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For centuries, carnelian gemstone beads have been used to create brilliant pieces of jewelry, dramatic decorative accents and charms believed to deliver health and good luck.

The carnelian gemstone is a bold stone that truly stands out. The intense, fiery gemstone can evoke the warmth and illumination of the sun or the blazing embers of a burning fire.

What Do They Look Like?

The carnelian gemstone is a vibrant, brightly colored stone. Its vitreous luster gives it a reflective quality, like a piece of glass.

Some carnelian gemstones are translucent, meaning they are able to transmit light. Others are nearly opaque and allow very little light to shine through.

Range of Colors

Carnelian gemstones range in color from a pale, pink-orange hue to a deep, rust-brown color. The stone is best known for its striking orange and red-orange shades.

History of Carnelian Beads

Since ancient times, people around the globe have used carnelian gemstones to make jewelry, talismans and seals. The stone was especially popular among ancient kings.

Early Civilizations

Throughout history, numerous cultures have considered the carnelian gemstone to be a token of good luck. In ancient Rome, the carnelian gemstone was a symbol of courage. The Greeks and Babylonians believed wearing carnelian would bring them good fortune.

Arab and Muslim Countries

Carnelian gemstones are particularly revered in Arab and Muslim countries. It is believed that the Prophet Mohammed wore a carnelian seal on his right little finger. The ancient Egyptian goddess Isis is also believed to have worn carnelian.

Ancient Egypt

The ancient Egyptians placed carnelian gemstones on mummies before burial. They believed the stones would provide good fortune during the transition to the afterlife. The iconic gold death mask of King Tutankhamen features inlaid carnelian gemstones.

Why Use Carnelian Beads?

Carnelian gemstone beads can be used to create eye-catching jewelry, striking decorative accents and talismans for health and positive fortune.

Jewelry

Carnelian gemstone beads are among the most popular beads for jewelry making. The stunning beads can be used to craft distinctive necklaces and bracelets that make a great statement piece.

Symbolism

Carnelian is a birthstone for the month of July. In astrology, carnelian is associated with the signs Taurus, Aries, Leo and Cancer.

Carnelian is associated with the second chakra, the sacral chakra which is linked to creativity, sensuality and emotion.

Power and Courage

Since ancient times, carnelian has served as a symbol of power. Ancient rulers wore carnelian to project courage and authority. Ancient warriors wore carnelian into battle to provide them with the strength and valor to conquer their opponents.

Sensuality and Pleasure

Throughout history, people have worn carnelian gemstones to inspire love, passion and desire.

The stone gets its name from the Latin word for flesh. Carnelian is thought to symbolize the pleasures of the flesh and is a symbol of sexuality.

The Singer's Stone

Carnelian is known as the singer's stone. It is said to invigorate the voice and to provide performers with the courage and vitality to dazzle audiences.

Grammy Award-winning singer Adele carries carnelian crystals to help her overcome stage fright and perform at her best.

Healing

Carnelian is believed to be a powerful source of positive energy.

It is believed that wearing carnelian can restore one's health, vigor and physical energy. The stone is also believed to enhance fertility and sex drive.

Healers have used carnelian gemstones to relieve menstrual pain, soothe headaches and backaches, improve blood circulation, boost the absorption of vitamins and minerals, and alleviate sexual dysfunction.

Feng Shui

Carnelian is linked to fire elemental energy. Fire energy governs passion, physical energy, emotion and creativity. Fire energy is a source of motivation, confidence, decisiveness and action.

The radiant, flamelike gemstone brings warmth and heat to a room. A living room with a fireplace is a fitting setting for decorations made from carnelian gemstone beads.

During the winter months, decreased sunlight reduces the fire energy in our homes. Adding carnelian gemstone accents to a space during the cold winter months can evoke the warmth and brilliance of the sun's rays.

Carnelian inspires enthusiasm and a zest for life. Incorporating carnelian decorations into your home creates an invigorating environment and revitalizes your surroundings.

Where can Carnelian be Found Today?

Carnelian is mined and sold in countries around the world.

Brazil, Uruguay, and Other Countries

Carnelian is primarily mined in Brazil, Uruguay, Australia, Madagascar, South Africa, and India.

Online

Interested in purchase carnelian beads? You can find carnelian gemstone beads for sale online.

Final Thoughts

Carnelian gemstone beads are legendary for their rich cultural and historical significance, supposed healing properties and metaphysical powers, and intense, eye-catching orange and red hues.

