Topaz Mining

This past weekend, we did some mining on a topaz claim. Very interesting and amazing day. Hot with searing sun, but I was covered from head to toe except for hands. I don’t want to think about the sunburn that others in the group of 25 had, who walked around without a hat or long sleeves.

We saw antelope, wild horses and of course the mine. VERY steep climb up the mountain to get to the mine. I closed my eyes while sister drove the big Ram truck up the rocky 45º grade.

We found some topaz samples,

most contained in rhyolite or cassiterite.

Labradorite Cabachon

 

This week, I went to a jewelry making class in Cedar City,

taught by Lexi Smith.  She is excellent, and managed to teach

a group of mixed skill students with ease.

I selected a rather large Labradorite cabachon for my

project.  I used dead soft copper wire with smaller gage

square wire for the wrapping.  It was a delightful class!

Geodes and Chippy Necklaces

 I'm working on items for an upcoming sale.

I made eternity findings for the geodes, because the

larger opening allows for use of stone chip necklaces.

I've used Fluorite, Labradorite and Turquoise chips

to create these "chippy necklaces."

Geodes!

Geodes are a stunning mineral, formed through volcanic action. As rocks, they are pretty non-descript. However, they are hollow inside and contain masses of sparkling mineral material.

I have a little collection of geodes and decided to

attempt some jewelry making. Some geodes are too

brittle to drill, so are more appropriate for wire wrapping.

Whether you drill them or wrap, they make a

wonderful jewelry statement.

Metaphysically, geodes are said to produce energy,

and thus help to calm mind and spirit.