Jewelry by CnC

DIAMOND SIMULANTS !

2012-02-07T18:45:00.000-06:00

I have been recently asked if I can again list what Diamond Simulants are on the market today and how do you tell if you have a simulant or real diamond. The problem is, new ones are appearing at regular intervals and it is very hard to stay current. Well the oldest test, but not totally conclusive is to run the diamond (or rock) across a piece of glass and if it scratches it, it is probably a diamond. As seen on TV you could hit it with a steel hammer ,and if it isn't ruined, it may be a diamond. Yea, but what jeweler or vendor in his or her right mind is going to let you do either of those two tests. So your best bet is to completely trust your gemologist or jeweler that what you are being sold is genuine. And if you bye a diamond from someone you don't know, you probably better make sure you can return it, because if you have it tested and find it is not a diamond, you want some recourse on what you spent. And of course the best saying is, "If it is too cheap for what it is suppose to be, it probably isn't what it is advertised to be!" The following is a chart of some simulants if you want to test for yourself.
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Common Diamond simulants and their gemological properties
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Material. Formula..Refractive Index.Dispersion.Moh's Hardness.Density.Thermal.Cond

Diamond......C..................2.417..............0.044...............10................3.52....Excellent

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Artificial Simulants:
Glass.......Silica...............~ 1.6................> 0.020.............6.............2.4-4.2........Poor

White Sapphire .Al2O3....1.762 ................0.018.............9.................3.97.........Poor
Spinel...MgO·Al2O3.........1.727.................0.020............8................~ 3.6..........Poor
Rutile......TiO2.................2.62 ..................0.33.............~ 6................4.25.........Poor
Strontium Titanate.SrTiO3.2.41................0.19.............5.5...............5.13.........Poor

YAG.......Y3Al5O12.......1.83....................0.028.............8.25...........4.60..........Poor

GGG.... .Gd3Ga5O12..... ..1.97.................0.045.............7................7.02...... ..Poor
CubicZirconia.ZrO2.......~2.2....................~0.06..........~8.3..............~5.7..........Poor Moissanite....SiC..............2.648................0.104...........8.5...............3.2..........High

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Natural minerals that (when cut) optically resemble white diamonds are rare, because the trace impurities usually present in natural minerals tend to impart color. The earliest simulants of diamond were colorless quartz, topaz and beryl (goshenite); they are all common minerals with above-average hardness (7–8), but all have low RIs and correspondingly low dispersions. Well-formed quartz crystals are sometimes offered as "diamonds," a popular example being the so-called "Herkimer diamond". Topaz's SG (3.50–3.57) also falls within the range of diamond.
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From a historical perspective, the most notable natural simulant of diamond is Zircon. It is also fairly hard (7.5), but more importantly shows perceptible fire when cut, due to its high dispersion of 0.039. Colorless zircon has been mined in Sri Lanke for over 2,000 years; prior to the advent of modern mineralogy, colorless zircon was thought to be an inferior form of diamond. It was called "Matara diamond" after its source location. It is still encountered as a diamond simulant, but differentiation is easy due to zircon's anisotropy and strong birefringence (0.059). It is also notoriously brittle and often shows wear on the girdle and facet edges. Much less common than colorless zircon is colorless scheelite. Its dispersion (0.026) is also high enough to mimic diamond, but although it is highly lustrous its hardness is much too low (4.5–5.5) to maintain a good polish. It is also anisotropic and fairly dense (SG 5.9–6.1). Synthetic scheelite produced via the Czochralski process is available, but it has never been widely used as a diamond simulant. Due to the scarcity of natural gem-quality scheelite, synthetic scheelite is much more likely to simulate it than diamond. A similar case is the orthorhombic carbonate cerussite, which is so fragile (very brittle with four directions of good cleavage) and soft (hardness 3.5) that it is never seen set in jewelry, and only occasionally seen in gem collections because it is so difficult to cut. Cerussite gems have an adamantine luster, high RI (1.804–2.078), and high dispersion (0.051), making them attractive and valued collector's pieces. Aside from softness, they are easily distinguished by cerussite's high density (SG 6.51) and anisotropy with extreme birefringence (0.271).
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Desert Diamonds are also known as Saudi Diamonds, or sometimes Qaysumah Diamonds. They are natural, semi-precious stones from the same micro-crystalline family as Amethyst, smoky Topaz and Citrine. These unique, high-grade stones have physical properties that produce the appearance of the expensive carbon-based diamonds! DESERT DIAMONDS are FOREVER, just like their carbon diamonds cousin. They are guaranteed not to discolor or break with age. This is the huge advantage of owning Dessert Diamonds vs. cubic zirconia. Compared with the carbon-based stones, which have a hardness factor of 10 on the Mohs scale, the Desert Diamond are only rated at a mere 7.0 on the Moh's Scale!
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Due to their rarity fancy-colored diamonds are also imitated, and zircon can serve this purpose too. Applying heat treatment to brown zircon can create several bright colors: these are most commonly sky-blue, golden yellow, and red. Blue zircon is very popular, but it is not necessarily color stable; prolonged exposure to ultraviolet light (including the UV component in sunlight) tends to bleach the stone. Heat treatment also imparts greater brittleness to zircon and characteristic inclusions. Another fragile candidate mineral is Sphaerite (zinc blende). Gem-quality material is usually a strong yellow to honey brown, orange, red, or green; its very high RI (2.37) and dispersion (0.156) make for an extremely lustrous and fiery gem, and it is also isotropic. But here again, its low hardness (2.5–4) and perfect dodecahedral cleavage preclude sphalerite's wide use in jewelry. Two calcium-rich members of the Garnet group fare much better: these are grossularite (usually brownish orange, rarely colorless, yellow, green, or pink) and andradite. The latter is the rarest and most costly of the Garnets, with three of its varieties—topazolite (yellow), melanite (black), and demantoid (green)—sometimes seen in jewelry. Demantoid (literally "diamond-like") especially has been prized as a gemstone since its discovery in the Ural Mountains in 1868; it is a noted feature of antique Russian and Art Nouveau jewelry. Titanite or Sphene is also seen in antique jewelry; it is typically some shade of chartreuse and has a luster, RI (1.885–2.050), and dispersion (0.051) high enough to be mistaken for diamond, yet it is anisotropic (a high birefringence of 0.105–0.135) and soft (hardness 5.5). Discovered in the 1960s, the rich green tsavorite variety of grossular is also very popular. Both grossular and andradite are isotropic and have relatively high RIs (ca. 1.74 and 1.89, respectively) and high dispersions (0.027 and 0.057), with demantoid's exceeding diamond. However, both have a low hardness (6.5–7.5) and invariably possess inclusions atypical of diamond—the byssolite "horsetails" seen in demantoid are one striking example. Furthermore, most are very small, typically under 0.5 carats (100 mg) in weight. Their lusters range from vitreous to subadamantine, to almost metallic in the usually opaque melanite, which has been used to simulate black diamond. Some natural spinel is also a deep black and could serve this same purpose.
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Because Strontium Titanate and glass are too soft to survive use as a ring stone, they have been used in the construction of composite or doublet Diamond simulants. The two materials are used for the bottom portion (pavilion) of the stone, and in the case of strontium titanate, a much harder material—usually colorless synthetic Spinel or Sapphire—is used for the top half (crown). In glass doublets, the top portion is made of almandine Garnet; it is usually a very thin slice which does not modify the stone's overall body color. There have even been reports of diamond-on-diamond doublets, where a creative entrepreneur has used two small pieces of rough to create one larger stone. In Strontium Titanate and Diamond-based doublets, an epoxy is used to adhere the two halves together. The epoxy may fluoresce under UV light, and there may be residue on the stone's exterior. The garnet top of a glass doublet is physically fused to its base, but in it and the other doublet types there are usually flattened air bubbles seen at the junction of the two halves. A join line is also readily visible whose position is variable; it may be above or below the girdle, sometimes at an angle, but rarely along the girdle itself. The most recent composite simulant involves combining a CZ core with an outer coating of laboratory created amorphous diamond. The concept effectively mimics the structure of a cultured pearl (which combines a core bead with an outer layer of pearl coating), only done for the diamond market.
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So again, get to know your jeweler or gemologist and don't be fooled by unknown vendors, salespersons and especially eBay and other auction sellers without having a chance to check-out the item completly yourself, with return rights.
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BLUE AMBER - a Total Surprise !

2012-01-27T11:45:00.002-06:00

Typical rough Amber pieces from the Baltic

Amber, that strange material that hardened from several species of tree resins from several hundred million years ago. The best known Amber is from the Baltic Region, but it also comes from Africa, the Arabian Peninsula, North and South America and some Islands in the Caribbean. But do not confuse Amber with Copal, Copal is the new kid on the block being only a few million years old and in most cases much softer, coming from Columbia and a few Caribbean Islands.

Piece of Dominican Blue Amber as seen in the rough

Amber is supposed to be amber color, right? Not exactly. There is the original colors of Amber, yellow, orange, honey, cognac or similar. A new delight among jewelry designers is Butterscotch Amber, found in the Baltic as well as the Middle East. But there also is cream, cherry, red, green and even blue, which is by far the rarest of all the Ambers. Up to this day many people do not believe in the existence of "BLUE" amber. Must be something in the air or in the ground, since two of the more highly prised gemstones that come from the Dominican Republic are both "BLUE" - Blue Amber and Larimar.

Chunk of Dominican Amber with Reds-Cognac-Yellow coloring.

Is Blue Amber Truly Blue? No. It is not. And yet, it is. Confused? Blue Amber is a result of fluorescence and no solid color exists. Ultra-violet or violet light is re-emitted as blue or green light, attributed to the presence of poly-nuclear aromatic molecules. Therefore, Blue amber is blue, but not the way you might think.

When sunlight strikes the Blue Amber on a white surface the light particles pass right through and are refracted by the white surface. Result: the Blue amber looks almost like any other Amber, only with a light blue hue. But when the light particles can't pass through and refract back, the hydrocarbons in the Blue Amber turn the sun's ultraviolet light into blue light particles. The result: the famous blue glow of Blue Amber. This effect is only possible with Dominican Blue Amber pieces graded within the Blue Amber category. Any other Amber (like Baltic and others) will not display this blue phenomenon at all. And, on top of that other Dominican Amber will show this blue efraction only in concentrated UV light, and not in natural light. Light passed through the Blue Amber from a flashlight, will also result in the normal looking cognac amber color.

Example of same piece of Blue Amber with front lighting, then looking as same piece lighted from the reverse

Thanks to The Amber Ranch for the pieces of and the info on Dominican Blue Amber

LARIMAR - Jewelry of the Caribbean !

2012-01-22T11:00:00.000-06:00

Well......it is blue, and a very pretty blue at that. It is more durable and longer wearing than many of the other non-faceted gemstone or mineral on the market. It makes up into beautiful beads and great pendants. Sometimes called Pectolite, Larimar (many times misspelled: Lorimar) is a rare blue variety of the mineral Pectolite, and is found only in the Dominican Republic in the Caribbean. Although Pectolite is found in many locations worldwide, none have the unique volcanic blue coloration of Larimar. This blue color, distinct from that of other Pectolites, is the result of cobalt substitution for calcium. Its coloration varies from white, light-blue, green-blue to deep blue. This stone is cut into cabochons and carved into shapes for setting to a variety of jewelry items throughout the Caribbean islands. Its a must buy if you are planning a cruise any time soon.

The most important outcropping of Larimar is located at Los Chupaderos, in the section of Los Checheses, about 10 kilometers southwest of the city of Barahona, in the south-western region of the Dominican Republic. It is a single mountainside, now perforated with approximately 2,000 vertical shafts, surrounded by rainforest vegetation and deposits of blue-colored mine tailings.

Quality grading is according to coloration and the typical mineral crystal configuration in the stone. Larimar can also be found with green and even some with red spots and brown stripes, due to other chemicals and/or oxidation. But the more intense the blue, and the contrasts in the stone, the higher and rarer is the quality. The blue color is photosensitive and fades with time if exposed to too much light and heat. So when wearing Larimar Jewelry, one must be careful to keep it away from intense sunlight so as not to ruin that very expensive piece of Nature you just bought.

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However, be careful and do not let anyone sell you the cheaper but also very beautiful blue, many times called Caribbean Blue or Paraiba Blue, Chalcedony, which looks very much like very high quality Larimar. At recent shows, slabs of true rich Larimar a few inches in each direction and 1/4 inch thick can be seen going for $100 or better.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS !!

2011-12-22T20:57:00.003-06:00

We Hope You and Yours Have A

Merry Christmas

and a

Happy New Year

from

Jewelry by CnC

Gayle and Lee

See You Next Year

Sets and Pendants Available !

2011-12-07T18:35:00.003-06:00

Those Gemstone and Bead Sets not sold at the Holiday Shows have been discounted and are available for purchase on their respective pages. Orders made by Dec 20th should arrive for Christmas.

Turquoise Intarsa, Turquoise, Ivoryite, Tiger Iron and Golden Set

Copper and Bronze Settings and Chains !

2011-12-06T17:00:00.000-06:00

Japanese Fossil Chrysanthumum Stone

With the cost of Gold and Silver, that is especially 22k gold and Sterling Silver, skyrocketing to over $1700.00 an oz, with silver at $30.00 an oz, and maybe even higher by year end, we have decided to try, with some success so far, setting some of our handmade gemstone pendants into Copper and Bronze settings and making up matching chains to go with them.

Mexican Azurite Russian Black Jade

Brass is the term used for alloys of copper and zinc; the proportions of zinc and copper can be varied to create a range of brasses each with unique properties and color. Brass has a yellow color, somewhat similar to gold. It is relatively resistant to tarnishing, and is often used as decoration, jewelry and for coins.

Bronze refers to a broad range of copper alloys, usually with tin as the main additive. It is strong and tough and has myriad uses in industry. It was particularly significant in antiquity, giving its name to the Bronze Age. Common bronze alloys often have the unusual and very desirable property of expanding slightly just before they set, thus filling in the finest details of a mold.

Copper is a ductile metal with excellent electrical conductivity, and finds extensive use as an electrical conductor and as a component of various alloys used in jewelry. Copper oxidizes easily giving it its green coloration. NOTE: some people will cause Copper and Copper Alloys to turn a bright green.

Check "Pendants Available" to see some of the new pendants and chains using copper. More will be added this coming week. Follow the instructions if interested in purchasing.

The Peddler's Show - Fredricksburg, Texas !

2011-11-21T17:37:00.004-06:00

The Peddler's Perfect Street of Shops

The shopping experience designed to be as individual and unique as you!

For the past 34 years, The Peddler Show has offered Texas shoppers a truly remarkable and one-of-a-kind shopping experience. There are currently 25 shows annually. Shoppers will find a vast selection of exclusive items including personalized designs, home décor, hand crafted fashionable jewelry, fashionable clothing, gourmet treats, creative gifts and so much more!. And each year discover an new array of hot fashions, trendy jewelry, stylish home furnishings, unique gift items, gourmet foods and much more.

Admission to Gillespie County Fairgrounds on Highway 16 South of Fredricksburg is $5 for adults, $3 seniors 65 + and children 12 and under free.

Hours are Friday 25th from 1:00 - 9:00PM

Saturday 26th from 9:00AM - 6:00PM

Sunday 27th from 11:00AM - 4:00PM

Please call 512/358-1000 for more information.

Jewelry by CnC

will be located in the Pavilion

Freeman Coliseum Holiday Extravaganza !

