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.
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.
Larimar is the color of the Carribean Ocean
Larimar was discovered in the Dominican Republic quite by accident. It is named for the discoverer’s daughter, Lara and the Spanish word for sea, “mer.” To date there is no where else in the world where it is mined, which makes it much more valuable. And the perfect stone to set off your summer wardrobe.
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.
Stick earrings – an inspired variation of hoops
We all love hoop earrings – the casual or dressy look for our ears. Why not try a new variation – stick earrings with gemstones or pearls, to glam up any outfit.
Chalcedony Dream
