Beady Bits and Custom Designs

 What Are Freshwater Pearls? Freshwater pearls are a type of pearl that forms in various species of freshwater mussels, which are found in lakes, rivers, and ponds. These pearls are produced by mollusks belonging to the Unionidae family, which includes a wide range of species.  Freshwater pearls are known for their diverse shapes;  including round, oval, button, baroque (irregular shapes), and coin-like shapes, sizes, and colors; including white, cream, pink, lavender, peach, and various shades of pastels. Freshwater pearls come in a range of sizes, with some smaller pearls measuring just a few millimeters and larger ones reaching over 10mm in diameter. Freshwater pearls are generally more affordable than saltwater pearls, such as, making them a popular choice for a wide range of jewelry. Their versatility in shape and color makes them suitable for a variety of jewelry styles Here is an image of some jewelry I've made that includes freshwater pearls: This set has freshwat...

 What is Aventurine? Aventurine is a variety of translucent quartz characterized by its distinctive shimmering or glistening effect, known as aventurescence. This effect is caused by tiny inclusions of minerals such as mica, hematite, or fuchsite within the quartz. While green is the most common color, aventurine can also occur in other colors. Blue and red aventurine, for example, may contain different mineral inclusions that contribute to their coloration. Aventurine is popular in jewelry making and is often used in beads, cabochons, and carved pieces. It can be fashioned into various shapes and sizes for use in necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and rings. Aventurine is believed by some to be associated with positive energy, good luck, and prosperity in metaphysical and spiritual beliefs. It is also believed to promote emotional well-being, creativity, and decisiveness. Aventurine is found in several locations around the world, including India, Brazil, China, Russia, and South Afri...

 What is Carnelian? Carnelian is a reddish-orange, cryptocrystalline variety of quartz. Cryptocrystalline means that a mineral's crystals are so small that they can only be seen under a microscope. Carnelian has been used throughout history for carving cameos and intaglios, as well as for beads and cabochons in jewelry. It has cultural and historical significance in various civilizations, with examples of carnelian jewelry and artifacts dating back to ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome. Historical evidence shows that Carnelian may have been heavily associated with the sun god Ra. Carnelian is believed by some to be associated with creativity, confidence, courage, motivation, concentration, and memory. Carnelian is also associated with the Virgo Zodiac sign. Here are some images of some jewelry I've made that includes Carnelian: This set has a Carnelian teardrop pendant and earring charms You can see more pictures of this set or purchase it here This set combines Carnelian and Gree...

 What is Mookaite? Mookaite, also often called Mookaite Jasper, is a type of Jasper that is found in Western Australia. It is known for its distinctive colors including varying shades of red, burgundy, mustard yellow, cream, and brown.  The name "Mookaite" is derived from the Mooka Creek in the Kennedy Ranges, where the stone is predominantly found. The area where Mookaite was found was once covered in seawater, once the sea waters receded, the microscopic remains of an aquatic organism known as radiolaria began to dry out and compress and mix with iron and silica over time. Because of the radiolaria within it, the scientific name for this crystal is Windalia Radiolarite .  It is believed that Mookaite formed about 120 million years ago, and mining for it began in the 1960s.  Mookaite is believed by some to be associated with improved problem-solving abilities and stress management.  Here are some images of some jewelry I've made that includes Mookaite.  Yo...

 What is Quartz? Quartz is a mineral composed of silicon and oxygen atoms arranged in a crystal lattice structure. It is one of the most abundant minerals on Earth and is found in various forms, ranging from macroscopic crystals to microcrystalline varieties, such as chalcedony and agate. Quartz belongs to the group of minerals known as silicates. Quartz comes in a variety of forms and colors, each with its own name. Some common varieties include amethyst (purple), citrine (yellow to brown), rose quartz (pink), smoky quartz (brown to gray), and milky quartz (white). Quartz can range from transparent to translucent or opaque, depending on impurities and the presence of other minerals. Quartz is found in a wide range of geological environments. It is a major component of many types of rocks, including granite, sandstone, and quartzite. It can also be found as veins in igneous and metamorphic rocks. Due to its hardness, quartz has various practical uses. It is commonly used in the pro...

 What is Agate? Agate is a type of chalcedony, which is a form of microcrystalline quartz. Agate is primarily composed of silicon dioxide, the same mineral that makes up quartz. However, what sets agate apart is its microcrystalline structure, which results in fine-grained crystals that are not visible to the naked eye. The most recognizable feature of agate is its banding. These bands can take on a variety of colors and patterns, ranging from straight lines to intricate, swirling designs. The banding is caused by the presence of different minerals or variations in the conditions during the formation of the agate. Agate occurs in a wide spectrum of colors, including but not limited to white, gray, blue, red, green, yellow, orange, brown, and black. The colors can be solid or in various combinations, creating unique and visually appealing patterns. Agate is often formed in cavities within volcanic rocks, where it develops through the slow deposition of silica-rich fluids. This proce...

 What is Tiger Iron? Tiger Iron is a type of rock composed of three distinct minerals: tiger eye, red jasper, and hematite. It is a metamorphic rock known for its striking appearance, displaying a combination of golden tiger eye, red jasper, and metallic gray hematite. The interplay of these three minerals creates a banded or striped pattern resembling a tiger's fur, hence the name "Tiger Iron." Tiger Iron forms as a result of the metamorphism of iron-rich sedimentary rocks. The process involves heat, pressure, and the introduction of fluids that lead to the recrystallization of minerals. Tiger Iron is mainly used for ornamental purposes, such as carvings, cabochons, and beads for jewelry. Its unique appearance makes it a popular choice for those seeking distinctive gemstones. Tiger Iron is believed by some to be associated with enhancing strength, vitality, and creative energy. Here is an image of some jewelry I've made that includes Tiger Iron: This beautiful set in...

 What is Apatite? Apatite is a group of phosphate minerals that are commonly found in a variety of geological settings. It is named after the Greek word "apatein," which means "to deceive," due to its often misleading similarity in appearance to other minerals. Apatite is the main source of phosphorus used in the production of fertilizers, but it also has various uses in the gem and mineral industry. Apatite is a mineral group that includes several different varieties, with hydroxylapatite and fluorapatite being the most common. The presence of different elements, such as fluorine, chlorine, or hydroxyl, gives rise to the various types. Apatite occurs in a range of colors, including green, blue, yellow, brown, and colorless. The color variation is often attributed to the presence of different trace elements. Gem-quality apatite is used in jewelry. Blue-green and neon blue apatite are particularly popular for their attractive colors. However, apatite is not as hard a...