2011-11-15T18:58:00.006-06:00

--- DESIGNS by GAYLE ---

Come to the Freeman Coliseum Holiday Extravagamza and see these new items by Jewelry by CnC

These designs incorporate rough cut freeform gemstones, simlar as to how they come out of the ground but cleaned up and surrounded with a pressed silver frame. Other natural minerals/gemstones which have been wire-wrapped will also be available.

Jewelry by CnC will be located in Booth O-4 on the Coliseum Main Floor.

The Holiday Extravaganza is open

Saturday Nov 19th 9 to 5

Sunday Nov 20th 10 to 5

Freeman Holiday Show Special Design !

2011-11-14T13:03:00.004-06:00

See this unisual design by Gayle at the

San Antonio Freeman Coliseum Holiday Extravaganza

November 19th and 20th

10 to 5 pm

The Jewelry by CnC booth is located at space O-4 on the main floor.

The center of the necklace is a Bronze Wire Basket surrounded by Lampwork and Crystals.

Matching earrings complement the set.

Freeman Holiday Show !

2011-11-12T12:15:00.006-06:00

November 19th and 20th

Freeman Coliseum

Saturday 9am to 5pm

Sunday 10am to 5pm

Come and see new designs from

Jewelry by CnC

These bracelets are just some of the new and interesting items that can be seen during the show.

33rd Annual Christmas Showcase - Freeman Coliseum !

2011-11-11T08:00:00.000-06:00

The weekend of November 19th and 20th is the "Biggest Little Christmas Show" in the area, the

"33rd Annual Freeman Coliseum Christmas Showcase."
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This show comes just in time for those of you that are in the San Antonio area to join us for your Holiday shopping !!
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November 19th - 20th

-- Saturday: 9:00am-5:00pm
-- Sunday: 10:00am-5:00pm
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The Freeman Christmas Extravaganza ia put on by Showcase Shows who has been producing quality craft and gift shows in Central Texas for the last 32 years. The Showcase public welcomes having a professional company introduce new vendors at each show and look forward to their favorite returning vendors to find what new and innovative items they are introducing. Showcase Shows has been extremely fortunate to develop a loyal customer base that anticipates each show, knowing that they will find exciting treasures brought by some of Texas' finest vendors.

The Jewelry by CnC booth is on the floor of the main building, all the way through the show to the back, under the overhang, last booth on the right (O-04). .

COKERFEST - Holiday Craft Fair at Coker UMC !

2011-11-04T10:36:00.003-05:00

Brighten up your Holiday wear with one of these Holiday Jewelry Sets designed by Gayle.

Your can see these and more at

COKERFEST

Saturday November 5th

9AM to 4PM

Coker UMC, North Loop Rd, San Antonio

Holiday Sets at COKERFEST !

2011-11-03T15:15:00.004-05:00

COKERFEST 2011

Look for Holiday items at the Craft Fair this weekend !

Coker United Methodist Church

231 East N Loop Road

San Antonio, TX 78216

9AM to 4PM Saturday Nov 5, 2011

Jewelry by CnC will be located in the foyer of the Assembly Building

Come and see the following items at our booth

When you visit our booth, ask about our special discounts.

LLANITE - A Uniquely Texas Gemstone !

2011-10-31T09:00:00.000-05:00

This set combines Llanite, Kyanite and Peruvian Opal, all unique in their own right.

Finding unique gemstones is always a thrill. Being able to get hold of enough to be able to include in several jewelry pieces is extremely rare. Add to that the ability to get one of these rare, one location only gemstones from near ones home, makes for a real thrill in the making of jewelry.

Llanite is a hypabyssally intruded Rhyolite with phenocrysts of microcline and euhedral Quartz. The quartz crystals are blue hexagonal bipyramids. The unusual blue coloration of the quartz is thought to be due to ilmenite inclusions. It is named after Llano County Texas, the only place where it is found. A dike of Llanite outcrops about 9 miles north of the town of Llano. Many times during grinding and polishing, the Llanite looses it reddish color as seen in the picture of some slabs. Older material was much redder than that currently being found. Sometimes when finishing pieces, pendants will maintain some of the reddish color when held in a specific position in the light. Current diggings into the dike are producing a grayer material, but the blue Quartz flakes still appear.

A Llanite pendant and earring set with highlight Czech Crystals.

The following are some examples of pendants and earrings that have been cut and polished out of Llanite slabs.

We have a very limited amount of Llanite, some of which will be available at the Coker Fest Show this coming weekend in San Antonio..

Holiday Craft Fair Time !

2011-10-28T19:09:00.004-05:00

For those in the San Antonio area, don't miss the

Ladies First Craft Fair

at the

First Assembly of God Church

13435 West Ave

Saturday 29 October, 9AM to5PM

From time to time it is nice to be able to wear a small pendant on a chain such as this Texas Star faceted Topaz.

But there are other times where the chain is nice, but the pendant needs to be a bit larger.

Llanite from Mason, Texas is an unusual one location gemstone.

See these and other unusual gemstone pendants

San Antonio - Craft Fair !

2011-10-27T11:13:00.008-05:00

First Assembly of God Ladies Craft Fair

Saturday October 29th

9AM until 5PM

13435 West Ave, San Antonio, TEXAS

See these and addition designs by Jewelry by CnC at the show.

Combine multiple-chains with Picture Jasper, Bronzite, Smoky Quartz, beige glass Pearls and Crystals for a very different look on this 22inch necklace with French Hook earrings.

A clasic that is bold and soft at the same time. A 1 1/2 inch drop double Tiger Eye marquis pendant is hung from a 20 inch necklace of Tiger Eye cylindars and beads. Large peach and ivory Freshwater Cultured Pearls soften the look. Dangle French Hook earrings containing Tiger Eye beads complete the set.

A lovely Pietersite shield pendant is the focal point of this 18 inch necklace. Tiger Eye cylindars are combined with Crystals and Copper coils to complete the necklace. Tiger Eye cylindars hang from the copper French Hook earrings.

Remember everything is a One-of-a-Kind design, but if you miss this show, Jewelry by CnC will be at Cokerfest on November 5th, with more new designs.

CRAFT FAIR -- San Antonio

2011-10-26T07:51:00.003-05:00

The Ladies First Call "CRAFT FAIR" will be held at the

First Assembly of God Church

Saturday October 29th

9AM until 5PM

The Church is located at 13435 West Ave, San Antonio, TX

Jewelry by CnC will be located in the Assembly Hall

Come and see these new designs by Gayle, plus several others of her Unique, Hand-Made One-of-a-Kind designs

First Assembly of God, San Antonio "Craft Fair"

2011-10-25T08:00:00.000-05:00

Ladies First - Craft Fair - A craft fair featuring vendors from all over the area and other craft booths will be in the Family Life Center from 9AM to 5PM on Saturday, October 29th.

The First Assembly of God Church is located at 13435 West Ave, San Antonio, TEXAS 78216, just a short distance south of the intersection of West Ave and Bitters Road, west of US-281 (San Pedro Ave) on the north side of San Antonio.
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See these and additional gemstone pendants that Gayle incorporates into the designs for her necklace sets.

Some of these pendants will already be incorporated into necklaces, some are available on chains or other necklace materials, a few are set in mounts or have bails attached and some are just cut and polished, so those of you who make your own jewelry can incorporate them into your own designs.

Some of the pendants, such as this Tiger Eye, have been placed in mounts with bails, so thay can be hung on necklace chains or on a string of beads that you have constructed to mate with the pendant.

The AUTUMN COLLECTION - An unusual combination of Gemstones !

2011-10-24T08:00:00.000-05:00

An unusual combination of gemstones put together to make this unusual necklace.
This 20 inch necklace is composed of sliced and cut Seashell that forms a picture frame for light green Jade beads and khaki Swaroski Crystal beads fitted between chocolate colored glass Pearls that these alternate with a camoflage Jasper oval bead surrounded by khaki Swaroski Crystal beads and more chocolate colored glass Pearls. A gold plated Lobster Claw clasp completes the necklace with a 2 inch extender.

Matching gold plate French Hook earrings, each with a dangling chocolate glass Pearl bead, light green Jade bead and khaki colored Swaroski Crystal complete the set.

Jade on todays market is primarily composed of Nephrite; Jadeite Jade has become quite rare and in its emerald-green, translucent form is referred to as Imperial Jade or "gem jade". A small amount of cromium in Jadeite accounts for the color of Imperial Jade. Other color-based names for Jadeite Jade are Yunan Jade, for a uniquely appearing dark green, semitranslucent Jade, Apple Jade for apple (yellowish green) green Jade, and Moss-in-Snow for white Jade with vivid green spots and streaks. Nephrite and Jadeite Jade ranges in color from a somewhat greasy-appearing, white to dark and light shades of green, gray, blue-green, lavender, yellow, orange, brown, reddish-brown, and black. An important dark green variety of Nephrite is sometimes known as "spinach Jade". The chromophore in all Nephrite Jades is usually iron. Nephrite jade is usually opaque to translucent in thinner pieces. The name Jade has been, and continues to be, applied to a variety of materials that superficially or closely resemble Jade but are not composed of either Jadeite or Nephrite. So as the old saying gos "Buyer Beware !".

Jasper Sometimes we have an Agate, sometimes we have a Jasper, sometimes we have a name and not sure which exact gemstone we have. Many times we try to find an "easy answer" where there isn't one. The basic difference between Agate and Jasper is a structural one - at the microscopic level. It has nothing to do with the color or pattern. Agate is composed of microscopic 'fibers' of crystalline quartz. Jasper is composed of microscopic 'grains' of crystalline quartz. Jasper has less-regular patterns and is less defined than the Agates. Another subtle difference between the two is that Agates tend to be translucent (or at least contain translucent bands), while Jaspers are generally opaque. Both are called by many different names depending on colors, design in the stones, or location found and sometimes a commercial nameassigned by someone selling the item.

Seashell or sea shell, also known simply as a shell, is a hard, protective outer layer created by an animal that lives in the sea. The shell is part of the body of the animal. Empty seashells are often found washed up on beaches by beachcombers. The shells are empty because the animal has died and the soft parts have been eaten by another animal or have rotter out. The term seashell usually refers to the exoskeleton of an invertebrate (an animal without a backbone). Most shells that are found on beaches are the shells of marine mollusks, partly because many of these shells endure better than other seashells. These shells can be cut, dyed and polished to be used in jewelry.

Crystals and glass Pearls are also used in this set.

The ELEGANCE COLLECTION - A unique Russian Gemstone !

2011-10-21T08:00:00.006-05:00

An elegant necklace containing Rhodocrosite freeform gemstones as a focal point complemented with Smoky Quartz rondels, black diamond Czech Crystals and pach pink Czech Crystals.
The necklace is an extra long 22 inches.

The necklace closes with a silver plated Hook and Loop clasp.

Silver plated Leverback dangle earrings with Rhodocrosite and Czech Crystals complete the set.

See the previous BLOG for information on Rhodocrosite. These particular pieces of Rhodocrosite come from Russia.

Smoky or smokey quartz is a brown to black variety of Quartz. Like other Quartz gems, it is a silicon dioxide crystal. The smoky colour results from free silicon, formed from the silicon dioxide by natural irradiation.

Czech Crystals are also used in this set.

Rhodochrosite - A Common But Unusual Gemstone !

2011-10-20T08:00:00.002-05:00

Rhodochrosite (whose name means rose-colored) is a very attractive mineral with an absolutely one-of-a-kind, beautiful color. Although it can be an ore of manganese, it is its ornamental and display specimen qualities that make it a very popular mineral. The color of a single crystal can just astound the observer with its vivid pink-rose color that seems to be transmitted out of the crystal as if lit from within. Individual crystals are found in well shape rhombohedrons and and sometime in rarer scalahedrons. In a massive form its pink and white bands are extremely attractive and are often used in semi-precious jewelry. Rhodochrosite is often carved into figurines and tubular stalactitic forms are sliced into circles with concentric bands that are truly unique in the mineral kingdom. Fine crystals are sometimes cut into gemstones, but Rhodochrosite's softness and brittleness limit it as a gemstone for everyday use. Identification of Rhodochrosite is fairly easy despite a few similarly colored minerals such as Rhodonire. Rhodonite is harder and has different cleavage; but perhaps the best distinguishing factor is its lack of reaction to acids. Rhodochrosite will easily with show some reaction to cold acids which demonstrates its carbonate chemistry. Basically, any rose-pink carbonate is considered Rhodochrosite; however some Calcites with a small amount of manganese impurities can be pink in color. The manganese replaces some of the calciums in calcite but a complete series between Calcite and Rhodochrosite is not established. There are many localities for Rhodochrosite that are of great reknown. Beyond a doubt, the best locality for Rhodochrosite is the Sweet Home Mine in Colorado. It is unmatched for its superb Rhodochrosite crystals that exhibit the best features of the species; a fine bright rose color and sharp well formed crystals. Some specimens from here are quite large and of world class distinction. Other localities have produced some fine specimens as well. Catamarca, Argentina has an old inca silver mine that has produced fine stalatitic examples of Rhodochrosite that are unique and very attractive. Cut cross-sections reveal concentric bands of light and dark rose colored layers. These specimens are carved and used for many ornamental purposes.

A whole table of Rhodocrosite at a Gem Show, however just one small specimum from the Sweet Home Mine in Colorado. Most of the specimums were from Argentina.

The ELEGANCE COLLECTION - Simplicity at its Best !

2011-10-19T08:00:00.002-05:00

Many times all that is needed is the simplest of design. In this 21 inch necklace design the simple single strand of Freshwater Cultured Pears has been highlighted with a golden chain.
A gold plated Butterfly has been added to the center as a highlight.
A gold plated magnetic barrel clasp completes the necklace.

Matching gold Plated French Hook earrings finish out the set.

Southwestern Style Pendants !

2011-10-18T09:00:00.001-05:00

We have recently acquired some unusual Southwestern Style pendants which Gayle will be incorporating into necklaces for the Holiday Shows.

The ELEGANCE COLLECTION - Pearls, Pearls and more Pearls !

2011-10-17T08:00:00.000-05:00

If you like Pearls, this necklace is for you.
A combination of ivory colored freshwater cultured Pearls, various colored glass Pearls and Amethyst round beads are combined in this 24 inch necklace set.
A silver plate Toggle Clasp completes the necklace.
2 inch silver plate French Hook drop earrings match the necklace to complete the set.

Freshwater Cultured Pearls are a kind of pearl that comes from freshwater mussels. They are produced in Japan and the United States on a limited scale, but are now almost exclusive to China. The U.S. Federal Trade Commission requires that freshwater pearls be referred to as "freshwater cultured pearls" in commerce. Although the Japanese freshwater pearl industry has nearly ceased to exist, it holds special historic value as the first country to cultivate whole freshwater pearls in Lake Biwa, using the Biwa pearly mussel. The industry attempted a comeback with a mussel hybrid in Lake Kasumigaura in the last decade, but this venture also met with failure, with production ceasing in 2006. The pearl farm in Tennessee also holds special historic value as it is the only freshwater pearl outside of Asia, it continues as a tourist attraction. Today China is the only commercial producer of freshwater pearls, producing 1500 tons using a triangle shell mussel and several hybrids that have shown heterosis from several mussel species.

