Maiolica Beads and Bead Pendants

My beads are based on simply decorated beads made in 16th century Italy. Hand painted beads were often given as small love tokens for a girl getting married. They were frequently inscribed with the word "Bella" which means "beautiful". During the Renaissance the beads were used as spinning weights

Hand Painted Pottery

I make as well as decorate hand thrown pottery. While I often repeat favorite motifs and designs, most of my items are one-of-a-kind.

Hand Painted Ceramics

I hand paint complex designs on commercially made ceramic bisque plates, platters and bowls and tiles. Commercially made bisque comes in a variety of standard sized and is practical for standard settings of dinnerware.

Etsy Store

I have an Etsy store where I offer a variety of items. In addition to maiolica, I make ceramic beads using a variety of techniques. I sell both completed jewelry and unstrung beads. My Etsy shop is called "Mary's Maiolica" and can be found at http://marysmaiolica.etsy.com