Whether you want to harness the stone's intense fire energy, or you want a unique piece of statement jewelry to enhance your look, dazzling carnelian gemstone beads are an ideal choice.

Ethereal green with an endless array of alluring patterns, serpentine gemstones have entranced people for millennia. From jewelry to architecture to art, serpentine has been used in hundreds of ways to create stunning decorative items and cultural artifacts.

If you are interested in using serpentine gemstones in your work, here is everything you need to know.

What is a Serpentine Gemstone?

Serpentine gemstones are derived from minerals created from a process of serpentinization — a metamorphic process that occurs at low temperatures combining heat and water to oxidize ultramafic rocks, creating the telltale fibrous or plate-like patterns that look like snake scales.

The name serpentine doesn't refer to a single gemstone but rather to a group of minerals composed of hydrated magnesium silicate that can also contain small amounts of nickel, cobalt, manganese and chromium. These trace elements produce a serpentine stone in a variety of colors, including brown, yellow, white and green.

However, the green serpentine gemstones most often used in jewelry making are part of the serpentine subgroup of stones known as antigorite, as this form of serpentine is safe for drilling and shaping unlike other forms such as chrysotile, which is used in asbestos.

The Physical Properties of Serpentine

Once cut and shaped, serpentine gemstones are predominantly light and dark green patterned stones that are slippery to the touch. Impurities in the stones can produce attractive veins and marbled patterns. They are often cut with a high dome shape to accentuate these patterns.

Serpentine is beloved by jewelry makers, as it is very easy to work with, produces alluring patterns and can be polished to a high waxy luster. Serpentine gemstones are often cut into cabochon shapes or small beads.

However, on the Mohs scale of hardness, serpentine rates 3 to 6, which is relatively low when compared to other gemstones and minerals such as granite. This means that it can be easily scratched or chipped, which limits the use of serpentine to low-impact jewelry, sculptures and surfaces.

Where is Serpentine Found?

Serpentine is most often found at points where oceanic plates converge with the mantle, as this produces the hydrothermal conditions most conducive to creating serpentine minerals. Although they are not commonly found on the Earth's surface, there are substantial portions of the planet that have serpentine hidden underneath.

Large deposits of serpentine can be found in the Ural Mountains of Russia, around Greece and Cyprus, and in the mountain ranges of New Zealand, Austria, France, Italy and the U.S.

Historical Uses for Serpentine Stones

In Ancient Egypt, Persia and Assyria, serpentine was highly prized gem for its luster and was used to make jewelry, household items and gifts for deities. Pendants of serpentine were often worn as protection against snakebites and other poisons or to ward off evil spirits, but more often serpentine was used for household ornaments because it was both beautiful and easy to carve.

In the Punjab region of Southeast Asia, pure serpentine was used to create elaborate handles for weaponry, and Maori tribes in New Zealand used serpentine to carve small talismans and ornaments.

Uses of Serpentine Stones Today

Today, serpentine is predominantly used in sculpture and jewelry making. However, it is also often used as part of holistic health practices for its supposed healing and spiritual properties.

The mineral's association with the snake has lead people to believe the stone possesses magical qualities that can not only protect you from snakebites but also induces spiritual harmony by creating a protective energy shield around the body, allowing you the freedom to pursue long-held dreams. Wearing serpentine jewelry that comes in contact with the body, such as a bracelet, allows the energy of the stone to help you turn negative thoughts and actions into positive ones.

Another effective way to harness the energy of serpentine stones is through meditation. Just as you need to draw the poison out of a snakebite, meditating with serpentine gemstones can draw out negative thinking patterns and help you to make a positive resolution for your future. Placing serpentine jewelry or carvings in areas of stress, such as your work environment, can help you to repel negative thoughts that may distract you from your work.

The green color of the serpentine gemstone is linked to money and career, and wearing jewelry made from serpentine is said to help you to attract wealth, achieve your ambitions and boost your career path.

Serpentine is also used as an affordable alternative to jade — which is a much harder gemstone to work with — to create jewelry and carvings. Modern artisans using ancient tribal techniques have started using serpentine as a material for producing crockery that is imbued with healing properties for diabetics.

Final Thoughts

Serpentine is a stunning gemstone and a worthwhile addition to any crafter's kit. But more than that, investing in genuine serpentine gemstones can bring you some amazing benefits for your health, spirit and home.

