Blue Lace Agate Tranquility

The is no wonder that Blue Lace Agate is associated with calmness, inner peace and tranquility.

Facet Blue Lace Agate Sterling Silver Earrings

Just looking at this beautiful stone reminds me of sitting at the waters edge and being fixated on the rhythm of the waves rolling onto the shore line.

Working with this stone seems to take me forever as I examine each one and somehow find myself just staring through its 'window' as if being transported to another dimension. In my humble opinion, this pair of Blue Lace Agate Earrings are a perfect example of those waves rolling on shore. Beautiful ripples of white and striations of the palest of Periwinkle against a clear backdrop.

Facet Blue Lace Agate Sterling Silver Earrings

Although I enjoy the look of bold earrings, I am not necessarily comfortable with earrings that have too much weight or I can 'feel' all day long. To my delight this exquisite stone is extremely lightweight and wearing this earring was like 'wearing nothing at all' ...which was somewhat liberating in itself!





Blue Lace Agate is one of the rarest and most popular of the agates. This is a calming, uplifting stone which was clearly evident to me during the creation of these wonderful Facet Cut Sterling Earrings. It can be used wherever there is a build up of painful or irritated energy. Wear or carry blue lace agate for peace, happiness and when you feel the need to de-stress...who couldn't use a little of that!

Blue Lace Agate Sterling Silver Ring

Formation and Characteristics (Wikipedia)
Most agates occur as nodules in volcanic rocks or ancient lavas where they represent cavities originally produced by the disengagement of volatiles in the molten mass which were then filled, wholly or partially, by siliceous matter deposited in regular layers upon the walls.

Agate has also been known to fill veins or cracks in volcanic or altered rock underlain by granitic intrusive masses. Such agates, when cut transversely, exhibit a succession of parallel lines, often of extreme tenuity, giving a banded appearance to the section. Such stones are known as banded agate, riband agate and striped agate evident in this extraordinary Blue Lace Agate Sterling Silver Ring.

Deposits

Sources of agate are Russia (Ural mountains), Brazil, Eygpt, Germany, India, Italy, Madagascar, Mexico, Uruguay and the USA (Oregon, Washington, Idaho, Minnesota and Montana).


To see our offerings of this wonderful stone, Search 'Blue Lace'
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The Love Stone

Rhodochrosite....The Love Stone
is a very attractive mineral with an absolutely one-of-a-kind, beautiful color. Although it can be an ore of manganese, it is its ornamental and display specimen qualities that make it a very popular mineral. The color of a single crystal can just astound the observer with its vivid pink-rose color that seems to be transmitted out of the crystal as if lit from within.

There are many localities for Rhodochrosite that are of great renown. Rhodochrosite is commonly found in the form of stalactites and stalagmites in the caves of Argentina. Rhodochrosite (whose name means rose-colored) often forms pink and white bands. It is often carved into figurines or boxes while the tubular stalactite formations are often sliced for use in jewelry. Fine gem quality crystals are sometimes cut into gemstones for use in high end jewelry, but the more common grade is used extensively in silver and gold jewelry.

Another excellent locality for Rhodochrosite is the Sweet Home Mine in Colorado. It is unmatched for its superb Rhodochrosite crystals that exhibit the best features of the species; a fine bright rose color and sharp well formed crystals. Some specimens from here are quite large and of world class distinction.

Folklore, Legend, and Healing Properties
Its powers include drawing love to the wearer, helps release past psychological issues and improves eyesight. Rhodochrosite is thought to relieve stress and is used by healers to cleanse the aura.

Rhodochrosite is also believed to help in the development of inner freedom by helping to resolve inner conflicts and as a stone of love and balance. It is a powerful healer for the 4th Chara and used to cleanse the heart Chara.

Many believe that it can release the suffering based on past lives and energize the pancreas, spleen and kidney. It increases the ability to handle life problems and increase personal self-confidence. The Incas, who called it Inca Rose, believed that Rhodochrosite is the blood of their former kings and queens that were turned to stone.

To view this beautiful set and see other Rhodochrosite treasures visit our website at FourCornersUSAonline

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Symbolism of Feathers

Feathers are an important symbol of the Native American Indian way of life. It is used to represent freedom, power, wisdom, honor, trust, strength, and much more. Feathers were seen in wardrobes, headpieces, adorning their homes, and tattooed on their bodies.

The Native American feather was given as a sign of respect and honor. Native American who had a personal accomplishment or achieved something great for the tribe was often given feathers by chiefs or elders as a symbol of strength. The Native American with the most feathers in his headdress is usually the chief.

One must complete a brave deed in order to be given one of these feathers. For example, coming back from battle after conquering the enemy or returning from a hunt with food for the tribe would most likely earn a Native American feather. The feather could only be worn once the Indian has retold their story of bravery in front of an assembled tribal court.

