day was still a few months away, so this little guy sat on my desk, staring at me every single day as he waited to be gift-wrapped. I won’t lie — I became very attached to him. I knew I would miss his comforting presence, so I decided to immortalize him in a piece of gnome jewelry. These days, I carry this wise little sprite with me everywhere I go. Now you can too: click to shop my garden gnome pendant necklace in silver and bronze.

I hand-sculpted this gnome necklace and cast him in bronze and sterling silver. He’s perfectly cute and dainty, and comes on a sleek paperclip-style chain, perfect for layering and easy everyday wear. Gold necklaces feature a solid bronze garden gnome pendant on an 18-inch 14k gold-filled chain. Silver necklaces feature a sterling silver garden gnome pendant on sterling silver chain. These necklaces are nickel-free and hypoallergenic. If you would prefer a longer chain, you may add an extender to your necklace through this link.

Animal Jewelry Inspired by North American Wildlife: Possums, Armadillos, Alligators, Raccoons, and More

The Fauna Collection is artisan jewelry inspired by North American wildlife. All your favorite wild animals are in this collection of animal jewelry.

My Fauna Collection of wildlife jewelry is dedicated to the squirrels who nest inside the hollow of my oak tree, the snakes who hide under the oak's fallen leaves, and the snails who forage at its mossy roots. I designed this collection of animal jewelry after taking a few months off from creating, where I sat on my porch a lot and thought about what I really wanted to make. While I watched the squirrels fuss in the trees, discovered snakes under rocks, and helped turtles cross the road, I considered how much joy it brought me to be among nature’s living creatures. I started with the Armadillo Necklace because I’ve always loved Armadillos, and I had so much fun carving the little feet and hands that I decided I needed a squirrel. then a raccoon, then an opossum. I knew I had to have snakes in this collection. I have snakes in nearly all of my jewelry collections. I added a turtle, an alligator, and a frog to the menagerie for all the underrated crawly critters that live beside us. This collection of animal jewelry is my favorite collection I have ever designed. Each creature was designed, carved, and sculpted painstakingly in precious metal clay, and I made a mold of each one to be able to reproduce it. Bronze is my favorite material to work with. It feels luxurious, but it’s affordable. Each gold necklace is made with quality 14k gold-filled chain, and the pendants are solid bronze. Each silver necklace and pendant is solid sterling silver. And everything is nickel-free. I hope you have fun visiting my zoo!

Trash panda alert! This little Raccoon Necklace features a tiny raccoon poking its head out of a trashcan. I carved this tiny sculpture by hand before casting it. The gold-colored raccoon necklace features a solid bronze raccoon in a trashcan pendant on an 18-inch paper-clip-style chain. The silver raccoon necklace features a solid sterling silver raccoon charm on an 18-inch sterling silver paperclip-style chain.

This squirrel necklace is cast from an original tiny sculpture I made by hand in bronze. The little squirrel pendant is 3-demensional and depicts a squirrel holding a tiny acorn. The gold-colored version of this necklace features a solid bronze squirrel on a gorgeous 18-inch 14k gold-filled twisted rope chain. The silver version featues a solid sterling silver squirrel on an 18-inch long box-style chain.

here’s maybe nothing cuter than having a little frog hanging around your neck. My Frog Necklace is playful and fun, featuring a frog reaching up to grab onto the chain and accented with a little green glass leaf. Gold frog necklace features a solid bronze frog charm on an 18-inch 14k gold-filled twisted rope chain, and silver necklace features a solid sterling silver frog charm on 18-inch paper-clip style sterling silver chain.

Keep a little rattlesnake wrapped around your finger. This hand-carved rattlesnake ring wraps its body around your finger and is sizeable. The outside and inside of this snake ring are both detailed, with diamond-like patterns on the outside and belly lines on the inside. The rattle snake ring comes in solid bronze or solid sterling silver, both nickel-free. You can stretch and shape your rattlesnake ring up to about a size 10 or shape it down to about a size 2.

Welcome to Gator Country! I had to pay homage to my favorite animal, the living dinosaur, the alligator, with this Alligator in the Swamp Cuff bracelet. On the outside of the cuff, an alligator swims partially submerged in water. Alligator bracelets come in solid bronze or solid sterling silver and are nickel-free. Cuffs measure approximately 6 inches in length, with about an inch of an opening as they come, but they are sizeable and can be adjusted smaller or larger. These alligator hoop earrings are cast from a sculpted alligator pendant I carved by hand and are 3-dimensional, with scaly details on the belly and back. Gold-colored alligator earrings are made with solid bronze alligator charms on 14k gold-filled huggie-style hoop earrings. Silver alligator earrings feature a solid sterling silver alligator pendant on a sterling silver hoops. This alligator necklace is cast from a sculpted alligator pendant I carved by hand and is 3-dimensional, with scaly details on the belly and back

These adorable Snail Hoop Earrings look great with absolutely anything. They’re dainty, yet super cute and interesting. I can’t stand to make a boring piece of tiny jewelry, so even when I go small, I gotta make it fun! The gold-colored snail earrings feature a solid bronze snail charm cast from a tiny charm I sculpted by hand dangling from 14k gold-filled huggie-style hoop earrings. The silver snail earrings feature solid sterling silver snail charms on sterling silver hoops. Earrings are nickel-free and come on a cute card back that makes them great for gifting.

