Just in time for the weekend โฆ an updated Cocktail List!
Thereโs some bougie new additions to the Cocktail Jewellery Collection and this time, some of them are even more limited edition!
Each of these super special jewellery pieces are hand strung by me using some exceptionally beautiful beads that I have sourced from around the world, including India where I visited at the end of last year.
Whilst in India I visited the famous Johari Bazaar of Jaipur to learn more about my craft and to purchase beads directly from those who make them.
This Cocktail Jewellery Collection contains many of these finds, bought directly from craftspeople that shape, cut and polish gemstones from deep within the famous jewellery bazaar.
It is an experience I will never forget and I wanted to use each bead mindfully -so (you may have noticed) I have taken my sweet time designing these pieces.
This collection is a veritable pick and mix of colourful gemstones that includes hand cut sapphires, peridots, garnets and zircons mixed with sliced and faceted apatite, larimar, turquoise and opal along with other semi precious gemstones, crystal and crystal pearls.
With fun cocktails as my muse for this collection it has once again allowed me to add an element of play to each piece. The unique combination of colours, shapes and materials creates limited edition statement pieces that are OOAK and luxurious, each invoking its own playful story of fun, vibrance and good times.
I do hope they tickle your taste buds and they do mine!
Ingredients
Sliced Apatite
Pacific Apatite
Blue Topaz
Dominican Larimar
Aquamarine
Blue Zircon drops
Swarovski crystal and crystal pearls
garnished with
Cherry Red Swarovski crystal pearls and sterling silver clasp and findings.
Number available: 2
Necklace only.
Ingredients
Strawberry Quartz
Labradorite
Thulite
Garnet
Swarovski crystal pearls
Preciosa crystal
Crystal
garnished with
Silver plated Greek ceramic heishi beads and sterling silver clasp and findings.
Number available: 4
May be shaped into a double or triple wrap bracelet.
Ingredients
Purple Garnet
Red Garnet
Orange Garnet
Fire Opal
Pink Sapphire
Diamond Garnet
Hessonite cubes
garnished with
your choice of 14K rose gold or 14K gold fill clasp and findings.
Number available: 2
May be shaped into a double or triple wrap bracelet.
Ingredients
Pink Tourmaline
Rhodochrosite
Mixed orange Zirconia balls and slices
Carnelian
Golden Red Rhodonite
Pink Agate
garnished with
Yellow Sapphire drops and 14K gold fill clasp and findings.
Number available: 2
Necklace only.
Ingredients
Citrine
Mixed yellow and orange Zirconia
Yellow Opal
Red and Orange Crystal
Sanidine Sunstone
Carnelian cubes
Carnelian
Hessonite
garnished with
Your choice of Lemon Quartz drop and Cherry Quartz drop at the nape of the neck and 14K gold fill clasp and findings.
Number available: 2
May be shaped into a double or triple wrap bracelet.
Ingredients
Red Garnet
Yellow Tourmaline
Green Tourmaline
Chrome Diopside
Peridot
Smoky Quartz
Blue Agate
Purple & Orange Zirconia
garnished with
Tarnish free gold plated (ring beads) and 14K gold clasp and findings
Number available: just 1 at this stage
This piece can be finished into either a double wrap bracelet or a necklace
Ingredients
Smoky Quartz
Rock Opal
Golden Obsidian
Black Spinel
Goldstone
Champagne Zirconia
Swarovski crystal pearls
garnished with
Greek bronze glazed ceramic heishi beads and finished with sterling silver clasp and findings
Number available: 3
This piece can be finished into either a double wrap bracelet or a necklace
Espresso Martini is part of the original Cocktail Collection and is strung from quality gemstones, crystal, crystal pearls and or metallic ceramic beads, many of which I have collected over the years.
Ingredients
Sanidine Sunstone
Red Garnet
Brown Agate,
Pink Tourmaline,
Citrine,
Orange Zirconia,
Strawberry Quartz,
Salmon Carnelian
garnished with
Greek bronze glazed ceramic heishi beads and finished with sterling silver clasp and findings
Number available: 1
This piece can be finished into either a double wrap bracelet or a necklace
For information about the gemstones used please check out Wristocropedia
Negroni is part of the original Cocktail Collection and is strung from quality gemstones, crystal, crystal pearls and or metallic ceramic beads, many of which I have collected over the years.