FAQ's:

Is serpentine stone dangerous?

No. Serpentine stones are sometimes considered dangerous but it is simply a myth. The notion of serpentine beads being dangerous is popular as serpentine gems often contain some amount of asbestos that has potential health consequences. But, you must know that asbestos causes health hazards when inhaled in a powdered form regularly for a long period of time. So, being near or using a serpentine stone does not expose you to the health hazards of asbestos.

How to activate the serpentine stone?

Serpentine stone is considered a very powerful stone that has the ability to transform your entire life and your being. And, hence there is a procedure to activate your serpentine stone to work for fulfilling your desires.

When you buy a serpentine gemstone, you should clean it properly and then charge it under the moonlight. This will activate the gemstone for fulfilling your desire. Once the stone has been charged under the moon, you should pick it in your dominant hand and pray to the divine energies of the universe to bless the stone and make it valuable for you. It is believed that serpentine stones are powerful enough to bring the best outcomes for the intention you set for them.   

How to cleanse a serpentine stone?

Serpentine stones are very powerful and unique. They are a stone that needs regular energy cleansing. For cleaning a serpentine stone you need to hold it under running water and simultaneously pray to the divine energies of the universe to cleanse the stone. Keeping a serpentine stone under the full moonlight is also considered a great way to clean the stone energetically.

What is a serpentine stone?

Serpentine stones are mineral gemstones created through a natural process called serpentinization – a metamorphic process of oxidization of ultramafic stone due to a combination of heat and water at a very low temperature. The process gives the stone a texture that looks like the scales of snakes.

How to use serpentine stone?

If you are a believer in gemology, you can use a serpentine stone to tap into your innate kundalini energy and get the power to fulfill your deep desires. The stone can work as your protector warding off evil energies and diseases. Some people also use it for decorative and ornamental purposes. 

Preparing for an upcoming vacation can be exhilarating and, at times, a bit overwhelming. One of the most important steps to prepare for your trip is getting packed. You want to feel confident you have clothes, shoes, and accessories that make you look and feel amazing so you can make the most of your getaway. Get ready for your upcoming trip with the following gemstones beads that make great vacation accessories.

Amazonite

Amazonite is a vibrant, blue-green gemstone perfect for a tropical vacation. The stone’s bright, turquoise hue makes it incredibly popular. The gemstone’s name and vibrant color evoke the exotic blues and greens of the Amazon jungle. Amazonite doesn’t actually come from the Amazon: The gemologists who discovered it mistook it for another stone that had been uncovered in the Amazon rainforest. Nevertheless, this rare and colorful stone is reminiscent of the stunning blue and green landscapes that comprise the untamed natural beauty of the Amazon wilderness.

Jewelry made from Amazonite beads brings a pop of color and a hint of adventure to your vacation wardrobe. Whether you’re exploring the natural beauty of the rainforest in Costa Rica or relaxing on a beach in Brazil, Amazonite jewelry adds a refreshing splash of color to your look.

Aquamarine

There’s nothing quite like a beach vacation to escape the stress and routine of everyday life. The ocean waves crashing softly against the shore seem to soothe our very souls. Aquamarine jewelry complements any trip to the beach or a coastal seaside town.

Aquamarine gemstone beads look almost as if they emerged from the crystal-blue waters of the sea. The tranquil, blue stone gets its name from the Latin word for water, “aqua,” and the Latin term “marina,” which means “of the sea.”

Water element crystals like aquamarine are believed to promote feelings of relaxation and peace of mind. Some people use aquamarine gemstones and crystals to cleanse themselves of negative energy. When you wear aquamarine jewelry near the ocean, you might feel a sense of calm tranquility wash over you, just as the water washes over the shore.

The ancient Romans carried aquamarine as a talisman to keep them safe while traveling by sea. According to ancient legend, aquamarine was a mermaid treasure. Sailors held on to aquamarine gemstones to bring them luck and protection while out at sea. If you’re going on a cruise, you can join this ancient tradition by wearing jewelry made from aquamarine gemstone beads.

Coral

Precious coral is a natural coral found deep below the ocean. Over time, enormous coral reefs develop in the rocky depths of the sea. Most of the world’s coral comes from the Mediterranean Sea off the coast of Italy. The Mediterranean is the most popular vacation destination in the world. With its warm climate, breathtaking coastline, diverse cultures, and rich history, it’s easy to understand why tourists flock to the region.

