Semi-Precious Gemstones - Rich in History, Beautiful in Art Jewelry

When I'm creating different pieces of art jewelry, it's interesting to me what strikes me to use in my designs.  When I'm designing with semi-precious gemstones, three stones in particular jump out at me.

Turquoise - Amethyst - Tiger's Eye

What's even more amazing is when you start digging into the meaning of each stone and the metaphysical energy in the stones, what they offer.  This piece uses a turquoise focal in the center, accented with rich, chocolate brown faceted crystals and soft coral beadwork. 

Turquoise is also used in the links and the necklace is finished with a copper chain.  Have you noticed how often you see turquoise jewelry that uses copper as the metal?  It's not a coincidence, copper enhances the effects of turquoise.

Here's some interesting turquoise facts:

• If given a turquoise by a loving friend, that stone would protect the wearer from negative energy and bring good fortune.  
• Turquoise brings peace to the home.
• Turquoise carries great wisdom of basic truth within it.

"Turquoise is a stone that has been prized for many years. The ancient Egyptians used turquoise in jewelry. Turquoise is greenish-blue or pale sky blue. The name means "Turkish stone" as it came to Europe by way of Turkey. Turquoise was mined more than 6,000 years ago in Sinai. The best turquoise comes from Iran, but not much is exported now. Much turquoise comes from Mexico and the United States today." via crystal-cure.com

It's not a wonder turquoise resonates with so many people!  What semi-precious gemstone speaks to you?

What is Art?

Art is evident in our world in many forms.  Art can be a painting or a sculpture.  Art can be photography or music.  Art can be movement and dance.  Art can take any form your mind can dream up.  

Art tells a story, whether in words, sounds, movements or feelings.  This piece was inspired by my heart and the feelings that are in it.  The focal is a lampwork glass work of art created by my dear friend Juls - JulsBeads.  I've had it in for a year (or 3) and loved it, loved the colors, but hadn't captured it's story. 

Until last week... and then it sang to me.  And I created it. 

I brought in shades of soft lavendar with Swarovski violet opal crystals, a rich amethyst and elegant turquoise.  I was even able to pull in Pantone's 2013 color of the year "Emerald" using blue zircon crystals. The necklace is finished with a few vintage inspired faceted glass beads and luxurious amethyst pearls. 

What's singing to you this week?  Are you working with black & gold or are you playing in green for St. Patrick's day!

Stay inspired~
Dawn

Featured in Great Finds Fiesta of Handmade Contest

Chitralekah - Bead Embroidered Necklace

Every week Anne with Made for me by Oaklie puts together a collection (similar to a treasury but it's outside of Etsy) of great artisan created items that match a theme.  This week the theme is "Fiesta for Handmade!" Anne is featuring all different colors of handmade items.

Anne was kind enough to feature my Chitralekah necklace.  You can read more about how I named her Chitralekah in my Etsy store:  https://www.etsy.com/listing/82179405/bead-embroidery-necklace-turquoise-and .  Chitralekah combines turquoise, petrified wood and magnesite with a variety of seed beads in a 3-stone pendant.  It's a beautiful necklace and I'm just tickled to have it featured.  To view all the entries and cast your vote (the poll is on the right side of her blog about 1/2 way down the page) visit: http://madeformebyoaklie.com/greatfinds.html

Thanks for the feature Anne!  I appreciate it!  Hope you all have a fantastic weekend!
{Hugs!}
Dawn