Ingredients
Red Garnet
Smoky Quartz
Pink Agate
Red Brecciated Jasper tube
Brazilian Gold Rhodonite
Pink Zirconia
Thulite
Pink crystal,
Swarovski Crystal and Crystal Pearl
garnished with
Greek Bronze glazed ceramic heishi beads and finished with sterling silver clasp and findings
Number available: 4
This piece can be finished into either a double wrap bracelet or a necklace
Raspberry Chocolate Kiss is from the original collection of Cocktail Jewellery that is comprised of cocktail inspired strands strung from quality gemstones, crystal, crystal pearls and or metallic ceramic beads, many of which I have collected over the years.
Part 1. - Beryl - A crystal far more famous than its name!
Iโm going to have to divide this into two parts as there is just too much for to put in one blog post. The first will give an overview and then provide some history on the most well known of the Berylโsโฆ. Emerald.
What is Beryl?
Beryl is a prismatic crystal (hexagonal) that is both a mineral group and a gemstone. As a group it contains two of the most well know gemstones; Emerald and Aquamarine. Morganite, Heliodor, Goshenite, Maxixe and Bixbite are also part of the Beryl group of gemstones.
Berylโs chemical name is Be3Al2(SiO3)6.
With a MOHโs rating of 7.5 to 8 Beryl is quite resistant to scratches and everyday wear, but on the softer side of the so-called โpreciousโ gemstones.
Beryl crystals are formed in hexagonal columns and some can be quite large. Different varieties are found in many locations around the world.
Why are they all different colours?
Beryl comes in different colours - (blue, green, pink and yellow) because of additional chemicals that can be found in the different varieties.
Just like herbs and seasoning add flavour in a recipe add flavour, the extra elemental additions add colour to make up the different Beryls.
The pure form of beryl is called Goshenite and it is colourless. It generally contains no other elements other than Be3Al2(SiO3)6 - Beryllium, Aluminium, Silicon and Oxygen. Each of the different varieties, Aquamarine, Emerald, Morganite, Heliodor, Maxixe and Bixbite contain the chemical โimpuritiesโ that colour the stone.
The table below details these impurities. As I donโt have any Maxixe or Bixbite (Red Beryl) I have had to โborrowโ the picture below to show you the colours: Image credit: below right (Beryl varieties) to: https://geologyscience.com/minerals/beryl/
Emeralds
The word โEmeraldโ originally derived from the Ancient Greek word for green stone โSmaragdusโ . That word evolved through time and many languages to what it is today.
The cultural impact of the beautiful green hue emerald has made it one of the most desired gemstones through the ages. Theyโve been mentioned in Christianity, Judaism and Islam and feature in many cultures including Hinduism and a variety of ancient cultures which Iโve mentioned below. The vibrant green colour of the emeralds has perhaps influenced eerily similar beliefs across cultures despite the great distances of time and location. An overview of just some of these follow:
In Ancient Greece emeralds were associated with mostly with Aphrodite (Goddess of Love) but also Artemis (Goddess of Nature and the Hunt). Smaragdus were thought to possess many powers including fertility, rebirth and protection but also were said to aid mental clarity and intelligence and were thoughtmedicinal properties that could help cure various ailments and diseases.
In Ancient Egypt emerald mines date back to at least 1650BC. In Ancient Egypt emeralds were known as โMafekโ a collective term used to describe many green stones including tourmaline, green beryl and peridot as well as emeralds. They were a revered stone and often placed in the tombs of Pharaohs to ensure a prosperous afterlife and to grant the deceased eternal youth. Emeralds were closely associated with the Egyptian goddess Isis and they also represented fertility and rebirth.
Emeralds perhaps gained most notoriety by their close association with the last Ptolemiac Pharoah, Cleopatra VII who had a love of all gemstones, but particularly Smaragdus (including emeralds) that she wore often as a sign of status. Cleopatra loved them so much that she claimed the Egyptian mines as her own and not only wore them often but also gifted them to visiting dignitaries, including Julius Caesar and Mark Antony.
In Ancient Rome, emeralds were said to be the gemstone of the messenger god Mercury and thought to be a symbol of renewal and that they would also protect those who donned them from evil spirits. Like other precious gems of the time, emeralds were rare (largely supplied by Cleopatraโs mine in Egypt) so Caesar decreed only aristocracy were allowed to own or wear them. People who werenโt allowed to wear the real gem sometimes mimicked the stone with a green glass substitute in the hope that they would appear of better means.
These emeralds from antiquity were not likely the quality of today and now days the principal source of emeralds is not Egypt but other countries including Zambia, Zimbabwe, Brazil, Russia, Australia, Ethiopia, Austria but most notably Colombia; which is where most emeralds are sourced today and where it is said, the colour and quality is the best. Even today emeralds are frequently flawed - however even flawed emeralds of good colour and size (emeralds are judged on colour rather than brilliance though it is a defining factor) can be very valuable.