According to Greek mythology, Poseidon, the god of the sea, lived in an underwater castle made of coral. Coral jewelry has been highly sought-after for centuries. Its bold, reddish-pink color truly stands out. Coral beads are a natural choice for a Mediterranean cruise or a trip to the gorgeous Greek Islands.

Larimar

Jewelry made from Larimar beads is the ideal choice for a tropical, island getaway. Larimar is sometimes referred to as the Atlantis stone because its mystical, blue color is reminiscent of the ocean. The rare, blue gemstone is found only in the Caribbean, specifically, the Dominican Republic. Known as the gemstone of the Caribbean, Larimar evokes the stunning, blue vistas where the ocean meets the sky. The stone’s soothing, aqua hue reminds one of the sun-kissed waters of the Caribbean Sea.

Turquoise

Turquoise jewelry is a fitting choice for a trip to the American Southwest. Turquoise is mined in New Mexico, which is known as the “land of enchantment” due to its captivating natural beauty, fascinating history, and unique culture. Turquoise is also mined in Arizona and Nevada, known for their spellbinding desert landscapes. More than 2,000 years ago, Native Americans in what is now New Mexico began crafting turquoise jewelry and beads. In the late 1800s, Native American artists started creating sterling silver and turquoise jewelry—a style that remains popular to this day.

Azurite

Azurite gets its name from its deep, azure blue color. This vibrant, eye-catching gemstone reminds one of a bright blue sky on a cloudless day or the clear, deep blue waters of the sea. Throughout history, people have used Azurite to relieve stress, ease anxiety, and alleviate distressing thoughts. Going on vacation and getting away from it all, so to speak, can be a great way to de-stress. Wearing jewelry made from Azurite beads might even enhance the soothing effects of your getaway.

Conclusion

Unique jewelry crafted from natural gemstone beads is the perfect accent to enhance any outfit. Creating one-of-a-kind necklaces and bracelets from eye-catching natural gemstones is a fun and exciting way to prepare for an upcoming vacation.

Hematite became extremely popular in jewelry design during the Victorian era, particularly in Europe. It's still a very popular bead used in jewelry and fashion designs today. Hematite is the oldest iron oxide mineral known to man. It is much harder than iron, but also more brittle.

The beautiful gemstone has a luster that can range from metallic to sub-metallic with the variable color, depending on the specific type. The most common type has a black to silver-gray color. You can also find red, reddish brown or brown Hematite. If you look carefully, all the variations of natural Hematite will have a rust-red streak. The stone is a deep red if it is powdered or thinly sliced.

Man-Made or Synthetic

Scientists have found a way to reproduce the material signature of the stone to create man-made Hematite beads. The synthetic stones have the identical chemical makeup of the natural ones and, therefore, are still classified as iron ore. You can tell the difference by looking closely at the color. There's always a reddish tint to natural Hematite which is absent from synthetic Hematite. Synthetic Hematite has a striking gunmetal glow with no red tint.

Using Hematite Energy on Your Travels

The Hematite stone is trusted for its many properties, which is why it has been used for centuries to assist with alternative healing and protection. This makes it perfect for on-the-go jewelry pieces.

Grounding

The stone's grounding qualities are probably its most widely trusted features. Hematite will relieve anxiety, bring balance, and restore a sense of calm and positivity. This is critical when you want to combat travel anxiety. Wearing Hematite jewelry will ensure you carry these calming properties with you throughout your trip. Hematite also absorbs negative energy generated when we are stressed and uses this to create positive vibrations. This is good for us, personally, but it's also good when we face confrontation on our travels.

The negative energy absorbed around us is released into the immediate environment as positive energy. Not only will Hematite jewelry help keep you calm during interactions, but it will send out a positive vibe that's sure to be returned to you. Who wouldn't want to benefit from this cooperative vibe? Just think of the benefits when you're traveling on business. Hematite is like armor in any confrontation.

Clearing the Senses

If you're looking for a gemstone to calm the senses and clear your thinking, then Hematite will do the trick. It helps to improve concentration, focus, mental organization, and clarity in thinking. These are all critical on any business trip. Your Hematite jewelry will look exquisite with any business attire. These properties are not only critical on business trips. They are also useful for all the negotiations that happen on any holiday, like negotiating the best prices in exotic foreign trading markets.

