tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-25637696695113200072024-03-14T08:56:03.713-07:00Designing Laynemore info at www.LayneDesigns.comLayne Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09992202569924137435noreply@blogger.comBlogger113125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2563769669511320007.post-52443092261143258562013-07-03T12:19:00.000-07:002013-07-03T12:19:27.625-07:00Rock Review: Simbercite<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Simbercite if easy to fall in love with. It is not just a rock, but rather rock in combination with fossil. Ancient shell creatures called ammonite would grow to become very large, when they died, about 80 million years ago, the shells were filled with sea life and sediment.and swallowed by the earth. Over the coming millennia, the shells accumulated pyrite crystals, fossilized and under heat and pressure from the earth, these delightful stones were created. which include shell fossil, fossilized sea life, linear patterns of shining golden pyrite, and vivid coloration half amber and half chocolate brown.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQOUfFi6zarFFEghwpPAg9r7nMRCVJvJCcA9YqzpFbgy1AOlV11u_qjQKzazQLO-xS949jJ5y1SXzlMAZLkjHwM6_ceM9LEdyzzWkJe1X4zptygPfQ1CkibVZ_8BrzFc7NJs1XqF3LtyU/s1000/20130627_0993.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="370" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQOUfFi6zarFFEghwpPAg9r7nMRCVJvJCcA9YqzpFbgy1AOlV11u_qjQKzazQLO-xS949jJ5y1SXzlMAZLkjHwM6_ceM9LEdyzzWkJe1X4zptygPfQ1CkibVZ_8BrzFc7NJs1XqF3LtyU/s400/20130627_0993.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Simbercite i<span style="font-family: inherit;">s named a<span style="background-color: white;">fter <span style="line-height: 21px; text-align: left;">Simbirsk, Russia, the city in which it was originally found. Most of the world's simbercite is mined in Russia. So now that we know the geology about it, what to do with this stone? It is a warm stone, not just to look at, but it warms quickly when held. This stone is thought to give energy to the wearer and to alleviate fears. But more importantly, it astounds us with it's jaw-dropping natural beauty. </span></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQOUfFi6zarFFEghwpPAg9r7nMRCVJvJCcA9YqzpFbgy1AOlV11u_qjQKzazQLO-xS949jJ5y1SXzlMAZLkjHwM6_ceM9LEdyzzWkJe1X4zptygPfQ1CkibVZ_8BrzFc7NJs1XqF3LtyU/s1000/20130627_0993.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhurmcAL5ZBfgC2lPsDciVEmDo_RD8AO4G5FWbrj3_fsh_WgAg1a6Cnl1RCmBIYm6_Lq_UDoR-LyPws1flVbS2kJqZ4d7beHB5o99jT34MwHlXhNw-qCgmOZNtv4lwzd42YIICQTh6SFgI/s1000/20130629_1047.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhurmcAL5ZBfgC2lPsDciVEmDo_RD8AO4G5FWbrj3_fsh_WgAg1a6Cnl1RCmBIYm6_Lq_UDoR-LyPws1flVbS2kJqZ4d7beHB5o99jT34MwHlXhNw-qCgmOZNtv4lwzd42YIICQTh6SFgI/s400/20130629_1047.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Layne Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09992202569924137435noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2563769669511320007.post-81085395713059288862012-06-14T06:29:00.000-07:002013-07-10T08:00:27.411-07:00Rock Review: Pearls<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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There is so much to know about pearls! They are far stranger and more mysterious than many other gems. In fact, they are not really a rock, but rather fall into a category of gems that are called "organics" for obvious reasons. They come in several natural colors, but are frequently dyed to offer a wide variety of colors.<br />
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June's primary birthstone is pearl, and on a practical level, this can be difficult because of it's delicate nature. The pearl is created by an oyster depositing many layers of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nacre">nacre</a> over a small irritant that was introduced into it's shell. This nacre can be scratched or chipped somewhat easily. Therefore pearls are most commonly used in earrings and necklaces, where they receive less wear and tear.<br />
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Despite it's limitations, the mystique of a pearl makes it a very interesting gem. Pearls were once thought to be "the tears of the gods" and have been used for adornment since well before the time of Christ. The creation of a pearl within a mollusk was a natural phenomenon less rare that one might think.<br />
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Cultured pearls were first eveloped by the Chinese in the 12th or 13th century, but no one followed their lead until the Japanese picked up on the idea in the 1890's. In this process, the irritant to become the nucleus of the pearl is surgically implanted in the mollusk. Cultured pearls take two to three years to develope while natural pearls take seven years or more to build up in the mollusk body.<br />
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The Pearl resembles honesty, integrity, wisdom and faith. It is a noble gem, promoting dignity.<br />
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Shirley L. Gordon says in an article about pearls "<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 16px;">Have you ever seen a woman wearing Pearls acting in an undignified manner? Did you have the oddest feeling? That's because they just don't mix." in her article at gemstonegifts.com</span><br />
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<span style="color: blue; font-family: Arial, Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 16px;"><b>Check back Next week for pearl care and how to identify real from imitation pearls</b></span></span></div>
Layne Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09992202569924137435noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2563769669511320007.post-60980246876611205222012-05-31T13:09:00.003-07:002013-07-16T17:59:27.391-07:00Rock Review: Flourite<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Flourite is named for the Latin "fluo"-- to flow, because it is used as an additive to aid in proper flow for iron smelting. Additionally, the phenomenon "flourescence" takes it's name from this stone where strong flourescence can commonly be observed under UV light.</div>
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Excellent Specimens of flourite have beautiful, intense color banding in all shades of purple, mint green to teal, some pink and white. Strong color banding is a good way to identify flourite, but not all material is so fantastically banded. See below:<br />
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This is more common.<br />
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Flourite is found commonly cut into beads, and for other ornamental purposes. It can be found cut as a gemstone for setting in jewelry, but it is a relatively soft stone, making this practice uncommon.<br />
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This gem does have a common place in gemstone healing, however. It is thought to strengthen one's power of concentration. It is also used to cleanse the aura, and it is applied directly to an ailing part of the body to relieve pain.<br />
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Different colors of flourite are thought to have more specific benefits, more information on this here: <a href="http://www.charmsoflight.com/fluorite-healing-properties.html">http://www.charmsoflight.com/fluorite-healing-properties.html</a></div>
Layne Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09992202569924137435noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2563769669511320007.post-86863604390972226512012-05-24T10:25:00.000-07:002013-07-16T17:27:38.420-07:00Rock Review: Turitella Agate<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Turitella Agate is a fossil gem. The creastures fossilized in Turitella agate are called <i style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; line-height: 19px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elimia_tenera" style="background-image: none; color: #0b0080;" title="Elimia tenera">Elimia tenera</a></i><span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; line-height: 19px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"> (erroneously considered </span><i style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; line-height: 19px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turritella" style="background-image: none; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; color: #0b0080; text-decoration: none;" title="Turritella">Turritella</a></i><span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; line-height: 19px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">) shells. </span><i style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; line-height: 19px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">Elimia tenera</i><span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; line-height: 19px; text-align: -webkit-auto;"> are spiral marine snails </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: sans-serif; line-height: 19px; text-align: -webkit-auto;">having elongated, spiral shells composed of many whorls.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 19px;">A good cut of Turitella agate features a bounty of these beautiful shell cross sections. these gorgeous stones come from the Green River Formation in southwestern Wyoming, Northeastern Utah, and Northern Colorado. The material is found in layers deposited in ancient lakebeds formed over 40 million years ago.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 19px;">The coloration is typically a mixture of black and brown tones with the fossilezed shell patterns appearing in shades of pearly white. to beige. Because of the fossil nature of the stone, these gems are considered to carry a memory and help the wearer with memory and looking into the past. </span></span></div>
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Layne Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09992202569924137435noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2563769669511320007.post-40979887660068778082012-05-07T06:21:00.003-07:002013-07-16T17:25:56.913-07:00Diamonds Part 4: CUT<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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The standardized grading of diamonds is
a relatively recent industry development. Even after GIA established
color and clarity grades, there continued to be a missing factor in a
set of scientifically gathered information to accurately asses a
diamond for quality. The final factor, thr fourth “C” stands for
cut.
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Color and clarity are inherent
properties of the diamond as it comes out of the earth, yet the cut
of the diamond is man's effort to unlock the shimmering beauty of the
stone. Because diamonds are the hardest substance on earth, cutting a
diamond in just the right was to create maximum brightness and fire
is no small feat.
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After my trip to GIA at the end of
April, I have a profoundly new appreciation for the impact that a
cutter can have on the overall look of a finished diamond. I analyzed
some diamonds with excellent clarity and color grades that simply did
not seem to sparkle. One in particular just looked dark and lifeless.
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When I began to measure the proportions
of the stone's depth as well as the angle and size of the facets, I
discovered that while the gem looked similar to the other diamonds,
it's proportions fell far outside of the prescribed ranges for
excellent cutting. So even though this diamond was worth a great deal
of money as rough material, the work of the cutter was of poor
quality and really damaged the potential value of the stone. It would
be very difficult to sell a diamond that just didn't seem to sparkle
like the others.</div>
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On the other extreme, a diamond which
is cut to fall within the many proportion standards for an excellent
cut grade looks like it is radiating with it's own light source! The
cut grade and proportions are based on the physics of light entering
the diamond, then bouncing around at just the right angles to come
back out the top of the stone for your viewing pleasure. The more the
light bounces around inside the stone, the more it “disperses” or
separates into different colors of the light spectrum creating what
is termed “fire” or the presence of different colors of light.