In Incan culture emeralds were known as โYacumamaโ (mother of all waters). They were believed to be a gift from the gods and also associated with fertility, renewal and life force. They were also believed to protect crops from coming to harm. They were used in offerings to the gods and also worn and used in religious icons.
In Aztec culture emeralds were know as โQuetzalitzliโ named after the vibrant green plumes of a bird called the Quetzal - a bird that had close ties to their revered god โQuetzalcoatlโ . It was believed emeralds possessed a power to foretell the future and draw out the truth.
When the Spanish conquistadors โdiscoveredโ the Incan and Aztec emeralds in the early 16th century they not only plundered the local emeralds, but made it their mission to find the source and on doing so enslaved the locals to mine great quantities of the green gem that they then transported back to Spain through the Caribbean.
Some galleons were sunk along the way and some cargo was lost to pirates and others to the ocean floor. Last week I was reading about one such galley - the San Josรฉ in the NZ Herald, that has been located and nations are again arguing over who owns this โtreasureโ which includes millions of dollars worth of emeralds!
There are thousands of stories about emeralds, I do hope I have piqued your interest in this gorgeous green stone!
What does Wristocracy have in the way of Beryl?
Check the table below to see some of my bead stocks in each stone. It is available and probably not as expensive as you might think! The pictures in the slide show are some of what is available.
My May roundup
Nearing the end of May and I have had a few little obstacles thrown in front of me.
A trigger thumb - the same one holding those bracelets in fact, that makes threading a tad challenging. Though I manage to get around it by giving it big rests between creations. A flu that I thought was a cold but has lingered so long I'm guessing flu now and a diabetic cat (our beautiful Astro 16yrs) that needs frequent feeds and lots of attention. There is always more but ain't that the way for all of us? I'm not complaining, just offering an explanation as to why I am not as frequent a poster on Social Media these days - though I think we're all a bit scarce on here at the moment or so it seems to me.
The three bracelets pictured together are not for the same customer - but they photographed so well together I thought why not?
All are bespoke orders that range from $25 to $45. A 'Healing Bracelet' requested for someone suffering from the challenges of perimenopause and all that it brings, comes with a card listing the stones and their metaphysical healing properties.
Pictured with it are two delicate 4mm round Rose Quartz and Amethyst bracelets.
PS the Frangipani is a new variety I am growing from a cutting that is only just unfurling - isn't it pretty? โฅ๏ธ
#perimenopause #menopause #amethyst #rosequartz #mayroundup #wristocracy #nzbracelets #wristocracy.co.nz #life #frangipani
Spa Day for your Wristocracy Collection
A little spa day for this collection of Wristocracy that has been built up over 10 years!
When you wear your bracelets often and theyโre looking a little worn or tired. Maybe the elastic has stretched too far, or itโs even broken. Perhaps your wrist has changed size or you don't know how to clean the beads - or perhaps you just can't be bothered ... I do offer this service on @wristocracy bracelets. While I have them, I cast my eye over if anything needs to be replaced or updated. If this sounds like you - drop me a message and send a picture of the bracelets concerned(in clear outdoor lighting) and I will give you an estimate on how much it would cost to bring them back to life! Just so you know - this little collection is 10 years in the amassing and I still have more to go - it has all of the above issues to contend with but I am making progress!
PS More photos soon โฆ.
#zhuzh #spaday #jeuje #zhoosh #pickmeup #treatyourself #wristocracy #braceletremake #reuse #recycle
Garnet - Seeds of the Pomegranate
My first introduction to Garnet
Personally, I first discovered garnets many years ago whilst walking along a South Island west coast beach with my (then) geologist boyfriend, John who is now my husband. On a side note, I figured he quite liked me because he always wanted me in the photos, though later I found out he was using me as a scale measure for the rocks (as shown in old photos above in the carousel) - but thatโs a whole other story.
Whilst strolling along the beach, I stopped to pick up a handful of grey stones that were sparkling in the sunshine. On closer inspection some of them had little deep holes in them filled with a deep red. Fortunately I had a geologist with me and he told me that the red was actually little garnet crystals. Lucky me I had stumbled upon some real life gems in their natural environment ! Happy Days! Little did I know then what my future had in store for me!
Soโฆ many years later, I have now delved a little deeper into garnets and have come to learn quite a bit more.
Where do garnets come from?
Garnets are found across the globe in many different countries and continents including the Americas, Africa, Europe, Asia as well as Australia and even New Zealand. Whilst there are lots of different types of garnets only a handful are considered gemstone quality.