Keeping Cool

Traveling is physically taxing on your body, especially when you do a lot of sightseeing by foot or bicycle. Hematite helps improve oxygen circulation in the bloodstream, which cools down your body. This is also useful during pesky episodes of pain and fever that might otherwise spoil your trip.

New Experiences

Traveling should be about breaking away from what you do every day and trying new experiences. Hematite helps you with this. It opens up your mind to thinking more creatively and releases the limitations that you've placed on yourself. It also helps you to maintain healthy boundaries of self-control so you will be more adventurous without being reckless. Carry Hematite when you need help feeling daring. You'll find that you won't be standing in your own way anymore.

Protection

This versatile gemstone will protect you against electromagnetic smog and geopathic stress. It is claimed to have strong detoxifying properties, especially for the blood and liver. Place Hematite around your temporary holiday home to ward off any negative energies.

An Elixir for Grounding

A Hematite elixir is a good start to any trip. Drop a natural (not man-made) Hematite stone into a pitcher of clean water. Refrigerate this overnight and drink half a glass before you leave on your trip. This will help alleviate travel stress. Make another pitcher when you reach your destination. This time, it will help relieve jet lag and calm you during your trip.

The Best Way to Use Hematite When You Travel

Hematite produces the strongest results when it's placed in direct contact with your skin. This makes Hematite jewelry the most practical solution for keeping the powerful gemstone close to you when traveling. Wearing a Hematite bracelet and necklace will place the stone directly over your key pulse points. This maximizes the release of protective and healing properties.

The fact that it’s a beautiful stone means it will be aesthetically pleasing to the eye while being equally pleasing to the mind, body, and soul. From a practical point of view, Hematite beads are easy to come by at reasonable prices so you can easily create jewelry pieces like this gorgeous black Hematite and clear glass bead bracelet.

Crystals have been an obsession for people all around the world for centuries. Throughout history, they have been used as symbols of power and status, adopted as mystical healing gems, integrated into all types of architectural masterpieces, showcased in art, and worn as beautiful accent pieces. Their mysterious auras attract the spiritually minded, the creative, and the scientifically inspired alike.

The Dendritic Opal gemstone is considered to be a particularly attractive and magical gem in all circles of people and has been used for a variety of things worldwide. Although it is not exactly rare or precious, this earthy mineraloid draws the eye with its interesting milky coloring and plant-like metallic inclusions.

What Is a Dendritic Opal?

The general definition of an opal is a hydrated silicone dioxide mineraloid mined from a rock fissure. Opals, no matter what type, contain no crystalline structure and are often made up of a certain percentage of water and microscopic silica spheres. There have been over 60 types of opals identified in the world, and each falls into one of three categories: Common Opals, Precious Opals, and the rare Rainbow Opals.

The Dendritic Opal, or “Moss Opal” by its fond nickname, falls under the common opal category. Common opals, often called “Potch” opals, are opaque in appearance and have an earthy range of colors that include white, blue, pink, yellow, yellow/orange, brown or black, or a mixture of colors with patterned inclusions. Unlike the precious opal and rainbow opal, common opals rarely contain brilliant flashes or streaks of iridescent color when held in the light. They quite often have no play-of-color at all.  

A common opal is defined as “dendritic” when it contains fern, moss, or tree-like patterned inclusions of metallic oxides like manganese and iron. These opal aggregates often form in relatively low temperatures and have a resinous luster. The coloring of the Dendritic Opal is whitish or yellow/brown in color and the collection of dendrites it contains often look dark green or deep brown, just like a plant (hence the nickname “Moss Opal”).

The dendritic patterns found in these opals are never the same, like snowflake patterns or other such geometric or vein design formations found throughout nature, and the raw aggregates are usually kidney-shaped or grape-shaped.

How Does the Dendritic Opal Wear?

Due to the delicate nature of these soft gems, Dendritic Opals must be handled with care. How they wear often depends on what they are formed into. Artisans do not usually risk making any pieces from these gems that will have a lot of exposure to extreme temperatures or total immersion in water.

For example, you will rarely find rings made from Dendritic Opals, as pieces that are worn on any part of the hand often risk being knocked against things or endure consistent water contact from faucets and other parts of the normal day-to-day routine. If someone insists on having a ring, it needs to be carefully inserted in a protective setting like bezel to keep it from cracking, chipping, or losing its luster.

The reason these gems are referred to as soft gems has to do with their high-level water content. This characteristic leaves anything made from them susceptible to drying out and cracking or fading if worn or used too often or stored in an overly dry or hot place. If the opals are doublets and triplets, extended periods of water immersion can ruin them.

