Animal attraction
In 2007, University of Georgia grad Casey Melton teamed up with Texas native Shannah Frank to start Dallas-based f. is for frank.
Two years later, the duo – with degrees in sculpture and metal smithing — decided to take a break from designing custom architectural elements and create a line of handmade jewelry ($20 to $275) that has a textural, sculptural and modern feel.
Cast pewter is their medium of choice, said Melton, who grew up in Roswell. But f. is for frank also offer pieces in 24-karat gold plate and rose gold plate. Recent best-sellers include Jefferson (bunny) and Dunn (the fox) necklace and ring. The collection is hand-sculptured and resembles animal masks.
For their most recent collection, the artists were inspired by the shapes and lines of succulents. However, instead of sculpting, they made molds of the actual plant to capture its perfections – and imperfections.
Find f. is for frank jewelry in the Atlanta area at The Beehive, 1250 Caroline St. NE (the beehive-atlanta.com) and Sq/Ft, 149 Sycamore St., in Decatur (sqftdecatur.com). Also check www.fisforfrank.com
Mesh & modern
Sarah Cavender discovered the beauty and versatility of wire screening at the Philadelphia College of Art. Then, after graduation, the sculpture major started Sarah Cavender Metalworks.
Based in Oxford, Ala., the small company specializes in wire mesh jewelry, belts and handbags that are easy to wear and as striking as any work of art.
Wire screening offers limitless design possibilities, said Cavender. After she plates and oxidizes it, Cavender then cuts, folds and shapes it (like paper) into a variety of unique designs, including her popular floral jewelry. She also has used industrial knitted wires for her belts and bags, which have a more contemporary feel.
Cavender’s designs include finely knit necklaces ($40 to $325), bracelets ($36 to $250) and earrings ($45 to $125). Also belts ($75 to $350) and handbags ($180 to $550).
In the Atlanta area, find designs at Beth Ann, 47 Irby Ave. NW (bethannstyle.com) and Bee, 26 E. Andrews Drive (bee-atlanta.com). Also purchase online at artfulhome.com
New Orleans style
The culture, architecture and natural beauty of New Orleans play a key role in the work of jewelry designer Mignon Faget, a fifth-generation New Orleanian. The city is her beloved home. But it is also a place where Faget finds inspiration for her distinctive designs.
Take her newest collection. It was inspired by vintage lace swatches that Faget found in her mother’s cedar chest. With its lacelike look, Faget created a narrow and wide cuff ($500 to $850) that is available in sterling silver or 18-karat gold. A wide cuff is also offered with diamonds and pearls ($1,200). It is bold, yet feminine.
By mixing metals and materials, Faget offers a variety of wearable art for everyone of any age. Choose from Louisiana-inspired charms and amulets to oyster shell pendants. For a modern edge, check the honeycomb pattern in hive collection.
In sterling, prices range from $75 to $125 for pendants and $100 to $200 for rings. Necklaces start at $150 and bracelets at $225. Many designs are also available in 14-karat or 18-karat gold.
In the Atlanta area, find Mignon Faget designs at Bee, 26 E. Andrews Drive (bee-atlanta.com). Also visit www.mignonfaget.com.
Best of the South
Do you have favorite finds from around the South that you give as gifts, buy for your home or rave about to friends? If so, please share them with us. Send your suggestions to: lljerkins@gmail.com. Please include your name and contact number. Also find more Southern-made products, featured in the AJC, at Southernfinds on Facebook or on twitter@southernfinds1.
