page from Artemis Journal with Jeni Benos Photography

“Dancing Spirits” is published in highly regarded Artemis Journal!

  Many in the New River Valley are familiar with the Artemis Journal, a book published annually showcasing some of the talented poets and artists of southwestern VA and beyond. This year the publication is celebrating its fortieth year! I’m thrilled to be a part of this amazing book with one of my fine arts […]

sterling silver chains boiling in pan for cleaning

My Best Advice for Cleaning Sterling Silver, Some Facts About the Alloy & Why I Don’t Plate

Occasionally I am asked about jewelry care and cleaning tips for sterling. A few customers sometimes ask if my silver will tarnish. So I will start off by explaining that all sterling silver does tarnish over time. The quality mark for the alloy is .925 because it is 925 per thousandth pure silver and is […]

Osprey with a beer can in his nest

The Osprey, A bird with an appreciation for the finer things.

Among the most widespread birds of prey in America is the Osprey. Whether they simply pass through areas during their migrational pattern or reside permanently, they can be spotted everywhere in America. Through my photography I have noticed that bubble wrap appears to be a staple in any dapper osprey’s nest. I have always assumed […]

A Tricolored heron canopy feeding with his head tucked under an outstretched wing

Creative Hunting Techniques of the Tricolored Heron and the Snowy Egret

I have always been captivated be the natural world. As a child I spent every moment I could in the woods capturing salamanders, toads, and any other various creatures I happened across. Today wildlife remains my favorite subject for photography. From interesting insects to great brown bears; my time spent outside or on vacation is […]

Peridot, blue sapphire, and fancy yellow and green sapphire on a printed scarf

Why do some gemstones come in multiple colors?

Have you ever stopped to wonder why gems like peridot come in just one color while sapphires, though primarily found in blue, come in virtually every color with endless shades of each? That is because the color of some gemstones is derived from elements that are part of their essential chemical composition while others are […]

Penny Chenery

2015 Secretariat Festival

This past weekend, September 18-20th, the Secretariat Festival was held in Paris KY. The event was created to honor one of the most successful horses in Thoroughbred racing history. The Big Red Horse broke numerous national and international racing records during his career with his greatest achievement- winning the final race of the Triple Crown […]

test clear stones with a moissanite tester

Synthetic Moissanite a Stone Based on Deception

As a jeweler with training through the Gemological Institute of America, I have a deep appreciation for genuine gemstones. Diamonds have captivated women throughout the ages with their brilliant allure. They are classically associated with engagements and rightfully so with characteristics to match such a wonderful occasion. Much like true love diamonds are rare with […]

Rainbow over New River's Edge Inc.

Explore the River with New River’s Edge Incorporated!

For all those who live in or around the New River Valley, I would highly recommend paying a visit to New Rivers Edge Inc. They offer several options for cruising the river with a flexible schedule. Founder, Paul Moody displays a genuine desire to share the splendor of The New River with as many patrons […]

Photograph of sterling silver filigree horse necklace

Photographing Jewelry and Highly Reflective Items

Welcome to my new blog! I’m so glad you found the page and I hope you enjoy reading about the various facets involved in creating jewelry. As a first topic I’ve decided to write about product photography. I have been working on posting some new designs to my web site lately. The most challenging part […]