Hello folks, lovely to catch up with you again. Hubby has been off his feet for the last couple of weeks and I've been playing nursemaid, cook and chief bottle washer as well as doing my day job. He's finally decided that he feels well enough to get out of bed and totter about, and he's obviously much better today - I can hear him singing away in the kitchen as he loads the dishwasher! 

There’s something intoxicating about the blue lotus. Imagine a flower that opens up at night, basking in moonlight instead of sunlight, as if to say: “I’ll bloom on my own schedule, thank you very much.” In ancient Egypt, it symbolised rebirth and the sun — which seems a bit ironic, given its penchant for nocturnal glamour. The yogis and Buddhists of the world took a different view: for them, the blue lotus represented enlightenment, wisdom, and the expansion of the mind. I suppose that’s the magic of flowers and symbols — they carry whatever meaning you’re ready to give them. Personally, I think the blue lotus is nature’s way of reminding us that beauty often flourishes in the dark.

​The pendant in Midnight Bloom is a silver mandala, and mandalas themselves are a story worth telling. You’ve probably seen them in temples, art, colouring books, and tattoo designs, all those intricate circles within circles. The word “mandala” comes from Sanskrit and means “circle”, — though a mandala is never just a circle. It’s the universe in miniature, a map of balance, wholeness, and the journey inward. Monks create them in painstaking detail with coloured sand, only to sweep them away when they’re finished, as a reminder of impermanence. Now, I haven’t swept away my mandala — mine is set in silver and adorned with blue stones, because impermanence is all very well in theory, but jewellery should last longer than a sandcastle.

​Of course, a pendant this striking needs pearls with personality to match. Enter the peacock pearl. These aren’t your grandmother’s polite, cream-coloured rows (though those certainly had their time and place). Peacock pearls are cultured freshwater pearls that have been treated to reveal iridescent shades of green, violet, blue and bronze — a rainbow that shifts as the light catches them. How does that happen? A natural pearl is made inside a mollusc, layer upon layer of nacre (that mother-of-pearl sheen). When you introduce just the right conditions — and sometimes a little bit of alchemy from skilled pearl farmers — you get pearls that gleam like spilled oil on water, only infinitely more chic. They’re the rebellious younger cousins of classic pearls: moody, dramatic, and utterly captivating.

And what could be more appropriate than pearls that shimmer like moonlight scattered across the surface of dark water? That’s the essence of Midnight Bloom — twilight mystery captured in jewellery. The tiny haematite beads glimmer like distant stars, the silver mandala reflects the cyclical calm of the moon, and the pearls themselves seem to carry a secret glow, as though they’ve stolen a fragment of the night sky.

​I’ve strung them together with tiny faceted haematite beads, just enough sparkle to echo the glimmer of the pendant, and finished the necklace with a laurel-leaf clasp — a little nod to victory and achievement. And then there are the two silver drum beads, with their pointed ends that cradle the mandala pendant perfectly, keeping it centred and steady, just like the meditative practice it symbolises.

So what does Midnight Bloom really give you? A whisper of mysticism, a touch of rebellion, and a lot of iridescent glamour. It’s a necklace that says you’re more than just surface sparkle — you carry depth, symbolism, and maybe even a little enlightenment around your neck. And if anyone asks, you can smile mysteriously and say it’s your mandala, your lotus, your bloom at midnight.

That's me for this week, folks. Have a wonderful weekend and I'll catch you soon,
Until then
​xx

Hello folks, how's tricks? The day job has been busy, what with the junior residents strike and I am glad the week is over and I can play with beads and talk to you - this part of my life is so much more fun, no contest! I also have a bunch of friends from my school days in Bangalore coming to spend the weekend with us, so bed making, cooking and cleaning have also been taking up some of my attention, but these are old friends and they won't mind the odd cobweb. 

There’s something undeniably joyful about pink lemonade. The drink, I mean — that sparkly, rosy, refreshing concoction that turns up at summer barbecues and girls’ brunches, all fizzy and fabulous like it’s had a good talking-to from a bottle of Prosecco. It’s sweet but tart, pretty but not sickly, and refreshingly hard to resist.

Now imagine taking all of that bottled sunshine and turning it into a necklace.
Voilà — Pink Lemonade, Caprilicious-style.

​This five-strand dazzler is a swirl of pale pink crystals, creamy pearls and marbled acrylic beads, and it absolutely refuses to be boring. I named it Pink Lemonade because it sparkles just the way the drink does when sunlight hits the glass — light, airy, and just that tiny bit cheeky. It also felt right for a piece that’s so fresh and versatile — and which, crucially, doesn’t take itself too seriously.

