Prized by ancient civilizations for it’s deep blue color, lapis is mined in the high mountains of Afghanistan. Pyrite crystals give it a golden sparkle and calcite forms white veins. Those born in September are lucky as this stone confers wisdom and good judgment on it’s wearer.
Fluorite sparkles in a rainbow of colors
Fluorite comes in many colors and some crystals will fluoresce under ultraviolet light. The colors are determined by the impurities found in the otherwise clear crystal. It’s industrial usage is in microscopes and telescopes but we think it’s best use is in sparkling jewelry.
Is it hypersthene or enstatite
Hypersthene comes from the Greek meaning “over strength” – it is said to heighten psychic abilities and help solve problems. Containing iron and magnesium, it is now known by the name “enstatite.” We hope the new name doesn’t change it’s purported properties .
Druzy seashell combines the sea and the mineral world
Druzys have been popular in jewelry for several years. The tiny quartz crystals on a mineral substrate sparkle and gleam. Fossil shells (from ancient oceans) covered in the tiny druzy crystals (formed over millenniums) are the perfect combination of two natural worlds. Combined with mini moonstone rondelles this necklace is perfect for summer wear.
Firecracker red ruby is the perfect July birthstone
The July birthstone is the king of gems – said to represent love and success. Wear it in good health and may it bring you many blessings.
Tassel necklaces are trending
Tassel necklaces are the current fashion take on the traditional mala. Rather than containing 108 beads for prayer, these beauties are shorter and the length is adjustable. Perfect for dressing up or down.
Sea glass versus beach glass
If you love the beach as much as we do, you probably spend some your time there collecting shells and other washed up bit and baubles. Do you know the difference between beach glass and sea glass? The pendants pictured are authentic sea glass from the shores of Maui. Sea glass is best found at low tide on salt water beaches. It has a distinctive frosted and weathered look. Beach glass is found along inland fresh waterways and is less frosted. Both sea glass and beach glass make great jewelry, especially if you collected it yourself.
Say goodbye to “Green Amethyst”
The Federal Trade Commission has ruled that “green amethyst” is no more. We now use the term “mint green quartz.” Both the former green amethyst and the well known purple amethyst are from the quartz family. The green shade is obtained by heating the quartz. It is only natural in Prasiolite- which has erroneously been called “green amethyst” by some – but is in fact a rare gemstone mined in a very few places – and formed when the quartz is naturally subjected to intense heat. Prasiolite means “leek stone” named for the green color. These mint green quartz earrings are lovely no matter what we call them.
Rhodocrosite – the Colorado state mineral
Originally found at the Sweet Home silver mine in Alma, Colorado, rhodocrosite was named the Colorado state mineral in 2002. Also mined in Argentina, really fine examples include the white banding seen on this pendant, circled with tiny white topaz rondelles. Wear your state stone with Colorado pride.
Spring time colors for your wrist
Spring is the perfect time to wear bold, bright colors – gemstone stretchy bracelets are easily stacked to make a colorful statement on your wrists. The more the merrier! These feature bold center accent beads for a fresh new take on the traditional stretchy.