This little hand-carved Armadillo Necklace was one of my favorite things to make in this Fauna Collection of animal jewelry. Each necklace features an armadillo pendant on its back curved slightly as if it’s about to curl into a ball. The necklace is approximately 18 inches in length and is available with a solid bronze armadillo pendant on a 14k gold-filled chain or a sterling silver armadillo charm on a sterling silver chain. Necklaces are nickel-free and come on cute card backs perfect for gifting

Slither into a sumptuous snake necklace with my new Rattlesnake Necklace. This necklace is cast from a hand-carved snake charm I created with details on the inside and outside: the outside of the rattlesnake has a soft diamond-like pattern and the inside has a lined belly pattern. Gold-colored snake necklaces are made with a solid bronze snake charm on a 14k gold-filled paperclip-style chain, and silver rattlesnake necklaces are made with a solid sterling silver snake pendant on a sterling silver snake-style chain.

There’s just nothing cuter than a possum. That’s why I had to make our favorite neighborhood critter into jewelry! These Opossum Earrings were cast from a tiny opossum sculpture I carved by hand. Gold-colored opossum earrings feature a solid bronze opossum charm holding onto a 14k gold-filled huggie-style hoop earring with its tail. Silver possum earrings feature a solid sterling silver opossum charm on a sterling silver hoop. Earrings are nickel-free and come on a cute card back that’s fun to gift.

There’s just nothing cuter than a possum. That’s why I had to make our favorite neighborhood critter into jewelry! This Opossum necklace was cast from a tiny opossum sculpture I carved by hand. Gold-colored possum necklace features a solid bronze opossum charm holding onto a 14k gold-filled 18-inch twisted rope chain with its tail. Silver opossum necklace features a solid sterling silver opossum charm on a sterling silver 18-inch paperclip-style chain.

This adorable Snail Necklace looks great with absolutely anything. It’s dainty, yet super cute and interesting. I can’t stand to make a boring piece of tiny jewelry, so even when I go small, I gotta make it fun! The gold-colored snail necklace features a solid bronze snail charm cast from a tiny charm I sculpted by hand dangling from a 14k gold-filled 18-inch paperclip-style chain. The silver snail necklace features a solid sterling silver snail charm on sterling silver paperclip-style 18-inch chain.

Hop down the rabbit hole with my new Fauna Collection, featuring this whimsical rabbit necklace that comes in silver and gold. The Rabbit Necklace is cast from a hand-carved tiny sculpture I made of a rabbit holding a carrot. Gold-colored necklaces are made with a solid bronze bunny pendant on a 14k gold-filled twisted rope chain, and silver necklaces are made with a solid sterling silver rabbit charm on a sterling silver paperclip-style chain

I had to resurrect the snake cuff bracelet from my Creatures of Night Collection because it fits so perfectly with this new Fauna Collection of animal jewelry. This snake cuff is cast in solid bronze and sterling silver from a snake bracelet I sculpted by hand, featuring a rattle at the tail that was modeled after a real rattlesnake tail I made a mold of. The cuff bracelets are available in solid bronze or sterling silver and are adjustable.

There’s maybe nothing cuter than having a couple of frogs hanging from your ears. My Frog Hoop Earrings are playful and fun, featuring a pair of frogs reaching up to grab onto huggie hoop earrings. Gold earrings feature solid bronze frog charms on 14k gold-filled hoops, and silver earrings feature solid sterling silver frog charms on sterling silver hoops. Earrings are nickel-free and come on a cute card back with a picture of a frog.

I made this Box Turtle Necklace as an homage to all the turtles that used to wander into my backyard when I was a child and that I rarely see anymore. This turtle statement necklace features a tortoise pendant I hand-carved then cast and a green glass bead to add a pop of green like the grass these box turtles call home. Gold-colored turtle necklace is made with a solid bronze tortoise charm on a 20-inch 14k gold-filled chain. Silver necklaces are made with a solid sterling silver turtle on a 20-inch sterling silver chain. This turtle pendant is detailed at every angle and hangs in a way that shows off that aspect. It’s meant to spin around a little bit, almost like a tortoise on its back, and not to sit with the bottom against your chest. This necklace is also available without the green glass and strung with the chain through the charm to lay more flat I’d you prefer.

I hope you enjoy my Fauna Collection of animal jewelry! To peruse the whole collection and see detailed images of each ring, necklace, bracelet and earring, click here to visit the Fauna Collection jewelry page on my website, where you can order your new favorite piece of artisan jewelry made in Arkansas.

Handmade, Heartfelt Jewelry for Valentine's Day (And It Won't Break the Bank!)

Each of these tiny puffy heart necklaces is hand-carved and kiln-fired, so they’re as unique as your Valentine. Get one here.