Let’s get one thing out of the way — please, for the love of all things stylish, don’t wear this necklace with pink. I know, I know — it’s tempting. But pink-on-pink is often the fast track to looking like you've escaped from Barbie’s jewellery box.
​What Pink Lemonade really needs is contrast. Think a cobalt blue kaftan, a jade green dress, a sharp black jumpsuit, or even a deep mustard yellow — let the pink pop rather than blend. The colour pink gets a lot more respect when it’s the star of the show and not just floating around in a sea of similar shades, trying to be polite.

You take lemonade. You add a splash of cranberry juice. Or raspberry syrup. Or squished strawberries. Basically, anything red and juicy. You give it a stir, garnish it with a slice of lemon and a silly umbrella if you’re feeling fancy — and serve with ice and a wink.

​But making this Pink Lemonade? That takes a bit more doing. Every bead is hand-strung, carefully spaced, and then restrung when it misbehaves (which it often does — crystal beads are divas, trust me). The effect, though, is absolutely worth it. Wear it long and flirty for a laid-back look, or double it up and it turns into a collarbone-hugging showstopper.

Life’s too short to be matchy-matchy. She wears red lipstick with a denim shirt. She wears pink necklaces with green dresses. And she knows that when you’re feeling a bit meh, a necklace called Pink Lemonade is exactly what you need to perk you up.
So go on — pour yourself a glass, pop on your pearls, and take this pretty little number out for a spin. Just don’t blame me if people start asking where you got your sparkle from.

That's me for this week, folks. Have a great weekend and I'll catch you soon, 
Until then
​xx

Hello good people, how are you today? It's been a hard week at the day job and it was a pleasure to come home of an evening and play with beads. I designed this necklace over the week and put it together on Friday for your delectation, and I hope you like it. 
This necklace is pure joy — it’s like a carnival conga line in gemstone form! With its vivid mix of carved cinnabar, bold turquoise, juicy orange resin nuggets, lapis lazuli, and those fabulous hand-painted tribal-style wooden beads, it’s got character for days. It practically sings colour, culture, and confidence and has a bold eclectic energy.

​Let’s face it — British summers are more "blink and you'll miss it" than blazing Mediterranean glory. But just because the skies are grey doesn’t mean you have to be. Enter Fiesta del Sol, your personal patch of wearable sunshine.

​This necklace is a riot of colour and cheer — think Spanish fiesta meets a stroll through a Moroccan souk, with a detour past a turquoise sea. It’s got all the ingredients for a good time: juicy orange resin beads that look like they were plucked from a fruit bowl in Ibiza, sky-blue turquoise and regal lapis lazuli that would make Cleopatra do a double take, and cheeky carved cinnabar beads that wink at you like they know something you don’t.

​And the gold-tone spacers? Oh, they're having their moment now — all bright and shiny — but give them time and they’ll mellow into a rich antique gold that whispers rather than shouts. Kind of like me after a couple of sangrias on holiday.

​Fiesta del Sol was made for warm weather adventures. Light and easy to wear, it slips effortlessly over your kaftan or summer dress and says, “Yes, I do look this fabulous on the deck of a cruise ship at 11am, thank you very much.” It’s the perfect statement piece for when your biggest decision is whether it’s too early for a gelato. (Answer: it’s never too early.) Let’s talk practicality for a minute — because while this necklace looks like it belongs in a swanky boutique in Santorini, it’s incredibly affordable. Think champagne taste, prosecco budget. And just to keep things extra friendly, there’s even a 1.5-inch extender on the clasp — because not all necklines (or necks) are created equal, and thank goodness for that.

Pair it with linen, denim, or floaty florals. It lifts neutrals, plays nicely with prints, and somehow always finds the light — much like your best holiday self. Toss your hair, grab your sunnies, and let this necklace do the talking while you sip something cold and plan your next escape.
​So if your wardrobe’s feeling a bit “meh,” it might be time to inject a little fiesta magic. Because sunshine doesn’t have to come from the sky — sometimes, it comes in necklace form.

That's me for this week, folks. I have a garden party to attend this weekend and a dinner party with work colleagues - quite the socialite!
I took a picture of my latest garden ornament - an acrylic colourful chandelier which isn't really meant to be used outdoors so I haven't connected it to the mains, although I put bulbs in - I love chandeliers in unexpected places - this is my third one in the garden.
​
​Have a wonderful weekend and I'll catch you soon.
Until then
xx

Hello folks, how are you today? I have had a couple of days away from work as I was entertaining family from India. My guests have now left and I thought I'd stop by and say hello. It's always nice to meet up with kindred spirits, albeit virtually.

