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Showing posts from January, 2024

What is Lavastone?

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 What is Lavastone? Lavastone, also known as volcanic rock or basalt, is an igneous rock that forms from the solidification of molten lava. It is a type of extrusive rock, meaning it is formed on the Earth's surface through volcanic activity. Lavastone is commonly found in volcanic regions around the world and has been used for various purposes throughout history. Lavastone forms when molten lava from a volcano cools and solidifies rapidly upon reaching the Earth's surface. This rapid cooling prevents the formation of large crystals, resulting in a fine-grained texture. Lava stone typically has a dark color, ranging from black to dark gray. Its texture can be either smooth or porous, depending on factors such as the rate of cooling and gas content during the volcanic eruption. Lava stone is sometimes associated with grounding energy and is believed to have properties that promote strength and courage. Here are some images of some jewelry I've made that includes Lavastone: T...

What is Sodalite?

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 What is Sodalite? Sodalite is a beautiful blue mineral that is typically characterized by its deep blue color with white streaks or veins. It is a member of the feldspathoid mineral group, which is a subset of the larger group of minerals known as feldspars.  Sodalite is found in various locations around the world. Notable deposits include Brazil, Canada, Russia, and the United States. It often occurs in association with other minerals such as nepheline, cancrinite, and hauyne. Sodalite is sometimes associated with enhancing communication, self-expression, and intuition. It is believed by some to have calming and balancing properties. Here are some images of some jewelry I've made that includes Sodalite: This set is truly out of this world!!!  Featuring different gemstones and high-quality glass beads to represent each of the planets in our solar system. Larvikite for Mercury, Top-quality Amber-Colored Crackle Glass Beads for Venus, Lapis Lazuli & Chrysocolla for ...

What is Tigerskin Jasper?

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 What is Tigerskin Jasper? Tiger Skin Jasper is a type of jasper, which is a form of chalcedony, and it is known for its distinctive appearance that often resembles the patterns found on a tiger's skin. This jasper variety exhibits interesting and intricate banding, veining, and colorations that evoke the characteristic stripes of a tiger. Tiger Skin Jasper typically displays a mix of earthy tones, including shades of brown, tan, cream, and gray. The patterns on the stone often resemble the stripes seen on a tiger's coat, giving it its name. Like other jaspers, Tiger Skin Jasper is composed primarily of silicon dioxide. It may also contain various mineral impurities and inclusions, contributing to its unique appearance. Jasper forms through the deposition of silica-rich fluids in cavities or fractures within rocks. The intricate patterns and colors in Tiger Skin Jasper are a result of the mineral content and conditions during its formation. Tiger Skin Jasper is sometimes associ...

What is Chrysocolla?

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 What is Chrysocolla? Chrysocolla is a hydrated copper silicate mineral that is often associated with other secondary copper minerals. It is known for its striking blue and green colors, often occurring in a vibrant mix of turquoise, teal, and sometimes even deep blue or greenish-black. The color variations are due to the presence of different transition metals in its composition. Chrysocolla is sometimes associated with calming energy and communication. It is believed by some to promote intuition, balance, and self-awareness. Here are some images of some jewelry I've made that includes Chrysocolla: This set is truly out of this world!!!  Featuring different gemstones and high-quality glass beads to represent each of the planets in our solar system. Larvikite for Mercury, Top-quality Amber-Colored Crackle Glass Beads for Venus, Lapis Lazuli & Chrysocolla for Earth, Carnelian for Mars, Dyed Striped Agate for Jupiter, Tigerskin Jasper for Saturn, Dyed Aqua Quartz for U...

What is Lapis Lazuli?

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 What is Lapis Lazuli? Lapis or lapis lazuli, is a deep blue metamorphic rock that has been prized for its intense color and historical significance for thousands of years. It is composed of several minerals, primarily lazurite, along with calcite, pyrite, and sodalite. The deep blue color of lapis lazuli comes from the presence of the sulfur-containing mineral lazurite. Lapis lazuli has been mined for centuries in locations such as Afghanistan, Chile, Russia, and Myanmar. The most prized lapis lazuli historically came from the mines in Afghanistan, known as the Sar-e-Sang deposits. Lapis lazuli has held cultural and spiritual significance in various civilizations throughout history. It has been associated with power, wisdom, royalty, and divine connection. In ancient Egypt, lapis lazuli was used in burial masks and other artifacts. Lapis lazuli is sometimes associated with enhancing communication, intuition, and spiritual awareness. It is believed by some to have calming and balan...