Amethyst is a violet variety of quartz often used in jewelry and decorative statues and lapidary displays. Amethyst is composed of an irregular superposition of alternate lamellae of right-handed and left-handed quartz. It has been shown that this structure may be due to mechanical stresses. Because it has a hardness of seven on the Mohs scale, Amethyst is suitable for use in jewelry. Amethyst occurs in primary hues from a light pinkish violet to a deep purple. Amethyst may exhibit one or both secondary hues, red and blue. Green quartz is sometimes incorrectly called green Amethyst, which is an actual misnomer and not an acceptable name for the material, the proper terminology being Prasiolite.

Glass Pearls and Czech Crystals are also used in this set.

The ELEGANCE COLLECTION - for Multiple Use Wear !

2011-10-14T09:00:00.002-05:00

Go from WORK to a DATE NIGHT with this Lampwork coin necklace.
This 20 inch necklace also contains smoky Quartz beads, mystic topaz Crystals and glass bronze beads.
The necklace is closed oith an ornate pewter oval toggle clasp.

Silver plated French Hook dangle earrings drop 1 1/4 inches.

Gemstone Pendants - Lapidarist !

2011-10-13T09:00:00.007-05:00

"Playing" with rocks is one way to describe a Lapidarist. The official definition is an artist or artisan who forms stone, mineral, gemstones, and other suitably durable materials (amber, shell, jet, pearl, copal, coral, horn and bone, glass and other synthetics) into decorative items such as engraved gems, including cameos, or cabochons, and faceted designs. Hardstone carving is the term in art history for the objects produced and the craft. Diamond cutters are generally not referred to as lapidaries, due to the specialized techniques which are required to work diamond. Gemcutter typically refers to diamond cutters or producers of faceted jewels in modern contexts, but artists producing engraved gems, jade carvings and the like in older historical contexts. The arts of a sculptor or stonemason do not generally fall within the definition, though chiseling inscriptions in stone, and preparing laboratory 'thin sections' may be considered lapidary arts.

The above picture is an example of some of the various "rocks" that have been turned into gemstone pendants by using various Lapidary and Jewelry making skills.

The AUTUMN COLLECTION - The Big and Bold Look !

2011-10-12T00:15:00.000-05:00

A large Dichroic turquoise/copper donut pendant is the strong focal point of this Autumized necklace. The necklace also has two shades of teardrop glass pearls surrounding copper coin beads with mystic topaz and copper AB Crystals.
This 21 inch necklace has an oversized copper circle Toggle clasp. Copper French Hook 2 inch dangle earrings with mystic topaz Crystals and a copper ball complete the set.

Dichroic glass is glass containing multiple micro-layers of metal oxides which give the glass dichroic optical properties. The invention of dichroic glass is often erroneously attributed to NASA and its contractors, who developed it for use in dichroic filters. However, Dichroic glass dates back to at least the 4th century AD as seen in the Lycurgus cup. Dichroic glass is an example of thin-film optics.

AB Crystals are also used in this set.

The ELEGANCE COLLECTION - A Graceful Classic Design !

2011-10-11T09:00:00.002-05:00

SOLD With a center highlight faceted gemstone of Lepodolite, white potatoe freshwater cultured Pearls, amethyst and light amethyst Swarovski Crystals, this 21 inch necklace presents a graceful and classic look.
The necklace is finished with a silver platted patterned square Toggle Clasp.

The earrings are Sterling Silver circular Shepards Crooks with a 1 1/2 inch pearl and crystal oval dangle.

Lepodolite is a lilac-gray or rose-colored phyllosilicate mineral in the mica group that is a secondary source of lithium. It is associated with other lithium-bearing minerals like Spodumene in pegmatite bodies. It is one of the major sources of the rare alkali metals rubidium and caesium. It occurs in granite pegmatites, in some high-temperature quartz veins, greisens and granites. Notable occurrences include Brazil, Russia, United States,Canada and Madagascar.

Swarovski Crystals are also used in this set.

Purple Gemstones !

2011-10-10T08:00:00.004-05:00

When one talks about gemstones and the color purple is mentioned, normally the conversation then tends towards the well known and very popular purple February Birthstone gemstone called Amethyst. Some will also think of the gemstone Ametrine, which is a unique dual gemstone of Amethyst and Citrine.

But there are some other purple colored gemstones that can also be used to make some very colorful and unique jewelry pieces. Four additional purple colored gemstones that are used quite often in jewelry are listed below.

Sugilite (also known as Luvulite) is a relatively rare pink to purple cyclosilicate mineral. Sugilite crystallizes in the hexagonal system with prismatic crystals. The crystals are rarely found and the form is usually massive. It is mostly translucent but can be opague when mixed with a host rock. Sugilite was first described in 1944 for an occurrence on Iwagi Islet, Japan, where it is found in an aegirine syenite intrusive rock. It is found in a similar environment at Mont Saint-Hilaire, Quebec, Canada. In the Wessels mine in northern South Africa, Sugilite is mined from a strata-bound manganese deposit. It is also reported being found in Italy, Australia and India.

Sodalite is a light, relatively hard yet fragile mineral named after its sodium content; in mineralogy it may be classed as a feldspathoid. Well known for its blue color, Sodalite may also be grey, yellow, green, or purple and is often mottled with white veins or patches. The more uniformly blue material is used in jewelry but the fashionable purple variety hold the greatest attention. It is normally fashioned into cabochons for pendants and beads. Lesser grade material is more often seen as facing or inlay in various applications. Although somewhat similar to Lazurite and Lapis Lazuli, Sodalite rarely contains Pyrite and its blue-purple color is more like traditional royal blue than ultramarine. It is further distinguished from similar minerals by its white (rather than blue) streaks. Sodalite's six directions of poor cleavage may be seen as incipient cracks running through the stone.

And last but not least we have to consider our tried and true gemstones made out of Agate. In one specific location in the Campo Morado area of Mexico, south-southwest of Mexico City, there is a very purple colored Agate. It is a naturally colored purple Agate called the Morado Agate. But as with many other Agates and Jaspers, buyer beware because many are dyed and purple is one of the favorite colors.

SOUTHWESTERN FLAIR - Turquoise with some Tiger Iron and Crystals !

2011-10-07T08:21:00.001-05:00

Turquoise can be combined with almost any other gemstone, and still retain that Southwestern look, because the Indians of the Southwest used whatever they could find or trade for to make their jewelry pieces.
Three large Turquoise rondels form the center of this 18 inch necklace. They are highlighted by copper and Czech Crystal faceted beads.
Tiger Iron barrels and rondels, Turquoise beads, copper highlights and Czech Crystals complete the sides of the necklace.

A 2 1/2 inch extender is used with a silver plated S-hook Clasp.
Matching silver plated French Hook earrings complete the set.

Tiger Iron is a composite gemstone of black Hematite, red Jasper and Tiger's Eye. It has rippled wavy bands of color often which resemble a scenic view. It usually has a greenish cast with shades of golden yellow, brown and reds. Marra Mamba is a form of Tiger Iron that was found only in a specific area of Australia near Mount Brockman. It is a very rare type of Tiger Iron that contains shades of green, red, blue and yellow. Since the area has been mined out for many years, very little of the "true" Marra Mamba is available in todays markets. If you want to see some, find a good collector or a museum that might have some.

Turquoise is an opaque, blue-to-green mineral that is a hydrous phosphate of copper and aluminium. It is rare and valuable in its finer grades and has been prized as a gemstone and ornamental stone for thousands of years owing to its unique hue. In recent times Turquoise, like most other opaque gems, has been devalued by the introduction of treatments, imitations, and synthetics onto the gemstone marketplace. The substance has been known by many names, but the word Turquoise was derived around the 16th century from the French language 'turquie', for a Central Asian material which was a very early imported through Turkey from Persia. Today, Persian and certain southwestern United States Turquoise, especially Sleeping Beauty, commend some of the highest prices paid for this gemstone. Many times on the edges of the Turquoise fields, other minerals and stones become interwined into the Turquoise or Turquoise pieces are encapsulated into the surrounding rock, thus creating unique and interesting patterns.

Czech Crystals are also used in this set.

SOUTHWESTERN FLAIR - Turquoise, Yellow and Copper Colors !

2011-10-06T09:00:00.002-05:00

At times colors are not what they seem. Sometimes it is possible to substitute one gemstone for another to achieve a similar effect. That is what has been done with this Southwestern Flair Set.

Turquoise colored Howlite coin discs, that are substituted for actual Turquoise, are mated with Yellow Jade coin discs, that are substituted for Amber, are then seperated by copper highlights.The overlapping coin discs provide a unique and different look.
The 21 inch necklace is finished with a copper Toggle clasp.
Matching copper French Hook earrings complete the set.

Howlite, named for its discoverer Henry How, who found it in Tick Canyon, California in 1868. Howlite is one of those minerals that is more famous for imitating another mineral than being used for itself. In most cases the other mineral is Turquoise, a phosphate gemstone. Although natural Howlite is always white or gray, it can accept dyes fairly easily and be dyed a turquoise blue. The look of turquoise is so good that dishonest dealers have been unfortunately successful at this hoax. In more honest circumstances, dyed howlite is an affordable substitute for turquoise carvings, beads, polished stones and cabochons. It accepts a nice polish and its porcelaneous luster is attractive and enhances even undyed beads and carvings. Unfortunately it has low hardness, but it still has a distinct toughness. California is the source for most all of the howlite trade where nodules of up to one hundred pounds have been found. In addition to the famous turquoise color Howlite is dyed, it also can become a very bright red color to mimic red coral, or any other color in the rainbow.

Jade on todays market is primarily composed of Nephrite; Jadeite Jade has become quite rare and in its emerald-green, translucent form is referred to as Imperial Jade or "gem jade". A small amount of cromium in Jadeite accounts for the color of Imperial Jade. Other color-based names for Jadeite Jade are Yunan Jade, for a uniquely appearing dark green, semitranslucent Jade, Apple Jade for apple (yellowish green) green Jade, and Moss-in-Snow for white Jade with vivid green spots and streaks. Nephrite and Jadeite Jade ranges in color from a somewhat greasy-appearing, white to dark and light shades of green, gray, blue-green, lavender, yellow, orange, brown, reddish-brown, and black. An important dark green variety of Nephrite is sometimes known as "spinach Jade". The chromophore in all Nephrite Jades is usually iron. Nephrite jade is usually opaque to translucent in thinner pieces. This particular Jade used in this piece is a shade of yellow. The name Jade has been, and continues to be, applied to a variety of materials that superficially or closely resemble Jade but are not composed of either Jadeite or Nephrite. So as the old saying gos "Buyer Beware !".

"Keokuk Geodes" !

2011-10-05T09:00:00.001-05:00

Keokuk Geodes have long been objects of curiosity, their sparkling interiors containing some of the most beautiful crystals to be found anywhere in the Midwest. Although Geodes are known from many localities around the world, one of the most productive and famous collecting regions is encompassed within a 35-mile radius of Keokuk, Iowa. Rock collectors commonly refer to geodes from this region as "Keokuk Geodes." In keeping with the world-renowned status of the Iowa Geodes, the Iowa General Assembly declared the Geodes as the official "State Rock" in 1967.

Geodes from the Keokuk area contain a variety of minerals, but Quartz is dominant in most. Quartz is silicon dioxide, the primary mineral in ordinary sand. Beautiful transparent to white Quartz crystals cover the walls of many Geode cavities. These crystals become larger and fewer in number towards the center of the Geode, and terminate in characteristic pointed hexagonal pyramid shapes. Micro-crystalline Quartz, or Chalcedony, whose component crystals are too small to be seen with the naked eye, forms the outer shell in all "Keokuk Geodes." Chalcedony layers also encrust the interior walls of many Geode cavities, covering the surfaces of the earlier-generation Quartz crystals in a variety of colors, including white, gray, blue, yellow and orange. Calcite is a common and attractive calcium carbonate mineral in many Geodes, which occurs in a variety of crystal habits and colors. An additional 17 minerals have been identified in "Keokuk Geodes.

Iowa's renowned "Keokuk Geodes" can be found in specific stream drainages and excavations in parts of southeastern Iowa, especially in Lee, Henry, and Van Buren Counties, including the area near Geode State Park. Most Geodes are derived from strata of the lower Warsaw Formation, a widespread rock unit of Mississippian age. Muds deposited in a shallow sea about 340 million years ago were primarily calcium carbonate and clay, and were subsequently lithified to form the shales, shaley dolomites, and limestones that we see today. Collecting Geodes can be both fun and educational. Once you've located exposures of lower Warsaw strata or a Geode-bearing stream course, all that's required is a little patience and a good bricklayer's or rock hammer. A sharp blow with a hammer is usually sufficient to crack open individual Geodes, exposing their crystalline interiors to daylight for the first time. However as a Warning, remember that most Geode-collecting localities are now on private land, and written permission must be secured before entering and collecting the Geodes.

Agatized Fossil Corals !

2011-10-04T09:00:00.000-05:00

Fossil Coral is a natural stone primarily found in Indonesian water that is formed when ancient Coral is gradually replaced with Agate. The proper name for this material is "agatized coral" or "agatized fossil coral". The fossilized coral typically appears as small flower-like patterns in the stone.

Agatized fossil coral can exhibit a wide range of natural colors, ranging from white and pink to brown, gray, black, yellow and red. Corals may vary widely within a single stone depending on weathering and oxidation and the original mineral content.

Corals are among the most colorful animals in the sea. Most corals live in warm, shallow, tropical seas and feed on plankton. The oldest fossil corals are from the Ordovican period, over 450 million years ago. Corals are marine animals with a sac-like body, mouth, tentacles and skeleton. It is the skeleton that survives in the fossil record. Corals may be solitary or found in large colonies.

These corals were buried in sediment as the land surface was affected by crustal plate movements or the oceans rose and fell. Temperature and pressure from compaction during burial resulted in those deposits becoming rock and part of the present day geological record.

Under unique geological conditions, prehistoric corals and mollusks can fossilize by being replaced with agate from silica-rich ground water percolating through limestone. Of the varieties of fossilized corals found throughout the world exquisitely detailed specimens from the mountains of Indonesia are among the most unique. In Indonesia, entire coral heads are often completely preserved and appear just as they did 20 million years ago, although their density is much changed by replacement with silica, iron, manganese and other minerals. There are fern corals, brain corals, hex corals, honeycomb corals and many more.

Florida and Georgia in the USA are also import sources of fossil coral. In fact Florida has declared fossil coral to be the Florida State Rock.

Fossil coral pieces are sought by gemstone and fossil collectors around the world. as well as being used in beads and other jewelry. Since agate is fairly hard and very durable, fossil coral is suitable for all kinds of jewelry.

Jewelry for Day and Night !

2011-10-03T11:40:00.007-05:00

With this particular set one can go from Day to Night and not have to change.
This 18 inch necklace is made of blue Ceramic beads, fossil Coral barrel beads and polished Pewter accents.

The necklace is finished with a silver plated Toggle Clasp.

Matching circular hook dangle earrings complete the set.

Fossil Coral is a natural stone that is formed when ancient coral is gradually replaced with agate. The proper name for this material is agatized coral or agatized fossil coral. The fossilized coral typically appears as small flower-like patterns in the stone. Agatized fossil coral can exhibit a wide range of natural colors, ranging from white and pink to brown, gray, black, yellow and red. Corals may vary widely within a single stone depending on weathering and oxidation and the original mineral content. In some cases corals were buried in sediment as the land surface was affected by crustal plate movements or the oceans rose and fell. Temperature and pressure from compaction during burial resulted in those deposits becoming rock and part of the present day geological record.