Gifting heartfelt, heart-stopping jewelry for Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to break the bank. Rather than worrying over the size, clarity and price of a diamond this year, choose something unique and handmade by a real person at a small business pouring love into every aspect of each design from start to finish! Your Valentine will appreciate the thoughtfulness of a beautiful, unique piece of jewelry lovingly made by hand and packed with sentiment. Check out this list of perfect Valentine’s Day jewelry ideas that’ll make your Valentine’s heart throb and your wallet happy:

Two hearts intertwined… what could be more romantic? Each of these necklaces is made by hand, and each one has the uniqueness to show it. The hearts are hand-shaped and cast in bronze, locked together in kiln fire. The hearts are free-moving like links in a chain on the necklace. Expect them to move and flow within each other, not stay stationary, as is the nature of love. And expect the hearts to not be completely identical to each other. The chains are 14k gold-filled, so the necklace is hypoallergenic. Folks with nickel allergies are safe here! The whole necklace measures about 17.5 inches. Get it here.

My Birthstone Cluster Collection was inspired by nature and the gorgeously imperfect way the world’s gemstones come to us before they’re cut, set and made to look like something completely otherworldly. I cast these stones in clear resin, letting them fall from my fingertips into the liquid wherever they land. Over several days, it hardens into a little cluster of gemstones that look like they’re bursting forth. Glowing peridots, moody sapphires, rich rubies, warm citrine crystals… all the colors of the birthstone rainbow. Get yours here.

Say what you wanna say, with custom stamped jewelry made by hand... Up to 15 characters on brass or aluminum. A shorter phrase will go on a 1 inch bar unless specified to prevent empty space. 1 1/2 inch bar shown in main photo. Get your custom bar necklace here.

Sometimes gorgeously simple isn’t as simple as it seems. These monogram initial necklaces are each made from hand-cast bronze and fired in a kiln. Each piece is uniquely handmade. The chain is an elegant paper-clip style chain that’s 14k gold-filled, so it’s hypoallergenic. Chains are 18 inches long, but if you’d prefer a longer necklace you can add an extender here. Because each necklace is handmade to order, please expect 2-4 days before they ship. Get your custom monogram hexagon necklace here.

Doves are symbols of love and peace, often depicted carrying olive branches or tenderly nuzzling each other. They’re expert messengers, domesticated more than 5,000 years ago for correspondence and companionship. Across cultures, doves have symbolized femininity, motherhood and the moon. They’re sacred in Islam and Christianity; legend says that Muhammad trained doves, and the devil in Christianity can shapeshift into many forms except the dove. Our Dove Hoop Earrings feature a pair of doves, one with wings spread and the other at rest. Each earring measures approximately 1.5 inches across. Dove Earrings are available in solid cast bronze or solid sterling silver. Both styles are free of nickel. Each pair of dove earrings comes on a decorate card back with the story of doves. Get your dove earrings here.

The Flamingo, perched precariously on one leg in the shallow water, reminds us to find balance in our own lives. Its whimsical pink coloring makes it stand out among other birds, reminding us to be ourselves, however different we may appear. And its curved neck shapes one half of a heart, forming a whole when it pairs with a mate, which it attracts with its flamboyant dance moves. Our Flamingo Necklace features a pair of flamingos touching beaks to form a heart shape and is topped with two beads of pink rhodochrosite to add a pop of flamingo pink. This necklace is available as a solid bronze pendant on a 14k gold-filled chain or a sterling silver pendant on a sterling silver chain. Necklaces measure approximately 18 inches and can be fastened on any link of the chain, so they may be worn slightly shorter if you prefer. If you’d prefer a longer chain, you may add an extender here. Both styles are free of nickel and come on a decorative card back telling the significance of the flamingo. Get your flamingo necklace here.

Keep yourself motivated to keep being the badass you are with these stamped mantra bracelets. Cuffs are solid brass or solid aluminum, polished so there are no sharp edges, durable and adjustable. Each cuff is hand stamped letter by letter with the mantra of your choice. Choose from our variety of favorite mantras or enter your own at checkout. Get your custom stamped cuff here.

Every summer, local nonprofit Trust Tree uplifts young girls and gender-expansive youth in our community via their music and songwriting camps, and we want to show some love back to Trust Tree by bringing awareness to their organization and raising funds for them with this “Girls Rock” hand-stamped lightning bolt necklace. Each necklace is lovingly hand-stamped letter by letter locally in my North Little Rock studio, and 25% of the sales go to Trust Tree! The little brass lightning bolt is paired with a tiny quartz crystal because it’s Arkansas’s state mineral and it’s just darn pretty. The chain is 18 inches long and 14k gold-filled, so it’s hypoallergenic. If you’d like a longer chain, you may add an extender by clicking here. To learn more about Trust Tree, visit their website here. Get your Girls Rock Necklace here.