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Layne Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09992202569924137435noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2563769669511320007.post-39264178073819594062012-04-19T06:49:00.002-07:002013-07-16T17:25:26.575-07:00Diamonds Part 3: Clarity<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
As I gear up for a trip to a diamond grading lab class at the Gemological Institute of America, it seems like the perfect time to be doing a marathon rock review on diamonds. What makes these tiny rocks worth thousands, even millions of dollars to us? Is it all part of an incredible marketing plan by giant corporations with diamond interests? Perhaps there really is something to it.<br />
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The diamond is a gem fascinating from all perspectives. To begin with, a diamond is composed entirely from carbon, the building block of life. It is the only gem whose chemical makeup is so pure. That is precisely why the clarity of a given gem has a monumental effect on the value of that gem. Clarity characteristics represent something that got stuck in the crystal as it was being formed. Some clarity characteristics are tiny crystals of other types of gem, some are graphite, and yet others are simply cracks in the crystal structure. Regardless, they take away from the notion that this gem is one of the rare examples of pure, perfect carbon atoms connecting in elegant succession to create the most durable substance known to man.<br />
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The truth is, that most of the diamond mined do not represent diamonds in such a romantic way. After a mine has started operations after billions of dollars in investment, tons and tons of diamonds are mined which are so heavily included that they would not even resemble what you think of as a diamond. Less than 20% of diamonds mined worldwide each year approach gem-quality. Low grade rough is used industrially.<br />
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In case you are reading with the intention of diamond shopping, I will include below a chart which expresses the different grades of clarity as they pertain to Gem-quality diamonds.<br />
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<a href="http://lib.store.yahoo.net/lib/yhst-98699804673777/diamond-clarity-chart"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://lib.store.yahoo.net/lib/yhst-98699804673777/diamond-clarity-chart" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; float: left; height: 577px; margin: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 487px;" /></a><br />
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If you are diamond shopping, be aware that flawless and internally flawless diamonds are so very rare, that they are unattainable for most of us. This chart is showing an a large, elementary scale what the clarity grades mean, but remember that 10 times magnification is a lot, and even under this magnification, many characteristics are only visible by a person trained to know what to look for. I encourage you to shop for diamonds that are graded with a certification from the Gemological Institute of America. That certification gives you proof of what it is that you are purchasing. That assurance is difficult to get in any other way. If you need a diamond buying coach, maybe I can help. feel free to email me-- info@laynedesigns.com</div>
Layne Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09992202569924137435noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2563769669511320007.post-45334592080735370972012-04-12T13:23:00.004-07:002013-07-16T17:25:38.991-07:00Diamonds Part 2: Color<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh66XuUgcWD7IlvZyNixkabG9odHaDMDj5rtvbnp6kJbrROmayRFtxD60-s-P4M4WGAHJ-Ws7TW5hXPVg4FUhmaVvgyg4xwfrniWPn_mXRUT-zHab3t7aFveNqlZPdmfNU8yfhwo7Q355w/s1600/GIA_color_grading_scale_lg.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5730618380633796274" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh66XuUgcWD7IlvZyNixkabG9odHaDMDj5rtvbnp6kJbrROmayRFtxD60-s-P4M4WGAHJ-Ws7TW5hXPVg4FUhmaVvgyg4xwfrniWPn_mXRUT-zHab3t7aFveNqlZPdmfNU8yfhwo7Q355w/s400/GIA_color_grading_scale_lg.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; float: left; height: 134px; margin: 0 10px 10px 0; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
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<span style="font-size: 100%;">Of the four "C"s it is color which is most obvious to the consumer. For this reason it is perhaps the most well known of the four "C"s. Diamonds come in an amazing variety of colors including blue, green, red, orange, yellow and more.</span><br />
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Diamond most commonly occur in shades of yellow to white (colorless) and brown. All shades from completely colorless to slightly yellow or brown fall into a standard called the "normal color range" by the Gemological Institiute of America. Deep tones of these colors, or any color other than yellow or brown are considered "fancy" colors. </div>
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<span style="font-size: 100%;">Diamonds in the normal color range are categorized in an alphabetical scale ranging from D to Z, D being the highest color grade that a stone can have. When this scale was created, it was meant to be used only within the industry for gem dealers to communicate with each other. The reason that the scale begins with "D" is because GIA felt that the </span>negative<span style="font-size: 100%;"> connotation of the letter "D" as it is used in the school system would discourage jewelers from using this scale with their customers! It was not in effort to hide anything from customers, but rather that consumers would have no desire to learn charts and scales of information just to buy a diamond.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 100%;">Regardless, after the scale was unveiled, jewelers and customers alike were using the scale to better understand the value of their gems. Before the </span>implementation<span style="font-size: 100%;"> of this scale, terms like "light yellow, fancy white, and blue white" were used to describe diamond colors. For obvious reasons the vagueness of these terms created conflict about how a gem was represented versus the real color of the gem. </span></div>
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For most shoppers, the GIA scale can be simplified for easier commnication. D,E, and F color stones are all in the range considered "colorless." G,H,I and J rated diamonds are considered "nearly colorless" and K, L, M, and N stones are dubbed "faint yellow" See the chart above. </div>
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Layne Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09992202569924137435noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2563769669511320007.post-18294516170736662362012-04-08T18:03:00.001-07:002013-07-16T12:12:43.896-07:00Diamonds, Part 1: Carat<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Those interested in diamonds are commonly introduces to "the four C's" carat weight, cut, clarity and color. Because of the abundance of information and research available on this stone, I'll be covering each of the four c's in in a separate rock review article for the month of April-- the birthstone for which is diamond.</div>
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The most revered of gemstones is so beloved not merely because of its extraordinary beauty, but because its fascinating crystal formation makes it the hardest substance known to man. From the very first diamond crystal discovered, it was clear humans that this rock was different from all others. This special stone was set into jewelry as early as the Egyptian and Roman empires, before the technology existed to cut diamonds into any shape other than it's natural octahedral shape. </div>
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It was around the same time that trade between societies increased, creating a need for certain universal measurements. The word "carat" is derived from "carob." The carob seed was plentiful in the Mediterranean region, the center of trade at the time. These seeds were relatively uniform in size and weight, and became a standard counterweight for weighing small objects on a balance. This measurement evolved into what we know now as a carat which is equivalent to one fifth of one gram. </div>
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This tiny measurement, one fifth of one gram, is the basis for weighing nearly all gemstones, and in the case of diamonds, one tenth of a carat can mean the difference between hundreds or thousands of dollars for each stone in the modern market. While a diamond mine may produce many tons of diamond rough in one year, a very very small percentage of that rough is of gemstone quality. </div>
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Most diamonds look more like dirty brown rocks than the lustrous gemstone that we picture when we think of them. Of those diamonds that are considered cuttable gems, most are little tiny, itty bitty gems. It is for this reason, that the price of a gem diamond increases exponentially by weight. Additionally, the cost of dimaonds takes a jump at certain markers. For example, many folks shopping for an engagement ring want to purchase a stone of a certain size. A gemstone just over one carat is worth more per carat than a gemstone just under one carat, the same is true of two carats or even half carat markers. </div>
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Layne Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09992202569924137435noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2563769669511320007.post-30779341338272142012-03-12T04:47:00.002-07:002013-07-16T17:28:14.778-07:00Rock Review: Fire Agate<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpxlkssnyGdMNNxOtEBP8IW-MO7WAujd4efh50CzHEPguCcqQcoBCno0vZoyutEnANAsUgftt2FWgu-6oolEBk3NL4KmnFCCE1MHnF7Ge_aL1qRPXYhzkybb8VQXlwlrkTv-0lbM88kRs/s1600/Fire+Agate.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5718976827022999842" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpxlkssnyGdMNNxOtEBP8IW-MO7WAujd4efh50CzHEPguCcqQcoBCno0vZoyutEnANAsUgftt2FWgu-6oolEBk3NL4KmnFCCE1MHnF7Ge_aL1qRPXYhzkybb8VQXlwlrkTv-0lbM88kRs/s400/Fire+Agate.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 276px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
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Today’s rock review features Fire Agate.</div>
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<u>Geology Buzz</u></div>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Fire Agate is a very special type of Agate that is mostly brown, but contains a special iridescence in the spectrum of the rainbow.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This effect is accomplished when layers of plate like crystals composed of iron oxide adhere together in differing planes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Light reflects back and forth on these various layers creating this rainbow effect through a process called interference, much like oil in water.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Since Fire Agate is a form of quartz, it registers a 7 on Moh’s scale of hardness, making it ideal for all types of jewelry, including rings and bracelets.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Cutting Fire Agate is a challenging task for gem cutters, requiring a careful balance between removing enough layers ensure the stone is not dull to while leaving enough to enhance its iridescence.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Often, the natural formation of the stone must dictate its final size and shape.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is why Fire Agate is rarely mass produced and most often found in specialty pieces.</div>
