Can Semi-Precious Stones Help My Eventual Retirement?

I’ve learned a thing or two, so my timing is good.

Moonstones, labradorite, apatite, and vintage brass seed beads shimmer in the sunlight waiting to be made into jewelry. Author photo

About ten years ago I decided to try my hand at doing art shows. The first few years were bumpy, I had to rethink everything I was doing in my second year — from the ground up.

I’ve been accepted into a lot of real dud shows, dud for me. Everyone’s worst show is…