Let’s get this out of the way: this necklace is not for the faint-hearted, the faint-styled, or those who live in beige. No way, Jose'. This is for those who march into autumn with jazz hands, pumpkin lattes in both fists, and a leaf blower strapped to their back for dramatic effect.

​Meet Leaf Me Breathless – a necklace so deliciously seasonal it practically crunches underfoot. Originally called Autumn Bliss (which sounds a bit like a limited-edition body lotion, doesn’t it?), this revamped version comes alive with burnt amber yellow jasper shards and five glorious carved blue agate leaves that seem to have fluttered down from the neck of a forest goddess who does yoga and definitely has better hair than the rest of us.

The burnt ochre of the jasper gives off serious “sunlight through trees” energy, while the carved agate leaves, in a moody teal, add just enough drama to keep things interesting. And if you think blue leaves aren’t a thing, I say—neither are talking jewellery blog posts, and yet here we are.

Yellow jasper has been knocking around since ancient times, and was often worn as a protective talisman. Warriors used to carry it into battle, presumably to protect against bad vibes and pointy sticks. It’s said to bring clarity, confidence, and a bit of inner sunshine. Perfect, really, for brightening up gloomy days—or gloomy moods.
And those jagged, irregular nuggets? That’s Mother Nature’s way of saying, “Perfection is boring, darling. Embrace the chaos.” And I couldn’t agree more.

Wear it over a mustard sweater for full-on autumnal fabulousness, or contrast it with teal or cobalt for an eye-popping, artsy vibe.

It pairs surprisingly well with denim, making it your best friend for brunches, book clubs, and mild public spectacles.
​
Keep the neckline simple—this necklace is the outfit. Add earrings only if you must, but they’d better know their place.

That's me for this week, folks. My guests have all gone, the house has been tidied away and it's raining outside so I have nothing to do in the garden. Time to relax, then before I have to go back to work on Monday morning.
Have a wonderful, if wet weekend and I'll catch you soon, 
Until then
​xx

Hello folks, How are you today? I hope you've been enjoying the sunshine. Basking in the sunshine, cracking open the beers and dusting off the barbeque - most folk have been doing that for the last few weeks. It rained conveniently for a day, giving all the gardens a good dousing just when the grass was turning crisp around the edges. 

​I’ve always loved George Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue—that sultry, soaring clarinet glissando that starts the piece gets me every time. It feels like the musical equivalent of a perfectly flicked eyeliner or a dramatic hair toss. So when I finished stringing this necklace and stood back to admire it, there was only ever going to be one name for it. The rich, jewel-toned blues and the sparkle of the bezel-set crystals positively sing—there's definitely music in this one.

​Meet Rhapsody in Blue, a symphony of faceted blue glass beads in four deliciously drapey strands, punctuated with flashes of sparkle from bezel-set cubic zirconia. It’s elegant, it’s flirty, it catches the light when you move—and frankly, if this necklace could talk, it would probably purr. If music could be captured in jewellery, Rhapsody in Blue would be the result. As I worked on this piece, that iconic Gershwin clarinet riff kept playing in my head – sultry, swoony, dramatic. And just like the music, this necklace builds in layers of texture and shimmer until it hits a crescendo of sparkle and glamour that you can almost hear.

​Let’s talk beads. These aren't just your garden-variety shiny things. Oh no. Each of the rich cobalt blue glass beads is cut with multiple facets – and I mean loads of them – which catch and reflect the light like tiny disco balls. You’ll twinkle in the sunlight like you've been personally endorsed by the sun itself. Whether you’re standing on a breezy deck at golden hour or striding down the street with your sunglasses on and your confidence dialled to eleven, this necklace brings the drama in the best possible way.

​Despite its impressive look, it's surprisingly easy to wear. It's light on the neck but big on presence. Dress it up with a simple navy shift and heels and you’ve got boardroom chic with a touch of drama. Or let it be the star of the show by wearing it with a plain white shirt, sleeves rolled up, collar popped, oversized sunnies perched on your nose—the classic "I'm running errands but look at me!" outfit. You know the one. 
​Rhapsody in Blue is also perfect for those summer evenings when you want to bring a bit of sparkle to the party (or to dinner, or even just the local M&S – why not?). Go full-on glamour with a flowing kaftan, statement earrings, and your best cat-eye eyeliner.