Doublets and triplets are opals that have been infused with glue for added layers and extra detailing. The structure of pieces like this will weaken, fall apart, or become discolored when exposed to water too often due to the glue dissolving and water seeping into the cracks and setting.

How to Care for Dendritic Opal Gemstone Beads & Jewelry

Even though Dendritic Opals are soft and easy to chip, discolor, dry out and more, caring for them is not as hard as one would imagine. All it takes is the appropriate knowledge about opals and the willingness to put in a little extra work.

First and foremost, it is important to know what kind of opal you own. If it is a doublet or triplet Dendritic Opal, you will have to keep in mind the different layers it is made up of and the fact that it is infused with glue. Altered opals like this need to be kept in tight plastic bags with a damp piece of cotton or cloth. They should not touch anything too wet, as the glue might be affected over time and the coloration of the gem may be altered. Prolonged immersion of any kind would be horribly destructive for these two designs.

If you have a solid Dendritic Opal that has only been cut and polished, you must then worry about storing it somewhere soft and safe and cleaning it properly. This design should also be kept in a sealed plastic bag with a damp piece of cotton or cloth or in a room with a dehumidifier to keep it from dehydrating. It is mostly only susceptible to cracking or fading if it stays dry for too long a period or is exposed to intense heat or sunlight.

Doublets, triplets, and solid Dendritic Opals all score around a 5.5 to 6 in hardness on the Mohs scale, so they scratch and score easily. Even dust can eventually wear these soft gems down. It is important to remember this when cleaning them. Since even dust can wear these gems down, simply wiping them off with any old dry cloth will not do. To polish them correctly, you must use a very soft, damp cloth to wipe them off gently.

The last and most important tip when it comes to cleaning these gems is to never use cleaning detergents or chemicals on them or wash them in an ultrasonic cleaner. Cleaning products like bleach and other similar detergents will eventually erode Dendritic Opals and destroy the coloration and unique metallic patterns. The hard vibrations from ultrasonic cleaners or other cleaners like this can knock around the gems far too much and cause them to break apart or chip.

If you want your opals to last, you must store them and clean them properly. Once you get into the routine, it's not hard, and the natural beauty you will enjoy from your Dendritic Opal piece is more than worth the effort.

Dendritic Opal Meaning and Uses

Like many crystals, Dendritic Opals are used for their beauty and for the mythical characteristics and powers they are thought to hold. You will often find them in new age circles and other religious groups where they hold great spiritual significance, a variety of artisan circles where their beauty is honed and molded into sought-after art pieces and jewelry, and even some naturalist medicinal circles where they are thought to bring healing and emotional balance.

New age circles and groups of religious people throughout history have long thought that the Dendritic Opal produces an energy that promotes one’s physical and spiritual growth. The water and plant-like patterns in the often milky-white gems symbolize life and harmony and are thought to be nature’s way of giving self-awareness and clarity to the owner. If one keeps this opal on them always, they will be more discerning, less judgmental and more accepting of others, and more in-tune with themselves and the true nature of life’s experiences.

Some Dendritic Opals are even thought to contain magical powers that put their owners in touch with their deeper, darker selves. During the Middle Ages, this was widely believed. Rulers would incorporate these gems into precious items they carried on them at all times to show their status and help them maintain their power.

Witches and wizards would also commonly carry these and other gems, thinking they held a mystical key to powerful witchcraft. Although most wealthy people and other people of prominence today are not showing off massive items with Dendritic Opals to boast of their status and power, there are still many modern witches and wizards who use them in their spells and more.

Dendritic Opal Benefits

In the medicinal world, Dendritic Opals are most commonly made into healing jewelry and are thought to treat certain ailments like dizziness, blood circulatory disorders, insulin deficiencies, inflammatory dysfunctions, and more.

Some naturalistic psychologists and psychiatrists even credit Dendritic Opals with the ability to cure depression or at least allow a person struggling with depression the clarity it takes to work through complicated emotions and mental issues. In this area, much like the new age and other religious circle areas, these crystal enthusiasts think the characteristics of these opals provide balance to one’s life. They just put far more focus on physical and emotional balance than spiritual balance.

What is Dendritic Opal Good For?

