17" long, excluding focal stone.
MY PROCESS ...
In creating any necklace, I first select a focal piece, and then choose the various stones to complete it through an instinctive (and fun!) process. After lighting some incense and putting on some music that suits my mood that day (new age, world music, nature sounds, classical or soft jazz), I hold the pendant or focal stone in my hand as I look over ALL of the hundreds of types of stone beads in my collection, and choose several (way more than what will eventually be included - usually 20 or more types) that look and feel "right." Next, I narrow things down by repeating the process among the beads I first selected, and place handfuls of about a dozen different types in the old African Mancala game board I use as my beading palette. I then choose complementary glass seed beads (often used as spacers) and a clasp, and begin beading - entirely by instinct. Often, I will get to a certain point and begin over again, until the necklace that is meant to be reveals itself. Sometimes, I find that a stone I hadn't originally chosen is screaming to be included, and I always honor that. Not all of the stones in the final palette are used, and usually the piece turns out entirely differently than what I had originally envisioned. It is a process that feeds my soui. I am inspired by the colors and textures of the materials I work with, and by my spirit guides (all animals! - see my profile), as well as by the constant presence when I'm beading of my two beloved rescued dogs (O'Keeffe and Teddy) and a giant rescued Maine Coon cat named Sassafras, who rules the roost. All three love to be a part of the process.
ABOUT THE STONES:
AGATE - Balance, truth, healing
Agate is a grounding stone that helps bring about emotional, physical and intellectual balance. Psychologically, it gently facilitates acceptance of one’s self and builds self-confidence. Intellectually, agate enhances mental function by improving concentration, perception and analytical abilities, and encourages speaking one’s own truth. Emotionally, agate can help one to overcome bitterness and negativity. It heals inner anger, fostering love and the courage to start again. It is useful for any kind of inner trauma, and aids spiritual growth. Agate has been used in treating disorders of the digestive system, eyes and uterus. It is cleansing to the lymphatic system and the pancreas, strengthens blood vessels and heals skin disorders.
MAGNESITE - Calming, imagination
White Magnesite (sometimes referred to as "White Turquoise") is known for its calming properties, and helps to improve creative visualization and imagination. It is also commonly believed to bring deep peace and silent relaxation during meditation, stimulate passion in the heart and help strengthen bones and teeth.
RIVERSTONE - Energy, stress relief
Riverstone is known for its regenerative effect on the body and for its ability to relieve anxiety. It is also said to energize the aura, helping you make the changes that lead to greater spiritual experiences.
CARNELIAN - Courage, vitality, sexuality, confidence, action
Carnelian is a stimulating stone that can improve motivation and help us achieve greater success in career or personal matters. It helps us feel secure enough to tackle greater challenges and allows the wearer to take control of his or her life and choose the direction that is most advantageous. Armenians in the 17th century believed that if Carnelian was powdered and taken in a potion, it would ban all dark forebodings and excite joyous emotions. It is known to have electromagnetic properties to help ground the wearer, feeding energy directly through the skin and instilling a feeling of well-being and inflowing power. It is thought to influence and regulate the intake of food, assimilation and circulation. It helps keep the digestive system filtered and may have antidote qualities with regard to infection and blood poisoning. Carnelian can help you feel comfortable with your sensual nature. It assists in communication, helping timid speakers become both eloquent and bold.
Have any questions?
Contact the shop owner.