These stamped brass keychains are perfectly customizable, or choose from these hilarious sayings that are sure to raise an eyebrow or two. Solid brass circle key tag measures 2 inches across and is stamped, polished, drilled and assembled by hand. At checkout, you'll be prompted to enter what you'd like your custom keychain to say. Please, enter exactly what you'd like it to say. Get your custom keychain here.

This clever heart necklace is a throwback to the romantic symbolism of Celtic knots, made with just one rope, and the playful macramé knot work made popular in the 1970s (inspired by 13th Century Arab weaving and passed down over centuries until it blew up massively in the ‘70s). The rope heart pendant was made using a single piece of rope, then cast in bronze. It’s a substantial, meaningful piece of handmade jewelry that would make a perfect Valentine’s Day, anniversary or wedding gift for a love bird. Get your Macrame Heart Necklace here.

Wear your heart on the outside with this 3-dimensional anatomical heart necklace complete with faceted teardrop garnet. This anatomical heart pendant was carved completely by hand and measures approximately 1 inch from top to bottom. The stylish paperclip chain measures 18 inches. This heart necklace is available as a bronze pendant on a 14k gold-filled chain or a sterling silver pendant on a sterling silver chain. You can add an extender to your heart necklace here if you like. Get your anatomical heart necklace here.

Don’t forget the card! Check out the Home + Gift section of my website for a bunch of sweet and funny Valentine’s Day cards to add to your order. Click here to see our cards.

The Aviary Collection: Handmade Artisan Jewelry Inspired by Birds

Birds have a secret language. Many of them, like parrots and cockatoos, famously can be taught human words, and highly intelligent birds, like crows and ravens, have their own language of calls and cries within their species. But birds have a special language to humans— a tongue of significance, symbolism and omen. In my Aviary Collection of jewelry inspired by our feathered friends, I’ve pulled from the legends and histories of some of my favorite birds to create cast bronze and sterling silver tributes to them and the role they’ve played in human lives and storytelling. Find our bird-inspired necklaces and earrings at our North Little Rock, Arkansas, jewelry and gift store or online through the links below.

The tiny Hummingbird feeds almost exclusively on nectar, flitting from bloom to bloom on its wings that beat around 50 times per second (for North American species), making it a fantastic pollinator. In Mexican folklore, the hummingbird is revered for its connection to love and romance. Our Hummingbird Earrings feature tiny, dainty hummingbirds feeding from blossoms. Above each flower is a faceted, iridescent hematite bead. Find our hummingbird earrings here.

The tiny Hummingbird feeds almost exclusively on nectar, flitting from bloom to bloom on its wings that beat around 50 times per second (for North American species), making it a fantastic pollinator. In Mexican folklore, the hummingbird is revered for its connection to love and romance. Our Hummingbird Necklace features a hummingbird feeding from a sunflower. Above the pendant is a line of eight faceted, iridescent hematite beads. Find our hummingbird necklace here.

Unlike many flighted birds with angular feathers, Ostrich feathers are balanced on each side, symbolizing equality, truth and justice. In ancient Egypt, the goddess Ma’at weighed the hearts of the dead against an ostrich feather, and if a heart was as light as the feather, that meant the owner led a virtuous life and could enter paradise. Our Ostrich Feather Earrings are simple yet elegant, featuring an ostrich feather with a quill that extends into the ear wire of the earrings. These feather earrings are available in solid cast bronze or sterling silver. Find our ostrich feather earrings here.

Unlike many flighted birds with angular feathers, Ostrich feathers are balanced on each side, symbolizing equality, truth and justice. In ancient Egypt, the goddess Ma’at weighed the hearts of the dead against an ostrich feather, and if a heart was as light as the feather, that meant the owner led a virtuous life and could enter paradise. Our Ostrich Feather Necklace features a simple yet gorgeous feather on an 18-inch paperclip style chain elegant enough for one of the world’s most elegant feathers. This necklace is available as a cast bronze ostrich feather charm on a 14k gold-filled chain or as a sterling silver charm on a sterling silver chain. Both styles are free of nickel and come on a decorative card back displaying the significance of the ostrich feather. Find our ostrich feather necklace here.

The mythical Phoenix is reborn again and again, combusting and rising from its own ashes. Across cultures, it’s a symbol of strength and perseverance. It’s also a symbol of gentleness, as according to some legends it lives on smoke and dew, never harming another living thing. Our Phoenix necklace features a fierce Phoenix rising from flames, wings fearlessly spread. This necklace is available in bronze with a cast bronze phoenix pendant on a 20-inch 14k gold-filled chain or in silver with a sterling silver phoenix pendant and 20-inch sterling silver chain. The clasp can be fastened to any link in the chain, so you can wear the necklace shorter if you prefer. Find our phoenix necklace here.

Ravens are members of the most intelligent group of birds: the corvids. They speak their own language of calls and cries and can be taught human words. Perhaps this is why they’re historically considered to be oracles, symbols of wisdom, omniscient, predictors of coming danger, and able to traverse the realms of both the living and dead. Our Raven Necklace features a raven carved into a circular pendant with an all-seeing eye. Above the pendant is a faceted bead of black onyx. The Raven Necklace is available as a bronze pendant on an 18-inch 14k gold-filled paperclip-style chain or as a sterling silver pendant on an 18-inch sterling silver paperclip-style chain. Find our raven necklace here.