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<u>Fun Facts</u></div>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Fire Agate has been used in jewelry markets for only about 60 years. When it first entered the jewelry market, dealers had a hard time settling on a name for the gem.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was known as “opalescent agate”, “cinnamon opal” and “precious peacock stone”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, it is important to note that it is not a true Opal and comes from the Quartz and Chalcedony family.</div>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Gem quality Fire Agate is found almost exclusively in the American South West and also occasionally in Mexico, specifically in regions surrounding the Sonoran Desert and the Sierra Madre Mountains.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is likely due to volcanic activity that occurred more than 24 million years ago in the tertiary geologic period.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Although no one knows for sure, Warren Jones claims to be the one to officially discover Fire Agate in 1941.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Fire Agate is thought to be a powerful stone of protection believed to relive fear, stop gossip, and deflect harmful intentions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It also can be helpful in promoting healthy lymph, circulatory and intestinal systems.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It also can be useful in balancing energy.</div>
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Layne Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09992202569924137435noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2563769669511320007.post-80985757918813011162012-03-05T10:42:00.003-08:002012-03-05T10:50:05.692-08:00Trend Watch: Paisley<div>By: Erica Delp</div><div><p class="MsoNormal"> Spring is just around the corner this month, promising to banish our winter blues and muted tones in favor of sunshine and vibrant color! One trend seen on recent spring fashion runway shows are a wide array of patterns in paisley. It’s true, paisley is no longer only found in your favorite Vera Bradley bag. Designers like Jil Sander, Etro and Stella Mc Cartney also featured the lively pattern in many of their spring 2012 looks. </p> <p class="MsoNormal"> Paisley is a perfect choice for your spring ensembles because it can usually be found in cheerful spring like color pallets ranging from whimsical pastels to saturated juicy color pairings. The shape and positioning of paisley in a pattern also can be reminiscent of florals, without being a literal interpretation of spring. A well chosen paisley piece for your spring wardrobe will be sure to bring some modern appeal to the rest of your warm weather basics and put you in the mood for fresh air and all things green and growing. A blouse, scarf, or sundress in a light airy fabric are all great choices to experiment with this look in style. </p> <p class="MsoNormal"> At Layne Designs, we’ve caught the paisley bug too. In fact, we have an emerging line dedicated to this eclectic and fanciful pattern, which happens to be a favorite of ours as well! Check out some of our favorite pieces from the paisley line featured below readily available in colors that are ideal for spring time.</p></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjapqhipRHcOYG-NIT-9kt5f4CRpENQJh0vOfk2nYj3RsAL2MVCrE55S63jjN4taLj7raXn0mSSL2zbRPGNT9S6bROe6wbfNWlpsrQAcAy41TrjRSD1jrAdsgLwa71_BwvCPKpGcVh3M5c/s1600/Paisley+Earrings+two.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjapqhipRHcOYG-NIT-9kt5f4CRpENQJh0vOfk2nYj3RsAL2MVCrE55S63jjN4taLj7raXn0mSSL2zbRPGNT9S6bROe6wbfNWlpsrQAcAy41TrjRSD1jrAdsgLwa71_BwvCPKpGcVh3M5c/s400/Paisley+Earrings+two.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5716485925220858306" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC3Wp9IOX4kwNQm8nIT4M6gPkOQ1hFc0U0LpSiTWsBR6SaQwO04BaRTQu77rycJde_ZBVYOMegyYWT-Yf40Jv4I77Al-tjubhXb0JzJQAbzylN0e05FUFCWSm1tDwVosyQlhHEK7u26Dc/s1600/Paisley+Earrings.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC3Wp9IOX4kwNQm8nIT4M6gPkOQ1hFc0U0LpSiTWsBR6SaQwO04BaRTQu77rycJde_ZBVYOMegyYWT-Yf40Jv4I77Al-tjubhXb0JzJQAbzylN0e05FUFCWSm1tDwVosyQlhHEK7u26Dc/s400/Paisley+Earrings.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5716485916240644306" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxeZ-R3SWMT6Rmt9MHfWBxyJRZzLW8QZV-mXufjP-G4vZMtqYpzfNMg8QmXjsVDTsYGBszlRfIWTQGXUcyUD4zIKUr821U2rt_Sk-J7pt8naeOZoswZw0o08-uOY4GWQxPrGCn_jt2maY/s1600/Paisley+Pendant+double.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxeZ-R3SWMT6Rmt9MHfWBxyJRZzLW8QZV-mXufjP-G4vZMtqYpzfNMg8QmXjsVDTsYGBszlRfIWTQGXUcyUD4zIKUr821U2rt_Sk-J7pt8naeOZoswZw0o08-uOY4GWQxPrGCn_jt2maY/s400/Paisley+Pendant+double.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5716485907359716914" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXt4SL52SS8CPRNnPi_7EgRhl06lDtQbp-pVmRotcEEYtV7FLEPHogbwJmB-QJetAoiXItMvf9SYmBeFyfYdH00BX2npc1euca6dI7SaN9MqeoJO8UccP5H-1C2rg6lUY4xCDxcP8H5mk/s1600/Paisley+Pendant+tripple.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXt4SL52SS8CPRNnPi_7EgRhl06lDtQbp-pVmRotcEEYtV7FLEPHogbwJmB-QJetAoiXItMvf9SYmBeFyfYdH00BX2npc1euca6dI7SaN9MqeoJO8UccP5H-1C2rg6lUY4xCDxcP8H5mk/s400/Paisley+Pendant+tripple.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5716485901195738962" /></a>Layne Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09992202569924137435noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2563769669511320007.post-85362544993543447272012-03-01T12:19:00.002-08:002013-07-16T18:01:13.405-07:00Rock Review: Diopside<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaJ_H5cyK3VhNBLXMLIjCOJKwhRHb6U3Nr91cl4GULmSMT-90Bk19aNoHoIcwy957AHxLBSvACxsDPDqtmKCrd9B1S2PXVa4v2hOBBY7m-Q0xL0zqnuit872Xfmk087Aa2STrGntfHEOM/s1600/Diopside+pic.jpg" style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 100%; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5715026177316491826" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaJ_H5cyK3VhNBLXMLIjCOJKwhRHb6U3Nr91cl4GULmSMT-90Bk19aNoHoIcwy957AHxLBSvACxsDPDqtmKCrd9B1S2PXVa4v2hOBBY7m-Q0xL0zqnuit872Xfmk087Aa2STrGntfHEOM/s400/Diopside+pic.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 336px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
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As we enter March, we’ll review Diopside, the perfect companion for all the soon to emerge spring greens.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<u>Geology Buzz</u></div>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Diopside is a pyroxene mineral that is found in igneous and metamorphic rock deposits.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It contains the elements Magnesium, Silicon, Oxygen and Calcium.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It often is found in conjunction with Basalt, Olivine, Dolomite, Limestone, Marble and Andesite.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Gemstone quality versions of the mineral are usually called “Black Star Diopside or Chromium Diopside”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The presence of Chromium is responsible for the rich Kelly Green color (similar to an emerald) that is most often seen in jewelry.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Violane” is also a rare blue to violet color of Diopside that gets its tone from Manganese.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>White occurrences can fluoresce a bright powder blue color.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Diopside registers between 5.6 and 6.5 on Moh’s scale of hardness.</div>
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<u>Fun Facts</u></div>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Discovered circa 1800, Diopside gets its name from the Greek language taking the words “dis” meaning two and “opse” meaning “face” to describe the two different ways it’s prisms can be oriented.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Today, it is exported mainly from Russia, specifically from Siberia.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Diopside is a lesser known birthstone for the month of March and is also associated with the zodiac sign Pisces.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is believed to enhance creativity in problem solving, analytical abilities and achieving goals.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is also linked to love, commitment and the inner desires.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It also is thought to be useful in healing the heart, lungs and circulatory system.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Diopside is fairly rare, however its price has still thankfully remained affordable.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Chrome Diopside is usually available in smaller carat sizes since the gem usually appears darker as its size increases.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Samples over 2 carats in size are much more rare and usually command a higher purchase price.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWM-Lycoj8ad7ZWG-a3e55-quGrT-UlKZTHjP4ZWdNZ6qSzTqSzFmDkH9grQqx3ERPAW-sf5trP2aD1OyjPdnQekWg06IrUBoQ8w6sIIldk6RN5xqGX-jhTGiHIF4L_oO1zAyq58tYkPQ/s1600/20120411_0377.jpg" style="font-family: Georgia, serif; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal;"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5730605675622713010" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWM-Lycoj8ad7ZWG-a3e55-quGrT-UlKZTHjP4ZWdNZ6qSzTqSzFmDkH9grQqx3ERPAW-sf5trP2aD1OyjPdnQekWg06IrUBoQ8w6sIIldk6RN5xqGX-jhTGiHIF4L_oO1zAyq58tYkPQ/s400/20120411_0377.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 400px; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 0px; text-align: center; width: 348px;" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/97407422/chrysocolla-triangle-pendant-in-sterling">Chrysocolla with Diopside Accent Necklace by Layne Designs</a></div>
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Layne Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09992202569924137435noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2563769669511320007.post-58558462505471671922012-02-24T07:46:00.003-08:002013-07-16T17:29:06.945-07:00Rock Review: Sodalite<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Today’s rock review features Sodalite.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi68zR98yD5-q96I6dvaMYxOOonFVrooxRlwBAroAZqjwpdwPsCXGY9YsIt12euv6Iq82Yc7yIQWlWRH0D0POc_CfrWIDHpdan03vw-I7dCJtez5CWjjaeeTdReNSA033yjnime3NqovhY/s1600/Sodalite.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5712729639230184450" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi68zR98yD5-q96I6dvaMYxOOonFVrooxRlwBAroAZqjwpdwPsCXGY9YsIt12euv6Iq82Yc7yIQWlWRH0D0POc_CfrWIDHpdan03vw-I7dCJtez5CWjjaeeTdReNSA033yjnime3NqovhY/s400/Sodalite.jpg" style="cursor: hand; display: block; height: 372px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a> Geology Buzz <br />
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Sodalite is a mottled gemstone that most often has creamy yellow to white tones and royal blue colors mixed throughout the stone in interesting patterns. However, it can also occur in grey, yellow, pink and green if its chemical composition varies. It is named for the element Sodium than can be found in its makeup and belongs to the Feldspar family. It registers at 6 on Moh’s scale of hardness. </div>
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Sodalite is usually opaque, although translucent crystals can be found in larger deposits. It takes on a waxy luster when polished. Because of this, Sodalite is often found in beaded and cabochon form in jewelry. Sodalite can often be mistaken for Lapis Lazuli, however it almost never contains pyrite flecks present in Lapis. Also, it’s color is considered “Royal Blue” rather than “Ultramarine”. In streak tests, it will leave a white, rather than blue scrape.</div>
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People began using Sodalite as ornamental decoration in the late 1800’s after a substantial quantity was found in Ontario, Canada in 1891. Bancroft, Ontario is known to produce Sodalite of with notably rich blue color. The mineral also can be found plentifully in Brazil and in China.</div>
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Sodalite is popular among individuals who enjoy the metaphysical properties of gems. It is thought to bring calmness and clarity to the mind, encouraging rational thinking, intuition and verbal expression. It also enhances confidence, self esteem and trust. </div>