​But it wasn’t all sparkle and jazz behind the scenes, let me tell you. There’s always that one tricky diva in every ensemble, and in this case it was the cubic zirconia bezels. Beautiful? Yes. Sparkly? Absolutely. Easy to string? Not even slightly. These little devils have pointed backs that go well below halfway down their bezels, which meant I had to string them sideways. Yes, sideways. I've had them in my stash for ages because I couldn't figure out how to work with them. Cue a lot of head-scratching, some gentle cursing, and the odd muttered threat. But in the end, it was all worth it. They now sit nestled between the blue beads like little windows of light, catching the sun and winking mischievously at anyone who dares to look your way.

​The five strands drape like silk and move with you – it’s a necklace with presence but not heaviness. And, because even the most fabulous necklace deserves a pretty ending, I finished it off with a decorative floral box clasp that clicks shut with a satisfying snick—secure, stylish, and secretly beautiful at the back of your neck.

And because we’re all about the details here at Caprilicious, I finished it off with a beautifully ornate box clasp in a floral design—because even the back of your neck deserves a little glam. ​The five strands drape like silk and move with you – it’s a necklace with presence but not heaviness. The decorative floral box clasp that clicks shut with a satisfying snick—secure, stylish, and secretly beautiful at the back of your neck.

So whether you're off to a summer soirée or just swanning about pretending you’re in a perfume ad (no judgement—I do it too), Rhapsody in Blue is ready to hit all the right notes. ​At Caprilicious, we don’t believe in fading into the background – and this necklace certainly doesn’t. It’s unapologetically bold, joyfully bright, and 100% fabulous.
You’ll never hum Gershwin the same way again.

That's me for this week folks. Have a wonderful weekend and I'll catch you soon.
Until then
xx

Hello folks, thanks for stopping by. I hope you've been enjoying the British summer if you live here, I certainly have, so far. The garden is blooming and apart from a miniature hydrangea that our gardener butchered last winter when we asked him to prune it, we haven't lost too many plants. As always, in the summer, when the garden is blooming I like to showcase nature in my jewellery.

Let me introduce you to Pansy — a necklace so cheerful, it practically hums show tunes as you walk by. This summery piece is a little slice of joy, and frankly, I’m rather pleased with myself for having created it. The flower pendant is made from copper clay, which I moulded and fired in the kiln (yes, I play with fire — it’s very therapeutic). Right in the middle of the bloom, I embedded a tiny spark of sparkle in the form of a cubic zirconia, just to make it twinkle flirtatiously when the sun hits it.

​The beads are red colour-enhanced chalcedony — juicy, luscious, and completely irresistible, like ripe cherries or forbidden fruit at a summer picnic. They’ve got a richness that brings the whole piece to life, and when combined with that warm-toned copper flower, it’s like a love letter to long, lazy afternoons and sun-drenched garden parties.

Pansy is light and easy to wear — it sits sweetly at the collarbone, and won't weigh you down or strangle you slowly as the evening progresses (we’ve all been there). It’s one of those pieces that you can throw on with very little effort and still look like you’ve made an intentional, arty choice. It says, “Oh this? I just threw it on,” while secretly knowing it’s the star of the show.

Now, how to wear it? Picture this: a simple linen dress, hair up in a messy bun or a loose braid, maybe a straw hat for good measure. You’re wandering through a country fair, ice cream in one hand, smug expression firmly in place because you know you look effortlessly fabulous. Or perhaps you're just running errands, but who says the supermarket doesn't deserve a bit of glamour?

​If you're a maximalist, layer it up with a few bangles and maybe some flower-themed earrings for a full-blown bloom-fest. If you prefer things a little more pared back, let Pansy do the talking. Either way, this necklace is versatile, playful, and the perfect little pick-me-up for your summer wardrobe.

Ah yes — let’s talk about that clasp! It might be tucked away at the back of the necklace, but it’s no less deserving of the spotlight. In fact, it’s a little piece of art in its own right. I also love that apart from the beads, the entire piece has been handmade, inhouse, by me.
The clasp is handmade from copper wire, shaped and forged by yours truly into a lovely decorative flourish. I’ve even set it with a tiny blue gemstone, because why should the front have all the fun? It’s secure, reliable, and just fancy enough to make you feel smug when someone compliments your necklace and you say, “Oh, and look at the clasp!” (cue dramatic hair sweep to show it off).
Function meets flair — the best kind of jewellery detail, if you ask me. The rich copper tone complements the flower pendant beautifully and adds a subtle boho elegance to the back of the neck. So even if your hair is up in a messy bun or an artful twist, there’s something delightful to admire from every angle.
In short — it’s not just a fastener. It’s the cherry on top.