The HOLIDAY COLLECTION - Great Look for that Holiday Get-together !

2011-09-30T09:00:00.007-05:00

Holiday elegance in red/gold/white large round Lampwork beads. These are surrounded by amber and red Crystals and clusters of red and clear glass beads with golden woven accent pieces. The combination is great for Holiday or anytime wearing.
This 19 inch necklace used a gold plated Toggel clasp for closure.

Gold plated French Hook dangle earrings complete the set.

Print Stone from Australia !

2011-09-29T09:00:00.005-05:00

This highly unusual stone called Print Stone or Newsprint Jasper, comes from an area near Kununurra in North Western Australia. Actually it is a type of Silicated Sandstone which as can be seen has an increible pattern.

The highly unusual patterning makes this stone unique and fun to work with. Although this material cuts very easily, it does not take a high polish without some kind of a surface treatment such as Opticon or epoxy. A matte to semi-gloss finish can be obtained by using diamond dust with a final polishing of Zam. A good looking finish can be obtained through the use of Birchwood Casey Tru-oil, gunstock finish.

Look for these pendants incorporated into some new jewelry pieces completed by Gayle for the upcoming Fall and Holiday Shows.

Well after getting things finished up and the BLOG originally posted, took the small piece of the slab that was left and managed to get a third round 40mm pendant out of it. Interesting how the back side of the slab, which I used as the face for the pendants, provides a totally different looking scene from the front side seen above.

The ELEGANCE COLLECTION - Simple and Dainty !

2011-09-28T09:00:00.006-05:00

Crazy Lace Agate oval beads and tanzanite colored Crystals join with silver plated accents to make this 20 inch simply elegant necklace.

The necklace is finished with a silve platd Toggle clasp.

Silver plated French Hook dangle earrings with matching tanzanite colored Crystals complete the set.

Crazy Lace Agate is one of many varieties of cryptocrystalline Quartz that fall under the general group referred to as "Agate." The variety that has been named Crazy Lace tends to have, as the name implies, lacy patterns that are fairly random. Much of the material found on the market today has colors of banding that tends to be various shades of white and gray with some blue, however material from older collections displays a wide variety of bright colors, but predominantly reds and browns mixed with whites. Some of the bands in Agates can be translucent to transparent. Occasionally Agate nodules will have hollows inside that have small drusy Quartz Crystals projecting from the walls. A specific Crazy Lace Agate that contains blue and white stripes is also known as Mexican Agate, coming from Chihuahua. It is an attractive, white, opaque stone, with blue patterns like a beautiful, multicolored paisley cloth. Sometimes when cutting this stone, the connection between individual bands is not that strong. When successfully cut, however, it creates beautiful and unique stones with fascinating patterns.

Czech Crystal is also used in this set.

Sea Glass - Not a Gemstone, but a Gem of a Find !

2011-09-27T09:00:00.001-05:00

Sea Glass, not a gemstone, not natural, but is one of the very few cases which a valuable item has been created from the actions of the environment on man-made litter..

Sea glass (known by many varied names the world over - some of the more common being beach glass, mermaid's tears, lucky tears, sea tears) is usually found on beaches along oceans or large lakes that have a lot of wave action which causes the glass to have been tumbled and smoothed by the water and sand, creating small pieces of smooth, frosted glass. Do not be pulled in by some of the newly created man-made frosted glass being sold by dealers claiming that it is Sea Glass.

The color of sea glass is determined by its original source. Most sea glass comes from bottles, but it can also come from jars, plates, windows, windshields, glasses, art, flasks, containers, and any other glass source that has found its way into the ocean. Some collectors also collect what is known as sea pottery. Many very interesting jewelry pieces can be made out of the collected Sea Glass.

The most common colors of sea glass are kelly green, brown, and clear. These colors come from bottles used by companies that sell beer, juices, and soft drinks. The clear or white glass comes from clear plates and glasses, windshields, windows, and assorted other sources. Some less common colors include jade, amber (from bottles for whiskey, medicine, spirits, and early bleach bottles), golden amber (mostly used for spirit bottles), lime green (from soda bottles during the 1960s), forest green, and soft blue (from soda bottles, medicine bottles, ink bottles, and fruit jars from the late 1800s and early 1900s, windows, and windshields.) These colors are found about once for every 25 to 100 pieces of sea glass found.

One might rarely see sea glass which comes primarily from early to mid-1900s Coca-Cola, Dr Pepper, and RC Cola bottles, as well as beer bottles. Seaq glass which is hardly ever seen, but when found is a golden treasure is purple, citron, opaque white (from milk glass), cobalt and cornflower blue (from early Milk of Magnesia bottles, poison bottles, artwork, and Bromo-Seltzer and Vicks VapoRub containers), and aqua (from Ball Mason jars and 19th century glass bottles.) These are a one in a thousand find. An extremely rare color is black. The black glass is quite old, originating from thick eighteenth-century gin, beer and wine bottles, maybe one in a ten-thousand find.

Anyone that is really interested in Sea Glass should check out the North American Sea Glass Association at http://seaglassassociation.org/ for more information and collectors near your location.At this time, Jewelry by CnC has not yet used Sea Glass in any of our designs.

The AUTUMN COLLECTION - Earth Tones Look Good !

2011-09-26T08:00:00.000-05:00

Earth colors never looked so good as they do in the Autumn.

The beige and blues of the Aqua Terra Jasper barrel and rondel beads are complimented with copper Crystal and mystic topaz Crystal rondel beads.

A Foiled Glass round bead is the center point of this 19 inch necklace.

A copper Toggle clasp completes the necklace. Matching copper French Hook dangle earrings complete the set.

Jasper, a form of Chalcedony, is an opaque, impure variety of silica, usually red, yellow, brown or green in color, but some varieties may contain blues. Jasper breaks with a smooth surface, and is used for ornamentation or as a gemstone. It can be highly polished and is used for vases, seals, and at one time for snuff boxes. Like most Jaspers, the various varieties are known by common, trade or location names. Aqua terra "Jasper" also known as "impression stone" is the trade name for a soft variety, primarily from Mexico, containing marble. Beads can range from pale/light blue color with some pale yellow or tans to dark browns and sometimes almost white.

Czech Crystals are also used in this set.

The AUTUMN COLLECTION - Bright and Cheerful !

2011-09-23T09:00:00.003-05:00

Bold red-black-gold Lampwork coin style beads ar the focus point of this necklace. Red Coral, black Agate (OnyX) and golden coin Freshwater Cultured Pearls complete the sides.
This 20 inch necklace with a 2 inch extender is closed with a silver plate triple Toggle clasp.
Silver plate Leaverback dangle earrings complete the set.

Lampworking is a type of glasswork that uses a gas fueled torch to melt rods and tubes of clear and colored glass. Once in a molten state, the glass is formed by blowing and shaping with tools and hand movements. It was also known as flameworking or torchworking, but the modern practice no longer uses oil-fueled lamps. Although the art form has been practiced since ancient Syrian (1 Century B.C.E.) times, it became widely practiced in Murano, Italy in the 14th century. In the mid 19th century lampwork technique was extended to the production of paperweights, primarily in France, where it became a popular art form, still collected today. Lampworking differs from glassblowing in that glassblowing uses a blowpipe to inflate a glass blob known as a gob or gather, whereas lampworking manipulates glass either by the use of tools, gravity, or by blowing directly into the end of a glass tube.

Red Coral is a calcium carbonate (+magnesia+organic substance) found naturally in the Mediterranean Sea, Sea of Japan, Canary Isles and the Bay of Biscay. The most valuable of the varieties from these locations is red Coral. Only the calcified external skeleton of this sea creature (genus Corallium) is used in jewelry. Coral has been highly prized, worn in jewelry and used as an amulet or talisman since before the time of Egypt. Coral is one of the few Organic gemstones. All Corals except for the man-grown and harvested Sponge Coral, is being considered for addition to the endangered species listings.

Black Agate (Onyx) which is truely a died black Agate, is more common and perhaps the most famous variety, but not as common as natural Onyx. Onyx is a crypyocrystalline form of Quartz. The colors of its bands range from white to almost every color (save some shades, such as purple or blue). A picture of a true Black Onyx specimum is seen below. True specimens of Onyx contain bands of colors of white, tan, and brown. As stated, the pure black form which most people know as Onyx, is not a naturally occuring variety. Black Agate or poorly colored Onyx is heated and dyed black to come up with the pure black form so well liked within the jewelry industry.

BLACK CORAL - An Endangered Species !

2011-09-22T09:00:00.003-05:00

Black corals (Antipatharia) are a group of deep water, tree-like corals related to sea anemones. Although the most famous are found near Hawaii, they are also found in rare dark shallow water areas such as New Zealand's Milford Sound where they can be viewed from an underwater observatory. They normally occur in the tropics and some have ben found in the Caribbean. Though black coral's living tissue is brilliantly colored, it takes its name from the distinctive black or dark brown color of its skeleton. Also unique to black coral are the tiny spines that cover the surface of the skeleton, the origin of the nickname little thorn coral. In the Hawaiian language, black coral is called ‘ēkaha kū moana. Black coral is listed in Appendix II of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES).

The Black Coral which grows in Hawaii's offshore waters was adopted as Hawaii's official state gemstone on April 22, 1987. Since its discovery by early Hawaiian divers, harvesting of the spectacular corals has led to the establishment of a thriving Black Coral jewelry industry and enhanced visitor and resident appreciation of Hawaii's ocean resources.

Hawaii's state gem was promoted by scuba divers, perhaps supported by the local jewelry trade. Surprisingly, the Department of Land and Natural Resources testified in favor of its adoption. Coral’s richly colored branches are living gems formed deep beneath the ocean. These precious corals polish to a gorgeous luster and have been used as gemstones dating as far back as 25,000 years—longer than pearls. Each coral gemstone color has its own distinct quality. Black Coral is exotic and dramatic and has long been considered to guard against misfortune. Pink Coral is delicate and is said to bring good health. Red Coral is best described as rich and romantic. And Gold Coral with its mysterious inner light, is the rarest of all corals.

The first new Black Coral bed found in centuries outside of Caribbean waters was discovered in the waters off Lahaina, Maui in 1958. Today, Hawaiian Black Coral -- the world's finest -- is carefully collected by hand by divers at depths that exceed 200 feet. To ensure the future of Hawaiian Black Coral, divers must strictly adhere to state regulations that prohibit the harvesting of immature colonies. Harvesting of Black Coral is prohibited in most locations in the world.

Black Coral is rare and, when polished, it shines with such luster you can almost see your own reflection in it. Its stunning contrast against yellow gold makes it a wonderful gift as well as a beautiful keepsake to treasure forever. Black Coral gives one a perfect reminder of a trip to the Islands.

As with many gemstones today, be careful that what is being bought is genuine Black Coral and not faux, plastics or other imitations that abound, especially in the Caribbean.

The AUTUMN COLLECTION - Holloween Merryment !

2011-09-21T09:00:00.004-05:00

White, black and gold make the Lampwork beads stand out in the center of this necklace.

The Lampwork beads are paired with black Agate (Onyx) rondells and light yellow Czech Crystals.
The Toggle clasp is polished pewter on the 19 inch necklace.
Silver plate French Hook gangle earrings complete the set.

Lampworking is a type of glasswork that uses a gas fueled torch to melt rods and tubes of clear and colored glass. Once in a molten state, the glass is formed by blowing and shaping with tools and hand movements. It was also known as flameworking or torchworking, but the modern practice no longer uses oil-fueled lamps. Although the art form has been practiced since ancient Syrian (1 Century B.C.E.) times, it became widely practiced in Murano, Italy in the 14th century. In the mid 19th century lampwork technique was extended to the production of paperweights, primarily in France, where it became a popular art form, still collected today. Lampworking differs from glassblowing in that glassblowing uses a blowpipe to inflate a glass blob known as a gob or gather, whereas lampworking manipulates glass either by the use of tools, gravity, or by blowing directly into the end of a glass tube.

Tiger's eye (also called Tigers eye or Tiger eye) is a chatoyant gemstone that is usually a metamorphic rock that is a golden to red-brown color, with a silky luster. A member of the quartz group, it is a classic example of pseudomorphous replacement by silica of fibrous Crocidolite (blue asbestos). An incompletely silicified blue variant is called Hawk's Eye. The gems are usually cut as cabochons in order to best display their chatoyancy. Red stones are brought about through gentle heat treatment. Dark stones have had their colors improved and been artificially lightened using nitric acid treatments. Honey-colored stones have been used to imitate the much higher valued cat's eye Chrysoberyl (cymophane), but the overall effect is unconvincing. In addition artificial fiberoptic glass is a common imitation of Tiger's Eye, and is produced in a wide range of colors. Tiger's Eye mostly comes from South Africa and East Asia. Don't confuse Tiger's Eye and Tiger Iron. Tiger iron is an altered rock composed chiefly of Tiger's eye, red Jasper, and black Hematite. The undulating, contrasting bands of color and luster make for an attractive motif, and it is mainly used for jewelry-making and ornamentation. Tiger iron is mined primarily in South Africa and Western Australia.

Black Agate (Onyx) which is truely a died black Agate, is more common and perhaps the most famous variety, but not as common as natural Onyx. Onyx is a crypyocrystalline form of Quartz. The colors of its bands range from white to almost every color (save some shades, such as purple or blue). A picture of a true Black Onyx specimum is seen below. True specimens of Onyx contain bands of colors of white, tan, and brown. As stated, the pure black form which most people know as Onyx, is not a naturally occuring variety. Black Agate or poorly colored Onyx is heated and dyed black to come up with the pure black form so well liked within the jewelry industry.

Tiger's Eye, Tiger Iron or Hawk's Eye - you select your choice !

2011-09-20T08:00:00.013-05:00

If these three gemstones were placed in front of you, could you pick them out immediately? I hope so by the time you finish reading this Blog.

Tiger’s Eye is a chatoyant gemstone that belongs to the Quartz family. It is normally a metamorphic rock which is yellow to red-brown in color with a silky luster. Chatoyancy is a changing in the luster or color of a gemstone as light is reflected within the thin parallel fibrous bands. The fibrous structure of the material is what causes this effect to happen. Tiger's Eye gemstones are normally cut into various cabochon shapes to best display their chatoyancy. Tiger's Eye can also show a Cat's Eye effect.

Tiger's eye is derived from Crocidolite (a mineral comprised of iron and sodium) which has been oxidized to a golden brown from its original blue color and the Crocidolite has been totally replaced by Quartz. An incomplete silicified process producing a blue variant is known as Hawk’s eye.

Even though the iron and sodium dissolves when the Quartz becomes imbedded between the fibers of Crocidolite, there are traces of hydrated oxide of iron that are left between the Quartz and Crocidolite, thus creating the golden color that is common to the Tiger's Eye gemstone. How golden brown, red, blue or green the Tiger's Eye and Hawk's Eye ends up is determined by how much of these varying amounts of hydrated minerals are deposited. The rarer blue Hawk's Eye will have only the slightest amounts. Tiger's Eye is also called a Cat’s Eye Quartz when the color is greenish grey. It is called Tiger’s Eye Cat Eye when the brown stone reflects a golden yellow stripe and if the stone is bluish or blue gray, then it is known as Hawk's Eye Cat Eye. The rare mahogany or any redish colored stones are known as Ox Eye or Bull's Eye.

