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.
In creating MELLOW YELLOW, I was listening to "The Musical Sea of Tranquility" by Chris Valentino ... lovely relaxing pieces with ocean sounds and seagulls -- just right for a necklace featuring Fossil Coral!
ABOUT THE STONES ...
FOSSIL CORAL: Balance, truth, healing
"Fossil Coral" (aka "Agatized Coral") is ancient coral that gradually turned into the gemstone agate. The process occurred when silica in the ocean water hardened, replacing the limy coral. This massive preservation of coral reefs creates a beautiful fossil, in which the skeletons of the coral appear as tiny "flowers" on the stone. Some theorize that these detailed patterns were the inspiration behind millefiori ("thousand flowers") glasswork.
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.
OPAL (Blue and Honey): Purification; calming; healing; magic
Opal is known as "The Gem of the Gods," and has always had a mystical significance. It is an inspirational stone of love and hope, which is said to aid in psychic vision, imagination and creativity, and to have the power to open the spiritual centers. Opals contain water, and can amplify and mirror feelings, buried emotions and desires, helping to release inhibitions. Opal is also a very spiritual stone, and can help one be "invisible" in situations where you don't care to be noticed. Opal brings happy dreams. It also eases the process of change. Physically, opal is helpful for eyesight and Parkinson's disease.
Honey Opal enhances visualization and can take its keeper on mystical and magical journeys beyond the physical world. It enhances the imagination and creativity, and can help turn dreams into reality. It lifts the mood, lightens the heart and can help turn negative thought into positive thought. On a healing level, Honey Opal can help ease the affects of many neurological disorders and diseases, as well as immune and nervous system disorders and diseases.
CITRINE: Manifestation; personal will; mental clarity; creativity
Citrine is a highly energizing and beneficial stone, one of only two minerals on Earth known to hold no negative energy. It is directly related to the sun, and can guide us in utilizing our creative energy, steering events in a positive direction, developing inner calm and security, and dispelling negative feelings. Its energy increases motivation and promotes physical activity, which in turn improves digestion and helps the cleansing organs. Citrine may also work as a detoxifier for the blood. Citrine is sometimes referred to as the merchant's stone, it has been used to help acquire and maintain a state of wealth. It helps clear the intellect and emotions, and is used to dispel anger, open the mind and stimulate mental resolutions. It is said to aid in digestion and promotion of blood circulation.
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