Questions and Answers

Keys are one of those symbols that speak softly but have much to say. For some, they whisper of mysteries waiting to be unlocked, searching for the right keyhole. For others, they are where one's secrets are coveted and the keeper is the guardian of a great treasure.
What does it mean when you give some a key? Are you bestowing answers, or sending them on a quest?

For me, keys are all the more meaningful the older they are. The wonderment is more amazing and the curiosity deeper.
I have a collection of antique Victorian skeleton keys that date from the late 1800's to the early 1900's, and I am absolutely intrigued by them. Recently it struck me as golden, to pair them with a hoard of seed beads from the same period and I have beaded simple chains for a striking effect.

For your enjoyment and intrigue, may I present Victorian Skeleton Keys, by Mermaiden Creations...

The Magic Three

Antique Allure

Often Offbeat

Well, today I have more sharing to do. Of stuffs and baubs, a divulgence of a thing or two.

Girls Prefer Skulls by MermaidenCreations

I'm not-so-good at the blog award thing, and never play by rules as they've been written or requested. But in appreciation of my FAE friend Aquariann and the kind way she has turned her thoughts toward me, I thought I would show you my favorite work of art by her.

And to partially play along, I will let you all in on my most favoritest fragrance in all the world. This is a smell that when I first breathed it in, I was transported. To another somewhen or where, I do not know, but I am inexorably commanded by this scent. Labdanum is this most magical and ancient resin, and my favorite form to date is made by none other than Black Phoenix Alchemy Lab, which is a spectacular must-visit. Event Horizon makes my eyes roll back in my head every time I put it on. If you read the description on this page, you'll see why!
Another perfumer whom I am in awe of without even trying any of her concoctions, is Illuminated Perfume. Roxana loves labdanum...and bees.

And now without further ado, meet Peridot dragon.

Love and Roses

That day is fast approaching. The one where those in new love lavish specialness upon one another, where those lonely for love eat a gallon of ice cream, those bitter from love drink a fifth and crush the blooms on the bush, and those old married lovers buy a blender for the house.

Shall I share some love and roses with you?

My Wooden Heart

Blood Red Rose

Heart's Blood

Valentine's beauties and more at Mermaiden Creations.

Bon Anniversaire Jehanne D'Arc

Perhaps today, January sixth, marks the day of Joan of Arc's birth.

Though scholars are uncertain, I couldn't let the possibility go unremarked upon.

In the past I have paid her tribute here, but for today I will leave you with images rather than words.

JW Waterhouse Saint Joan

Medieval Jehanne D'Arc

Millais Joan of Arc

New Territory

I have finally delved into the abundant stash of PMC and sterling silver supplies I have. Yes, I have been hoarding them. For an embarrassingly long time.  I suppose I have been anxious about my skills and ability to do justice to these precious materials, but something in me snapped and I knew it was time to just try.

I am rather well pleased with my first simple attempts. I hope you don't mind me sharing:

Moon and Star Labradorite Moonstone

Ancient Leaves Prehnite

Calla Lilies

Bee Goddess Relics





All these earrings are listed in my shop, Mermaiden Creations.