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For care and maintenance, a soft polishing cloth will usually do the trick. A conservative dab of olive oil can also occasionally be used to enhance the luster and loosen dirt. This can be followed up with a quick rinse in warm water. Be sure to pat dry afterward. Because of its porous nature , Sodalite should not be soaked for long periods of time.<br />
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Layne Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09992202569924137435noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2563769669511320007.post-36052332100772602102012-02-10T17:43:00.000-08:002013-07-16T17:30:10.751-07:00Rock Review: Amethyst<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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This Week’s Rock Review features February’s Birthstone Amethyst!</div>
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<u>Geology Buzz<o:p></o:p></u></div>
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Amethyst is a member of the Quartz family. It owes it’s lavender to royal purple hue to the presence of iron that colors a Quartz gemstone through the process of irradiation, when iron replaces some silicon content inside a the Quartz gem. Sometimes this occurs in limited portions or isolated planes of the gemstone, rather than throughout an entire stone, leaving room for variegation in richness and depth of the color hue. Most gem cutters aim to cut the raw stone in a way that shows consistent coloring.</div>
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Amethyst is also dichroic, showing red violet from one angle and blue violet from another. It is vitreous, making it well suited for both cut gem and cabochon style jewelry. It registers 7 on Moh’s scale of hardness.</div>
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<u>Fun Facts<o:p></o:p></u></div>
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Did you know that in the modern jewelry market, you may see other colors of “amethyst” being advertized in recent years? The most common alternative color is Green Amethyst. However, the savvy jewelry shopper should know that Green Amethyst, or any other color Amethyst is not considered to be a true Amethyst. The green color advertized is actually another Quartz family stone called Prasiolite. When heated, Amethyst turns a dark yellow to brown shade, similar to Citrine. It also loses it’s dichroism. When it’s only partially heated, it becomes artificial Ametrine, which features color fading look from purple to brown, almost like a dip dye in fabrics.</div>
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Amethyst is infinitely valuable for many people who turn to gems for aid in healing ailments. It has been cited as particularly useful in ridding headache sufferers of pain by drawing pain away from the head, neck and shoulders, which is wonderful news to those who suffer from Migrane headaches. It also releases tension and reduces bruises and swelling. It encourages a healthy metabolism, cleanses the blood, boosts the immune system and strengthens the endocrine system. Needless to say, it’s handy to have around!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinhtnUY7THGooOfsMoNatWNNV_avcLa6m7zCKbfB9tm7o0kGDKtupml13go1HgSTJpvSh_E-Bxkou7FWitMwl5f7F8i6EjuPurIP7ir170nMK7r59fpYN_N1Pm-q1rNbFCXw3hZm54FiI/s1600/amethyst+cocktail+ring.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5707688595687513346" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinhtnUY7THGooOfsMoNatWNNV_avcLa6m7zCKbfB9tm7o0kGDKtupml13go1HgSTJpvSh_E-Bxkou7FWitMwl5f7F8i6EjuPurIP7ir170nMK7r59fpYN_N1Pm-q1rNbFCXw3hZm54FiI/s400/amethyst+cocktail+ring.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 359px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
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<u>Amethyst Cocktail Ring</u></div>
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Carved Amethyst Pendant</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZV6xkZ-1pBYJbXRo606UBkUBsL71fS8mDK3uFYoXxq0afWCXxVe4V6fcYNyOI5iepD4ibLtY8pNktGDICOiKtMSfiS1KGSn4lu3ks5DfMRskDHup36PWpER4gJ9TEQ4CAWbLrK9rZCDg/s1600/Paisley+Pendant.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5707688581477752050" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZV6xkZ-1pBYJbXRo606UBkUBsL71fS8mDK3uFYoXxq0afWCXxVe4V6fcYNyOI5iepD4ibLtY8pNktGDICOiKtMSfiS1KGSn4lu3ks5DfMRskDHup36PWpER4gJ9TEQ4CAWbLrK9rZCDg/s400/Paisley+Pendant.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 225px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 225px;" /></a><br />
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Paisley Pendant</div>
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Layne Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09992202569924137435noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2563769669511320007.post-74993989505994699532012-02-02T08:10:00.000-08:002013-07-16T17:30:59.020-07:00Rock Review: Chalcedony<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<u>Geology Buzz</u></div>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Chalcedony is a Silica mineral composed of an interwoven combination of Quartz and Moganite crystal formations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Chalcedony is somewhat translucent and also has a waxy sheen that becomes vitreous when polished.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It can occur in a wide array of colors, although it most often is found in brown gray or black tones.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Many semiprecious gems are actually just different varieties of Chalcedony.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some examples are Agate, Aventurine, Carnelian, Chrysoprase, Helliotrope, Mtorolite, and Onyx.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Many of the brightly colored Chalcedony available for purchase in the gemstone market is dyed or treated to enhance color, giving us an even greater range of fabulous colors.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In UV light, many varieties of Chalcedony appear fluorescent.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<u>Fun Facts</u></div>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Humans have been making good use of Chalcedony since the Bronze age.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In the Mediterranean region many surviving examples of intricate seals depicting rulers and dignitaries are still in great condition.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hot wax does not stick to Chalcedony, which is why it is ideal as this type of tool.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Other antique pieces of carved gemstone jewelry and beads are also readily found in the middle and near east from a variety of cultures.</div>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In gem lore, Chalcedony is a believed to be a nurturing stone that promotes goodwill and positive relationships.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It absorbs negative energy and brings the mind, body and spirit into harmony.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Chalcedony also helps the body to better absorb and assimilate minerals into the veins.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It also increases physical energy!</div>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Check out these cool varieties of Chalcedony from Layne Designs.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD8E2hjA1r-VtaY1E3ABupuYN7seEsupoQKaTfqccoGLZKjVSAOcnivBaRXKeT3mv4kQJ_JieRQVUTmo0_feGfgHqs8V-KLD9o89fLwD952Y_dOpa8HpJfRdr8CUDn_RYXFF8Aufd5wZw/s1600/Chalcedony+necklace.jpeg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5704572502970032834" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD8E2hjA1r-VtaY1E3ABupuYN7seEsupoQKaTfqccoGLZKjVSAOcnivBaRXKeT3mv4kQJ_JieRQVUTmo0_feGfgHqs8V-KLD9o89fLwD952Y_dOpa8HpJfRdr8CUDn_RYXFF8Aufd5wZw/s400/Chalcedony+necklace.jpeg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 166px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 166px;" /></a></div>
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Layne Designs Magenta Chalcedony Briolette Necklace (left)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnFAcnt6_I-a5eef4Ixg4iMG24_rDN_FYlrqitRlNZIT8r-54lin1yc0brgQzvgGmCThHDhlhVDhI79AYs-l1PtwbdRIxEI9p2yNb4XEVjbf_wUJTXU8P2C_TqCugrhE9OqRbM_a2u3fQ/s1600/Chalcedony+nodule+.jpeg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5704572501741771618" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnFAcnt6_I-a5eef4Ixg4iMG24_rDN_FYlrqitRlNZIT8r-54lin1yc0brgQzvgGmCThHDhlhVDhI79AYs-l1PtwbdRIxEI9p2yNb4XEVjbf_wUJTXU8P2C_TqCugrhE9OqRbM_a2u3fQ/s400/Chalcedony+nodule+.jpeg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 166px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 189px;" /></a>Blue Chalcedony Nodule and Briolette Beads<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD8E2hjA1r-VtaY1E3ABupuYN7seEsupoQKaTfqccoGLZKjVSAOcnivBaRXKeT3mv4kQJ_JieRQVUTmo0_feGfgHqs8V-KLD9o89fLwD952Y_dOpa8HpJfRdr8CUDn_RYXFF8Aufd5wZw/s1600/Chalcedony+necklace.jpeg"></a></div>
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Layne Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09992202569924137435noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2563769669511320007.post-38482541943042352552012-01-26T04:51:00.000-08:002013-07-16T17:31:23.397-07:00Rock Review: Kyanite<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;"> Have the winter blues?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Instead of chasing them away, indulge in them a bit with a look at the lovely deep blue Kyanite.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<u><span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Geology Buzz</span></u></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Kyanite is a type of silicate mineral that is very rich in aluminum.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It can be found in both sedimentary and metamorphic rocks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s lovely cobalt blue color is derived from the presence of aluminum.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Occasionally, Kyanite can also be orange, if manganese is present during its development.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some Kyanite gems can have a cat’s eye effect that is beautiful to behold.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Kyanite has a special trait called <span style="background: white; color: black;">anisotropism, meaning it’s hardness can vary based on the crystal structure present in each formation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It can be as low as a 4.5 on Moh’s scale of hardness and as high as a 7 depending on if it’s planes are parallel or perpendicular to the axis of the gem.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A parallel plane is softer, where as a perpendicular plane is harder.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This trait is also a key identifying feature of this particular gem.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Kyanite also has perfect cleavage in one direction, making it well suited to certain gemstone cuts like baguette, octagon, oval and pear styles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></div>
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<u><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Fun Facts</span></u></div>
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<span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Kyanite gets its name from the Greek word kyanos for blue.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Although Kyanite was discovered in the 19<sup>th</sup> century, it has remained a lesser known gem to much of the gem world.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Today, most Kyanite hails from India, although it can be found also stateside in North Carolina, Montana and Georgia. </span></div>
