Awhile back I had to go to Strasbourg for another eye test and when I returned Frenchie met me at the train station and we spent a leisurely hour or two wandering the streets of Colmar. It is filled with tiny cobblestoned streets lined with interesting shops and cafes. We happened upon a Madagascar Festival that was basically just a market filled with stand after stand of wonderful craftmanship all made by the women of Madagascar and they proudly would tell you about how they polished said stone or wove said scarf from raw silk. I was astounded by the beautiful pieces on display and the prices were so low I couldn't help but select several pieces. The labradorite heart here is so colorful, I am afraid the pictures don't do it justice. It Flashes with gorgeous blues and greens. I think it is probably the nicest piece of Labradorite I've ever seen and I can't wait to make a piece out of it.
The shell in the center was an interesting piece. The woman actually had raw shells that hadn't been polished yet on display and she explained how she polished them and made the pieces. She called this the eye of Santa Lucia. I love the spiral design in the center!
The ammonites were just amazing. I picked up two matching ones and a larger single piece to make earrings and a necklace. The selection was plentiful and some of them were so big. I could have easily spent a fortune there, it was so hard to pick and chose.
Lastly, Frenchie stopped at the silk scarf stand and though I make and sell silk scarves and have a whole dresser full of silk I had to admit I wanted one so bad. Frenchie happily bought me the most beautiful scarf. It has become my favorite and I have already wore it several times. It is completely different from the silk I normally work with so I don't feel too guilty.
All it all it was a nice find. The prices were so low and knowing they were going directly to these wonderful women made me happy. I have seen some of the conditions in Madagascar. It is a poor country but beautiful. I am glad they came to Colmar and I hope they return again. Next time I will try to take pictures!
Hopefully soon I will put a few of these to the wire and try to make some jewelry out of them. I am struggling with my jewelry right now though. Taking this long break has made me rusty. I have been trying to make a simple pair of earrings for three days and nothing is working. Please send me some patience to help me through this dry spot. I need it!
Wishing you all a restful and wonderful weekend...
I wish you good luck with your eyes. I admire your talent for making beautiful creations. I also love that you live in France...Ooh la la! We had a beautiful trip there years ago and loved it!
ReplyDeleteThank you LInda, they continue to improve and I hope to have full recovery soon. So glad you enjoyed ithere, it is a beautiful country for sure! Take care xo
DeleteHang in there, the creative juices will start flowing freely again and you'll have your earrings finished! Sounds like such a lovely day in Colmar. I've not made jewelry in a while, either, as life keeps getting in the way.:)
ReplyDeletexoKathleen
I am still waiting for them to flow. It is taking awhile but I know it will return. I plan on spending my day perusing beautiful works and I am sure the inspiration will strike soon!
DeleteOh my those pieces are just gorgeous. Can't wait to see what you do with them. I know it will be something absolutely awesome. Love the scarf. Can see why you fell in love with it. Take care
ReplyDeleteI know right? I just about swooned when I walked in there and saw the tables laden with these pieces. I was in pure heaven for sure. can't wait to come up with a design for these :D
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