The crystal artisans and the average consumer who appreciates natural beauty love the Dendritic Opals for the unique art they can be used to create. Imagine milky-white brooches, pendants, and earrings with smatterings of tree-like tendrils made from smoky metals running throughout. These soft gems can be molded and cut into a variety of wearable accents, incorporated into home décor, and used to make eye-catching office pieces in the care of a skilled cutter.

The Dendritic Opal is especially popular with people born in the month of October since this type of mineraloid has been adopted as the birthstone for people born during this particular portion of the autumn season.

Find What You Need For Your Next Project Online

Shop our collection of dendritic opal gemstone beads today and enjoy the natural beauty and earthiness these stones bring to any project. Now that you have read about dendritic opal care, you can create and wear pieces that will stand the test of time. Share this post with your fellow artists so they too can learn how to care for an opal properly.

When asked about “tiger eyes” what is the first thing that comes to mind? For some, no doubt, it is the theme song to Rocky III. For others, a poem by William Blake. Or does it conjure up pictures of a magnificent creature, gloriously coated, with tawny, fierce, but strong eyes. Fortunately, tiger eye beads are not made of these magnificent eyes but are so-named because in color and appearance they greatly resemble the fire and power found within the eye of the tiger.

What is a tiger eye stone?

Tiger eye is actually a form of quartz, most often found in South Africa, Australia, Thailand, India, and parts of the United States and Canada. Thanks to an effect called “chatoyancy” the tiger eye stone appear to reflect back, in the same way, a cat’s eye seems to do. This can give it a shimmery appearance, similar to looking at quality silk. Generally, the stone is colored golden-brown, but in some instances may have a red hue. Chemically, it is a form of silicon dioxide which developed over time from crocidolite, a type of blue asbestos, to the finer chalcedony. 

Tiger eye beads in history

In Roman times, soldiers valued talismans and amulets made of this stone. Perhaps it was its beauty, but more likely, the tiger eye bead reflected its namesake – a strong, valiant, tenacious fighter which didn’t give up when stalking its prey and was seldom defeated. It was associated with Ra, the Egyptian god of the sun, and was believed to contain the sun’s power.

Why use tiger eye beads in jewelry?

• Beauty and style. The simple, elegant, but powerful beauty of this stone ensures that any tiger eye beads will automatically draw other eyes to it. Its depth of color and luster, as well as its unusual “cat’s eye” effect inevitably will make it the center of attention on any necklace, bracelet, brooch, or other jewelry items.
• Versatility and price. While beautiful, these gems are not rare, and so they are eminently affordable and accessible. They can be styled into any number of accessories, and for sheer price and variety, it’s hard to go past the many ways in which tiger eye beads can be fashioned into appealing designs and ornamental jewelry.
• Accessorize easily with just about anything. What color doesn’t go with deep gold? Any necklace, bracelet, ring, or earring made from tiger eye beads can blend nicely into, or stand out from, just about any hair color, style or shade of clothing, or other equally fine necklaces, earrings, rings, or bracelets worn alongside these gems.

Tiger eye beads – mythology and legends

As mentioned, tiger eye amulets were used in ancient Roman and Egyptian times. The power of these stones is credited with allowing soldiers to concentrate on the job at hand with force, courage, and determination. Tiger eye bead jewelry was said to fend off enemies – both human and spiritual. It served as an all-seeing “eye” which protected the wearer from wounds and illnesses.

Using tiger eye beads

Followers of the principles of Feng shui have used the protective qualities of tiger eye beads to:

• Focus the mind away from negative thoughts and patterns
• Cleanse a room of bad energy
• Balance the positive and negative flows of a room or office to encourage clear and courageous decision making
• Stimulate harmony by neutralizing complex or confrontational situations
• Improve concentration, allowing the wearer or user to focus on the important issues and not be side-tracked by inconsequentialities

Many popular Feng shui devices where the incorporation of tiger eye beads are recommended include pi balls and wind chimes. Tiger eye bracelets worn on injured arms are believed to help the healing process.

Other uses for tiger eye bead jewelry

• As a wedding anniversary gift. What better way to celebrate nine years of happy marriage than a gift made from this beautiful gem? A representative of strength and courage, as well as a talisman for good luck and fortune for the next nine years (and climbing!), choose from a range of heart-shaped beads, his-and-her matching bracelets, or as a decoration for the home.
• As a good luck charm. Whether it’s a tricky contract negotiation, a sale that must happen, or a tough exam, a talisman made from these lucky beads can provide strength, confidence, and surety in the wearer’s ability to conquer the toughest of hurdles.
• To fend off ill health. Suffering from high blood pressure because of stress? Is that cold or fever feeling worse than it should because of tiredness and lethargy? Are the nerves constantly jangling or is there an overabundance of conflict in the air, causing anxiety? Wearing tiger eye bead jewelry or using it as decorations in the home or office can help promote a healthy, calm, and relaxing state of mind which will soothe the nerves and lead to a faster, gentler recovery.