The name โgarnetโ is derived from the latin for word for seed โgrฤnumโ most likely because of the its deep red resembling the seeds of a pomegranate fruit. However, as you may know garnets come in other colours tooโฆ but more on that later.
Garnets in History
The use of garnets in jewellery can be traced as far back as the Bronze Age in England when they were used in Cloisonnรฉ work (inlaid, generally with gold) to create amulets, brooches and other decorative pieces. Beyond this garnets were also used by the Greeks, Egyptians and many European cultures in adornments and even on some weapons. Like many gemstones garnets were thought to have healing properties Some cultures thought they were linked to the heart and would stimulate the circulation of the blood, others believed that garnets could reverse the effects of poison. In the Middle Ages some believed that garnets were linked to dragons and could even warn of impending peril.
Science - What makes a garnet?
So forgive me if I get a bit geeky here (I have a geologist in the house). Garnet is actually a group name for a diverse set of minerals/gem that usually have the same crystal structure and contain 2 types of metal (X + Y) + silicon and oxygen.
The chemical formula for garnet is 3 particles of Silicon + 12 particles of Oxygen + 3 particles of X + 2 particles of Y
For example:
Almandine garnet (X = Iron and Y = Aluminium) Red
Pyrope garnet (X = Magnesium and Y =Aluminium) Red, Purple - Chrome Pyrope has chrome as well and is a deeper red (rarer)
Grossular garnet (X = Calcium and Y = Aluminium) Orange/Brown (Hessonite) Green (Tsavorite)
Spessartine garnet (X = Manganese and Y = Aluminium) Orange Red
Andradite garnet (X = Calcium and Y = Iron) Green and yellowish green (Demantoid)
Uvarovite garnet ( X = Calcium and Y = Chromium) Dark Green (rare)
It is the combinations of minerals that determine the type and also colour of the stone. In saying this there are so many different variations on these as a small amount of mineral impurity (on top of that which I have detailed above) can change the colour. The Mohโs hardness also can slightly differ between garnets also so 6.5-7.7 as a rule of thumb.
Garnet colours
Whilst Garnets are most often associated with a deep dark red, they actually come in quite a few colours that include green, brown, orange, purple, pink, yellow and black. There is even a colour changing variety discovered in 1990 that changes from a blue green to purple - though I havenโt come across one in bead form.
Wristocracy sells garnets in many of these colours, and also in different cuts and sizes. (See below)
Varieties of garnet
The main varieties of garnet are Almandine, Pyrope, Spessartine, Andradite, Uvarovite and Grossular. You may have also heard about Rhodolite (a blend almandine and pyrope garnets) and Tsavorite (Green), Hessonite (Orange/Brown) which are actually Grossular but have been given these trade names to distinguish them in the jewellery market and also Demantoid (Green) which is an Andradite garnet. Fine specimens of Demantoid are rare and can be very expensive.
In simple terms, all of these garnets have a common mineral structure and the different chemical variations (amounts of iron, magnesium, calcium, manganese and aluminium) plus the impurities (detailed above) that determine the colour variation and thus the variety of the mineral. There are even some super rare colour changing garnets.
What garnets does Wristocracy have available?
Good question. I hold differing quantities of several types, colours , sizes and cuts of garnet. This includes 10mm, 8mm, 6mm, 4mm, 3mm, 2mm and odd sized beads with smooth and faceted finishes and various shapes as well.
As only some of my suppliers specify the type, preferring instead to list the origin of the garnet, I can only definitively identify some of my stones. If it is not told to me I can take a guess but will not list a type unless I know it to be that.
As a fair bit of my unidentified garnet comes from Brazil, it is likely to be Almandine, Rhodolite and/or Pyrope as this is what the region produces. I do however also hold various sizes and cuts of Grossularite, Tsavorite Spessartine, Hessonite and Malay (Pink Umbalite) or in colour terms, red, pink, green, brown, orange and purple garnet. (See pictures below for some of the garnet I have available, though this is by no means all).
All of my beads are available for making my own listed jewellery but they can also be made available for custom pieces of your choosing.
Use the search tool to find what is on the website now in ready made garnet jewellery and for access to other types and more specifics - message me.
Please Note: I will never try to hard sell you anything - I promise!
PS Whilst at the time of writing this I have no new garnet bracelet sets - I am definitely working one !
Some other random interesting garnet information
Garnet is the birthstone for January and the zodiac signs of Aquarius, Capricorn, Leo and Virgo.
It is also the traditional gemstone gift for a second year anniversary, representing passion, love, commitment, and friendship. (Prince William gave Princess Catherine a garnet and pearl ring when they were dating to denote each of the their birthstones. Hers garnet - his pearl).