It’s a piece that brings a smile — to the wearer, and to anyone lucky enough to catch a glimpse. And honestly, isn’t that what jewellery is all about? Oh! By the way, has anyone noticed that the beads seem to be in Morse Code? I wonder what the message is!

That's me for this week, folks. Have a wonderful week and I'll catch you soon. 
Until then
​xx

Hello folks, and how are you today? It's been a lovely couple of weeks in unaccustomed sunshine - the UK hasn't seen anything like it in years and years. If this is global warming, let's enjoy it as World War three might have just been started last night in Iran. 
I took this picture of our beautiful amaryllis lily. It originally came to me as a Christmas gift five years ago – just a bulb, wrapped in plastic and the beautiful little red pot. Of course, I was far too lazy to pot it up at the time, so it ended up forgotten, languishing in the garage. Months later, in June, my husband found it and kindly planted it for me. Ever since then, the amaryllis has made its own rules – it flowers faithfully every June, completely ignoring the traditional Christmas schedule. I quite like that rebellious streak!

I picked out a beautiful dragonfly pendant from my stash for this weeks necklace – there’s something about dragonflies that instantly evokes summer for me. Their delicate symmetry is perfect for jewellery, and given the choice between butterflies and dragonflies, the dragonfly wins every time. They are so ethereal and captivating, with their gauzy wings and slender, almost weightless bodies. There’s a quiet magic about them that never fails to draw me in.

​Picture this: it’s a golden afternoon, the kind that seems to stretch lazily forever. The sun is warm but not bossy, the sky is a soft powder blue with just the occasional fluffy cloud, and you’re gliding barefoot through a wildflower meadow. There’s a gentle breeze teasing the hem of your floaty white dress, the scent of honeysuckle in the air, and – because no fantasy is complete without a little extra flourish – you’re leading a beautiful, well-behaved horse by its reins. (Unlike your last boyfriend, this one actually listens.) Somewhere nearby, an invisible guitarist strums a gentle melody just for you. You’re not rushing anywhere. Why would you? You’ve got nowhere to be but right here, soaking in the sunshine and living your best slow-motion moment.

​And then there’s the dragonfly. Oh, the dragonfly! A golden, glittering centrepiece, studded with tiny coloured crystals and poised delicately at your throat, as though it’s just paused there to say hello before flitting away on the breeze. Dragonflies are often said to symbolise transformation, self-realisation, and the joy of living in the moment. In this necklace, though, it’s just as much about playful elegance – a little wink from Mother Nature that says, “Go on, have some fun.”

But let’s not forget the tiny details that make Meadow Dance sing. The clasp isn’t just a necessary nuisance. It’s a sweet little peridot-inlaid box clasp, a perfectly-formed gem in its own right, and frankly, it’s so pretty you might wish you could wear it slightly off-centre to show it off. 

​Meadow Dance is light, easy to wear, and has a carefree, boho vibe that’s made for women who aren’t afraid to channel their inner meadow goddess. It’s perfect for summer festivals, garden parties, and picnics in the park – or, frankly, for those days when you want to bring a bit of that meadow magic into your everyday life (yes, even if you’re just popping to the shops).

​Pair it with a gauzy maxi dress, strappy sandals, and maybe some flowers tucked into your hair for the full effect. Or wear it with jeans and a crisp white shirt to add a splash of whimsy to a regular Tuesday. There are no rules here. Just joyful, romantic, unapologetic beauty.

So, whether you’re dancing in the daisies, dreaming of sun-soaked afternoons, or simply looking to add a little lightness to your day, Meadow Dance is ready to lead the way – no horse required.

That's me for this week, folks. I'm off to enjoy the sunshine. Have a wonderful weekend and I'll catch you soon, 

Until then,
​xx
​

Hello folks, how are you today. At last summer is here and the weekend diary is now chock full with invitations to summer parties, weddings, days at the races, and sleepovers. When I looked at my calendar an instant ago it was empty and suddenly I'm having to book days off work to recover from weekends spent partying. It's a nice problem to have, though, so I'm not complaining. 
The onset of summer is heralded by foxgloves - here are some from my garden, waiting for Mrs Fox to pick them up on her way to a dinner dance in high heels, pearl earrings and bright pink lipstick.