Doves are symbols of love and peace, often depicted carrying olive branches or tenderly nuzzling each other. They’re expert messengers, domesticated more than 5,000 years ago for correspondence and companionship. Across cultures, doves have symbolized femininity, motherhood and the moon. They’re sacred in Islam and Christianity; legend says that Muhammad trained doves, and the devil in Christianity can shapeshift into many forms except the dove. Our Dove Hoop Earrings feature a pair of doves, one with wings spread and the other at rest. Each earring measures approximately 1.5 inches across. Dove Earrings are available in solid cast bronze or solid sterling silver. Both styles are free of nickel. Each pair of dove earrings comes on a decorate card back with the story of doves. Find our dove hoop earrings here.

Geese may be the oldest birds domesticated by humans nearly 7,000 years ago. Their close relationship with people has made them sacred in many cultures. The “goose laying the golden egg” dates to ancient Egypt, with the golden egg representing the sun. Ancient Celts considered geese so sacred they weren’t to be eaten. In India, Brahma is shown riding a goose. Geese are migratory, forming a strong V shape together in flight, and geese mate for life. Geese are protectors, fiercely guarding their young and the humans they’re close to. Our Goose Necklace features a goose in flight with fellow geese in V-formation in the background of the round pendant. The Goose Necklace is available as a cast bronze pendant on an 18-inch 14k gold-filled chain or as a sterling silver pendant on an 18-inch sterling silver chain. Find our goose necklace here.

The Peacock is the national bird of India, where it is exalted for its habit of eating snakes—even venomous ones. Its taste for poisonous serpents led to the belief that peacocks can neutralize toxins, making the bird a symbol of purity as well. The Peacock means good luck in many cultures, and the “eye” of its iridescent tail feathers is symbolic of the evil eye in some. Our Peacock Necklace features a peacock set against the imprint of the eye of a peacock feather and encircled by a subtle snake biting its tail. The Peacock Necklace is available as a cast bronze pendant on a 14k gold-filled chain or as a sterling silver pendant on a sterling silver chain. Chains measure approximately 19.5 inches and may be fastened at any link on the chain in case you’d prefer to wear the necklace shorter. Find our peacock necklace here.

The Flamingo, perched precariously on one leg in the shallow water, reminds us to find balance in our own lives. Its whimsical pink coloring makes it stand out among other birds, reminding us to be ourselves, however different we may appear. And its curved neck shapes one half of a heart, forming a whole when it pairs with a mate, which it attracts with its flamboyant dance moves. Our Flamingo Necklace features a pair of flamingos touching beaks to form a heart shape and is topped with two beads of pink rhodochrosite to add a pop of flamingo pink. This necklace is available as a solid bronze pendant on a 14k gold-filled chain or a sterling silver pendant on a sterling silver chain. Necklaces measure approximately 18 inches and can be fastened on any link of the chain, so they may be worn slightly shorter if you prefer. Find our flamingo necklace here.

The Wren is believed to be the bird of witches, and a wren feather can protect you against magical spells. On the Isle of Man in the United Kingdom, wren feathers are thought to protect sailors from shipwrecks because sorcerous wrens can transform into Sirens. On the other side of the Atlantic, Pawnee Native Americans considered the wren a joyous, happy bird because it sings so loudly at sunrise. Our Wren Necklace features a little wren perched on the crescent moon, rich with witchy vibes. This necklace is available as a cast bronze pendant on an 18-inch 14k gold-filled paperclip-style chain or a sterling silver pendant on an 18-inch sterling silver paperclip-style chain. Find our wren necklace here.

Creatures of Night: A Jewelry Bestiary Inspired by Cryptozoology, Mythology and Fantasy

Our newest collection of handmade jewelry is a bestiary of fantastical, sinister and mythological beasts. Inspired by cryptozoology and the cages of Mommy Fortuna’s carnival in The Last Unicorn, this menagerie invites you to steal a glance at some of the most secretive creatures the world has (maybe) never seen. Whether or not you believe in unicorns, kelpies, harpies, ghosts and ghouls, these legends have lived for centuries already and will outlive us for centuries ahead. Join us during Argenta Art Walk from 5-8pm, October 21, for the release of our Creatures of Night Collection at our jewelry store and gift shop, located at 429 Main Street in the historic Argenta Arts District of North Little Rock, Arkansas.

The Kelpie Necklace from our Creatures of Night Jewelry Collection. Also available in sterling silver.

The Kelpie

From the lochs of Scotland, this aquatic horse appears friendly at first, luring humans to ride upon its back, then diving with its victims into the lakes and rivers to drown and devour them. Find the Kelpie Necklace here.

The Vampire Necklace with Faceted Garnet Blood Drop from our Creatures of Night Jewelry Collection. Also available in sterling silver.