Garnet is associated with the both Root and Heart Chakras
MOH rating (scale hardness rating used on stones out of 10) is between 6.5-7.5.
In the late 1800โs it is said that garnets were used as ammunition in bows and guns by Kashmiri warriors to ward off British colonial forces!
If you are in possession of Garnet it is said to attract good luck! However if it is stolen, it is said to attract bad luck for the recipient!
In Greek mythology, Persephone, daughter of Zeus and the Greek goddess of Spring is associated with the Garnet. Hades King of the Underworld captured Persephone (as he was lonely) and made her his wife and Queen of the Underworld. He released Persephone so that she could her mother Demeter (who was causing wide spread famine because Persephone had been taken) giving her a pomegranate so that she could return at her will. Upon eating a seed from the pomegranate she was able to traverse both worlds - that of the living and that of the dead.
In the Bible, Garnets featured on the high priestโs breastplate. (Exodus 28). They are said to symbolise sacrifice and devotion because of their blood red colour.
Metaphysically, garnets are thought to be an amplifier of bravery, kindness, and creativity as well as a catalyst for attracting love and increasing wealth. They are also said to boost your libido!
Please Note this is not written or intended as a definitive guide but rather my own overview.
References: A practical introduction to optical mineralogy (C.D Gribble A.J Hall). Collins Dictionary of Geology (Dorothy Farris Lapidus), Crystals & Gems - from mythical properties to magical stories - (DK) Rock & Mineral (DK) GEM - The definitive visual guide (Aja Raden) and John Nowak (Bsc Msc), The International Gem Society.
Pearls - Pieces of the Moon?
Iโve always loved the lustre of pearls but until recently I had not worked with the genuine article apart from re-knotting a strand I somehow inherited.
However as time has gone on I have slowly begun to offer a few pearl necklaces and bracelets on the website and am currently working on bringing you some pearl earrings (sneak peak above) with a Wristocracy twist of course.
I always like to learn a bit about the materials I am working with and pearls are no different. Have a quick read below to find out a bit more!
Where do pearls come from?
As you may know the iridescent jewels that we know as pearls come from the sea or water at least. They are found in some oysters (ocean) and mussels (rivers) in a variety of different places around the world. Other molluscs produce pearls as well - however not all of them are as pretty or valuable as the nacre covered pearls that we have come to love. Conch and snail (Melo melo) pearls being the exception - they are super rare and very valuable.
Pearls in History
Throughout history pearls have been worn by royalty and style icons alike. Coco Chanel, Audrey Hepburn and Jackie Kennedy favoured them as did Cleopatra, Queen Elizabeth and even Julius Caesar himself (more on that later). They have been called many names including the โQueen of gemsโ, โCelestial Dewโ, โPieces of the Moonโ and even a โRoman girls best friendโ.
In some Indian cultures (Hindu mythology) pearls are referred to as theโ moonโs daughterโ or โteardrops of the moonโ because of their connection to ocean tides and their shimmery glow that resembles that of the moon. Some even believe pearls have ability to prolong youth!
In Ancient Rome pearls were associated with Venus, the Roman โGoddess of Loveโ who was said to have emerged from the sea in a scallop shell. (This was later depicted in the famous Botticelli painting โThe Birth of Venusโ - pictured above.) They were seen as a symbol of purity and beauty and became more valuable than gold or diamonds becoming the ultimate symbol of wealth, power and prestige. It seemed every Roman girl wanted to own one, however because pearls were so rare and sought after, to own even one pearl you had to be enormously rich.
Julius Caesar had a passion for pearls and he was a great connoisseur of them. Itโs been said that he was even able to guess their value just by weighing them in the palm of his hand. He once gifted a large black pearl to his favourite mistress Servilia. It was said to be worth some six million sesterce (approx 1.5 billion USD dollar equivalent in 2019) making it perhaps the most valuable gemstone of all time! Caesar restricted who could own pearls going so far as to order that pearls were only to be owned by people of a certain age and class; they had to be married and possess great wealth.
Julius Caesarโs interest in the jewel was so piqued that it was said to be one of the factors that drew him to invade Great Britain! It was said that time the British Isles was the source of some of Europeโs finest pearls. Beautiful black pearls from Scotland, rose pink pearls from Ireland and white pearls from England were found in the mussel shells that lived in the rivers of Great Britain.
What are the most valuable pearls today and why
Over the years pearls have been found across the globe including the Middle East, Japan, Indonesia, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, China, the South Pacific, Australia and the Americas with each area known for a particular type of pearl. Salt water pearls are generally considered more valuable than fresh water pearls because a single oyster can only produce one salt water pearl, whereas a single mussel can produce up to fifty fresh water pearls a time. Of the salt water pearls the South Pacific pearls are generally considered the most valuable because of their exceptional quality (size, colour and lustre) and their rarity due to the long time it takes to grow them.