​Sometimes, you just need a piece of jewellery that shouts joy from the rooftops. Enter this fabulous, one-of-a-kind statement necklace: a vibrant explosion of colour, playful movement, and summer sparkle, designed to lift your spirits and brighten your wardrobe in one fell swoop.

Some pieces just refuse to behave. You start out with a plan, a sketch, a neat little idea in your head—and the next thing you know, the materials have staged a coup, your fingertips are in tatters, and you’re wondering why on earth you didn’t take up knitting instead.
This necklace is one of those pieces.

Crafted from non-tarnish silver-plated wire (because nobody has time for polishing, thank you very much), I thought it would be a breezy little afternoon project. I imagined sitting there, the picture of serenity, weaving the wire into delicate loops, sipping tea like the jewellery goddess I clearly am.

What actually happened was a pitched battle between me and the wire, which had firm ideas of its own. Non-tarnish silver-plated wire is a bit like a toddler: shiny, beautiful, full of potential—but also wilful, prone to unexpected tangents, and utterly determined to test your patience. Weaving and binding three strands into this gorgeous, colourful arrangement with yet another thinner wire was a challenge worthy of its own Olympic sport. My poor fingertips have yet to forgive me, and I suspect they never will.
But oh, the result was worth it.

The open-ended torc design makes it effortlessly easy to wear and ensures it will fit just about everyone. No fiddly clasps, no sizing dilemmas—just slip it on and you're ready to dazzle.
What really sets this piece apart is its gorgeous cascade of colourful crystals. Each drop glistens with a life of its own, catching the light as you move. The arrangement feels like a wild, summery garden in full bloom, with a delicate dragonfly perched to one side and a sweet little flower nestling among the sparkles. There’s a carefree, celebratory feel to this necklace—it’s as though a carnival just landed on your neckline.

The cascading clusters of colourful crystals are an explosion of summery joy. They glimmer and sparkle with every movement, each one jostling for attention like excited party guests at a garden fete. Nestled among the riot are tiny flowers and a playful dragonfly, because why not throw in a little whimsy while we’re here? It’s a piece that absolutely refuses to take itself too seriously—just the way I like it.

Now, let’s talk about sizing. One of the great wire-working mysteries is that no matter how carefully you measure, somehow the final piece always ends up too big, too small, or just plain odd when you try to wear it. The solution? The glorious torc necklace. Open-ended, flexible, and fabulously forgiving, a torc slips on easily and fits everyone. No clasp-related gymnastics, no panic when you realise you’ve misjudged your neckline—just a simple, stylish, slip-on piece that makes you look like you’ve got your life together (even if, like me, you’re quietly nursing punctured fingertips).

Best of all, this necklace is light and easy to wear. It brings a splash of colour to even the greyest day, whether you’re heading to a summer wedding, strolling along the beach, or just popping to the shops and fancy turning the frozen pea aisle into your personal runway (that might be going just one step too far, but if you feel like being 'extra' that day, whyever not?)

So, if you’re looking for something summery, joyful, and delightfully chaotic (much like its creator), this might just be the perfect piece for you. It’s a little wild, a little whimsical, and utterly unapologetic—just the way jewellery should be.
So go on—add a little riot to your jewellery box. Life’s too short for boring accessories.

That's me for this week, folks. I shall now go and dig up some weeds in the garden. The rest of it is coming along nicely - these are my Hostas from an extremely shady corner of the garden which gets only indirect light - they are coming up a treat and the slugs haven't found them yet!

Have a wonderful week, and I'll catch you soon.
Until then,
​xx

Hello folks, how are you today? I have been awol for a few weeks as I have been out and about with friends and work. This week has seen me relaxing at home and playing in my garden and rummaging in my bead stash, which is when I get my best ideas - or remember ones I had put aside for another day. 

I took a trip to Amsterdam to catch up with one of my oldest friends from medical school. She flew in from the US, jet-lagged and slightly dazed, so we took things easy — pottering about the city, going for long walks, and dipping in and out of quirky little shops whenever something caught our eye.
Most of our time was spent simply enjoying each other’s company, reminiscing about our student days. We arrived at medical school at the grand old age of seventeen — wide-eyed, clueless, and convinced we’d already conquered the world just by getting in. If only we’d known what was ahead!
Still, I’d say we’ve done pretty well. She’s now a Professor of Neurology at Harvard Medical School (yes, that Harvard), and I couldn’t be prouder of her. And while I may not be Ivy League, I’ve carved out a respectable corner of the world for myself as a Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist in Warwickshire and Clinical Director of my unit — which, let’s face it, is nothing to sniff at.
Two wide-eyed girls from medical school — a few decades on, a lot of laughs (and some tears) later, and still going strong.