The Vampire

Born in Romania, the original vampires were shape-shifting, night-walking, blood-sucking ghouls who could only be killed with a stake through the heart to pin them into their grave, followed by beheading and burning to ensure they’d never rise again to drink from the living. Find the Vampire Fangs Necklace with Faceted Garnet Blood Drop here.

The Ammit Necklace from our Creatures of Night Jewelry Collection. Also available in sterling silver.

Ammit

Of Egyptian mythology, this creature is said to have the head of a crocodile, the forelegs and mane of a lion and the hind of a hippopotamus. When Osiris, King of the Underworld, judges a soul unworthy, Ammit devours its heart, casting the poor soul into limbo. Find the Ammit Necklace here.

The Jorōgumo Necklace from our Creatures of Night Jewelry Collection. Also available in sterling silver.

Jorōgumo

This Japanese creature has the upper half of a beautiful woman and the lower body of a spider. She seduces men, luring them into isolated spaces then spinning her victims into bundles in her web and drinking their blood. Find the Jorōgumo spider lady necklace here.

The Little Ghost Earrings from our Creatures of Night Jewelry Collection. Also available in sterling silver.

Ghost

There are perhaps no more universal and ancient night creatures than the spirits of the dead. They can mean harm or serve to protect the living, but they’re rarely seen by the human eye either way — even rarer in the daylight. Find the Little Ghost Necklace here

The Little Ghost Necklace from our Creatures of Night Jewelry Collection. Also available in sterling silver.

The Little Ghost Hoop Earrings from our Creatures of Night Jewelry Collection. Also available in sterling silver.

The Wampus Cat Necklace from our Creatures of Night Jewelry Collection. Also available in bronze.

The Wampus Cat

This reeking, fiendish, half-human, half-wildcat creature is also a woman scorned. According to legend, a Cherokee woman hid beneath a mountain lion pelt to spy on her husband and was punished by being made to embody the skin for eternity. This pendant is pressed with an illustration by Arkansas artist Chad Maupin of Big Bot Design. Find the Wampus Cat Necklace here.

The Midgard Serpent snake cuff bracelet from our Creatures of Night Jewelry Collection. Also available in sterling silver.

The Midgard Serpent

In Norse mythology, when Loki threw Jörmungandr, also known as the Midgard Serpent, into the sea, it grew so large it encircled the world and grasped its own tail. When it releases its tail one day, the great reckoning Ragnarök will begin, bringing devastation and floods, but the world will rise again from the waters, cleansed and reborn. Find the Midgard Serpent Snake Cuff Bracelet here.

The Unicorn in the Stars Necklace from our Creatures of Night Jewelry Collection. Also available in bronze.

The Unicorn

The rare and breathtaking unicorn lives in the wild forests of Europe, keeping out of human sight. According to medieval legend, it can be lured to rest its head peacefully in the lap of a maiden, making it a symbol of purity and grace. Its spiral horn is said to purify poisoned water and heal illness. Find the Unicorn in the Stars Necklace here.

The Harpy Necklace from our Creatures of Night Jewelry Collection. Also available in sterling silver.

The Harpy

This half-eagle, half-woman beast of Greek and Roman mythology is sometimes depicted with three breasts in popular culture. They abduct, carry away and torture their victims, sometimes doling out punishment from the gods. Find the Harpy Necklace here.

The Cerberus Necklace from our Creatures of Night Jewelry Collection.

Cerberus

In Greek mythology, this ferocious three-headed hound of Hades guards the entrance to the Underworld, keeping the dead from escaping and the living from entering. Find the Cerberus Necklace here.

The Midgard Serpent snake cuff bracelet, Little Ghost Hoop Earrings, Vampire Fangs with Faceted Garnet Blood Drop Necklace, and Little Ghost Necklace from our Creatures of Night Collection.

“Creatures of night, brought to light!”

The Speak Up Collection: Jewelry Featuring Wise Words by Women Icons

So often when we’re at a loss for words, we look to those already spoken by people we admire. This collection of handmade jewelry features inspiring quotes by feminist women we look up to, including Maya Angelou, Michelle Obama, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Laverne Cox and Hillary Rodham Clinton. (A couple of them even have Arkansas ties!) Keep a strong mantra close to your heart with these hand-crafted necklaces that are available in bronze and sterling silver on 14k gold-filled and sterling silver chains.

Which quotes are featured in our Speak Up Collection?

“Whatever you choose to do, leave tracks” … as in leave tracks for others to follow. - Ruth Bader Ginsburg

“Who you are authentically is alright” - Laverne Cox

“Choose people who lift you up” - Michelle Obama

“Women’s right are human rights, and human rights are women’s rights” - Hillary Rodham Clinton

“Nothing will work unless you do” - Maya Angelou

“Change takes courage” - Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez

I started making this collection in the spring of 2022, before the devastating overturning of Roe v. Wade, and after the news I felt even more the need to hold tokens of strength, hope and change close to me, especially because I live in a state with generally drastically different views from my own, where the legislature is constantly threatening human rights. Above all, in naming this the “speak up” collection, my hope is to start conversations.

