Yep. it's the only way to describe a trip to Tucson for the once a year Gem Shows event. I use the plural for shows because there are virtually 43 different shows during this 3 week time frame (late January through mid February) Each show highlights different products. Some specialize in tools and equipment, while others are known for their precious gems. Even more feature … [Read more...]
Malachite Madness
I am quite obsessed with the rich green color of malachite. Of course it helps that malachite and copper belong together. In fact you will find them both in the same mines. Moreover, Malachite is considered a copper bearing mineral. What I love most are the concentric circle inclusions normally found in this gem. Each stone is different. [tweet_box design="box_01" … [Read more...]
The Gallery Collection by Alene Geed
Over the years I have experimented with and designed a multitude of jewelry pieces. Since I do a lot of work in copper, most of my designs fall into the 'moderately priced' category. Yet sometimes I will come across an unusual gemstone that screams.. "Mount me in something spectacular"! Not wanting to disappoint the gem... I figure out how to make it even more special and … [Read more...]
I am Crazy About Cabochons!
I know what you are thinking now... What IS a cabochon and why would someone be crazy about them? [tweet_dis_img][/tweet_dis_img]Here's the simple answer to both those questions. A cabochon is a gemstone that is highly polished, raised and rounded but not faceted. It features a flat bottom. The word is derived from the middle French 'caboche' meaning head. Now for the other … [Read more...]
Vibrant Malachite: Legends and Fascinating Tidbits
Malachite is the rich deep green gemstone that is often seen in Southwestern Designs. It is always found mined with copper.... which is why you often find malachite settings in copper. The two are just meant for each other. Malachite is derived from the Greek malakos, meaning soft. This gemstone is one of the softer stones so it needs to be set into pieces that won't … [Read more...]