I made up for all the giggling and nostalgia by being thoroughly grown-up the following week, when I travelled to London for the MRCOG Part 3 exams. It was back to serious consultant mode — although I did manage to squeeze in an evening with a lovely young friend (one must maintain balance, after all).
The rest of the time, I was the picture of professionalism — meeting a host of former trainees who’ve since blossomed into respected colleagues all over the UK. It was genuinely heartwarming to be remembered fondly, both for the teaching and support I offered during their time at George Eliot, and — perhaps just as importantly — for the annual barbecue I host as a send-off. Apparently, education and a decent grilled sausage leave equally lasting impressions.

Picture this: you're lounging on the sun deck of a cruise ship, a gentle breeze ruffling your kaftan, a fruity cocktail in one hand, the promise of adventure on the horizon… and around your neck, catching the sunlight with every turn of your head – Caribbean Skies.There’s something about cruise holidays that brings out our inner diva. Maybe it’s the sunshine, maybe it’s the sea breeze, or maybe it’s the fact that you don’t have to cook for a week. Either way, one thing’s for certain: you need jewellery that can keep up with you — from poolside piña coladas to late-night dancing under the stars.

Enter, Caribbean Skies..............

This necklace was made for holidays. The kind where your bikini is under constant pressure to perform, your sandals are bedazzled within an inch of their life, and you carry yourself like you’re starring in a low-budget Bond film – minus the peril and plus a lot more rosé. ​This necklace is pure, portable glamour. A joyful cascade of turquoise, seafoam green, smoky brown and ice-clear sparkle, she’s got all the vibes of a Caribbean escape — without the passport drama.

Let’s talk beads. The smoky quartz nuggets are plump and luxurious, with the kind of moody sophistication that says “yes, I’m on holiday, but I still have impeccable taste.” The pale green agate adds a whisper of freshness, while Czech glass beads bring the shimmer and shine. And then, of course, the show-stealers: those soft blue Peruvian opals.
Ah, Peruvian opals! They’re dreamy little stones, often milky and mysterious, like morning mist over tropical water; or someone bottled the sky after a thunderstorm and turned it into gemstones. But what makes these ones special is the shape — quirky, irregular, angular… they look like they’ve just tumbled out of a mermaid’s treasure chest. Each one is different, each one perfect in its imperfection, held apart by little chunks of iolite. Peruvian opals are said to be stones of love and gentleness, thought to reduce stress and increase confidence – though frankly, once you put this necklace on, you’ll be strutting your stuff without any celestial assistance. 
And just when you thought it couldn’t get more flamboyant – boom! – in come the massive iridescent glass dagger beads. These are the life of the party, catching the light with every move you make, and flashing fire like miniature disco balls. Think Carmen Miranda meets Studio 54, with a bit of mermaid energy thrown in for good measure.

Despite its dramatic flair, Caribbean Skies is surprisingly light and easy to wear. Whether you're sashaying along a sun-drenched deck or lighting up the dance floor at dinner, this necklace brings the good vibes with none of the faff. No clasp-fiddling, no heavy dragging around your neck – just throw it on, feel fabulous, and prepare to turn heads.
At Caprilicious Jewellery, we don’t really do ‘tame’ – and why should we? Life is too short for boring accessories. Caribbean Skies is unapologetically bold, joyfully bright, and designed for women who want to make a splash – with or without the ocean.

And then there's the shape – not your standard round bead affair. There are cylindrical beads, nuggety beads, triangles, little blobby ones that look like someone got overly excited while glassblowing – all jumbled up in the best possible way. The result is movement, texture, and an effortless, “Oh this? I just threw it on” attitude. 
And despite all this richness, Caribbean Skies is light and airy – the fashion equivalent of a sea breeze. You won’t feel weighed down or overheated. She’s breezy with a bikini, elegant with a kaftan, and utterly glamorous with a long dress at dinner. 
An ornate silver-tone bead sits at the centre like a little exclamation mark, and the floral hook clasp ( easy to manage after a couple of glasses of prosecco) keeps things feminine and flirty. It sits close to the neck so the necklace won’t flap about in the wind or tangle in your beachy waves (jewellery should never fight with your hair), and catches the light and the eye!

