The breathtaking shards of glass Angie Olami uses in her jewelry date from 100 BCE to 300 CE. They were unearthed in Israel by archaeologists sifting through the fallen pillars and once magnificent cities of the Roman Empire.

And how do the colors form? The layers of iridescent colors have evolved gradually over the centuries as part of the glass’s chemical reaction to the sun, the water and the mineral rich earth in which it was buried. There has been glass found in England and Northern Europe dating back at least 1700 yrs, but it lacks the opalescence associated with Roman Glass because the natural phenomenon could not occur in their cold, damp climates. Angie Olami’s suppliers of Roman Glass are all licensed by the Israeli Government Antiquities Authority. Whole vessels are carted off to the museums and archaeologists keep whatever they need for research, the fragments are used in the jewelry design - useless rubble to some but magnificent gems to us!

Angie Olami jewelry is made from the hand blown fragments of ancient perfume pots, juglets, lamps, flasks, vases, cups and bowls. Each fragment varies in thickness, age and composition. Each piece underwent its own unique transformation as it became weathered with layers of patina. If a shard doesn’t sit exactly straight in its bezel, remember it is someone’s ancient wineglass you are wanting to wear as a pendant or as earrings.

Do you ever feel that when you wear a favorite piece of jewelry that your whole day seems to be brighter? Whatever the ‘magic’ is, all the designs in my collection seem to have that very presence about them. When worn, they feel as though they have been with you a very long time. They are to be worn and treasured. It’s a pleasure to offer you this outstanding collection from some of the most desirable artists around.

Featured work is primarily from Colorado Artists Darlene Armstrong, Katie Brassell and Sharon Schaffner. All pendant designs are sterling silver. Some pieces have 14K gold accents. The pin/pendant shown here is from Darlene Armstrong. “Ancient Wisdom #1″ includes Aquamarine, Diamond, Sapphire and 14K accents.

This charming jewelry gallery is in its 15th year of bringing one of a kind works of the jeweler’s art to its’ customers. If you are not in the area, take a look here to see what wearable treasures are available to enhance your world. Jewelry offers each of us an expression of who we are! Step inside, take a moment and see what waits there to brighten your life.

Bracelets on the Santa Fe Trail come from a variety of talented artists. All hand-crafted, no two are ever alike.

See our shop gallery to see our current selection of unique bracelet masterpieces.