What is Larvikite?

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 What is Larvikite? Larvikite is a type of igneous rock known for its distinctive appearance, often characterized by a dark gray to black base color with attractive iridescent flashes of blue, silver, or green. The iridescence is caused by the presence of a mineral called labradorite within the rock. Because of the labradorite content, Larvikite is sometimes referred to as "black labradorite." Larvikite is named after the town of Larvik in Norway, where significant deposits are found. It is also found in other parts of the world, including Canada, Russia, and Madagascar. Larvikite is sometimes associated with enhanced intuition, protection against negativity, and promotes spiritual insight. Here are some images of some jewelry I've made that includes Larvikite: This set is truly out of this world!!!  Featuring different gemstones and high-quality glass beads to represent each of the planets in our solar system. Larvikite for Mercury, Top-quality Amber-Colored Crackle Glas...

What is Man-Made Coral?

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 What is Man-Made Coral? Man-made coral, also known as synthetic or imitation coral, refers to a material that is created by humans to replicate the appearance of natural coral. This is done for various reasons, including environmental conservation efforts to protect coral reefs and to meet the demand for coral-like jewelry and decorative items without harvesting or damaging natural coral. There are a few different methods used to produce man-made coral: Polymer resin is a common material used to create imitation coral. Artisans can mold and shape the resin to resemble the intricate structures and patterns found in natural coral. This method allows for the production of coral-like pieces in a wide range of shapes, sizes, and colors. Glass is another material used to create imitation coral. Skilled glassmakers can craft intricate coral structures that closely resemble the appearance of natural coral. Glass coral can be produced in various colors, adding to its versatility. Some imit...

What is Garnet?

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 What is Garnet? Garnet is a group of silicate minerals with a diverse range of colors, though it is most commonly associated with the deep red color. The name "garnet" is derived from the Latin word "granatum," which means pomegranate, as the deep red crystals of garnet bear a resemblance to the seeds of the fruit. While red is the most well-known color for garnet, it occurs in a variety of colors, including green, yellow, orange, brown, and even shades of purple and black. The different colors are due to variations in the types and amounts of trace elements present. Garnet is believed by some to have energizing and regenerating qualities. Different colors of garnet may be associated with specific properties, with red garnet often linked to passion and vitality. Here are some images of some jewelry I've made that includes garnet: This lovely set combines dyed agate , garnet, and a man-made coral rose pendant. You can see more pictures of this set or purchase i...

What is Peridot?

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 What is Peridot? Peridot is a gem-quality variety of the mineral olivine. It is known for its distinctive green color, ranging from olive green to bright lime green. Peridot is one of the few gemstones that occurs in only one color. The intensity of the green color depends on the amount of iron present in the crystal structure. Peridot forms in the mantle of the Earth and is brought to the surface through volcanic activity. Peridot is usually transparent, but it can also be translucent. Gems with fewer inclusions and a rich green color are more valuable. Major sources of peridot include volcanic basalt in places such as the San Carlos Apache Reservation in Arizona, the Red Sea island of Zabargad, Myanmar, Pakistan, and China. Peridot is sometimes associated with positive attributes such as good fortune, prosperity, and happiness. It is also considered the birthstone for the month of August. Peridot has always been one of my favorite stones. Here is an image of some jewelry I've ma...

What is Rose Quartz?

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 What is Rose Quartz? Rose quartz is a type of quartz that is known for its pale pink to rose-red color. It is one of the most popular and widely used varieties of quartz in the gem and jewelry industry. The distinctive pink color of rose quartz is caused by traces of titanium, iron, or manganese within the crystal structure. The color can vary from very pale pink to a deeper rose hue. Rose quartz can range from transparent to translucent. The level of transparency can affect the stone's appearance and value. Rose quartz is found in many locations around the world, including Brazil, Madagascar, South Africa, and the United States. Rose quartz is believed by some to be associated with love, compassion, and emotional healing. Some believe that Rose quartz may enhance feelings of self-love and attract love from others. Rose quartz is also thought to have a calming and soothing energy. Here is an image of some jewelry I've made that includes Rose Quartz: This stunning jewelry set c...