So if you’re planning to sail off into the sunset (or just manifesting it from your garden lounger), this necklace is your perfect plus-one. She doesn’t answer back, she doesn’t get sunburnt, and she’ll make you look fabulous even when you’re covered in factor 50 and wearing slightly-too-tight flip-flops. She won’t judge your second dessert, and goes brilliantly with SPF and sass. 
If you’re off on a cruise, heading for sunnier climes, or just want to feel like you’re sipping rum on the deck of a yacht (we won’t tell), Caribbean Skies is the necklace for you.

That's me for this week's belated edition of the Caprilicious blog. I'm going to continue the rest of my time off in the manner which I began it - doing very little. My garden is growing like a mad thing this year and it's so much fun looking at the plants coming back into their own. The hostas in particular, are green and beautiful - and haven't yet been attacked by the slugs. 
Have a wonderful week and I'll catch you soon.
Until then
​xx

Hello folks, how are you today. It's been so lovely and warm recently that I forgot what being cold constantly was like. However we woke this morning and turned the heating on - both of us were frozen stiff. I'm just hoping that it's not the end of summer, but as we live in the UK I may well be correct on that score. 
I love it when the ferns open their new fronds, with the curly, fuzzy tips opening up into leaves. I went out and got some pictures this morning - sadly, I had to put my winter jacket on to do it.

As the chill crept in, my thoughts drifted to warmer climes and sun-drenched holidays of the past. One in particular came to mind — a memorable trip to Morocco, wrapped in the glow of golden light and the warmth of genuinely kind people. I remembered it with a twinge of wistful nostalgia. The gardens left a lasting impression, especially the vibrant Jardin Majorelle, which sparked a lifelong love of cobalt blue. We brought a touch of that magic home with us — cobalt pots sprang up around our garden, and blue gallows brackets now prop up the deep eaves of our roof.
Mike, ever the practical visionary and an ex-builder to boot, decided to have the back of the house painted in a rich sandstone yellow to complement the sea of blue. Twenty years on, the yellow has gently mellowed with time into a softer, more romantic hue — less Marrakech marketplace, perhaps, but still full of sunlit charm.

If you’ve ever been to Marrakesh, you'll know that it’s an assault on the senses – in the best possible way. Spices perfume the air, drums beat from alleyways, snake charmers throw side-eyes at bored cobras, and someone is always trying to sell you a rug you didn’t know you needed. 
​The Djema al Fnaa – the throbbing heart of the medina! Filled with people and smoke from the kebabs being cooked on open fires in the various stalls of the square.
I had a monkey leap off a performer's shoulder and try to make off with my hat while a snake charmer waggled a snake in my face. I looked like a cross between Indiana Jones and a startled pigeon! But that’s Marrakesh for you – full of surprises, drama, colour... and the odd cheeky primate. ​I emerged, hatless and mildly traumatised, with a packet of saffron, two ceramic bowls, and a vague sense of having been hustled—but oh, the colours, the drama, the sheer sensory overload of Marrakesh has stayed with me long after the monkey had gone.

And that, is how Midnight in Marrakesh came into being.
​
This necklace is an ode to the city at twilight. Deep blue lapis lazuli, fiery coral red, shimmering gold-toned beads, and that dramatic midnight-hued rose in carved goldstone all come together in glorious disarray—much like the medina itself. It’s bold, unapologetic, and just a little bit chaotic. I love it.

​Now, you might be thinking, "When would I ever wear such a statement?" The answer is simple: whenever you feel like it. Imagine it peeking out from the collar of a crisp white shirt during a weekday lunch. Your colleague will ask if you’ve taken up art collecting, and you’ll smile mysteriously, as if you’ve just returned from a desert bazaar. Or wear it to the office over a navy blouse or a plain shift dress, and suddenly your quarterly budget update will have a lot more flair. Even on a Teams call, it does all the heavy lifting. ​

What I love most about this necklace is its story. It doesn’t whisper; it sings—perhaps to the beat of a distant Moroccan drum. It’s a piece for those days when you want to carry a little magic with you, a souvenir of adventure and colour—even if the furthest you’ve travelled lately is from your desk to the fridge. 
​Life’s too short for boring jewellery – or boring lunches. Midnight in Marrakesh is for those who like their accessories with a bit of spice, a splash of story, and just the faintest memory of a monkey and a stolen hat.

So, here it is: Midnight in Marrakesh. No camels or monkeys were harmed in its making. But one very cheeky one did steal my hat. That's me for this week folks, and I hope you enjoyed the read. Have a wonderful Bank Holiday weekend and I'll catch you soon.
Until then
​xx