What is a cultured pearl
Pearls from the wild are rare finds these days, in fact the vast majority of pearls on the market today are not formed and found in the wild, but rather cultured by man. Whilst cultured pearls are still formed within a mussel or oyster shell, they do so after human intervention. A piece of donor shell is placed within the shellfish that then leads to the shellfish emitting the nacre protection onto the foreign body (to protect itself) thus forming the pearl.
The nacre or shimmery coating is the same material that coats the inside of the mother shell (the mother of pearl) and it is thickness of the layers of nacre that determine how shimmery the pearl is. That shimmer along with the origin, size, shape, and colour determines the value of the pearl. The longer the pearl is left to form the more shimmery and perhaps valuable it will be.
Pearls naturally come in a variety of colours including white, pink, silver, cream, brown, green, blue, black, yellow, orange, red, gold, and purple however nowadays many pearls can be dyed to achieve these colours.
How to clean pearls
Pearls are delicate and can be easily damaged - they rate about 2.5 on the Mohโs scale so can be easily scratched.
Despite the fact that pearls were born in water - they should not be worn in it. To keep your pearls looking beautiful remove your pearls jewellery before showering, swimming or extreme exercise (causing sweat) and avoid exposure to perfume or hairspray as this can damage the nacre.
Instead use a soft, damp cloth to wipe down your pearls and wear your pearls often they tend to survive longer when worn. This is because they are porous and the small amount of moisture and oil from your skin helps to maintain their lustre. Left alone for long periods in a jewellery box will lead to their dehydration.
Some other random interesting pearl information
Pearls are linked with February and June, the zodiac signs of Cancer and Gemini and are often used as a gift to celebrate a 3rd and a 30th wedding anniversary.
Cleopatra is said to have once taken her priceless pearl earring off and dissolve it in wine. She then drank it to impress upon Mark Antony how rich she was.
Queen Margherita of Italy wore pearls from below her chin to her knees!
Pearls are linked with the name Margaret and all its derivatives as the name comes from the Ancient Greek word for pearl.
Sometimes pearls are even made into health โtonicsโ and/or used in some makeups for various increase perceived health benefits.
Most of the freshwater pearls seen today are cultured in China.
Are there any other gemstones youโd love to learn more about? If yes, let me know, which ones and I will happily go down the rabbit hole again! Oh and the pearl earrings above will hopefully be out soon - if you want a pair - comment below or message me and I can provide a few more details in advance.
Amber - The Tears of the Trees
Taking advantage of this quieter time I have to confess to being absorbed in a book called โJewels - A Secret Historyโ by Victoria Finlay.
It has been a gripping read for me and I highly recommend it to anyone who is interested in jewels - particularly the origin, history and the folklore surrounding them.
This book covers just nine precious materials, seven of which I work with - so I considered it something I should invest my time in and I am so glad I did as I have learnt so much from it - despite only being half way through!
In the first chapter the author talks about the origin of Amber some 40 million years ago.
Ancient conifer forests that grew in the Baltic region in the middle to late Eocene epoch, (when mini horses ๐ด roamed the earth ๐ฑ) produced plentiful quantities of resin after an unknown โeventโ. The liquid resin dripped in massive quantities creating rivers of stickiness that gathered beneath the trees sometimes capturing flora, fauna, insects and even the odd lizard (but no horses) in its path - creating a fascinating snapshot of the time for future scientists. These resin rivers were eventually consumed within the earth and became fossilised and rediscovered many millions of years later.
Youโre still thinking about the mini horses aren't youโt you? Just 30cm tall apparently! Now concentrate - back to the Amber. ๐
When the (now) solid fossilised resin resurfaced millions of years later the mysterious golden material became prized and sought after by many ancient cultures. The location of where it was found was always kept a closely guarded secret making it even more mysterious and prized. Merchants would travel to the many corners of the earth, each weaving a different story about what the new magical material was and where it came from. The Ancient Greeks called it Elektron, meaning โthe sunโ because of the array of golden colours that it came in, ranging from yellow to burnt orange, red and brown. But in rare circumstances, it was also found in white, black and even blue tone. This latter three are super valuable and not typically made into beads, just incase you a wondering!