Tiger's Eye is also a pseudomorph. Pseudomorphs form when one mineral replaces another. Since Tiger's Eye is a Quartz replacement of Crocidolite, therefore it is a pseudomorph of Quartz after Crocidolite. The same thing happen when Quartz replaces wood to produce Petrified Wood. Tiger's Eye is also considered as one of the most popular chatoyant gemstones.

Now we throw in a confusion factor for identification. Tiger Iron is a composite gemstone of black Hematite, red Jasper and Tiger's Eye. It has rippled wavy bands of color often which resemble a scenic view. It usually has a greenish cast with shades of golden yellow, brown and reds. Marra Mamba is a form of Tiger Iron that was found only in a specific area of Australia near Mount Brockman. It is a very rare type of Tiger Iron that contains shades of green, red, blue and yellow. Since the area has been mined out for many years, very little of the "true" Marra Mamba is available in todays markets. If you want to see some, find a good collector or a museum that might have some.

Tiger’s Eye is often heat treated in which any changes are permanent, therefore no extra care is needed, but just like any other gemstone it should be protected from sharp blows, heavy scratches and large temperature changes. Quartz dust can be hazardous to breathe according to several recent research studies. Since the fibrous mineral in most Tiger's Eye has been completely replaced by Quartz, it is best to take adequate precautions to avoid breathing any of the dust when cutting or polishing Tiger's Eye, or any oher Quartz stone.

The fibers in Tiger's Eye are very thin and may only be an inch or two long. Most are only 0.001 millimeters, in diameter. Since Tiger’s Eye normally has bend or twisted fibers, sawing can be tricky and cuts must exactly parallel to the length of the fibers in order to get the full chatoyant effect. You will end up with a lifeless, dark brown to black worthless stone if the saw cut is perpendicular to the fibers. Very careful cutting and polishing is required to line all the fibers up to get a true cat-eye effect.

Red Tiger's Eye is not a natural occurrence in most cases. It is usually a result of deliberate heating. Honey-colored Tiger's Eye have been used to imitate much higher valued Cat’s Eye Chrysoberyl. The most common man made imitation of Tiger's Eye is an artificial fiberoptic glass and/or resin that is produced in a wide range of unusual colors.

Tiger’s Eye commonly comes from South Africa but also can be found in Burma, Australia, the United States and India.

ELEGANCE and the HOLIDAY Look !

2011-09-19T09:00:00.002-05:00

With this set ones gets to take their choice of the

feel of ELEGANCE or the HOLIDAY look

Red and Clear Crystal elegance with white Freshwater Cultured Pearls and Rhinestone slices highlight this 19 inch necklace. The clasp is a Sterling Silver hook with a Figure-8 loop.
The silver plated French Hook earrings have a 2 1/4 inch drop.

Freshwater Pearls, abreviated FWP, are a kind of pearl that comes from freshwater mussels. They have been produced prodominently in Japan and the United States on a limited scale, but are now almost exclusive to China. The U.S. Federal Trade Commission requires that all freshwater pearls be referred to as "freshwater cultured pearls" in commerce settings.
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The Japanese freshwater pearl industry holds a special historic value as the first country to cultivate whole freshwater pearls in Lake Biwa. The industry attempted a comeback with a mussel hybrid in Lake Kasumigaura in the last decade, but this venture also met with failure, with all production ceasing in 2006. A pearl farm in Tennessee also holds special historic value as it is the only place freshwater pearls have been developed outside of Asia. Freshwater Pearsl come in a variety of shapes and colors, and dependant on the seed placed into the mussel.
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Be careful when purchasing FWPs as there are now many plastic, glass, resin and other materials of fake pearls on the market, especially some being referred to as Biwa Pearls.

Crystals and Rhinestones are also used in this set.

The HOLIDAY COLLECTION - Red, Black and Silver !

2011-09-16T09:00:00.003-05:00

Red Coral, black Agate(Onyx), Jet Glass and silver plated accebts grace this 19 1/2 inch necklace.
A sliver plated flower provides a central focus point.
A sliver plated Toggle clasp completes the necklace.

The matching silver plated French Hook earrings contain red Coral, black Agate(Onyx) and silver plate highlights.

Red Coral is a calcium carbonate (+magnesia+organic substance) found naturally in the Mediterranean Sea, Sea of Japan, Canary Isles and the Bay of Biscay. The most valuable of the varieties from these locations is red Coral. Only the calcified external skeleton of this sea creature (genus Corallium) is used in jewelry. Coral has been highly prized, worn in jewelry and used as an amulet or talisman since before the time of Egypt. Coral is one of the few Organic gemstones. All Corals except for the man-grown and harvested Sponge Coral, is being considered for addition to the endangered species listings.

Black Agate (Onyx) which is truely a died black Agate, is more common and perhaps the most famous variety, but not as common as natural Onyx. Onyx is a crypyocrystalline form of Quartz. The colors of its bands range from white to almost every color (save some shades, such as purple or blue). A picture of a true Black Onyx specimum is seen below. True specimens of Onyx contain bands of colors of white, tan, and brown. As stated, the pure black form which most people know as Onyx, is not a naturally occuring variety. Black Agate or poorly colored Onyx is heated and dyed black to come up with the pure black form so well liked within the jewelry industry.

The AUTUMN COLLECTION - Lampwork provides a Dyanmic Touch !

2011-09-14T08:00:00.001-05:00

Cappucino Lampwork coin beads are mixed with copper and Light Topaz Crystals, black Glass marquise beads and faceted black Agate (Onyx) rounds.
This 19 inch necklace is finished with a double oval copper Togg;e clasp.

The matching earrings are copper French hook with a 2 5/8 inch drop.

Lampworking is a type of glasswork that uses a gas fueled torch to melt rods and tubes of clear and colored glass. Once in a molten state, the glass is formed by blowing and shaping with tools and hand movements. It was also known as flameworking or torchworking, but the modern practice no longer uses oil-fueled lamps. Although the art form has been practiced since ancient Syrian (1 Century B.C.E.) times, it became widely practiced in Murano, Italy in the 14th century. In the mid 19th century lampwork technique was extended to the production of paperweights, primarily in France, where it became a popular art form, still collected today. Lampworking differs from glassblowing in that glassblowing uses a blowpipe to inflate a glass blob known as a gob or gather, whereas lampworking manipulates glass either by the use of tools, gravity, or by blowing directly into the end of a glass tube.

Black Agate (Onyx) which is truely a died black Agate, is more common and perhaps the most famous variety, but not as common as natural Onyx. Onyx is a crypyocrystalline form of Quartz. The colors of its bands range from white to almost every color (save some shades, such as purple or blue). A picture of a true Black Onyx specimum is seen below. True specimens of Onyx contain bands of colors of white, tan, and brown. As stated, the pure black form which most people know as Onyx, is not a naturally occuring variety. Black Agate or poorly colored Onyx is heated and dyed black to come up with the pure black form so well liked within the jewelry industry.

Czech Crystals and black Glass are also used in this set.

Coral Fossils for Jewelry !

2011-09-13T07:00:00.001-05:00

Natural Coral Fossil cut as a Pendant

Corals are simple animals that secrete skeletons made of calcium carbonate. They are close relatives of sea anemones and jellyfish and are the main reef builders in modern oceans. Corals can be either colonial or solitary.

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As fossils, corals are found worldwide in sedimentary rocks. Based on these fossils, we know that the corals began their long evolutionary history in the Middle Cambrian period, over 510 million years ago. In Kansas, they were deposited from about 315 to 250 million years ago. Nice coral fossils are found in Pennsylvanian and Permian rock formations. Although corals are the main reef builders in modern oceans, not all corals build reefs. In addition to the corals, which are called framework organisms, other organisms contribute to the formation of reefs. For example, modern reefs are inhabited by binding organisms (such as encrusting algae) and filler organisms (such as snails, bivalves, and sponges), whose skeletons fill in the spaces in the reef after death.

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Two groups of corals were important inhabitants of the Pennsylvanian and Permian seas--tabulate and rugose corals. Tabulate corals were exclusively colonial and produced calcium carbonate skeletons in a variety of shapes: moundlike, sheetlike, chainlike, or branching. Tabulate corals get their name from horizontal internal partitions known as tabulae. Some tabulate corals were probably reef builders..
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Pink Coral Fossil and Indonesian Coral Fossil are among the most commonly found Coral Fossils used in todays jewelry.

Coral fossil material displays the unusual internal structure of the original coral. Coral fossil cuts and polishes like Agate, but in most cases are a bit softer.

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Red Eye Coral and Black Eye Coral are two of the more unusual types of Coral Fossil found in present day markets. Both come from sea floors around South East Asia.

Sponge Coral ! That's its trade name. It is known to marine biologists as melithaea ochrace. A sponge coral really has nothing to do with sponges. It just looks like a sponge. Found mainly in the South China Sea, from Taiwan down to Indonesia, the sponge coral has a distinct fan-shaped appearance underwater. Until recently, sponge coral was not used for jewelry as they weren't considered jewelry-quality coral because they contained too many holes. However with the "farming" of man-enhanced Sponge Coral, we now have a renewable source and thus the harvesting and use of other natural corals is becoming more and more controlled, even to the extent that importation of coral is illegal into many countries without special government issued licenses, however Sponge Coral does not fall under these regulations. The majority of Sponge Coral used in jewelry has to date been shades of reds and oranges.

A very rare pure White Coral Fossil.

The coral can be cut and placed into very fine jewelry, such as this Black Coral ring. However, coral is best used in earrings and pendants, as its softness can allow it to be easily damaged in jewelry such as rings, unless properly protected.

And of course in todays market place we have all kinds of fakes and man made gemstones. Although natural, colored coral fossil stones are normally found to have been helped a bit with some colorations from man.

The ELGANCE COLLECTION - Ivoryite and Cloisonne !

2011-09-12T08:00:00.001-05:00

Ivoryite barrels and rondels highlight the black and gold Cloisonne metal beads.

Crystals with brass heische beads and black glass diamond beads complete the necklace.

This 18 inch necklace with a 2 inch extender uses a gold plated S-hook clasp.

The matching earrings are gold plated French hook style, Ivorite rodels, Cloisonee and Crystal beads with a 2 1/4 inch drop.

Cloisonné is an ancient technique for decorating metalwork objects, but in recent centuries using vitreous enamels, and also inlays of cut gemstones, glass, and even linen. and other cloth materials, has become common place, especially in jewelry beads and pendants.

Ivoryite is a great substitute for ivory. It is a sedimentary precipitate of magnesium, calcium and silica. It is 5 to 5-1/2 on the Moh's scale, which makes it slightly harder than ivory. Ivoryite can be worked with metal tools, but cuts effortlessly with diamond tools. Polishes well with diamond, tin oxide, cerium oxide or white rouge. Excellent material for inlay, cabochons and small carvings. Do not confuse Ivoryite with Ivorite, whic is a black tektite material from Africa. The majority of Ivoryite currenly comes from the western United States, especially Colorado and California.

Czech Crystals and black Glass are also used in this set.

Michigan's 'Green Turtle Stone' - "CHLORASTROLITE" !

2011-09-11T10:00:00.001-05:00

YES, there is a stone known as the "Green Turtle Stone" It was not made up by some kids to cause a sensation.

In 1972, Chlorastrolite became the official State Gemstone for Michigan. Chlorastrolite is a beautiful green mineral with a chatlyant "turtle-back" pattern. Don't feel too bad if you are unfamiliar with the name. First of all, it is quite uncommon. Gem varieties are only found in Michigan. Secondly, there has been some confusion over the correct name as well as its true identity. It has been considered to be a Zoisite, a variety of Prehnite and a variety of Thomsonite. It has been called lotrite, kearsargeite, zonochlorite, lintonite, pumpellyite, chlorastrolite and greenstone. After much research, the IMA has ruled that the gem we are talking about is to be called "Chlorastrolite," - Michigan collectors still call it by the common name, "greenstone" or "Turtle Stone".

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Chlorastrolite occurs in the basalt layer deep under the Keweenaw Peninsula. When Isle Royale was formed off-shore from Keweenaw by an upheaval of the bedrock under Lake Superior, some of this material was brought to the surface. This tilting of the bedrock exposed the greenstone-bearing basalt. Wave action erodes the greenstones free and they may be found as beach gravel on the Isle. For many years this was thought to be the only source of the gem. When first offered in jewelry by the NewYork fashion stores in the 1890s, they were referred to as "Isle Royale Greenstones." To this day, many persons fail to realize that much of the Chlorastrolite occurred under the Keweenaw Peninsula and was discarded on mine dumps by the copper miners when they tunneled to the copper. The mines are not operating now and new material is not being brought to the surface, but the greenstones are usually overlooked by the rockhounds searching for copper. You can find gem-quality Chlorastrolite at the mine dumps if you look carefully. Greenstones have been found at most of the mines at Keweenaw; however, some mines produce better greenstones than others. The Central Mine, located just off US 41 north of Calumet, has been the most recent source of some of the largest greenstones.

So as not to raise to much confusion or start an arguement over what is Michigan's selection, one needs to also know that Michigan's State Stone, which is much better known, especially to Lapidarist, is 'The Petoskey Stone'. Petoskey Stones are masses of fossil colony coral, Hexagonaria Percarinata. They occur abundantly in Devonian reef limestones of the Traverse Group in the northern part of the Southern Peninsula of Michigan. The Devonian Period was about 350 million years ago. Coral groups weathered out of the limestone were widely scattered by Pleistocene glacial action. They are readily found on beaches and in gravel deposits as pebbles and cobbles rounded by erosion. Petoskey is the English adaptation of either "Be-dos-e-gay" or "Petosegay," an Ottawa Indian word and variant meaning "sun rays of the dawn."

FORDITE - a man-made discard !

2011-09-07T08:00:00.002-05:00

To answer a couple inquiries, although I have not actually used any in jewelry, I do have a couple sample pieces of Fordite. However I have seen none on the market for a while, especially pieces large enough to put into jewelry. Check with the Fordite web-site as I noticed they do have some jewelry available. It is sometimes amazing what mother-nature can do with stuff that man throws away or discards as useless junk or no longer usable.

Fordite is a unique automotive enamel material. Originally in the Ford Motor Plants the layered automotive paint slag "rough" was made incidentally by the now extinct practice of hand spray-painting multiples of production cars in big paint rooms of the automobile factories. The oversprayed paint in the painting bays gradually built up on the tracks and skids that the car frames were painted on. Over time, many colorful layers built up there. These layers were hardened repeatedly in the ovens that the car bodies went into to cure the paint. Some of these deeper layers were even baked 100 times. Eventually, the paint build-up would become obstructing, or too thick and heavy, and had to be removed. So it was chipped off and thrown out behind the plants in slag piles to do whatever old paint does in nature as seen below.

Some of the workers with an eye for beauty realized that this unique byproduct was worth salvaging. It had already been super-cured, patterned like psychedelic agate, and could be cut and polished with relative ease! As word got around about this remarkable material, rock hounds started showing up at auto factories, offering to help remove that problematic paint slag! Sadly, the techniques that produced this great rough years ago, are no longer in practice. Cars are now painted by way of an electrostatic process that essentially magnetizes the enamels to the car bodies. This leaves little, or no overspray. The old factory methods that created this incredible material are long gone. Thus the Fordite “mines” are dry.

