Lapis Lazuli

A rock has several minerals. Lapis lazuli is a rock, which means this ancient gem contains three minerals in varying amounts: lazurite, calcite, and pyrite. Sometimes, it also contains one or more of the following: diopside, amphibole, feldspar, and mica. Although lapis is usually described as indigo, royal, midnight, or marine blue, lapis lazuli’s signature hue is a slightly greenish blue to violetish blue and very deep in color. The combination of different minerals in the aggregate determines the color. For example, lazurite is responsible for producing royal blue lapis, while the mineral called afghanite creates a pale blue shade. Lapis is mined in several areas. The traditional source of the finest lapis lazuli is in the mountains of Afghanistan. Other major sources are Chile and Lake Baikal in Siberia, Russia. The lapis mines that were producing in 700 B.C. are still producing today. They are, in fact, the world’s oldest known commercial gemstone sources. Typically, lapis used in jewelry has been cut into cabochons, beads, inlays, and tablets. But it's use has never been limited to only jewelry. It’s also a popular carving material. Lapis has been fashioned into practical objects, such as, game boards, bowls, dagger handles, hair combs, and amulets.

Rose Gold Chandelier Earrings

These delicate 18 Karat Rose Gold earrings are strikingly feminine, yet capable of making a powerful statement. Adorned by over 10 carats of natural, rustic diamonds, these chandelier earrings are about 3 inches long and have a playful feel.
 

Watermelon Tourmaline Earrings

These playful, vibrant dangle earrings add a great pop of color to any ensemble! A total of 107.59 carats of Watermelon Tourmaline Slices are accented by 18 Karat Yellow Gold. Named after its pink center framed in a green 'rind,' Watermelone Tourmaline is one of the most colorful and sought after crystals of the Tourmaline family. Believed to be a balancing stone, Watermelon Tourmaline aids in calming overactive emotions and making room for news ways of thinking. This explains why it was used in ancient Indian ceremonies as a tool to find the good in any situation and bring insight before making difficult decisions. It is closely associated with the Heart chakra and can have a profound effect on anyone that is feeling disconnected or stressed. Sounds like we could all use a bit of Watermelon Tourmaline in our lives. Length: 2.25 in Width: 1.25 in
 

August Birthstone (Peridot)

     Known by the Egyptians as the “gem of the sun,” Peridot is a stone of compassion, friendly energy, and prosperity. In fact, some historians have come to believe that the emeralds Cleopatra adorned herself with were actually deep green Peridots. The first source of this regal gem was documented on a small Egyptian-owned Island, with ancient papyrus scrolls recording the mining of it as early as 1500 B.C. Further on throughout history, Peridot was used to adorn everything from a queen’s crown to a knight’s sword, making it one of the most prominent gems throughout history.  

     Peridot’s color ranges from pure green to yellowish green to greenish yellow. Pure green stones are very rare, with most of them being yellowish green. Peridots with the finest color tend to come from Burma and Pakistan. The stone retains its rich color even under artificial lighting, leading it to sometimes be referred to as the “evening emerald.”

     Michael Barin himself prefers to work with Pakistani Peridot on account of its “darker, deeper color” when compared to stones coming from Burma, which are “more teal and opaque.” He purchased his first Peridot for his daughter, since it is the birthstone for August, and the rest, as we say it, is history. 

Pear Shaped Pakistani Peridot set in 18 Karat White Gold, accented with Micro Pave Ideal Cut White Diamonds. GIA Certified Center Stone with a Total Weight of 44.30CT. White Diamond Quality G/VS2 with a Total Weight of 4CT.