The Amber was crafted into jewellery and sometimes carved (it is a relatively soft material - just 2-2.5 on the Mohโs scale) and used as talismans for courage and self confidence and even good luck. The Chinese even thought that it contained the soul of a Tiger! ๐ What a thought! At times the value of Amber soared so much - it was even more valuable than gold! On at least two occasions this mysterious golden material was used to make elaborate mosaic rooms and was also been incorporated into very famous Iconic art works. It has links to many in history King Menelaus of Greece, Peter the Great, the Teutonic Knights and even Jurassic Park (the movie).
Honestly, who knew how interesting this material was?
If all of this has piqued your interest and whet your appetite to include a piece of this gorgeous and super interesting jewel in your Wristocracy collection - you can purchase my current Amber offering (pictured above) here. Please note that it is not intended as a teething bracelet as it could pose a choking hazard.
Other chapters in this super interesting book include information on Pearls, Opal, Peridot, Emerald, Sapphire and Rubies.
Are you interested in hearing more about these stones or am I alone in my interest? Please let me knowโฆ.
Mixed Bead Lanyards - Are they compatible with all mobile phones?
I have a veritable rainbow ๐ in mixed bead lanyards available at the moment as I have just replenished them.
Each one is different and the one you see on the picture is the actual one you get. Each mixed bead lanyard is unique so you're the only one who has it.
The lanyards are made with double clasps so you can not only wear it around your wrist but you can also attach your phone to your bag, your belt loop or whatever you choose. (One clasp on the phone and the other on the bag or loop it around if you choose).
These lanyards make finding your phone so much easier and can help prevent theft and loss. So, they don't just look pretty they are pretty darn useful.
I had someone comment to me that a "how to" video on how to attach the lanyard to your phone might be helpful as they thought their ability to have one was based on them having a certain attachment or a certain phone and I explained all you need is a mobile phone and a cover and the rest is supplied.
Click on the video below
Each Wristocracy lanyard comes with clear slip and ring that slots into your phone case that the lanyard is then attached to.
Pearl Necklaces and Bracelets
I've held stock of fresh water pearls for a while now - but I left them for custom requests largely as opposed to making them into stock, largely as I was unsure of the sizes people prefer.
Today that changes....
I will begin to offer 'one of a kind' Fresh Water Pearl necklaces and bracelets.
You will be able to see the actual strand for sale and the size I am able to make it up to.
I hope this makes sense!
PS Iโve also built a little collection around the peach pearl bracelet called Peach Dream!
Goddess Bracelets with clasps
Goddess bracelets ... Pictured are Selene and Nyx. These bracelets are made with sterling silver clasps (by special request + $10 for SS or +$15 14K gold fill) but are regularly available as elasticated bracelets from as little as $40. They feature super sparkly gemstones and small sterling silver or 14k gold fill beads. I'm thinking about adding some more colour ways and would love your input.
NEW Product - Beaded Phone Lanyards
NEW mixed bead phone lanyards available on the website now. I have 5 different colours in stock now - though just one of each until I have a chance to make some more. I listed these on a soft release recently and they sold out quickly - so if you like a colour nab it quickly as it is not an endless supply. The pink I have in stock currently is Mixed Pink 4 (as pictured on the website) the other colours are white, black, blue and green. Please know this mixed bead lanyard is a limited line as I collected these beads over many years and I only have so many! I also have Rose Quartz lanyards ... Which one is your fave?
#wristocracy #new #phonelanyard #nzmade #limitededition #phoneaccesories
Officially signing off for 2024
Officially signing off for 2024. I hope that you are all enjoying some well earned rest and relaxation time with your loved ones over this holdiay break. I hope the dawn of 2025 brings with it good health, happiness and success and more prosperous times for all! ๐ ๐ฅ๐
#HNY #happynewyear #wristocracy
Sterling Silver and Tanzanite
A dainty little Tanzanite bracelet heading out today.
These bracelets are strung from tiny sterling silver beads and feature your choice of gemstone.
Tanzanite is one of the birthstones for December. It is said to have a calming effect and represents transformation, introspection, wisdom and truth.
If you are interested in a birthstone bracelet but are not sure of your options - check Wristocropedia on the Wristocracy website for a list.
Stones are listed by month, zodiac sign and even anniversary. I stock many of them in the appropriate size. Additionally an alphabetical list of metaphysical meanings is also available there.
These bracelets are $40 each and made to size.
Please note: clasp bracelets are also available in this style at extra cost.
Thursday this week is the last day to order before I take a short Christmas break.
#wristocracy #tanzanite #decemberbirthstone #birthstonebracelet #nzmade #birthstone #giftideas #lastminutegifts
Last Minute Christmas Gifts
A couple of last minute orders ... A sweet little fresh water pearl clasp bracelet with zirconia and sterling silver finishing (from $50) and a Christmas themed Crystal pendants with sterling silver bail and chain - Christmas Tree $35 and Snow Flake $45. None of these are currently on the website, so message me if you want one. Sterling Silver necklaces are box chain and approximately 45cm.