Leave Tracks RBG Quote Necklace

“Whatever you choose to do, leave tracks” … as in leave tracks for others to follow your work and built on it. - Ruth Bader Ginsburg

This RBG quote encourages you to let others build on the work you’re doing, and reminds us that change sometimes takes time, but it also makes me think about all the organizations out there who have already been laying the foundation and doing the work to make the change you want to see. Be sure to seek out the effective, grassroots organizations in your area, support them, and follow their tracks before you set out completely from scratch on your own.

This pendant pressed with a powerful RBG quote and a set of footprints measures approximately one inch across and is available in bronze or sterling silver. The chain is 20 inches long and the clasp fastens onto any link in the chain, so you can wear it longer or shorter. Silver chains are sterling silver and gold chains are 14k gold-filled. As with all of our necklaces, we can make them longer with extensions.

Who You Are Authentically Laverne Cox Quote Necklace

“Who you are authentically is alright” - Laverne Cox

The diamond shape of this handmade necklace featuring a powerful quote by trans actress and icon Laverne Cox is complemented by two tiny Herkimer diamonds (double-pointed quartz crystals) on each side, a nod to the adage that diamonds are formed under pressure. This necklace is available in sterling silver with a sterling silver chain or bronze with a 14k gold-filled chain. These necklaces are about 18 inches long, and as with all of our necklaces, we can make them longer with extensions. The pendant part of the necklace measures about 1 inch across.

Nothing Will Work Unless You Do Maya Angelou Quote Necklace

“Nothing will work unless you do” - Maya Angelou

Maya Angelou holds a special place in the heart of Arkansans, as she spent part of her childhood in Stamps, Arkansas. This handmade pendant features an especially motivational Angelou quote to remind us to work hard for the change we want to make and is accented with a floral motif and a bird as a nod to her book of poetry “I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings.” The pendant measures about 1 inch across and is available in bronze or sterling silver on a sterling silver or 14k gold-filled chain. The chain is 20 inches long and the clasp fastens onto any link in the chain, so you can wear it longer or shorter. Silver chains are sterling silver and gold chains are 14k gold-filled. As with all of our necklaces, we can make them longer with extensions.

Choose People Who Lift You Up Michelle Obama Quote Necklace

“Choose people who lift you up” - Michelle Obama

First Lady, author, activist and icon Michelle Obama was speaking of her daughters with this quote encouraging them to choose partners who lift them up rather than drag them down, but this quote spoke to me far beyond the romantic connotations. Even in friendships, work partnerships and family relationships, it’s so important to be there for the people who are there for you— for the people who want more FOR you and don’t stand in the way of who you are authentically, try to control you or use you for personal gain. For me, it’s a personal mantra of self-care to hold close those who hold me close for the right reasons. This handmade necklace features a pendant with Michelle Obama’s words encircled in a twisted, decorative frame like a work of art.

This necklace is available in sterling silver with a sterling silver chain or bronze with a 14k gold-filled chain. The entire necklace is about 18 inches long, and as with all of our necklaces, we can make them longer with extensions.

Change Takes Courage AOC Quote Necklace

“Change takes courage” - Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez

If anyone has the courage to make change, it’s U.S. representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. I’m constantly in awe of her ferocity and strength, which is why I paired her quote with an anatomical heart, the symbolic source of courage and bravery. These pendants measure approximately 3/4 inch across and are available in sterling silver with a sterling silver chain and bronze with a 14k gold-filled chain. Chains are 18 inches long, and as with all of our necklaces, we can add extenders.

Women’s Rights are Human Rights HRC Quote Necklace

“Women’s right are human rights, and human rights are women’s rights” - Hillary Rodham Clinton

I’ve heard this quote said so many times by so many people, and only recently I learned that Hillary Rodham Clinton spoke it in a 1995 speech. Almost 30 years later, it’s still extremely pertinent. With this pendant, I played off the mirror-like effect of the words with a reversible, framed, mirror-shaped pendant, where one side says “women’s rights are human rights” and the backside says “and human rights are women’s rights.” These pendants measures about one inch long and are available in bronze on a 14k gold-filled chain or sterling silver on a sterling silver chain. Chains are 18 inches long, and as with all of our necklaces, we can add extenders.

Bang-Up Betty is snarky, meaningful, well-made jewelry made in North Little Rock, Arkansas, as well as feminist pins, stickers and gifts. Since 2013, Bang-Up Betty has been crafting custom and personalized jewelry and other quirky, nerdy and feminist necklaces, bracelets and earrings. Shop Bang-Up Betty’s unique Arkansas-made jewelry through our “jewelry and stickers” tab, where you can also order custom name necklaces, mantra cuff bracelets, stamped key tags and more. Thank you for voting Bang-Up Betty “Best Artisan” for handmade jewelry in the Arkansas Times’ Best of Arkansas nine years in a row and “Best Gift Shop” in Arkansas in 2022!

