Lapis & Gold

With the holidays rapidly approaching, things have really picked up in the studio.  I'll be posting sporadically over the next two months as I try to keep up with things - sorry in advance!

This past weekend, I wrapped up a pair of lovely lapis drops for these earrings...

Peyton Earrings with lapis and gold

From time to time, I thought it would be fun to show pictures of the different gemstones and metals that I use in my jewelry in their "natural state" - before they're cut, polished, heated, etc.  Sort of like a view of each in the wild!  I did some searching and found these beautiful examples of lapis and gold au naturel....

Lazurite from Sar-E-Sang, Kokscha Valley, Badakshan, Afghanistan - Arkenstone

Gold from Colorado Quartz Mine, Mariposa County, California, USA

Gorgeous, huh?  I found both of these specimens on a fabulous site called Arkenstone.  If you're a rock lover like myself, you could search their website all day and never get bored.  Check them out if you get a chance at http://www.irocks.com/index.htm.

Rocks, Minerals & Gems....Oh My!

Ugh, my new shipment of wire was delayed in its arrival through snail mail, so I didn't get any pieces finished (or started) this weekend.  Its nice to take a break every once in a while...or at least that is what I've been telling myself.  Saturday, I got caught up on all the housework that is constantly put off so I can have some quality studio time.  Saturday evening, I felt on top of the world - Super Mom to the rescue.  By 8:00 a.m. Sunday, I was bored as heck!

What's a gal to do!?! When in doubt - Pinterest!  I decided to start a Pinterest board dedicated to my sweet true love - rocks, minerals and gems.  I found some real beauties too!  Check it out if you get a chance - http://pinterest.com/kristinahenning/rocks-minerals-gems/

Here's a sneak peek...

Some lovelies from my Rocks, Minerals & Gems Pinterest Board

I also started a blog on Tumblr - random thoughts.  What am I sharing over there?  Random thoughts in the form of photos of pretty stuff, quotes I like or find inspiring, and my favorite predictions from fortune cookies.  Stop by if you get a chance, I'm at http://kristinahenning.tumblr.com/.