Rafael Alfandary (aka Rafael Canada)

Over the past year I have taken an interest in a wonderful jewelry designer from the 1970s by the name of
Rafael Alfandary.   Rafael was a famous jewelry designer based in Canada for much of his life.  His designs tend to be made out of brass with a glass cabochon.
He most typically made necklaces and rings with bracelets, brooches and earrings being more rare. 

I tend to collect his more unique items.  The below example is a Self Portrait done in Sterling Silver with brass details and a red glass cabochon in his mouth.  This has an option to use it as a pendant, a brooch and possibly a bolo tie! 

Rare Rafael Alfandary Self Portrait

A large Rafael Alfandary Bracelet

An Early Copper Rafael Ring

Brass Rafael Alfandary kinetic Necklace



Our Politically Incorrect Past and Drink Coasters.

Sometimes you collect an item without knowing what you would ever use it for.  I've been picking up these novelty small dishes for years, too small to display on the wall, too flat to display on a shelf, I'm sure too toxic to use for food. 
When I moved into my new apartment I had a moment of sheer genius..... coasters for drinks.  They now sit stacked on the corner of my coffee table waiting to be noticed by an unsuspecting guest. 

Politically incorrect, sometimes sexist, a snapshot to Canada's and the USA's past.

Cicada and the thought of Summer

Every time I see a  Cicada (cigale) it brings up memories of hot summer days with the humming noise of a Cicada in the background... the warmer it is, the louder they get.  In France they are considered good luck and bring good fortune.  In many other cultures they represent everything from rebirth to self expression.  Variations live all across the world and they can live up to 20 years. 



Add caption

Recently I picked up the most wonderful vintage Cicada brooch from the 1930-40s.  Made from carved lucite and measures about 1" long.  I have it listed in my Etsy shop and adore it.