Visit our Argenta storefront at 429 Main Street in North Little Rock! We’re located above Ristorante Capeo. Our hours are:

Wednesday - Friday: 11am - 5:30pm

Saturday 11am - 5:00pm

Check back for extended holiday hours.

Mother's Day Gift Guide: 21 Gifts for Moms of All Ages

Cards, candles, jewelry made in Arkansas, and so much more make our Mother’s Day gift guide.

Whether you want to make mom laugh out loud with a “sorry about my teenage years” candle or say “awww” with jewelry made in Arkansas that supports arts education, this Mother’s Day gift guide will help you navigate shopping locally for gifts this Mother’s Day week. Everything on this list is available at Bang-Up Betty’s jewelry and gift store in the Argenta Arts District of North Little Rock, located at 429 Main Street with extended hours this week to take the panic out of last-minute shopping. Stop by Tuesday through Friday from 11-5:30 or Saturday 11-5. We’ve even got a houseplant pop-up in store on Saturday! And if you’re looking for our completely made in Arkansas gift guide, you’ll find it here.

Here are 21 of our favorite gifts for moms of all ages:

These nontoxic, deliciously scented candles come with sweet and hilarious phrases like “sorry about my teenage years,” “hey mom, thanks for the ridiculously good looks,” “hey mom, you’re a badass,” “best mom ever,” and “hey hot mama.” Available in store at Bang-Up Betty.

This charitable necklace made in Arkansas gives back to arts education by supporting Thea Foundation. It’s great for teachers, artists, and art lovers. Available in store at Bang-Up Betty or online.

Give mom a creative project that’s fun and not overwhelming with a colorful DIY embroidery kit. These kits are pre-printed, so you’re never in the dark about where to put your stitches, and with hummingbird, succulent, solar system, feminist librarian and bearded dragon designs, they’re all beautiful. Available in store at Bang-Up Betty or online.

Moms are always picking up the phone, so don’t forget to pick up a card for Mother’s Day! Available in store at Bang-Up Betty.

Give mom a Mother’s Day flower that won’t wilt with this made-in-Arkansas sunflower necklace. Available in store at Bang-Up Betty or online. These beautiful mandala ring dishes made in Arkansas pair perfectly with a piece of jewelry and are available in store as well.

Brighten up mom’s home with a colorful Arkansas-made macrame plant hanger, available in store at Bang-Up Betty. If you need a plant to go in it, we’re having a houseplant pop-up this Saturday from 1-4pm.

Thank mom for her unsolicited advice with a funny card. Available in store at Bang-Up Betty.

These Arkansas-made tulip ring dishes pair perfectly with a piece of Arkansas made jewelry, and if you’re getting mom flowers, these flower frogs will help gorgeously display them. Available in store at Bang-Up Betty.

Strong women: may we be them, may we know them, may we raise them. Tell mom how strong she is with a “strong as hell” necklace made in Arkansas. Available in store at Bang-Up Betty or online.

What’s better than coffee? Coffee and chocolate! These organic chocolate-covered espresso beans are delightful. Available in store at Bang-Up Betty.

Mom needs a gorgeous umbrella upgrade, and these leafy and ocean-patterned clear umbrellas will keep the rain off in style. Available in store at Bang-Up Betty.

A puzzle is ALWAYS a safe gift in my family. Bonus: I get to borrow it when mom is done working it. This Ruth Bader Ginsburg puzzle is one of several beautiful, clever and fun puzzles we have in store at Bang-Up Betty. And if your mom loves RBG as much as many of the moms in my life, you’ll find several shelves FULL of RBG memorabilia waiting for you here.

Mom is a goddess! Make sure she knows it with this “Athena” column vase. Available in store at Bang-Up Betty.

If mom is a force of nature or needs a little empowerment, these Arkansas made hand-stamped mantra cuffs will do the trick! They’re stamped with powerful phrases like “unstoppable,” “actually, I can,” “get outta my way,” “get shit done,” “hustle,” and more. They’re also customizable if you want to order one online to ship or pick up in store using code LOCALPICKUP, but be sure and order it by Friday.

If mom is a bookworm and a fan of classic romance, she’ll love this Jane Austen planter. Available in store at Bang-Up Betty or online. If you need an air plant to go in it, we’re having a houseplant pop-up Saturday from 1-4pm.

These gorgeous flower pots and planters are handmade in Arkansas, and if you need a plant to go in them, we’re having a houseplant pop-up Saturday from 1-4pm. Available in store.

Keep mom on track with a Dolly Parton-themed to-do list that says “pour myself a cup of ambition.” Available in store or online.

This adorable heart hands hook pillow is a cute reminder that you love mom. Grab it in store at Bang-Up Betty or online.

Sometimes justice and casseroles are too hot to handle. This “I Dissent” Ruth Bader Ginsburg oven mitt is available in store at Bang-Up Betty or online.

Honestly, the most valuable gift you can give a parent is unlimited tech support. This hilarious Mother’s Day card is available in store at Bang-Up Betty.com.

Thank you for shopping small and local this Mother’s Day!