Semi-precious gemstones: Aventurine and Agate
Aventurine is the term for two types of material: the first is an opaque type of microcrystalline quartz. The second is a type of glass formed in Italy by the Miotti family of glassmakers in the 17th century. The quartz aventurine is a stunning crystal that sparkles thanks to an effect called aventurescense. Aventurine crystals contain specks of other shiny minerals like mica and hematite that give off glints of red and silver. Aventurine is made into stunning gemstones that come in a variety of colors including green, brown, blue, and peach. Aventurine quartz is thought to hold the key to good luck, and has been a talisman for those who seek extra confidence and good fortune. Aventurine glass is named for the quartz because it, too, contains specks of minerals that cause the glass to shimmer. Glass is combined with copper salts that add an iridescent shine. The glass is colorless: the hues are result of the addition of the minerals. Aventurine glass appears blue, green, and most commonly, a deep, sparkling brown. It was first used to make vases, dishes, and stunning mosaics. Today, it is most commonly used to make beaded jewelry.
Artisans around the world are now skilled at creating aventurine glass. Purists often only consider authentic aventurine to be a product of Italy. Both aventurine quartz and glass are used to make exquisite pieces of jewelry. The quartz is cut into a gemstone and used in earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and rings. Aventurine glass is commonly formed into beads that are strung together to create stunning bracelets and necklaces. Agate is a common crystal used to create a bright, semi-precious gemstone. It is a microcrystalline form of quartz popularized in Greek culture 3000 years ago. The stone was discovered alone the shoreline of the Achates river by the Greek philosopher Theophrastus in the 4th century. It was first commonly used for hardstone carvings. Agate is most commonly found in volcanic rock. Agate is distinctively diverse in color and pattern. Different types of agate have different qualities: some are heavily banded, some boast wide, colorful ribbons, some are adorned with co-centric circles, while others take the appearance of fiery plumes. Agate is a common stone, and is readily available at an affordable price. It comes in every conceivable color due to its unstable chemical properties. The stone’s colors vary according to the slightest changes in chemical composition. No two agate stones are alike. Agate is a relatively hard stone which makes it ideal for jewelry. Since it is a quartz, it is important to make sure not to expose agate to extreme temperatures or harsh chemicals that may alter its own chemical composition. Agate can crack when exposed to sudden cold or heat. Because of the unique details in teach individual agate stone, jewelers will often cut the stones in untraditional shapes to accentuate the patterns and colors of the gem. Agate is also used to form beads to make bracelets and necklaces.
Did you know that you can buy fashion jewelry online made of Aventurine and Agate crystals. One of the best resources of handmade beaded jewelry is Delusha Retails. You may also create on their “Create Your Design” application that allows you to create customize jewelry designs.
About the Author
Deana Esmail is the founder of Delusha Retail. She is know with her beaded jewelry designs and handmade beaded jewelry that is truly fashionable and trendy in all ages. A true fashionista with a twist. She has run the NYC marathon, won awards for her lighting designs in Paris and is a mother of two boys. Born in raised in Denver, Colorado; Deana now lives and works in Valencia, Spain. “Work takes me on travels around the world, so I guess my style is a blend of all the cultures I have had the fortune to experience.”
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