The last day for Christmas orders is Thursday or Friday depending in where you are! ๐๐๐โฅ๏ธ In the meantime enjoy the moody weather .... Remember it is good for the garden and hopefully will cool things down a whisper๐๐๐ซ๏ธ๐ง๏ธโ๏ธ
#christmas2024 #wristocracy #nzjewellery #nzmaker #lastminutegifts #pearls
Jaipur
I created this bracelet to wear to on my travels through India and once I arrived in Jaipur I decided it really did represent the colours I saw in the old Pink City in Jaipur where the Johari Bazar is situated, thus the name!
It is strung from a gradient of faceted Orange Agate, Cherry Agate and Rose Quartz and I have completed mine with a 14K Rose Gold fill bead - but you can choose to have yours finished in 14K Gold fill or even Sterling Silver if you prefer. Price will vary accordingly.
The number of beads in the gradient will obviously depend on the size - the one I am wearing is an 18cm. I hope you like
I have only 2 of these to sell at this stage so if you want one donโt delay.
#bracelets #gradientbracelet #wristocracy #pinkbracelet #agatebracelet #quartzbracelet #nzmade #indiainspired #pink
My November Adventure . . .
I can't believe December has rolled around already! ๐๐ ๐ผ๐บโฑ๏ธ Time flies when you're busy and I have been that!
I have just returned from a trip to India and am now ready to dive right into all things Wristocracy having been inspired by so so much.
The beauty about a blog is I am not limited by a number of photos that social media dictates. So, I have added in a few more pics and I have so many more that I am happy to share if youโre interested, so do let me know.
What an experience! ๐ฎ Everywhere we looked there were new discoveries to be made - I just don't quite know where to start!
We explored bazaars and navigated city streets, visited temples and mosques, learnt spinning in the Ghandi Ashram and were serenaded by sitars dining on the finest Gujarati cuisine under two moons ๐๐ in Ahmendabad. We visited palaces, bathed in rose petals and watched the most beautiful sunsets in Udaipur. We woke each day to yoga on the rooftop, visiting remnants of a colonial era and ancient sites and shopped for linens and gemstones in Jaipur. We saw all sides of life all over India - the good and the bad. We visited the Taj Mahal in Agra - a true wonder of the world indeed.
It is a trip I will never forget, for so many reasons. It was life changing. The sights, the smells, the tastes, the sounds and contrasts ... it truly took my breath away.
The people I encountered were some of the most beautiful souls I have ever met.
This gallery shows just a snippet of our adventure.
We are home now in beautiful New Zealand I am now reopen for business and am ready to make ship any and all your Christmas orders!
#india #open #wonderoftheworld #explore #tripofalifetime #wristocracy #bracelets #gemstones #treasures #nzmade #christmas #christmasshopping
No Shipping from 9th - 27th of November 2024
Just a little "heads up" that I will be taking a small break through November, from the 9th until the 27th and will be unable to ship during this time.
I will be checking my email and messages from time to time during this time so feel free to contact me should you have any enquiries and I will do my best to help.
Rest assured that I will be back in time for the 'silly season' and ready to ship any orders you may have in time for Christmas! ๐
Pictured here is a little order collected today - a Le Chilli Rococo bracelet - $35 and a Tigers Eye with coated Hematite Buddha head ($30). Whilst the latter is not listed on the website it is absolutely available if you message me and I will make it to size.
I also created a (bespoke) clasp necklace in the Le Chilli Rococo design which is available on request. It is finished in rose gold plated sterling silver and prices start from $110 depending on the length you require.
#wristocracy #important #tigerseye #rococo #christmashours #sillyseason #bracelets #bracelet #nzmade #handmadebracelets #wristocracy.co.nz
FREE little bonus surprise bracelet
Following on from my last post - find a ton of Lavender gorgeousness to choose from. So many options and a few ideas on how to create some wonderful looks. ๐** Anyone who purchases 3 or more of these sets (and some singles in this range) will receive a FREE little bonus surprise bracelet!* **#lavender #bracelets #wristocracy #jewellery #lavenderamethyst #amethyst #seedbeads #springbracelets #springfashion #choose #youchoose #bonus #freebracelet
*conditions apply: free bracelet given is at my discretion. Offer applies sets and selected singles in the Lavender Collection.
Sets or Singles?
Question: I have a bunch of new looks - what would you prefer separates or sets?