Enjoy a great range of tiger eye bead jewelry and accessories. Find out more about how to get in touch and start your collection today.

Gemstone beads are amazing additions to any piece you create. With their interesting textures, unique colors, and eye-catching patterns, it is no surprise that gemstone beads are in high demand for do-it-yourself jewelers. Add in the health benefits often associated with these gemstones, like aiding in pain relief or calming the mind, and you have a perfect combination of fabulous and beneficial designs.

Unfortunately, for many novice jewelry makers, working with gemstones can prove to be a challenge. With each stone having its own personality, failing to understand how they must be handled can easily turn a detailed design into a disaster. Knowing in advance certain pitfalls that may cause issues down the road will help guarantee your vision can become a reality. Here are some of the top mistakes bead workers make when handling and building jewelry with gemstone beads.

1. Not Cleaning Your Beads

One of the most common mistakes seen when using gemstone beads is failing to clean them. Without properly washing your beads prior to storage and use, you allow leftover dyes, oils, or debris to remain on their surfaces. Choosing to let this detritus remain guarantees a batch of scuffed and scratched stones when it comes time to create your piece. This debris can also compromise the integrity of the stone, causing a possible chip or break later as well.

2. Using the Wrong Cleanser

Working with semi-precious and precious beads requires time and research. Each type of stone has certain properties that dictate what cleansing process to use. Most stones can be safely washed in lukewarm or cool water with soap, but assuming soap is okay to use for any stone would be folly. Certain gemstone beads, like freshwater pearls, find soaps to be too abrasive, stripping them of their shine. Searching for a perfect, specialized cleanser is a necessity for these softer gems in order for them to keep their natural glow.

3. Steaming or Boiling Your Beads

For many, the idea of using soaps or cleaners on their newly purchased beads is reprehensible. In these instances, opting to steam or boil the beads to clean them properly may seem like a great option. Unfortunately, this is not the case. Steaming or boiling gemstones will often cause a large amount of breakdown due to the high temperatures.

While some of the harder stones can handle heat without an issue, softer stones are generally unable to handle the temperature spike and will fracture or break. Remembering to use cool or warm water when scrubbing your beads is always the safest option to ensure a shiny, clean surface without the possibility of damage.

4. Improper Storage

Inadequately storing your items is a surefire way to guarantee damage will occur. Haphazardly tossing them into a bin, bowl, or tray will not only intermingle your gems with your regular beads, making them harder to locate, but the variety of hardness levels can spell trouble for the beads’ integrity. Placing them in a box with beads that rate higher on a Mohs Hardness Scale means you can expect to find your precious stones fragmented or otherwise damaged when it comes time to build your jewelry.

Placing your gems in a container with assigned sections is the first step in proper storage. The individual compartments will keep the stones organized and safe. Placing some cotton along the top of the container will also help make sure your beautiful bounty is tucked away nice and safe until you are ready to convert those individual beads into a fabulous statement piece.

5. Selecting the Wrong Bead Reamer

Finding the perfect gemstone bead only to realize it has too small of a hole, an irregular edge, or some other section that needs a quick file to smooth it down is a common occurrence when working with beads of any kind. Picking up your handy bead reamer to remedy any issues will always be your first instinct. However, when working with gemstones, using any conveniently located bead reamer may destroy your beautiful stones. If the grit is too harsh, rather than creating a custom eye-catching piece, you’ll see your unique gems crumbling away into dust.

Checking that Mohs Hardness Scale and determining what each stone’s level of strength is and selecting a corresponding reamer is always the safest option. Stones like pearls, amber, or coral need a much softer texture than you would use on a harder stone like garnet.

Final Thoughts

Properly handling your gemstone beads will be a breeze once you know to avoid these common mistakes. By simply taking the time to research the Mohs Hardness Scale of each stone, you can easily research the proper way to clean, store, and prepare your gem. So, grab your favorite brand of bead reamer—in the appropriate grit, of course; set out that beautiful bounty of stones; and make something extraordinary.