Being given a feather of any kind was considered a gift. However, the feathers of Bald and Golden Eagles are considered the most prestigious. This is because Native Americans believe that because these eagles soar so high in the air they have a connection with the heavens. Eagles are believed to be sent by the gods. Eagles are the most important of all Native American feathers, because they are supposed to be the superior species of bird.

Once a Native American feather is given to a tribesman it must be displayed proudly. It can be hung in the home, or attached to an article of clothing. It is considered disrespectful to place the feather somewhere it can not be seen.

The individual in possession of the Native American feather is also responsible for it well being. It must be cared for and kept out of harms way. It should be seen a s a daily reminder of how one should behave. It should be kept clean and never touch the ground for any reason.






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The Four Directions

Among Navajo Culture, a child's first Teaching is of the Four Directions as most commonly illustrated in the Medicine Wheel. To the North is found Wisdom; the South is Innocence and Trust; the West is the Looks-Within Place; the East is the Place of Illumination, where we can see things clearly.

"At birth, each of us is given a particular Beginning Place within these Four Great Directions. This Starting Place gives us our first way of perceiving things, which will then be our easiest and most natural way throughout our lives. But any person who perceives from only one of these Four Great Directions will remain a partial man." - from The Seven Arrows by Hyemeyohsts Storm

For the Cherokee

The Medicine Wheel is representative of American Indian Spirituality. The Medicine Wheel symbolizes the individual journey we each must take to find our own path. Within the Medicine Wheel are The Four Cardinal Directions and the Four Sacred Colors. The Circle represents the Circle of Life and the Center of the Circle, the Eternal Fire. The Eagle, flying toward the East, is a symbol of strength, endurance and vision. East signifies the renewal of life and the rebirth of Cherokee unity.

Peace through your Journey!

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simply search DIRECTIONS

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Turquoise, Birthstone of December

Turquoise is one of the official Birthstones for the month of December as adopted by the American National Association of Jewelers in 1912 and the accepted gem for the fifth and eleventh wedding anniversaries. Turquoise is also the Planetary stone for Aquarius, Taurus and Sagittarius.

A sacred stone for the North American Indians as well as the Tibetans, it is often used by shamans in rituals and ceremonies. It is said to promote mental and spiritual clarity and expansion and to enhance wisdom, trust, kindness and understanding.

Turquoise is a valuable mineral and is one of the most valuable non-transparent minerals used in the jewelry trade. It has been mined by early Egyptians since at least 6000 BC. Most specimens are crypto-crystalline, meaning that the crystals can only be seen by a microscope. The finest Turquoise has come from Iran but is challenged by some southwestern United States specimens. Poorer quality Turquoise is often dyed or color stabilized with coatings of various resins. Stabilization (without color enhancement) is an accepted treatment for cutting cabochons and inlay work as it hardens the mineral and helps with body oil absorption.

The name Turquoise originated in the thirteenth century and describes one of the oldest known gemstones. The name comes from a French expression 'Pierre tourques' or 'Turkish stone', apparently related to the fact that is was brought to Europe from the Eastern Mediterranean by Levantine traders, more commonly known as Turks. Turquoise has been used as a valuable ornament for ages and was used by the Egyptians thousands of years ago. The Aztecs mined Turquoise in an area now known as New Mexico; and in addition, a significant amount of Turquoise comes from Arizona, California and Nevada as well.

The color is, of course, turquoise, but its range of color varies from green and greenish blue to sky blue shades. Hardness of the stone ranges between 5 - 6. The color can change with exposure to skin oils if the stone has not been stabilized and therefore, jewelry should be wiped clean to deter this.

Folklore, Legend and Healing Properties

Turquoise is the ultimate healing stone, providing solace for the spirit and well-being for the body. It is a protective stone and has been used since ancient times. Native Americans call Turquoise the 'Sky Stone' and believe it is both male and female gender. Blue turquoise being male as in 'Father Sky' and green turquoise being female as in 'Mother Earth'. Some properties of Turquoise are spiritual atonement, cleansing, healing, protection, valor, soothing, peace of mind, guidance through the unknown, romantic spontaneity.

Turquoise is sacred to many Native American's and was carved in the shape of animals and birds. These carvings were placed in the Indians tombs to attract beneficial spirits and to guard the dead. Turquoise was also used by medicine men for healing and by warriors who fixed Turquoise to the end of their bows to insure accurate shots.

Dry Creek 'Sacred White Buffalo' Turquoise

Dry Creek Turquoise has gained much popularity with its creamy pale blue coloring and golden brown matrix. The Dry Creek Turquoise mine in Nevada was first discovered during the early 1990's by the Shoshone Indians. The Shoshone are not typically jewelry makers and had privately leased the mining rights on a limited basis or used the stone as trade.

Although there is some dispute over 'White' Turquoise (which we agree), it is a beautiful stone and popular amongst traditional and contemporary Native American silversmiths. White Buffalo was discovered in western Utah at the farthest edge of the Dry Creek Turquoise vein. This is likely the reason why many refer to it as 'turquoise'.

