The inspiration: A vintage-inspired cobalt/navy blue sun dress with white polka dots. This nautical style pattern perfectly balances both playful and sophisticated elements.

The nautical theme is notable for its clean white lines juxtaposed with deep, rich, saturated navy blues. A classy, elegant, and traditional design motif – historically favored by the American upper classes – this serene color combination is beloved by all who find themselves at home near the ocean. It is particularly favored in the New England area – but has a much older historic significance – especially in orgin myths and tales of the sea?mother goddess.

Associated with the compass, and water, these two pendants are selected to represent the sea.

Strands in stardust, nautical, white wedding, and pearl are laid out to match our fabric inspiration.

Items are laid out as a collage on a mirror toemphasize shapes and details.

Collaginf with strands can help you identify desired color combinations.

A necklace is started with the filigree compass charm/pendant and a navy blue 10″ enameled brass base strand.

A delicate insert strand in stardust blue is connected to the navy blue base strand.

The loose ends are closed with a Swarovski crystal flower drop hook up clasp.

The Filigree Compass Necklace

Another necklace design is started with a 12″ white enameled brass base strand (spring ring clasps) and the 7″ delicate beaded insert strand in stardust blue.

Next, the 7.5″ pearl insert strand is layered onto the same white base strand.

Third, an 8″ beaded insert strand in the nautical blue color palette is also added onto the same white base strand.

These steps are repeated to attach the remaining end of each strand to the second clasp on the white enameled brass base strand – creating a layered crystal centerpiece with three different colors.

Use this layering technique to combine colors – experiment with monochromatic, ombre, and complementary color combinations to achieve different visual effects.