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For those who were born in the month of December the Turquoise is the traditional birthstone. Turquoise, a copper aluminium phosphate is found, crystallized in veins and nodules in weathered igneous rock, that contain copper minerals. "The colour of the sky" blue associated with the turquoise was a favoured gem in Victorian jewellery. Social, religious and biblical symbolism was reflected in the turquoise which is found in various shades of blue-green through to green and yellowish gray, depending on the iron content. It is considered by some to bring good fortune and success, a symbol of prosperity to its wearer. A relatively soft gemstone, turquoise can be easily scratched and broken. The porous opacity is easily discoloured by oils and the stone changes colour when it dehydrates. Some varieties are impregnated with substances to stabilise the stone and give it good polish.  The name is said to originate from "pierre turquoise", French for ...

                                             November Birthstones - Topaz and Citrine I love working with gemstones. The beads have such a lustrous quality and when you've created a piece of jewellery, you have something timeless and beautiful to wear. November's primary birthstone is Topaz. Often confused with Citrine, the secondary November birthstone, because they are both a beautiful golden colour. Topaz does however come in other colours, from the rare oranges, reds and pinks to the light greens, blues and colourless. Topaz is said to bring health and wealth and protect the wearer against danger. The stone symbolizes fidelity and is the Zodiac gem for Sagittarius. Citrine is said to stimulate mental focus and endurance. It aids in manifestation work and abundance. Pictured here are examples of some beaded jewellery found at The Crystal Cave. Bl...