I buy the semi-precious stones, pearls, and Swarovski crystals for my one-of-a-kind creations at gem fairs, shows and gem stores all over the San Francisco Bay area. My designs come from my own imagination, put together by color and the feel of the stones.
When pearls or other precious or expensive stones are used, they are knotted at either each stone or pearl, or at intervals, based on where knots can be placed so as not to detract from the set. This helps prevent losing an entire necklace if it breaks.
The price for each item is reached by adding up the cost of the materials, design time and time spent producing each piece. If the materials are purchased for less than the going market price, I pass the savings on to the consumer.