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<span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Besides being used in jewelry, Kyanite is also used in many ceramics manufacturing processes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It also can be found in electronics or as an electric insulator.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Kyanite is a useful stone in balancing energy, making it a favorite for those who enjoy the metaphysical properties of gemstones and minerals.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It instills a sense of tranquility in its wearers that makes it ideal for those practicing meditation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s also believed to assist with enhancing psychic abilities as well as lucid dreaming. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCwPsZl_v4qyt46gf3lO8ujKjc-_CB_jA3fv9jGwj2po5IoPSGilenf7XBQkxiNIMGlPOaHzf-3I2MY0WMveLwYvnNd1hcqRt-hV2D8Te4X-W9MCxJ-HJltD4FjJQT7ALFageFOKRddbw/s1600/Kyanite.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5701923468657679458" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCwPsZl_v4qyt46gf3lO8ujKjc-_CB_jA3fv9jGwj2po5IoPSGilenf7XBQkxiNIMGlPOaHzf-3I2MY0WMveLwYvnNd1hcqRt-hV2D8Te4X-W9MCxJ-HJltD4FjJQT7ALFageFOKRddbw/s400/Kyanite.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 212px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 237px;" /></a></div>
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Layne Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09992202569924137435noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2563769669511320007.post-17066880418153109752012-01-19T09:29:00.000-08:002013-07-16T17:31:55.112-07:00Rock Review: Garnet<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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For those born in January, Garnet is your birth stone!</div>
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<u>Geology Buzz</u></div>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Garnets come in a wide array of varieties and colors based on their chemical compositions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You may have heard of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pyrope" title="Pyrope"><span style="text-decoration: none; text-underline: nonecolor:windowtext;">Pyrope</span></a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Almandine" title="Almandine"><span style="text-decoration: none; text-underline: nonecolor:windowtext;">Almandine</span></a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spessartine" title="Spessartine"><span style="text-decoration: none; text-underline: nonecolor:windowtext;">Spessartine</span></a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grossular" title="Grossular"><span style="text-decoration: none; text-underline: nonecolor:windowtext;">Grossular</span></a> , <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hessonite" title="Hessonite"><span style="text-decoration: none; text-underline: nonecolor:windowtext;">Hessonite</span></a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tsavorite" title="Tsavorite"><span style="text-decoration: none; text-underline: nonecolor:windowtext;">Tsavorite</span></a>, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Uvarovite" title="Uvarovite"><span style="text-decoration: none; text-underline: nonecolor:windowtext;">Uvarovite</span></a> or <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Andradite" title="Andradite"><span style="text-decoration: none; text-underline: nonecolor:windowtext;">Andradite</span></a>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These are all species of Garnets!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Garnets occur in a rainbow of colors including pink, brown, black, green, blue, purple, orange, red, yellow and even colorless.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The most well known color of garnet is the transparent blood red or deep crimson tone that many people are attracted to found most commonly in Almandine Garnet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The rarest color of Garnet is the Blue Garnet which also has the ability to change its color under incandescent light.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Because the chemical makeup of Garnet can vary greatly depending on the variety, it also can score differently on Moh’s scale of hardness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Generally speaking, Garnets register a 6.5-7.5 on the scale.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<u>Fun Facts</u></div>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Garnets have been well loved and used in jewelry and art since the Romans ruled the world.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In fact, the name for garnet is derived from the Latin word for pomegranate, due to the deep red color of many of the gems.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Romans and subsequent Barbarian cultures that occupied former Roman lands used the gem in a cloisonné technique inlaid in gold to depict artistic scenes and designs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Today, we use them mostly in either cut gem or druzy style jewelry.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is the state gem of both New York and Connecticut.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some unexpected industrial uses of garnet are as an abrasive for sandpaper and sand blasting, as well as an element in certain types of filtration systems. </div>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Garnets are thought to be a protective gem for those on journeys.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Giving Garnet as a gift can be interpreted as a symbol of love and wishes for safe travel and a speedy return home.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Do you know any globe trotters who might benefit from some Garnet?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Check out these finds in Garnet from Layne Designs.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJB_BeyDRNw-3zJt7HlX2xft-ST67WbucRK0qN2O3LOrfZx9lEYdl0grnGX6hjMQGRJSRctkNoV4FylYNTi5RgdJF5SswudH3MvktMt7ipgJsfoscoBymnsb-M9DYHFqIbEEXxoWsnu8c/s1600/Garnet+Necklace.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5699397239019718162" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJB_BeyDRNw-3zJt7HlX2xft-ST67WbucRK0qN2O3LOrfZx9lEYdl0grnGX6hjMQGRJSRctkNoV4FylYNTi5RgdJF5SswudH3MvktMt7ipgJsfoscoBymnsb-M9DYHFqIbEEXxoWsnu8c/s400/Garnet+Necklace.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 277px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/64386794/ou-la-la-necklace-in-rhodolite-garnet?ga_search_query=garnet&ga_search_type=user_shop_ttt_id_5616935">Rhodolite Garnet Necklace</a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNbMdV211CbqboOsiO9D3xQbit3T9hkkO4DexPWK7KTiZQ8_sUaAGPU1EJznWkmzDHqBduFg8O6gUe-nHeZu_1pi6o9l1iiQkpCrEOfrDYKhl1D_1vSGfE7_wlWldV67y9W3zH8iqDhUA/s1600/Garnet+Pendant.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5699397240865869410" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNbMdV211CbqboOsiO9D3xQbit3T9hkkO4DexPWK7KTiZQ8_sUaAGPU1EJznWkmzDHqBduFg8O6gUe-nHeZu_1pi6o9l1iiQkpCrEOfrDYKhl1D_1vSGfE7_wlWldV67y9W3zH8iqDhUA/s400/Garnet+Pendant.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 375px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/74723029/fields-of-sparkling-green-ooak-uvarovite">Uvarovite Garnet Nacklace</a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJB_BeyDRNw-3zJt7HlX2xft-ST67WbucRK0qN2O3LOrfZx9lEYdl0grnGX6hjMQGRJSRctkNoV4FylYNTi5RgdJF5SswudH3MvktMt7ipgJsfoscoBymnsb-M9DYHFqIbEEXxoWsnu8c/s1600/Garnet+Necklace.jpg"></a></div>
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Layne Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09992202569924137435noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2563769669511320007.post-56159706241659175022012-01-17T05:29:00.000-08:002012-01-17T05:42:31.133-08:00Trend Watch: Your Out of this World Winter!By: Erica Delp<br /><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:trackmoves/> <w:trackformatting/> <w:punctuationkerning/> <w:validateagainstschemas/> <w:saveifxmlinvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:ignoremixedcontent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:alwaysshowplaceholdertext>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:donotpromoteqf/> <w:lidthemeother>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther> <w:lidthemeasian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian> <w:lidthemecomplexscript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> <w:dontgrowautofit/> <w:splitpgbreakandparamark/> <w:dontvertaligncellwithsp/> <w:dontbreakconstrainedforcedtables/> 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mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>The first month of 2012 has already brought a variety of fun new fashion trends headed our way thanks to London Fashion week just around the corner next month.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>One trend featured in the January issue of Marie Claire that is funky and perfect for the transition from winter into spring is the something that I like to think of as the Cosmic or Space Age trend.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>It features clothing and accessories in metallic and iridescent sheens as well as “electric” tones and colors.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Think saturated lime greens and cobalt blues.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>These pieces also often feature sequins, crystals and other elements of sparkle.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>It’s a modern twist on some of the far out pieces we all remember from the 1980’s.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Some perfect gemstones to pair with this look are Moonstone, Labradorite and Opal.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>All of them embody the luster that perfectly captures this trend.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>A large stone on a flashy cocktail ring, pendant or bracelet is a perfect compliment for a glitzy jacket or shimmery dress.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Also, accessories that resemble spacey kind of look are right on point for this theme.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Think of selecting jewelry that is studded or glittery in some sort of fashion.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Druzy stones are a good choice for this purpose.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Marcasite jewelry also provides the shimmer that is reminiscent of stars in the sky.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Putting any of these elements together is the perfect<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>way to channel your inner cosmic Diva.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Check out some of these fabulous on trend selections from Layne Designs.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjevHQbOnG3w_PdIXGuU972QEiUIsPnY5VCq0sRFYPDjDpjb3txqOWLPGlPFV75JBh7CtPdX5Nz0_qiqSlCLVQx25Av4pmNPJbWLtPZxDRzOnZjgrqX8jxEvwX_n8ivmBM7A6AsNdYCssM/s1600/Blue+Druzy+earrings.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 371px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjevHQbOnG3w_PdIXGuU972QEiUIsPnY5VCq0sRFYPDjDpjb3txqOWLPGlPFV75JBh7CtPdX5Nz0_qiqSlCLVQx25Av4pmNPJbWLtPZxDRzOnZjgrqX8jxEvwX_n8ivmBM7A6AsNdYCssM/s400/Blue+Druzy+earrings.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5698594195441288338" border="0" /></a></p><p style="text-align: center;" class="MsoNormal"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/64336261/blue-druzy-its-a-party-because-im">Blue Druzy Earrings</a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjevHQbOnG3w_PdIXGuU972QEiUIsPnY5VCq0sRFYPDjDpjb3txqOWLPGlPFV75JBh7CtPdX5Nz0_qiqSlCLVQx25Av4pmNPJbWLtPZxDRzOnZjgrqX8jxEvwX_n8ivmBM7A6AsNdYCssM/s1600/Blue+Druzy+earrings.jpg"></a></p><p class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8TnzNL8hwzxS7VFn0k_3fj_EXfWql4TNaqz3csaPqB5ei7mmIXK4EhlOHyLCI5B_QCcFZomI73Dh5uEJ1FUKUYX7fyXBgEx09YyTPj2AcNAtS8ZRdXFzS3d4HiOfhTxIas3sxvWSLiZU/s1600/Larbradorite+Bracelet.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8TnzNL8hwzxS7VFn0k_3fj_EXfWql4TNaqz3csaPqB5ei7mmIXK4EhlOHyLCI5B_QCcFZomI73Dh5uEJ1FUKUYX7fyXBgEx09YyTPj2AcNAtS8ZRdXFzS3d4HiOfhTxIas3sxvWSLiZU/s400/Larbradorite+Bracelet.