Two Chinese siblings developed a fresh water pearl that rivals the perfection of Tahitian pearls in symmetry and color. Instead of inserting tissue into mussels as is done with traditional fresh water pearls, they realized that inserting a bead (as it done with saltwater pearls) into the mollulsk triggers it to cover the bead with nacre and form a round, lustrous pearl. And since only one bead is inserted into each shell the resulting pearls are larger than the usual fresh water pearls. Thomas Edison claimed that the only things he could not create in his lab were diamonds and pearls.
Embedded pyrite crystals add sparkle to lapis lazuli
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.
Tourmalated quartz bestows healing energy
Quartz is one of the most abundant minerals found on earth and comes in many colors and varieties. Tourmalated quartz gets its name from the dark inclusions of tourmaline. Combining the properties of the two stones bestows healing energy on the wearer and restores peace and harmony to one’s life.
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.