More and more I’ve noticed both designers and jewelry shop curators are looking for the unusual and unique. Even I surprised myself lately at what jewelry pieces stand out to me–the ones often made with unconventional gemstones. I found myself glancing over the white diamonds and pausing for the large geodes, bold turquoise, fiery opals, and green malachite. Let’s take a look at some examples of this unusual gemstone trend–do you like what you see?
These earrings have two rather unknown gemstones–Chrysoberyl and Criolite. Criolite, often spelled Cryolite, is pretty rare–not only in jewelry making but in actual mineral form. Designed by Mallary Marks, these earrings are done in yellow gold with bezel set pear-shaped Chrysoberyl. Price: $1440 from Twist.
Unique in more ways than one–the gemstones used to make this pendant are rock crystal and smokey quartz. This piece is an antique dating back to around 1880! Although you can’t tell from the above angle, the beetle is standing on top of the rock crystal, not inside of it. For full details, including more photos of this pendant, check out The Three Graces. Price: $1350
Love the crystal shape of these Oro Verde gemstone earrings designed by Renee Garvey. This designer always creates some amazing, very organic jewelry. These earrings are no exception, done in 14k yellow gold wire. Price: $150 from Ylang|23
Geodes have hit the jewelry scene with such high popularity this year. From the red carpet, to celeb casual looks, to Oprah’s ear lobes, we’ve seen Kimberly McDonald’s designs find their home on trend-alert pages of magazines. The sparkle of geodes is like no other–very different from a diamond sparkle. And who could resist? This is one of Kimberly McDonald’s ring designs, check her website for buying locations.
Arthur August 5, 2011 at 7:31 am:
Nice Article. As a fan of rare Gemstones it is one of the most interesting ones.
ichaseallday January 7, 2012 at 1:30 pm:
Rebecca Collins started using Geodes, raw minerals and stones in her jewelry 40 years ago!