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5698594540186637682" border="0" /></a></p><p style="text-align: center;" class="MsoNormal"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/60106310/labrodorite-brandy-bracelet">Labradorite Saturn Bracelet</a><br /><span style=""></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2WVAMaAmIxr4dNx6b6MZ3ZoMKzRUJZd5_0Edg7yrGgnfJ6KmcDLosapAZ9h2Zn7ojrfwPeWl_N0xqbScByKpreGMoLY1g47O30Gv1iwkgIO33LxVXQqtlSgnoCC8yy7H9OUTNt7RJA2E/s1600/Moonstone+Necklace.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 366px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2WVAMaAmIxr4dNx6b6MZ3ZoMKzRUJZd5_0Edg7yrGgnfJ6KmcDLosapAZ9h2Zn7ojrfwPeWl_N0xqbScByKpreGMoLY1g47O30Gv1iwkgIO33LxVXQqtlSgnoCC8yy7H9OUTNt7RJA2E/s400/Moonstone+Necklace.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5698594197856432434" border="0" /></a></p><p style="text-align: center;" class="MsoNormal"><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:trackmoves/> <w:trackformatting/> 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mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;} </style> <![endif]--> </p><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10150268589115418&set=a.10150268589030418.328079.96233250417&type=3&theater">Moostone Necklace</a><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><p class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBq4aFfwVXRagG2iWF2klNTKbbZllJF05itQaMljdzIwQBuDpMPwu4Hj8k6MYkcNc8UzJdioCy1yX1VYlxft70XfWcDvq7DDnteonxDbm0ET23Ev6J-oFiF7j26KdYBGL-6xC6ouYt2ro/s1600/Orbits+Bracelets.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 274px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBq4aFfwVXRagG2iWF2klNTKbbZllJF05itQaMljdzIwQBuDpMPwu4Hj8k6MYkcNc8UzJdioCy1yX1VYlxft70XfWcDvq7DDnteonxDbm0ET23Ev6J-oFiF7j26KdYBGL-6xC6ouYt2ro/s400/Orbits+Bracelets.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5698594204197967986" border="0" /></a></p><p style="text-align: center;" class="MsoNormal"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/78478364/orbit-bangles">Orbits Bracelet</a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2WVAMaAmIxr4dNx6b6MZ3ZoMKzRUJZd5_0Edg7yrGgnfJ6KmcDLosapAZ9h2Zn7ojrfwPeWl_N0xqbScByKpreGMoLY1g47O30Gv1iwkgIO33LxVXQqtlSgnoCC8yy7H9OUTNt7RJA2E/s1600/Moonstone+Necklace.jpg"></a></p>Layne Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09992202569924137435noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2563769669511320007.post-17938192958164737992012-01-13T04:52:00.000-08:002013-07-16T17:32:36.340-07:00Rock Review: Tanzanite<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Today’s Rock Review focuses on the lovely and popular Tanzanite.<br />
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Geology Buzz<br />
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Tanzanite, dubbed this name because of its country of origin, Tanzania, is a blue to purple tone variation of a mineral called Zoisite. Tanzanite possesses a special trait called trichroism. This means that it can appear to be different colors depending on the angle it is cut or viewed from. It’s planes can either be sapphire blue, purple or burgundy. It’s appearance can also be altered under difference types of lighting. It will appear more blue under fluorescent light and more violet under incandescent light. How fascinating!<br />
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In its rough state, it doesn’t appear anything like it looks as a finished jewelry product. It actually is reddish brown in its raw form and requires heating between 550 and 700 degrees Celsius to bring out it’s blue and violet colors.<br />
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Fun Facts<br />
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Tanzanite is a very rare gem that comes from a single source in Tanzania at the foothills of Mt. Kilimanjaro. It is relatively new to the gemstone world, only being discovered in 1967 as an accidental find by a part time gold prospector, Manuel de Souza, who could not identify the stone. Originally he suspected it to be Olivine. The sample rocks traveled the “grapevine” until they eventually ended up with Hyman Saul, Vice President of Saks Fifth Avenue. He brought them to the Gemological Institute of America where geologist Ian Mc Cloud identified the mystery gem as a new variety of Zoisite. Its proper name is now Blue Zoisite, but most people know the gem under its marketing name, Tanzanite. <br />
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In its early days of discovery, some already blue/purple Tanzanite could be found in the earth due to volcanic activity. These days however, it’s unlikely to come across a find like this, which is why most Tanzanite must now be heat treated to reveal its stunning color.<br />
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The largest Tanzanite ever discovered weighed in at a staggering 737.81 carats! One of the most famous Tanzanites, “Queen of Kilimanjaro” , was set in a tiara along with 803 garnets and 913 diamonds. It is owned by Michael Scott, first CEO of Apple computers and is on display with the rest of his collection at the Gallery of Gold and Gems at the Royal Ontario Museum in Toronto, Ontario. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4jKlRRBiLhsdBFd4TcVz5RgPU1bBLWdm9a0iLIN-5GPuKtQnOcxwOQo_3DSywK-wvOuQDKieIajbigAP7hu7HIraoVcMQQikIJmdycoAkpFSBNCwFwOftulxRgRbH7J2RMmJnSZ5Ljpg/s1600/Queen+of+Kilamanjaro.png"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5697099051085243538" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4jKlRRBiLhsdBFd4TcVz5RgPU1bBLWdm9a0iLIN-5GPuKtQnOcxwOQo_3DSywK-wvOuQDKieIajbigAP7hu7HIraoVcMQQikIJmdycoAkpFSBNCwFwOftulxRgRbH7J2RMmJnSZ5Ljpg/s400/Queen+of+Kilamanjaro.png" style="cursor: hand; display: block; height: 256px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
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Queen of Kilimanjaro Tiara</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKgWwkJ8KlT8qy9QQMqbsTHB8vdwaafGMNDhwWFzg2HlTGvcgbLncvrYvt1KkOTZyVtKWLs9C4H9K5ovwiR1j94vifW2nMg45G8dJ8dRrXWEFlsfERtz09M6jdZ6UKti2oMOxVs9Vl_hU/s1600/tanzanite+2.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5697099050029688210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKgWwkJ8KlT8qy9QQMqbsTHB8vdwaafGMNDhwWFzg2HlTGvcgbLncvrYvt1KkOTZyVtKWLs9C4H9K5ovwiR1j94vifW2nMg45G8dJ8dRrXWEFlsfERtz09M6jdZ6UKti2oMOxVs9Vl_hU/s400/tanzanite+2.jpg" style="cursor: hand; display: block; height: 267px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
Heate Treated and Untreated Tanzanite in a Grouping<br />
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Layne Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09992202569924137435noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2563769669511320007.post-31219335502097834722012-01-05T05:11:00.000-08:002013-07-16T17:33:54.530-07:00Rock Review: Malachite<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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Today’s rock review focuses on the stunningly deep Malachite</div>
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<u>Geology Buzz</u></div>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Malachite is a mineral that results from a chemical combination of copper and carbonate in crystal structures and stalagmite formations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Malachite forms when copper ore weathers in the presence of limestone and other carbonates.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It can often be found alongside Azurite, Calcite and Goethite.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It has lovely color variance in vibrant rich greens ranging from forest green to tones of kelly green bordering on teal.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Malachite can also feature interesting banded patterns which present a variety of unique and beautiful gemstones that are well suited for cabochon style jewelry.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<u>Fun Facts</u></div>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Malachite has been known to the world and used for about 3000 years.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One of the oldest mine sources of the gemstone, dubbed “King Solomon’s Mine” in the Timna valley of Israel, is still in operation today.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Mining may have begun at the site as early as the 5<sup>th</sup> millennium BC.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some Malachite is smelted, while the highest quality pieces are usually reserved for silver jewelry.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Malachite got it’s name from the Greek form of the word for the Mallow Plant since the color of the stone so closely resembled the color of the leaves from this plant.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The name also could come from the Hebrew word for King, since Malachite is considered to be the stone of royalty in many ancient Middle Eastern cultures.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For many centuries, Malachite was also used as pigment for green paints.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So, keep in mind next time you visit an Art Museum that you may be viewing Malachite when you look at paintings that were created before the 1800’s.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>However, it was eventually replaced by other synthetic materials whose colors were less prone to fading due to sun exposure and the presence of acids.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When caring for your Malachite jewelry, be sure never to use chemical cleaners as the stone is very susceptible to damage from chemicals and acids. A mild soap and water rise along with polishing with a soft cloth will do the trick.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiON8lkXMpab-5zuFrotpNWWQg8vuXXGPLykaqJvkw2rCG9Ns1oDGXlq74Ma70N8aw5A0EZUf2v9NaCxR76AwLmUflDiZ6F2V-VxllzV7GCT4eeMw0K4VgGI2QUx5bI9dSsjXmZHPS3SM0/s1600/Azure+Malachite+Pendant.jpeg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5694135098775796578" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiON8lkXMpab-5zuFrotpNWWQg8vuXXGPLykaqJvkw2rCG9Ns1oDGXlq74Ma70N8aw5A0EZUf2v9NaCxR76AwLmUflDiZ6F2V-VxllzV7GCT4eeMw0K4VgGI2QUx5bI9dSsjXmZHPS3SM0/s400/Azure+Malachite+Pendant.jpeg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 166px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 91px;" /></a>Malachite and Azure pendant with Jade bead<br />