It is possible through some dealers to still acquire pieces of Fordite, both the "US" and "British" versions. You might also look under "Motor Agate", "Detroit Agate" and sometimes it is called "Gordianite". Do not confuse Fordite with "Bowlerine", another man-made material where old bowling balls are cut up, polished and being used as stones in jewelry. Fordite.com has identified 4 basic types of Fordite -

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Type 1: Separated Colors - Regular grey banding of primer layers between color layers.
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Type 2: Color on Color - Opaques and metallics. Limited colors. Small parts collection.
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Type 3: Color on Color - Drippy, with multiple colors and layers. Psychedelic lace and orbital patterns, with occasional surface channeling.
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Type 4: Color on Color - Opaques and metallics, with bleeding, thin color layers, sometimes containing pitted layers.
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Then you have to seperarte which is Great Britian, Detroit or Ohio versions. Most "US" is Type 1, while the "British" is Type 2 and 3. And to make things interesting, there has been a Type 3 version found at a GM plant in Wisconsin.

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Thanks to the folks at www.fordite.com for their information and pictures. Some pictures are of material we have acquired.
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The ELEGANCE COLLECTION - An Unusual Form of Cloisonne !

2011-09-06T08:00:00.001-05:00

The 2 inch rectangular Cloisonne pendant has been silver plated. It sparkles with Amber and Bronze and Rhinestone crystals.
The sides of this necklace include silve plated curved tubes and wavy discs. Prehnite, Amber and Czech Crystal beads complete the sides.

The necklace is 20 inches long with a silver plate dragonfly Toggle clasp.
The silver plate French Hook earrings of Prehnite and Rhinestones drop 2 inches.

Prehnite is a phyllosilicate of calcium and aluminium with limited iron substitutes for aluminium in the structure. Prehnite crystallizes in the orthorhombic crystal system, and most oftens forms as stalactitic or botryoidal aggregates, with only just the crests of small crystals showing any faces, which are almost always curved or composite. Very rarely will it form distinct, well individualized crystals showing a square-like cross-section, like those found at the Jeffrey Mine in Asbestos, Quebec, Canada. It is brittle with an uneven fracture and a vitreous to pearly lustre. Prehnites color varies from light green to yellow, but also colorless, blue or white. In April 2000, a rare orange Prehnite was discovered at the famous Kalahari Manganese Fields in South Africa. It is mostly translucent, and rarely transparent. It was the first mineral to be named after a specific person, Colonel Hendrick VonPrehn, and was first described in 1789 for an occurrence in Haslach, Harzburg and Oberstein, Germany. Extensive deposits of gem quality Prehnite occur in the basalt tableland surrounding Wave Hill Station in the central Northern Territory, of Australia.

Amber - The Baltic region is home to the largest known deposit of Amber, called Baltic amber, with about 80% of the world's known amber found there. It dates back some 44 million years ago. It has been estimated that these forests created over 105 tons of amber. Because Baltic amber contains about 8% succinic acid, it is also termed succinite. It was thought since the 1850s that the resin that became Amber was produced by the tree Pinites succinifer, but research in the 1980's came to the conclusion that the resin originates from several species. Numerous extinct genera and species of plants and animals have been discovered and scientifically described from inclusions in Baltic Amber. Do NOT confuse Amber with Copal. Copal is not the fossilized, but rather an immature recent resin. Increasingly, Copal is being offered for sale, via the online auction services, gem shows, and shops, misrepresented as "Amber." The commercial value of Amber is related to its scarcity, age, inclusions of extinct species, and durability. Unfortunately, some dealers are more preoccupied with high economic returns, rather than whether or not their resin is fossil or recent. The age of Copal can vary from 50 years to 1.6 million years in age. It can be considered a semi-fossilized resin or an immature amber.

The AUTUMN COLLECTION - Fall colors from Australia !

2011-09-02T08:00:00.002-05:00

The golden tones of Autumn make their appearance in several gemstones that are used for jewelry. In this case Mookaite, yellow Calcite and yellow Jade are selected for this purpose.

Mookaite and yellow Jade chips make a double-scallop on either side of a Mookaite tear drop pendant.
Calcite ovals, round beads and silver plate beads add demension to the sides of this 21 inch necklace.

The necklace is closed with a sliver plated Toggle clasp and a 2 inch extender.
Silver plate French Hook hoop earrings have a drop of 2 inches.

Mookaite --- see the previous Blog on September 1st for the explanation about Mookaite.

Calcite, which gets its name from "chalix" the Greek word for lime, is a most amazing and yet, one of the most common minerals on the face of the Earth, comprising about 4% by weight of the Earth's crust and is formed in many different geological environments. Calcite can form rocks of considerable mass and constitutes a significant part of all three major rock classification types. Some of these rock types are composed of better than 99% calcite. Why would a collector be interested in such a common mineral? Because of its extraordinary diversity and beauty! The jewelry industry has become facinated with its beauty and many colors in all shades of the rainbow.

Jade on todays market is primarily composed of Nephrite; Jadeite Jade has become quite rare and in its emerald-green, translucent form is referred to as Imperial Jade or "gem jade". A small amount of cromium in Jadeite accounts for the color of Imperial Jade. Other color-based names for Jadeite Jade are Yunan Jade, for a uniquely appearing dark green, semitranslucent Jade, Apple Jade for apple (yellowish green) green Jade, and Moss-in-Snow for white Jade with vivid green spots and streaks. Nephrite and Jadeite Jade ranges in color from a somewhat greasy-appearing, white to dark and light shades of green, gray, blue-green, lavender, yellow, orange, brown, reddish-brown, and black. An important dark green variety of Nephrite is sometimes known as "spinach Jade". The chromophore in all Nephrite Jades is usually iron. Nephrite jade is usually opaque to translucent in thinner pieces. This particular Jade used in this piece is a shade of yellow. The name Jade has been, and continues to be, applied to a variety of materials that superficially or closely resemble Jade but are not composed of either Jadeite or Nephrite. So as the old saying gos "Buyer Beware !".

MOOKAITE - One of the Australia Stones !

2011-09-01T08:00:00.012-05:00

Mookaite is actually a fossilifzed ferous sedimentary rock. The correct geological term for the formation that Mookaite occurs in is " Windalia Radiolarite." This stunning multi-colored stone is found in the Kennedy Ranges near Gascoyne Junction, which is about 100 miles inland from the coastal town of Carnarvon, in Western Australia. Perth, the capital of Western Australia, is about 600 miles to the south.

The "Windalia Radiolarite" consists of varicolored radiolarian commonly occuring in outcrops. Associated with the Mookaite in many locations are imprints of Ammonites. Stratigraphic relationships with adjacent areas, indicate that the "Windalia Radiolarite" formed originally on a marine shelf. Microscopic examination of the radiolarite has shown that this rock consists principally of the remains of tiny organisms known as 'radiolaria', which possessed an unusual skeletal structure of opaline silica. Countless numbers of these microscopic animals were deposited as sediment in the shallow waters, near shore area of ancient seas. When the seas retreated, these sediments were cemented into solid rock by silica carried in groundwater, either from the radiolaria themselves or from weathered rocks nearby.

The name "Mookaite" is derived from the locality where the rock is found, namely 'Mooka Creek'. According to local Aboriginaes, "mooka" means "running waters", no doubt in reference to the many fresh water springs that feed Mooka Creek in the rainy season.

Mookaite is many times incorrectly called mookite, mookalite, mookerite, mook, mook jasper, moukaite, moakite, moukalite or mouakite.

Mookaite can be correctly described as Chert, Opalite, Chalcedony or a combinations of two or of all three. The amount of silica in the material determines its physical description. This creates difficulties when digging Mookaite as the more Opaline in the rock, the more brittle it becomes. In this form, it is useless for cutting, as the lightest hit will cause it to fracture. The best material is the Chalcedonic variety. It generally occurs as nodules, large and small, lying in decomposed radiolarian clay beneath the floor of Mooka Creek. It appears that the silica rich and mineralised solutions have seeped through the radiolarite beneath the floor of the usually dry Mooka Creek bed. These solutions have concentrated in various locations and collected as nodules and sheets of the multi-colored Chalcedony variety, or better yet, gem quality Mookaite. Subsequently, the radiolarite with less silica has decomposed into beds of soft white clay which now surround the stunning nodules. Unfortunately there is a fair degree of underground water lying and running through these clay beds which make it extremely messy and difficult to dig out the good Mookaite from under the dry creek bed.

The AUTUMN COLLECTION - Leapordskip Jasper !

2011-08-31T08:00:00.004-05:00

Autumn colors can not be brought out any better than they are in Leapordskin Jasper.

Leapordskin Jasper graduated coin beads are the focal point of this 20 inch necklace. Czech crystal beads sepparate the coin beads to give them depth.

Some of the colors within the Leapordskin Jasper arfe repeated along the sides with Poppy Jasper peanut beads, peach Crystals and gunmetal seed beads.

The necklace is closed with a antique silver plated Toggle clasp.

The silver plated French Hook earrings hang 1 1/2 inch with Crystals and Poppy Jasper.

Jasper - Sometimes we have an Agate, sometimes we have a Jasper, sometimes we have a name and not sure which exact gemstone we have. Many times we try to find an "easy answer" where there isn't one. The basic difference between Agate and Jasper is a structural one - at the microscopic level. It has nothing to do with the color or pattern. Agate is composed of microscopic 'fibers' of crystalline quartz. Jasper is composed of microscopic 'grains' of crystalline quartz. Jasper has less-regular patterns and is less defined than the Agates. Another subtle difference between the two is that Agates tend to be translucent (or at least contain translucent bands), while Jaspers are generally opaque.

Jasper coming from Greek origin, "iaspis", means "spotted stone." This form of semiprecious microcrystalline Quartz is usually red, brown or green. Its patterns are much less regular and defined than those of its sister variety, Agate. Although the term Jasper is often applied to unidentified stones, true Jaspers are metamorphic rocks. Jasper derives its colorful patterns from other minerals present, and is often named according to its pattern. It has a dull luster but takes a fine polish, and its hardness and other physical properties are those of Quartz. Jasper is often sealed with petroleum products. Its polish might wash away in water, so clean with a soft, dry cloth. Leapordskin Jasper is an ideal Jasper, one with many colors and meets the criteria of the "spotted" stone. Poppy Jasper is opaque and somewhat striped but of a single color, usually shades of dark reds.

Czech Crystals and gunmetal are also used in this set.

The ELEGANCE COLLECTION -- Lapis Lazuli and Crystals !

2011-08-30T08:00:00.003-05:00

For those who want a "different" kind of a jewelry piece and who are not afraid of getting a lot of attention, this Lapis Lazuli asymmetrical necklace should fill the requirement quite well. The left side with the Lapis Lazuli rectangles has a 3 inch drop of golden beads and a Lapis Lazuli round bead below the main necklace.

Lapis Lazuli rectangles join with three rows of Lapis Lazuli round beads, Czech Crystal round beads, Czech golden glass beads and blue Crystal faceted rondels with gold plated hammered coin beads.

A gold plated triple circle Toggle clasp finishes the 21 inch necklace.

Gold plate Leverback earrings consist of a Lapis Lazuli bead, Czech Crystal and a golden accent piece with a 2 inch drop.

Lapis Lazuli --- See the BLOG entry for Sunday Aug 28th for a complete write-up about Lapis Lazuli.

Czech Crystals are also used in this set.

The AUTUMN COLLECTION - Moss Agate !

2011-08-29T09:00:00.005-05:00

SOLD Moss Agate graduated coin beads overlap each other with Bronze speacers between each bead.

The sides of the necklace are then completed with Cloisonne beads, Ivoryite rondells and Bronze spacers.

This 18 inch necklace is then fitted with an antique gold plated square Toggle clasp.

The matching gold plate French Hook earrings of Cloisonne, Ivoryite and Bronze spacers dangle 1 7/8 inches.

Agate is a microcrystalline variety of silica, chiefly Chalcedony, characterised by its fineness of grain and brightness of color. Although Agates may be found in various kinds of rock, they are classically associated with volcanic rocks and can be common in certain metamorphic rocks. Colorful Agates and other Chalcedonies were obtained over 3,000 years ago from the Achates River, now called Dirillo, in Sicily. Most Agates occur as nodules in volcanic rocks or ancient lavas where they represent cavities originally produced by the disengagement of volatiles in the molten mass which were then filled, wholly or partially, by siliceous matter deposited in regular layers upon the walls. Such Agates, when cut transversely, exhibit a succession of parallel lines, often of extreme tenuity, giving a banded appearance to the section. Some Agates are found to be translucent when cut thin enough. Many different varieties and types of Agate occur naturally and all different kinds of names have been applied based on location found or the colors in the Agate. Moss Agate is one of some 130 plus names currently associated with specifically named Agates.

Cloisonné is an ancient technique for decorating metalework objects, but in recent centuries using vitreous enamels, and also inlays of cut gemstones, glass, and even linen. and other cloth materials, has become common place, especially in jewelry beads.

Ivoryite is a great substitute for ivory. It is a sedimentary precipitate of magnesium, calcium and silica. It is 5 to 5-1/2 on the Moh's scale, which makes it slightly harder than ivory. Ivoryite can be worked with metal tools, but cuts effortlessly with diamond tools. Polishes well with diamond, tin oxide, cerium oxide or white rouge. Excellent material for inlay, cabochons and small carvings. Do not confuse Ivoryite with Ivorite, whic is a black tektite material from Africa. The majority of Ivoryite currenly comes from the western United States, especially Colorado and California.

Lapis Lazuli - The Perfect Blue !

2011-08-28T15:00:00.002-05:00

Lapis Lazuli is a relatively rare semi-precious stone that has been prized since antiquity for its intense blue color. Lapis Lazuli is a gemstone of the kind that might have come straight out of the Arabian Nights: a deep blue with golden inclusions of pyrites which shimmer like little stars.

Lapis Lazuli has been collected from mines in the Badakhshan province of Afghanistan for over 6,000 years and there are sources that are found as far east as in the region around Lake Baikal in Siberia. Trade in the stone is ancient enough for Lapis jewelry to have been found at Predynastic Egyptian and ancient Sumerian sites, and as Lapis beads at neolithic burials in Mehrgarh, the Caucasus, and even as far from Afghanistan as Mauritania

The main component of Lapis Lazuli is Lazurite (25% to 40%), a feldspathoid silicate mineral. Most Lapis Lazuli also contains Calcite (white), Sodalite (blue), and Pyrite (metallic yellow). Other possible constituentsare: augite; diopside; enstatite; mica; hauynite; hornblende, and nosean. Some Lapis Lazuli contains trace amounts of the sulfur-rich löllingite variety geyerite. Lapis Lazuli usually occurs in crystalline marble as a result of contact metamorphism.

As mentioned Lapis Lazuli has been primarily found in limestone in the Kokcha River valley of the Badakhshan province in northeastern Afghanistan, where the Sar-e-Sang mine deposits have been worked for more than 6,000 years. In addition to the Afghan deposits, Lapis has been extracted for many years in the Andes (near Ovalle, Chile), the Lake Baikal region of Russia; Siberia; Angola; Burma; Pakistan; Canada; India; and in the USA in California and Colorado. Not all Lapis is of gemstone quality, but that which is can produce beautiful jewelry. Most Lapis is prepared in cabochon shapes.