Boulder or Ribbon Turquoise

Boulder Turquoise also called Ribbon Turquoise is simply when a stone cutter takes natural Vein Turquoise (Turquoise in its natural host rock) and cuts in the direction to create the vein going through the rock like a ribbon or splotches of turquoise in the host rock like a Boulder Opal.

Most of the Boulder Turquoise is found in the famous Royston and Pilot Mountain Mines in Nevada. The reason Boulder Turquoise is sometimes called Ribbon Turquoise is because the turquoise is a "ribbon" that arcs through rich brown boulder stones. The uniqueness of the Turquoise patterns that map through beautiful and varied brown boulder stones really gives Boulder Turquoise jewelry its own distinctive flair.

This is such a stunning set to me...the pendant is gorgeous with the Turquoise practically glowing against the neutral background! I decided after several variations that monotone was definitely the direction for this beaded necklace. Natural Fossil Coral and Facet Optical Cat's Eye accented with Sterling Silver to pick up the high polished Silver in the pendant. Beads will be finished with a Sterling Silver Lobster Clasp closure.

This piece is customized to a length of your preference (we have chosen a range of lengths suitable to the size of the pendant). Please do not hesitate to contact us should you need further assistance.

Native American Indian Handmade Boulder Turquoise Sterling Silver Pendant. Pendant measures 1 and 3/4 of an inch from the top of the bail to the bottom of the pendant by 1 inch wide. Navajo silversmith Hallmark "P. Skeets" - "Peggy Skeets".

We invite you to explore our complete catalog at http://stores.fourcornersusaonline.com/StoreFront.bok

Happy Birthday to all the December Babies!

Boulder and Ribbon Turquoise of Nevada

The natural beauty of Boulder Turquoise is just stunning to me...I LOVE the way the brilliant blue 'pops' against the host rock!

Commonly referred to Boulder Turquoise comes from the revered Pilot Mountain and Royston Turquoise Mines in Nevada. Boulder Turquoise is simply when a stone cutter takes natural vein Turquoise (Turquoise in its natural host rock) and cuts in the direction to create the vein going through the rock like a ribbon or splotches of Turquoise in the host rock maintaining much of the host rock.

Boulder Turquoise will sometimes be referred to as Ribbon Turquoise. The 'Ribbon' is simply when the lapidary obtains that 'sliver' of Turquoise against the stone creating a Ribbon effect.

The uniqueness of the Turquoise patterns that map through beautiful and varied brown boulder stones really gives Boulder or Ribbon Turquoise jewelry its own distinctive flair.

As you can see the color of the host stone can vary and truthfully, I have yet to decide which I like best...they both have such a unique and different look!

These are fine examples of the color variance you will see in Boulder and Ribbon Turquoise. Just because there is a lot of 'host' rock with the Turquoise doesn't make it what you might think it is ...that is Boulder or Ribbon Turquoise ...it can just mean a less desirable cut (although it may be beautiful in its own right). I warn this only because I found a lovely strand of graduated beads called 'Boulder Turquoise' and it was a nice color but definitely NOT from any American Turquoise Mines.

Wow...look at the way the Turquoise seems to 'glow'!










To see our full collection of Boulder and Ribbon Turquoise, browse our on-line catalog at
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Dry Creek 'Sacred White Buffalo' Turquoise

Dry Creek Turquoise has gained much popularity with its creamy pale blue coloring and golden brown matrix. The Dry Creek Turquoise mine in Nevada was first discovered during the early 1990's by the Shoshone Indians. The Shoshone are not typically jewelry makers and had privately leased the mining rights on a limited basis or used the stone as trade.

Although there is some dispute over 'White' Turquoise (which we agree), it is a beautiful stone and popular amongst traditional and contemporary Native American silversmiths. White Buffalo was discovered in western Utah at the farthest edge of the Dry Creek Turquoise vein. This is likely the reason why many refer to it as 'turquoise'.





Mineralogist state it lacks any metal in its composition (which gives turquoise color). Blue turquoise forms where there is copper present (most Arizona turquoise). Green turquoise forms where iron is present (most Nevada turquoise).


We actually have had some specimens from the middle of this vein where you can see just a hint of color into cream with beautiful golden brown matrix. Either way, the stone is beautiful with its striking black & white contrast and to my knowledge this is the only vein in the world.

Do not confuse White Buffalo with Howlite (white with gray matrix and much lighter in density) which is beautiful and desirable in its own right but considerably less in value than White Buffalo. We have sadly seen unscrupulous dealers presenting Howlite as 'White Turquoise'.

To confuse matters further, there is a magnesite mined in the Gila region of New Mexico commonly referred to as Crazy Horse or Wild Horse. Whether misguided or misinformed, we have seen sellers call this and Australian Magnesite (creamy whitish beige with brown spider matrix often used as the base for Turquoise color dyed beads/pendants) 'White Turquoise' as well.


The Dry Creek Turquoise Mine has been in legal dispute for some time and (at the time of this posting) is still closed with remaining rough not released into the market.


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