Something Blue

May heralds the beginning of summer in this part of the world so I thought I'd welcome it in with some fresh Summery jewellery using faceted, Austrian crystals in pale sapphire blue. The crystals are the same shade but look slightly different in each photo as the intensity of the blue depends on the light. Both pairs of earrings are perfect for a summer bride or for her bridesmaids. But of course, you don't have to be getting married to treat yourself to these ear candies. You will wear them all year round to any occasion, day or night.

blue crystal and white pearl earrings

The first, 'Yours Forever', is a simpler pair, matching the stunning crystals with white, freshwater pearl and Czech glass seed beads in a baby blue. These dainty earrings are very discreet and suitable to wear to work once the honey moon or summer vacation is over.

Blue crystal and clear topaz earrings

The second 'Yours Truly' are matched with tiny, clear topaz gemstones and solid pewter, hexagonal beads. The wrapping and hooks are a little more elaborate. If you can't decide which you prefer, if your dress is very simple, I'd go for these ones. 

If you are getting married this summer, I wish you every luck on the day and in the future.

Blue chalcedony earrings.  Turquoise dangle earrings.  Blue flash labradorite earrings

Clear Quartz Crystal Earrings.

Crystal, rhinestones and vintage glass earrings are back in vogue in 2014. They are all over the catwalks and cheaper, diamante or  other glass versions are available on the high street. 

clear crystal quartz earrings

Still on my Downton Abbey vibe, but not a fan of too much glitter and sparkle, I've taken my own spin on the style, matching clear quartz crystal stones with lacquered enamel. Much of the Earth's crust is made up of quartz. This comes in many varieties, the most commonly found including amethyst and rose quartz. 

Clear quartz is also known as rock crystal. It is transparent and very beautiful. A rock crystal cluster is often similar in appearance to icicle structures. This glass-like rock has long been used in hard stone carvings. The Lohair crystal on display at the British Museum has been dated to between  AD 855 to 869.

figurine of a child in clear quartz c1500 to 1200 BC, credit Walters Art Museum

The Anatolian figurine of a child was carved in Rock crystal some time between 1500 and 1200 BC. (Acquired by Henry Walters, 1929 and on show in the Walters Art Museum, USA)

Newgrange. Photo sourced on Wikimedia Commons

Clear quatrtz has a long tradition in healing, believed to help all ailments, to aid meditation and to bring clarity, awareness, a sharper mind and to dispel negativity.

In Ireland, clear quartz was used in prehistoric times to carve weapons and artifacts and is found in ancient passage and tomb burial sites such as Newgrange, which at more than 5000 years old predates the pyramids. (See my previous post Winter Solstice Pendant inspired by Newgrange.)

I chose rck crystal for my vintage style earrings for its timeless style. I wanted to include other references to early 20th century jewellery. Lacquered enamel was very popular in the early 1900s through the twenties. for decorative home ware, trinket boxes and also jewellery. These small, 3D enamel beads feature a floral pattern.

My poor photography cannot do these earrings justice. I have been unable to capture the clarity and sparkle. Suitably named 'Ballroom' these elegant beauties will make you the belle of the ball, no matter what the occasion.