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Layne Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09992202569924137435noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2563769669511320007.post-63132063797023805782011-12-22T04:50:00.000-08:002013-07-16T17:34:19.142-07:00Rock Review: Olivine<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;} </style> <![endif]-->In today’s rock review we’ll<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>explore Olivine! <br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<u>Geology Buzz</u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Olivine is a mineral composed of Magnesium, Iron and Silicon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Many jewelry lovers may actually own Olivine in their collection without even realizing it because Peridot is also a variety of Olivine that occurs when Olivine melts and recrystallizes into a different structure.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The gem is distinguished as a Peridot when it is vitreous and translucent.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Chrysolite, coming from Greek for “gold stone” is also another name for Olivine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Olivine is typically green to brownish green although it also can have red or maroon banding.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It gets it’s green tones from traces of Nickel or Chromium and it’s red tones from the oxidation of Iron.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Olivine, along with Quartz, is one of the most abundant minerals on the earth’s surface and can often be found in igneous rocks and sometimes in metamorphic rocks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Dolomite and other types of sedimentary rocks can be transformed into Olivine when high heat and pressure geologic events occur.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<u>Fun Facts</u></div>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>While many gems hail from locals all around the globe, Olivine has them beat since it’s reach extends beyond planet Earth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s also been found on the moon, on Mars and in comets within meteors, rock debris, dust and other samples that scientists have collected.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Olivine can be treated with resins, waxes or oils to enhance its color.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When purchasing Olivine jewelry, be sure to ask if your gemstone has been treated and if your jeweler recommends a specific <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>method to care for it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A normal “as necessary “ cleaning routine is safe for Olivine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Just soak the gem for a few minutes in tepid water and mild soap solution, brush with a soft tooth brush if needed, and rinse again with tepid water.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Finish by thoroughly drying the gem with a soft cloth. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Olivine should not be left in water or left undried since it can be susceptible to water damage.<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVHsd_epC0nWKd-kYp1IdDKxEo_D9_HRUgpRoCrfw5D5RgyT0dYJYYxDOwvoCOt43QEYkSA9YG-rT55tJT-j0XeIzlvQ6H1tJ6RH_VIQlEtWem9ugLD3_M-tA9g0YLd2e5nvxPiiePzOU/s1600/raw-peridot.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5688934949429815938" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVHsd_epC0nWKd-kYp1IdDKxEo_D9_HRUgpRoCrfw5D5RgyT0dYJYYxDOwvoCOt43QEYkSA9YG-rT55tJT-j0XeIzlvQ6H1tJ6RH_VIQlEtWem9ugLD3_M-tA9g0YLd2e5nvxPiiePzOU/s400/raw-peridot.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 120px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 109px;" /></a><br />
Raw Peridot</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnBGsjj2fu1mPq0yZzeIvIOTds0X1oRFbxjU2LQB_UronqgqV6V58GngsHmI31vWcg9vFJzxnsGl9VOaOYA5I4ynR3mzoySpnHjzh6VI1LgRWIC9HTOy674shEoTxG_2MciVZ-R3foe34/s1600/Olivine+Rocks.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5688935003362927474" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnBGsjj2fu1mPq0yZzeIvIOTds0X1oRFbxjU2LQB_UronqgqV6V58GngsHmI31vWcg9vFJzxnsGl9VOaOYA5I4ynR3mzoySpnHjzh6VI1LgRWIC9HTOy674shEoTxG_2MciVZ-R3foe34/s400/Olivine+Rocks.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 300px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /></a><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
Olivine in Natural Form</div>
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</div>
</div>
Layne Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09992202569924137435noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2563769669511320007.post-31853031188462513442011-12-19T04:56:00.000-08:002011-12-19T05:00:35.414-08:00Trend Watch: Holiday Sparkle<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <o:officedocumentsettings> <o:allowpng/> </o:OfficeDocumentSettings> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:trackmoves/> <w:trackformatting/> <w:punctuationkerning/> <w:validateagainstschemas/> <w:saveifxmlinvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:ignoremixedcontent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:alwaysshowplaceholdertext>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:donotpromoteqf/> <w:lidthemeother>EN-US</w:LidThemeOther> <w:lidthemeasian>X-NONE</w:LidThemeAsian> <w:lidthemecomplexscript>X-NONE</w:LidThemeComplexScript> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:snaptogridincell/> <w:wraptextwithpunct/> <w:useasianbreakrules/> <w:dontgrowautofit/> 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mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin-top:0in; mso-para-margin-right:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:10.0pt; mso-para-margin-left:0in; line-height:115%; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;} </style> <![endif]-->By: Erica Delp<br /><br />The holiday season is here, and so are the office parties, family gatherings and formal occasions that call for a little something special to make the celebrations more memorable.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>When it comes to holiday style, glitter and sparkle are the staples of jewelry and accessories for women and girls of all ages.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>After all, we ladies do want to reflect the joyous atmosphere that surrounds us; glowing candles, shiny ornaments, and shimmering snowflakes.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>One 2011 trend that we love is cut gemstone briolette look.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>This style features vitreous (glassy) precious and semiprecious cut gems that have been wire threaded and wrapped to create a dangling or cluster look.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Often the gems are cut on both sides, which is a fun change from flat back set gems.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>You’ll be sure to look fabulous from all angles!<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>This design is perfect for pendants and earrings.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>It also lends itself well to mov<a name="_GoBack"></a>ement which is fabulous if your holiday plans involve a dance floor, caroling, or maybe even ice skating.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>You can let your jewels swing and sway along with you as you glide and bounce to your favorite tunes. </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>There are many gemstones that are ideal to coordinate with your holiday wardrobe colors.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>If you’re looking for something in the green spectrum, consider Peridot or Green Topaz.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Peridot has a brightness that will cheer any ensemble.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Green Topaz adds a richness and play of color that will keep you captivated as different viewing angles and lighting make the stone appear equally blue and green.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Garnet is a lovely choice in the red family.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>It’s deep crimson tones have a depth that convey the opulence and warmth of the season.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>If frosty weather has you thinking in blues to complete your holiday look, Aquamarine or Iolite are unexpected choices on opposite sides of the dark and light spectrum that will ensure snowflakes and icicles aren’t the only icy favorites getting noticed.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>For those who dream in silver and gold, just like the beloved characters in our favorite holiday tales, Citrine with Sterling Silver may be a great way to bring some whimsy to your outfit.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Whichever accessory you choose, you can’t lose if it brings that needed touch of shimmer and shine to your holiday occasions.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>They will add life to your memories and maybe even provide something special to pass down to future generations who will smile as they think of the many years of warm moments your heirloom jewelry has seen.<span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-spacerun:yes"> </span>Here is a perfect example from Layne Designs.</p><p style="text-align: center;" class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbd_yU8IuufkJowjR86eqXEYq1OMH_WI02btDlTFiUIms2to9MYRsPmH0G16thcP4soj9ahqqCTt8wtdWlz3MYn3shAtW-5IW8q9hgV6S00JBcjfZyLj3wEg6fTKekfTtnMSH-64Fqozs/s1600/Peridot+Biolettes.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 346px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbd_yU8IuufkJowjR86eqXEYq1OMH_WI02btDlTFiUIms2to9MYRsPmH0G16thcP4soj9ahqqCTt8wtdWlz3MYn3shAtW-5IW8q9hgV6S00JBcjfZyLj3wEg6fTKekfTtnMSH-64Fqozs/s400/Peridot+Biolettes.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5687823176673603778" border="0" /></a></p><p style="text-align: center;" class="MsoNormal">Peridot Briolette Earrings with Layne Designs Hallmark<br /></p>Layne Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09992202569924137435noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2563769669511320007.post-17812803726895318502011-12-15T12:08:00.000-08:002013-07-16T17:34:53.405-07:00Rock Review: Pyrite<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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All that glitters is not gold, which is true in the case of today’s gem the gold doppelganger, Pyrite or Fool’s Gold.</div>
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<u>Geology Buzz</u></div>
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<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Pyrite is actually a mineral compound of Iron and Sulfide.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It can often be found in Quartz veins, coal beds and also as a replacement mineral in fossils.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is present in both sedimentary and metamorphic rocks.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Although this mineral has been nicknamed Fool’s Gold, it sometimes can be found alongside real Gold or contain Gold traces within it’s crystalline structure when Arsenic is also present.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>When Pyrite is exposed to water and oxygen together, it can oxidize and has the tendency to turn a rust color, thanks it’s Iron content.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is opaque with a gold to brass metal luster and registers a 6-6/5 on Moh’s scale of hardness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When your Pyrite jewelry needs a little TLC, it’s best to just stick to mild soap and water, being sure to dry thoroughly with a soft cloth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Also, it’s a good idea to store it in its own box or compartment so it doesn’t scratch your other jewelry, since it’s pointy planes are fairly hard.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<u>Fun Facts</u></div>
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<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Pyrite comes from the Greek word<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“pyr” for fire.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is most likely because pyrite was used for quite some time as a counter part to produce a spark on steel, much like flint and steel.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was even used in early 16<sup>th</sup> and 17<sup>th</sup> century fire arms to create the spark that would ignite gun powder.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It also was a component in early radio receivers that used crystal technology to conduct and receive radio signals.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Greeks and Romans also used Pyrite for jewelry because they believed the presence of the fire was contained inside the stone, making it a source of mysterious power.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Pyrite is a great jewelry choice for those who have a creative bent.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is believed to open both the right and left sides of the brain, releasing imagination and creative talents.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It also is thought to promote a connection between the subconscious and conscious mind.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span></div>
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/64332161/the-philadelphia-perfect-pair-hematite?ga_search_query=pyrite&ga_search_type=user_shop_ttt_id_5616935">Pyrite/Hematite Earrings by Layne Designs</a></div>