Before the year 1834, when it became possible to produce this blue color synthetically, the only ultramarine available was that valuable substance made from genuine Lapis Lazuli that shines out at us from many works of art today. Many pictures of the Madonna, for example, were created using this paint. But in those days, ultramarine blue was not only precious and so intense that its radiance outshone all other colors; it was also very expensive. But unlike all other blue pigments, which tend to pale in the light, it has lost none of its radiance to this very day. Nowadays, the blue pigment obtained from Lapis Lazuli is mainly used in restoration work and by collectors of historical paints. Since Afghanistan is the primary supplier of gem quality material, current world conditions on top of the very extreme remoteness of the mines, Lapis Lazuli has become harder to obtain and the price has risen accordingly. However, Lapis jewelry is still in high demand because of its beauty.

Lapis Lazuli mounted in a Silver Pendant and a Silver Ring

In recent years Lapis Lazuli is commercially "synthesized" (actually simulated) by the Gilson process, using artificial ultramarine and hydrous zinc phosphates. Some dealers try and substitute Lapis using Spinel or Sodalite, or by dyed Jasper or by our old friend the Turquoise substitute, Howlite.

The AUTUMN COLLECTION - Sea Shells match Falling Leaves !

2011-08-26T09:00:00.004-05:00

SOLD Sea Shell medallions contrast with the jet black of marquise glass beads.

The Sea Shell medallions have the look of the veins in fallen leaves.

This 19 inch necklace is highlighted with copper bubble accents and has a double circle Toggle clasp.

The matching French Hook earrings have a 3 inch drop.

Natural dyed sea shells are used in this set.

The ELEGANCE COLLECTION - Champagne and Chocolate !

2011-08-25T09:00:00.001-05:00

Nothing can be more elegant than Pearls, even today's Glass Pearls.

Elegant strand of large champagne glass Pearls woven with same color ribbon highlight the center of this necklace.

The necklace coninues with smaller chocolate and champaign colored glas pearls and silver plated daisy spacers.

The 19 inch neckace is finished with a silver plated heart Toggle clasp.

Coordinated silver plate French Hook earrings complete the set.

SOUTHWESTERN FLAIR - Spikes Anyone ?

2011-08-24T09:00:00.002-05:00

Let's go traveling thru the Southwestern United States, visiting Arizona where we have many locations to find Blue Turquoise, in Nevada we will visit the Comstock Load and get Silver and then head to Colorado where in the Thunderegg Mine we will acquire Black Agate. Throughout the centuries, the peoples of the Southwest gathered, traveled and exchanged their goods. Out of the mix comes the Southwestern Style of Jewelry.

Graduated spikes of stabilized Turquoise present a "spiked look". Black Agate (Onyx) rondels are used betwen each spike as a highlight.

Black Agate (Onyx) spheres combined with Turquoise spheres and Silver highlights on each side of the two strands of this 20 inch necklace.

The clasp is a silver plated S-hook with a 2 inch silver plated chain extender.

The French Hook earrings are silver plated filigree triangles with charms of silver, Turquoise and Black Agate (Onyx) with a 1 1/2 inch drop.

Turquoise comes in many colors, shades and types in today's market. To help understand a bit, the following is provided----

Natural - This comes directly from the mine. It is cut shaped and polished and set into jewelry. It has no man made treatment or additives other than a polishing compound that adds to its luster. Several pieces of natural Turquoise from Arizona, can be seen to the right and are beautiful with very little polishing. Most stones in this state are very close to gem quality. The coloration of natural Turquoise can darken as oils from the skin work its way into the stone over the years, especially of not properly cleaned.
Stabilized – This is a natural turquoise usually in nugget form, but does not hold a luster. It is submerged into a stabilizing compound and dried, cut and prepared for jewelry. The turquoise has not been altered. The pores of the stone have been filled with a clear resin that makes the stone usable. This process allows for diversity of shapes and possibilities in jewelry making. Color Stabilized stones are considered altered and sometimes color has been added in this process. This in not necessarily bad, but it has less value than a piece that is naturally colored. Stabilized Turquoise usually does not change color with wear and because of its hardness, wears better in jewelry.
Treated - This form of color enhancement has been used for thousands of years. It is done as discussed earlier by submerging Turquoise stones into animal fat or vegetable oil and later air dried. Normally the color will not last very long. A new variety on the market, called "Motaska" and "Majave" Stone is much more stable and retains its color as well as being infused with gold, silver and copper.
Fake and Synthetic – Ceramics, bone, celluloid and plastic are used to imitate turquoise. Synthetic turquoise has a very natural matrix that is produced by placing stones in the synthetic “batter”.
Imatations - Then there are the imatations, in many cases natural gemstones that are beautiful in their own right, but due to the fact they accept dyes, many times are dyed the various turquoise colors and then are sold by unscrupulous dealers as real Turquoise. Price becomes the real determining factor when it comes to seperating real Turquoise from dyed Howlite, Magnesite or Ivoryite.

What Color of Gold Should You Wear ?

2011-08-23T09:00:00.014-05:00

As far as nature is concerned there is only one answer to the question,

GOLD COLORED.

Gold nugget from Alaska

There is no such thing as white gold or rose gold in nature, or any other shade of gold, it is all the same color, gold. For some reason in today's market there is an extremely high demand for 'white gold'. Many people believe this is a natural option. The true demand for this white color comes from two other metals, Platinum and Silver. The cost of Silver is still somewhat low, but it will need cleaning as it will tarnish over time. Platinum on the other hand will not tarnish, but the cost is even more than gold.

White gold was created to be able to sell people a white metal that does not tarnish at a lower price than platinum. This was a keen marketing idea as people would pay the same or even more for it than traditional gold, while the cost of this alloy was far lower than normal gold alloys, thus boosting profits. However, this idea came with a number of problems. To become white, the gold had to be alloyed with a large amount of a base metal, specifically nickel. Many people are allergic to nickel when it is placed against their skin. To further complicate matters, the white color from a nickel gold alloy is not really pretty, as it is more accurately described as 'gray gold', thus the marketing plan was doomed to failure. So this marketing idea of 'white gold' had two problems to overcome, people were allergic to it and it was ugly. So to overcome these problems in order to sell 'white gold' they came up with the idea to plate it with rhodium, one of the members of the platinum family. Rhodium is an extremely expensive metal, far higher than plain platinum, but plating uses such a tiny amount, that the cost is negligible. It is a very strong metal and is very chemically resistant. A thin plating of rhodium over the unappealing white gold makes it look fabulous, so many people now select 'white gold' as the color of choice in their gold jewelry. A considerable amount of market trickery was employed and continues to this today. However, it is all in ones eye, and what the public likes is what the public will get.

Ironically, the same rhodium plating over silver keeps the silver from tarnishing. It looks and wears exactly like the finished rhodium plated nickel/white gold jewelry at a small fraction of the cost. It also has another advantage, silver is much less likely to create an allergic reaction as the nickel/white gold when some of the plating wears off, plus the silver looks whiter and prettier than the nickel/white gold when the plating wears off.

And plating does wear off, regardless of what it is, so any plated jewelry needs to be returned to the jeweler periodically for a new 'dip'. Often they will do this for 'free' or just a small cost as many times customers will make a new purchase when they take the item in to be replated. This is a win-win situation for the jeweler, as it requires very little skill to plate something once you are set up to do it.

For some unknown reason, more people in Europe have a problem with the allergic reaction to the nickel in the white gold. So another metal, palladium, which is a precious metal, which people are not allergic to was added to the gold. The cost is much higher than nickel and is even much higher than the traditional gold alloys, but there is much less allergic reactions with palladium compared to nickel, but the old problem remains that the color is just too gray. The finished project has little eye appeal as it is not as white as even inexpensive silver, thus the same solution is again employed, a rhodium dip.

Can you see the difference in plated jewelry versus non-plated by your eye? Most people can spot it very easily. All our lives we have seen cheap costume jewelry plated with gold, silver and rhodium and many people automatically think 'cheap' when they see that plated look. But nothing can compare and have the elegant look than a highly polished piece of precious metal, which plating can never hope to duplicate. Plus plating cannot, or really should say, should not be polished, as it will simply wear off, so once it is plated, it is 'done'.

So now we have our "rose gold" buffs. Rose gold is also called pink gold or red gold. This is simply a gold alloy with a lot more copper and less silver. Copper is the lower grade of the metals used in traditional alloys. When it percentage is increased, it causes the gold to have a redder color, but it can also give more people an allergic reaction and may tarnish a little as well. It is very pretty alloy all by itself, so it requires no plating.

Ever hear of green gold? It is more of a light yellow as it contains only two metals, gold and silver. In 18k it is great to work with as a smith and a purist in the trade, but the paler color is not very popular.

The color of the gold most people are used to seeing today in the United States is really 58.5% gold with the remainder split between silver and copper. This is called 14k yellow gold. The color can be improved by adding more copper and less silver, but this also makes it more brittle, more likely to tarnish, turning green when worn by some people, and a bit more difficult to work with. Usually the remaining 41.5% of 14k gold is split evenly between silver and copper, thus producing a rather washed out gold color.

People generally trend towards the traditional 18k gold alloys as the color is more golden than the 14k. Traditional 18k gold is 75% gold with the remaining 25% being half silver and half copper. At a recent Gem Show, a gold dealer was showing the various grades and colors of gold, all in all he had 66 different shades.

Some goldsmiths make jewelry that uses almost pure gold such as 23k which contains over 90% gold and a small amount of silver. It is a very rich golden color and is often thought of as too soft by most American standards. The most common carats used for gold in bullion, coins, jewelry making and goldsmithing are:
999 (24 karat) (millesimal fineness 999)
916 (22 karat) (millesimal fineness 916)
833 (20 karat) (millesimal fineness 833)
750 (18 karat) (millesimal fineness 750)
625 (15 karat) (millesimal fineness 625)
585 (14 karat) (millesimal fineness 585)
417 (10 karat) (millesimal fineness 417)
375 ( 9 karat) (millesimal fineness 375)
The use of the carat (karat in North American spelling) is a system of denoting the purity of gold by fractions of 24. The carat (karat) term is only associated with gold, millesimal fineness is used for all other precious metals. The United States currently issues 22k and 24k gold coin.

United States 22k Gold American Eagle and 24k Gold Buffalo coins

In the jewelry business, I believe that it has become necessary that full disclosure of what is being bought is made, whether it be about gemstone treatments, natural or man made gemstones, metal treatments, or what the grade the metal being used is. It is simple honesty at it's best. Many people, especially at markets and craft shows have been misled about the gold, the silver and the gemstones being purchased. That is disturbing trend. Educated customers are happy customers. They will come back and buy more, because they know what they are getting, andthey are making a fully educated choice.

The AUTUMN COLLECTION -- Shades of Fall !

2011-08-22T09:00:00.002-05:00

Autumn or Fall, depending on what you call in in your area of the country, is a magical period of time when nature changes from the greens and bright colors of Summer to the almost mystical tans, browns, golds, yellows and reds of Autumn. These colors are repeated many times over in many of the gemstones that are also worn during this time of year.
Using an assymetrical design and earthtones, this 3-strand necklace uses large Picture Jasper coin beads as focal points between bronze toned wire bird-cage beads and Czech Crystals for one side. Czech glass brown and white tear drops and Citrine chips complete the opposide side of the necklace. Ceramic rondels and Citrine chips complete the back of the necklace with a golden S-hook clasp along one side that dramatizes the unusual arrangement of the different shapes and sizes of the components used in this 24 inch necklace.

Golden French Hook earrings with a bronze toned wire bird-cage bead, a Czech Crystal and grouped Citrine chips that hang 1 1/2 inches complete the set.

Jasper is a form of chalcedony, is usually an opaque, impure variety of silica, usually red, yellow, brown or green in color; and rarely blue. This mineral breaks with a smooth surface, and is used for ornamentation or as a gemstone. It can be highly polished and is used for vases, seals, and at one time for snuff boxes. Various varieiies of Jasper go by regional, location or pattern names. When the colors are in stripes or bands, it is called striped or banded Jasper. Picture jaspers exhibit combinations of patterns (such as banding) from flow or depositional patterns (from water or wind), dendritic or color variations resulting in what appear to be scenes or images, on a cut section. Diffusion from a center point produces a distinctive orbicular appearance, or linear banding from a fracture.

Citrine is a variety of quartz whose color ranges from a pale yellow to brown. Natural Citrines are rare; most commercial Ctrines are heat-treated Amethyst or Smoky Quartz. It is nearly impossible to tell cut Citrine from yellow Topaz visibly, but they differ in hardness. Citrine has ferric impurities, and is rarely found naturally. Brazil is the leading producer of citrine, with much of its production coming from the state of Rio Grande do Sul. Sometimes Citrine and Amethyst can be found together in the same crystal, which is then referred to as Ametrine.

Czech crystals and bronze wire are also used in this set.

Lapidary and Gemstones - unusual finds !

2011-08-20T08:00:00.004-05:00

MAW Sit Sit --- A beautiful green colored stone that looks like fine quality jade, which makes sense since one of the constituents that make up Maw Sit Sit is jadeite. It is a metamorphic rock that was formed when higher pressure changed a formation of igneous rocks. The formation had a lot of chromium based minerals such as chromite and chrome rich jadeite, which accounts for the color. Maw Sit Sit has been pretty rare on the market, but more and more of it is appearing as time goes by.

This is a wonderful example of what the gemstone world can offer with an unusual name from a small place that no one has heard of ... until they named a gemstone after it, from a place called Maw Sit Sit in upper Myanmar. Maw sit sit was first identified by the late Dr. Eduard Gubelin in 1963 and named after the village close to the site where it was found. It is currently on the list for non-importation into the USA along with Myanmar (Burma) Rubies unless one can show a purchase date before the law went into effect.

Zoisite Conglomeriate --- This beautiful combination of Ruby embedded in a matrix of green and black Zoisite is also known as Anyolite. This stone has wonderful red Ruby crystal structure embedded in a natural matrix of green and black Zoisite. It is strikingly dramatic, beautiful and hard to come by. Bright and bold opposite colors contrast to form exquisite patterns people love to look at. Although Anyolite is many times advertised as a variety of Zoisite from Kenya and Tanzania, Anyolite is actually a metamorphic rock composed of intergrown green Zoisite crystals, black Tschermakite cystals, and Ruby crystals. It is said to be named after the Maasai word 'anyoli', meaning "green." The contrasting colours make Anyolite a popular material for sculptures and other decorative objects. It was first discovered at the Mundarara Mine, near Longido, Tanzania in 1954. Much of the material now being called Zoisite Conglomeriate nows comes out of South Africa. Anyolite is also referred to as Ruby in Zoisite or Tanganyika Artstone when smaller amounts of the black Tschermakite crystals are present. Do NOT confuse Ruby if Zoisite with Fushite, especially when it is Ruby in Fushite).

Septarian Concretion --- Concretions are masses of mineral matter formed when minerals in water are deposited about a nucleus (such as a leaf or shell or other particle) forming a rounded mass whose composition or cement is usually different from the surrounding rock. This can occur at the time of deposition, shortly thereafter, or after the sediment has hardened. Generally, concretions are harder than the rocks around them; therefore, over time the concretions can weather out of the surrounding rocks. Concretions are found world wide, but some of the best come from Wyoming and Kansas. These are formed from any of a number of minerals, including calcite, limonite, barite, pyrite, or silica. They vary widely in shape and size. The smallest are oolites, which can be smaller than the head of a pin. At the other end of the spectrum are the huge spherical Septarian Concretions, the largest of which have diameters of 20 feet or more. The exteriors of septarian concretions are crisscrossed by a network of ridges, giving some of them the appearance of a turtle shell. Geologists think they were formed by the shrinkage of concretions, which caused cracks to form, followed by the deposition of the various such minerals. When the concretions are exposed to weathering, the softer parts between the mineral-filled cracks are eroded and the cracks extend above the surface of the concretion, like ridges or little walls. When cut and polished, they make interesting stones for jewelry, as long as they are well protected. .