<a href="http://img0.etsystatic.com/il_570xN.201954768.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://img0.etsystatic.com/il_570xN.201954768.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 481px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 570px;" /></a></div>
Layne Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09992202569924137435noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2563769669511320007.post-60561230049717892322011-12-08T12:23:00.000-08:002013-07-01T08:05:52.891-07:00Chrysocolla<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqwNM_C35M4yiSgClY9rnIC_sAjIpbWUWgwM0GytByy8NG4OfjKWiK54Eh8rem5J2q3FnzZ_hJbJwAv7YNkDMbbIzjH6s23MRALnyxtqM5no3AeERQDg9xa-os-07JS2gzqnwvEWzyqSQ/s1600/Chrysocolla.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5683856018548386930" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqwNM_C35M4yiSgClY9rnIC_sAjIpbWUWgwM0GytByy8NG4OfjKWiK54Eh8rem5J2q3FnzZ_hJbJwAv7YNkDMbbIzjH6s23MRALnyxtqM5no3AeERQDg9xa-os-07JS2gzqnwvEWzyqSQ/s320/Chrysocolla.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 285px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a>Chrysocolla Formation<br />
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Today’s Rock Review features a “hometown” gem for those of us hailing from Pennsylvania, home state of Layne Designs Studio.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s Chrysocolla!</div>
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<u>Geology Buzz</u></div>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Chysocolla ranges from blue to green in color, often appearing in lovely sea foam or teal tones.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Because of its color, it’s sometimes confused for Turquoise, however it is a different gem altogether.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is a secondary ore of Copper.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It forms in oxidation zones in veins of Copper ores over long periods of time as oxygen chemically changes the composition of the ores.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In these veins it can form either as a crust or a rounded mass.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Often, it forms along side or in conglomeration with other minerals such as Quartz, Limonite, Azurite, Malachite, Turquoise and Cuprite.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That is why Chysocolla gemstone will often contain veins and traces of these gems as well.</div>
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It registers a 2.5-3.5 on Moh’s scale of hardness and therefore should be handled with care.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Pure Chysocolla is too soft for the everyday wear and tear that occurs in jewelry, however when it forms in the presence of quartz, it becomes hard enough to fashion into a beautiful cabochon.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It can also occur in druzy form, yielding am amazing natural Robin’s egg blue color.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<u>Fun Facts</u></div>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The name for Chrysocolla comes from the Greek words “Chysos”, meaning gold, and “Kolla” meaning glue.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is because they used the ore to solder gold.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A metal smith named Theophrastus is the first person to be credited with using the material in 315 BC.</div>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not only does Chysocolla come from Pennsylvania, it also can be found in Israel, the republic of Congo<span style="text-decoration: underline;"></span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chile" title="Chile"><span style="color: windowtext; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;"></span></a>, Chile, England<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cornwall" title="Cornwall"><span style="color: windowtext; text-decoration: none; text-underline: none;"></span></a>, France, Arizona<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span>, Utah and New Mexico</div>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As its color alludes, gemstone healers believe Chysocolla to have calming and cooling effects.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It can be used to treat nervous disorders and bring a sense of peace.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It also is applied in the treatment of fevers, infections, burns or cramps.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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Layne Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09992202569924137435noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2563769669511320007.post-63224290674426412492011-12-01T11:25:00.000-08:002013-07-16T17:35:18.298-07:00Rock Review: Blue Topaz<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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unhidewhenused="false" qformat="true" name="Subtle Reference"> <w:lsdexception locked="false" priority="32" semihidden="false" unhidewhenused="false" qformat="true" name="Intense Reference"> <w:lsdexception locked="false" priority="33" semihidden="false" unhidewhenused="false" qformat="true" name="Book Title"> <w:lsdexception locked="false" priority="37" name="Bibliography"> <w:lsdexception locked="false" priority="39" qformat="true" name="TOC Heading"> </w:LatentStyles> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-priority:99; mso-style-qformat:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;} </style> <![endif]-->December’s Birthstone is the icy Blue Topaz. <br />
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<u>Geology Buzz</u></div>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Topaz is a silicate mineral of aluminum and fluorine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It crystallizes in an orthorhombic crystal system, meaning it grows in rectangular prisms with rectangular bases.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Pure Topaz is completely colorless.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It gains it’s various colors from the presence of other elements that find their way into the mineral.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Topaz is most commonly found in igneous rock deposits of Granite or Rhyolite.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Blue Topaz achieves its color when it is heated either by a natural source or by a man made source.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Natural Blue Topaz can be quite rare.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Three well known shades of Blue Topaz are Sky Blue, Swiss Blue and London Blue.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>London Blue closely resembles the color of Sapphire.</div>
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<u>Fun Facts</u></div>
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<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Not only is Blue Topaz a December Birthstone, it’s also the state gemstone of Texas.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Topaz is also one of the stones mentioned in the Bible in Exodus 28:17 as adorning the breast plate of the high priest of Israel.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Topaz gets its name from the Sanskrit work “tapas” meaning fire.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Many ancient civilizations believed that Topaz had cooling properties, including the ability to cool a pot of boiling water.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s also believed that this gemstone has a number of healing powers including the ability to cure insanity, poor vision, sleep disorders and asthma.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Besides its use as a healing gem, <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>today, giving a gift of Blue Topaz is symbolic of love and fidelity.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What a perfect gift to give a loved one!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdcNvMc9XGWc2ojOYnNX_aFcs86qjrThNLQ1N7yFm7zTgIvO-80LXL1v_EVqrG9ez5d-N7K4MMAUnwb3-VNu27wVmmZZaCb9b9SruPoh0tgkJ82ijJfOThQNRGs6lM4yDJD-8y1YgUJu8/s1600/bluetopazrocksy.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5681243532997661202" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdcNvMc9XGWc2ojOYnNX_aFcs86qjrThNLQ1N7yFm7zTgIvO-80LXL1v_EVqrG9ez5d-N7K4MMAUnwb3-VNu27wVmmZZaCb9b9SruPoh0tgkJ82ijJfOThQNRGs6lM4yDJD-8y1YgUJu8/s320/bluetopazrocksy.JPG" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 320px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 298px;" /></a></div>
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Blue Topaz Rocksy Necklace</div>
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Layne Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09992202569924137435noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2563769669511320007.post-88638124870563287782011-11-23T06:05:00.000-08:002013-07-16T17:35:50.610-07:00Rock Review: Kunzite<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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With Thanksgiving just a day away, this week’s rock review will feature the stone of gratitude, Kunzite!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmI-kL8OJ19svWwPSzOUIV3MOlrNpgEbRheFvTjS_UDvOE5WZku4Pv3pN1lpqB2_jJx9K3COvirPXvsPirk1-k3V-gU65myrTopsqPXO6xtK6DZafBqcEGtKf6yWE2G9VFn0RnrfcEMlQ/s1600/Kunzite.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5678192984012295634" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmI-kL8OJ19svWwPSzOUIV3MOlrNpgEbRheFvTjS_UDvOE5WZku4Pv3pN1lpqB2_jJx9K3COvirPXvsPirk1-k3V-gU65myrTopsqPXO6xtK6DZafBqcEGtKf6yWE2G9VFn0RnrfcEMlQ/s320/Kunzite.jpg" style="cursor: hand; cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 213px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 320px;" /></a> <br />
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<u>Geology Buzz <o:p></o:p></u></div>
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Kunzite is a version of the pyroxene mineral called Spodumene. It is made up of Lithium, Aluminum and Silicon compounds. It is usually pink or lavender in color due to the presence of Manganese. This is what makes it different from other types of Spodumene. The tone of Kunzite is often so light that it is frequently heat treated or irradiated to enhance its color. </div>
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Kunzite can also fade when exposed to sunlight, so it’s important to keep it stored safely when it’s not in use. It is a 6.5-7 on Moh’s scale of hardness, so it’s suitable for many types of jewelry, including rings and bracelets that may take on a bit more wear and tear during daily use. </div>
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A Kunzite stone that appears to be violet, pink or lavender from different angles can be attributed to a skilled gem cutter. When its planes are displayed well, it can take on almost an iridescent sort of look due to a trait called pleochroism. </div>
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<u>Fun Facts<o:p></o:p></u></div>
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Kunzite was discovered in 1902 in San Diego county, California and named for George Kunz, who was the chief jeweler at Tiffany and Company at the time and a well known mineralogist. He was the first person to give a comprehensive description of the gem as its own variety. </div>
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Kunzite can be found in Brazil , the U.S.A, Mexico, Canada, Sweden Australia, Afghanistan and Pakistan. Today, other varieties of Spodumene are used as a source of lithium for batteries, ceramics, mobile phones and medicines just to name a few. </div>
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Kunzite is said to be the stone of gratitude and is thought to bring love, joy and peace to its wearers. It bestows upon it’s wearers a sense of calm and serenity. What a perfect choice for the holiday season as we count our blessings and draw our loved ones near. </div>
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Layne Designshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09992202569924137435noreply@blogger.com0