The ELEGANCE COLLECTION -- More Crystals !

2011-08-19T09:00:00.009-05:00

Now and then I have been asked by folks for something that is a bit more formal and has a little bit more flare than the my gemstone style necklace sets, but is not a bank breaker like faceted jewelry sets seem to be. So I have come up with "The Elegance Collection" just for these people.

Gray oval Czech Crystals mix with clear and gray rondel Czech Crystals to complete this 18 inch necklace.

A silver plated Hook clasp and 2 inch extension complete the elegent look of this design.

Silver plated French Hook earrings with multiple charmed Crystals with a 2 1/4 inch drop complete the set.

AUTUMN COLLECTION - Multiple Shades of Autumn !

2011-08-17T09:00:00.003-05:00

A large Dichroic Glass amber/copper/silver teardrop pendant on a silver plated bail is the focal point of this dramatic, lightweight necklace representing the Autumn color palet. The drop of the pendant is 2 1/4 inches.

Additional components are Lampwork beads, large silver plated teardrop beads, copper AB crystals, and multi-colored seed beads.

This 18 inch necklace has a silver plated circle toggle clasp.

1 1/2 inch drop French Hook earrings are loops of Autumn colored seed beads and silver plated discs.

VARISCITE - Yes it comes in RED !

2011-08-16T09:00:00.002-05:00

Variscite is a hydrated aluminium phosphate mineral. It was at one time considered to be a relatively rare phosphate mineral. Because most Veriscite comes from close bye or the same location, it is sometimes confused with Turquoise; however, Variscite is usually much greener in color. Variscite is a secondary mineral formed by direct deposition from phosphate-bearing water that has reacted with aluminium-rich rocks in a near-surface environment. It occurs as fine-grained masses in nodules, cavity fillings, and crusts. Variscite often contains white veins of the calcium aluminium phosphate mineral Crandallite.

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Variscite is sometimes used as a semi-precious stone, and is popular for carvings and ornamental use. It was first described in 1837 and named for the locality of Variscia, in Germany, the historical name of Vogtland. In 1894 Variscite was found near Fairfield, Utah, and given the name Utahlite. Later in the early 1900s Variscite was found in Nevada. Variscite is known for its bright to dark green coloration. The Navada Veriscite is also known for it black spider web colorations within the material.

Fine carving and pendants have been made from the beginning out of the green Variscite. Pendants can be almost entirely the green Variscite or they can have streaks of the Variscite running through the host stone, similar to Boulder Opal and Boulder Turquoise, thus why sometimes the confusion.

A surprise to many, an unusual red variety of variscite occurs in certain Precambrian iron ores in the Middleback Ranges of South Australia. As with many gem and mineral findings in Australia, and in this Iron Monarch deposit, apatite in the hematite ores oxidized, leading to the formation of a large suite of secondary phosphates. Among these occurs variscite, which forms crystalline coatings on hematite surfaces, rarely associated with other phosphate minerals. The variscite contains approximately 10 percent iron. Amazingly the variscite from the Iron Monarch quarry is deep rose-red and transparent. It occurs in globular surface coatings consisting of small blocky crystals. Because of the black matrix and the transparency of the crystals, their overall appearance is dark cherry-red. Deposits of this same Red Veriscite material have now been found in Brazil and and pink variety in the Wood Mine, Cocke County, Tennessee.

Larger deposits of the Australian Red Veriscite allow for the formation of nice sized rocks that when cut, make for a beautiful Red Veriscite cabochon or pendant.
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This Red Veriscite must not be confused with the Red River Jasper which also comes from Australia.

Also definitely don't confuse Veriscite with colored Sea Sediment Jasper from Indonesia.

The Birthday Collection - Aquamarine for March !

2011-08-15T09:00:00.002-05:00

SOLD Jewelry containing one's birthstone has always been popular. Here we have the March Birthstone, Aquanarine, depicted in Czech Crystals paired with Freshwater Cultured Pearls and silver highlights in a 20 inch necklace.

The necklace is then completed using a Dragon Fly silver plated Toggle clasp.

Matching silver plated French Hook dangle earrings complete the set.

Freshwater Cultured Pearls are a kind of pearl that comes from freshwater mussels. They are produced in Japan and the United States on a limited scale, but are now almost exclusive to China. The U.S. Federal Trade Commission requires that freshwater pearls be referred to as "freshwater cultured pearls" in commerce. Although the Japanese freshwater pearl industry has nearly ceased to exist, it holds special historic value as the first country to cultivate whole freshwater pearls in Lake Biwa, using the Biwa pearly mussel. The industry attempted a comeback with a mussel hybrid in Lake Kasumigaura in the last decade, but this venture also met with failure, with production ceasing in 2006. The pearl farm in Tennessee also holds special historic value as it is the only freshwater pearl outside of Asia, it continues as a tourist attraction. Today China is the only commercial producer of freshwater pearls, producing 1500 tons using a triangle shell mussel and several hybrids that have shown heterosis from several mussel species.

Czech crystals are also used in this Set.

Polyhedral Agate - An Unusual Form of Agate !

2011-08-11T09:00:00.003-05:00

A very unusual form of Agate comes from Minas Gerais, Brazil. It is known as a Polyhedral Agate and is formed by silica replacing the normal calcite resulting in a highly angular form within the rocks instead of the usual sub-spherical forms as normally seen.
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These polyhedral quartz pseudomorphs without calcite were mined during the 1970’s and have since then become increasingly uncommon in today's market, with most examples appearing as thin slabs, normally polished front and back to show off the natural beauty of the agate. It's sharp polyhedral form is entirely natural in origin.

Many of the beautiful Agates coming from Minas Gerais today, like the one seen here, will have some slightly pointed sections to their designs, indicating that there is still some silica within the calcite in the Agate itself.

Collectors scramble to obtain samples of a Polyhedral Agate, especially one that still is made up of most of the host rock as seen at the left in this collection piece from Australia.
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The BIRTHDAY COLLECTION - Peridot for August !

2011-08-10T09:00:00.001-05:00

SOLD Jewelry containing one's birthstone has always been popular. Here we have the August Birthstone, Peridot, depicted in Czech Crystals paired with Freshwater Cultured Pearls and silver highlights in a 20 inch necklace.

The necklace is then completed using a Dragon Fly silver plated Toggle clasp.

Matching silver plated French Hook dangle earrings complete the set.

CHROME DIOPSIDE - One of a Few Green Stones !

2011-08-09T09:00:00.004-05:00

Chrome Diopside is a rich, emerald green variety of the mineral Diopside which derives its color from chromium. Chrome Diopside is a common constituent of peridotite xenoliths, and dispersed grains are found near kimberlite pipes, and as such are a prospecting indicator for diamonds. Occurrences are reported in Canada, South Africa, Russia, Brazil, and a wide variety of other locations. A recent Russian find in 1988 is the current source of the Tsavorite-like stones that are gaining in popularity and recognition today.

As beautiful as the material is, its use in rings is risky at best. A hardness of (5.5-6), moderate brittleness, and cleavability limit its use to pendants, brooches and earrings unless placed in highly protective settings and given gentle treatment. For these other uses, though, the stone is beautiful and very under-appreciated. However good cutting is important as this variety, especially in larger sizes, can be very dark. A good cut with fairly shallow angles can improve the brilliance. Cabochons can be extremely distinctive and very attractive.

A well cut piece of chrome diopside is a beautiful sight to behold, and a reasonably priced alternative to a Tsavorite Garnet or Chrome Tourmaline. The prime value factor for this gem is color, with medium dark green stones at the top. Such a stone in a larger size (2 cts or more) is especially rare since so many larger pieces suffer from light extinction and are very dark.

Cat's eye stones bring a premium price. Fine cutting enhances value considerably by adding scintillation and brilliance. Collectors eagerly look for this rare cat's eye form of Diopside.

Gemstone quality Diopside is found in two forms: the Black Star Diopside and the Chrome Diopside.

Be careful to not confuse Chinese Diopside, which is a calcium magnesium silicate and a much lighter shade of green, almost a yellow-green color. Several sellers refer to this material as Shanseres.

SOUTHWESTERN FLAIR -- Dress Up or Dress Down !

2011-08-08T09:00:00.001-05:00

A Southwestern style or a Southwestern type of jewelry leaves one wide open when designing necklaces and auxiliary pieces such as earrings, bracelets, belt buckles, and hat pins. Depending on the tribe, loction, availability of stones as well as silver or other metals that ae used, one sees many styles and types of Southwestern Jewelry.

In this particular design, Turquoise rounds, Coral beads, and Silver plated highlights are connected together in a double strand 18 inch necklace. A Silver plated diamond shapped Turqouise colored Howlite and Coral inlay pendant are the focal point of the necklace.

Silver plated French Hook earrings with Turquoise and Coral beads and a Silver plated highlight complete the set.

Turquoise comes in many colors and types in today's market. To help understand a bit, the following is provided----
Natural - This comes directly from the mine. It is cut shaped and polished and set into jewelry. It has no man made treatment or additives other than a polishing compound that adds to its luster. Several pieces of natural Turquoise from Arizona, can be seen to the right and are beautiful with very little polishing. Most stones in this state are very close to gem quality. The coloration of natural Turquoise can darken as oils from the skin work its way into the stone over the years, especially of not properly cleaned.
Stabilized – This is a natural turquoise usually in nugget form, but does not hold a luster. It is submerged into a stabilizing compound and dried, cut and prepared for jewelry. The turquoise has not been altered. The pores of the stone have been filled with a clear resin that makes the stone usable. This process allows for diversity of shapes and possibilities in jewelry making. Color Stabilized stones are considered altered and sometimes color has been added in this process. This in not necessarily bad, but it has less value than a piece that is naturally colored. Stabilized Turquoise usually does not change color with wear and because of its hardness, wears better in jewelry.
Treated - This form of color enhancement has been used for thousands of years. It is done as discussed earlier by submerging Turquoise stones into animal fat or vegetable oil and later air dried. Normally the color will not last very long. A new variety on the market, called "Motaska" and "Majave" Stone is much more stable and retains its color as well as being infused with gold, silver and copper.
Fake and Synthetic – Ceramics, bone, celluloid and plastic are used to imitate turquoise. Synthetic turquoise has a very natural matrix that is produced by placing stones in the synthetic “batter”.
Imatations - Then there are the imatations, in many cases natural gemstones that are beautiful in their own right, but due to the fact they accept dyes, many times are dyed the various turquoise colors and then are sold by unscrupulous dealers as real Turquoise. Price becomes the real determining factor when it comes to seperating real Turquoise from dyed Howlite, Magnesite or Ivoryite.

INTERESTING GEMSTONE ROUGH

2011-08-07T08:00:00.003-05:00

It is always interesting to find very showy gemstones, but some just seem to stand out from the rest. The following are some examples of not new stones, but interesting ones that are not seen very often and when found are grabbed quickly by those who know what they are.

KOROIT Boulder and Matrix Opal material from Australia.

What is so interesting about the KOROIT material is the varied colors.

Then there is the stone that when someone claims to be a gemologist, you ask them about - MAW SIT SIT which comes from the northern area of Myanmar (Burma). Maw Sit Sit is a unique arggregate metamorphic rock.

Another Australian find from the back-country is the ANDAMOOKA Opal material.

Then close to home we have CHALCOPYRITE, a copper-iron-sulfite material better known as Peacock Stone to those in Arizona.

And then a fairly new stone on the market, SONORA SUNRISE, a combination of Chrysacolla-Cuprite-Malachite that was found in the region around Sonora, Mexico.

And the new kid on the block in terms of new finds. Wello opals were discovered in 2007 in Wello, Ethiopia. Since then, Wello opals have been captivating the gem world.

The BIRTHDAY COLLECTION -- Alternant Stone for October !

2011-08-05T09:00:00.001-05:00

SOLD In addition to being considered elegant, this 20 inch necklace is also

dainty and very lightweight. Glowing Opal Czech Crystals, along with

Light Rose Czech Crystals and Freshwater Cultured Pearls paired with Silver

accents compose this October Opal Birthstone necklace.

A Dragonfly Toggle clasp completes the necklace.

Silver plated French Hook earrings with a 1 3/4 inch drop complete the set.

SOUTHWESTERN FLAIR -- Red, Black and Silver !

2011-08-03T09:00:00.003-05:00

Southwestern jewelry comes in many styles , designs and colors.

In this jewelry set we have a silver plated 2 1/4/inch flower pendant nestled between natural red coral nuggets that alternate with large silver plated nuggets and black Agate (Onyx) rondels and silver roped highlights.

A silver plated large Toggle clasp completes this 20 inch necklace.

Matching silver plated French Hook earrings with a 2 inch drop complete the set.

ORTHOCERAS - unique Fossil Jewelry !

2011-08-02T09:00:00.001-05:00

Orthoceras was an ancient mollusk that lived more than 400 million years ago. The name means straight horn, referring to the characteristic long, straight, conical shell. Orthoceras is a genus of extinct nautiloid cephalopod. This genus is sometimes called Orthoceratites. Note that it is many times misspelled as Orthocera, Orthocerus or Orthoceros. Orthoceras fossils are common and have a global distribution, occurring in any marine rock, especially limestones. These are slender, elongate shells with the middle of the body chamber transversely constricted, and a subcentral orthochoanitic siphuncle. The surface is ornamented by a network of fine lirae.

Originally Orthoceras referred to all nautiloids with a straight-shell , called an ("orthocone") . But later research on their internal structures, such siphuncle, cameral deposits and others, showing that there are actually a number of groups, even different orders, that they can belong to. The following are a couple of examples.

Many samples of Orthocaras are extremely large and are finished as desk or large display pieces as seen in the following picture.

However, smaller sized pieces make up into very interesting pendants, and sometime earrings.

A wire-wrapped Orthocaras in a pendant design by our daughter-in-law.

The ELEGANCE COLLECTION -- Polyclay and Greek Agate !

2011-08-01T09:00:00.001-05:00

This elegant 20 inch necklace is constructed of hard to find Greek White Agate, smoky gray Czech Crystals and Polyclay black & white flowers with Silver accents.

The center Polyclay flower has Silver dangles hanging from it.

A Toggle clasp can be placed into any of the four rings to adjust the length.

The Silver plate French Hook earrings have crustals dangling below small matching Polyclay flowers for a total length of 2 inches.

Polyclay or better known as Polymer clay, is a sculptable material based on the polymer polyvinyl chloride. It usually contains no clay minerals, and is only called "clay" because its texture and working properties resemble those of mineral clay. It is sold in craft, hobby, and art stores, and is used by artists, hobbyists, and for making jewelry pieces.

White Agate, more commonly referred to as Greek Agate, is a name given to pale white to light tan colored Agate found in Sicily dating back to 400 B.C. The Greeks used it for making jewelry and beads. Even though the stone had been around for centuries and was known to both the Sumerians and the Egyptians, both who used the gem for decoration and for playing important parts in their religious ceremonies, any Agate of this white color from Sicily, once an ancient Greek colony, is called Greek Agate.

Crystals are also used in this set.