OK, so I finally cut my strand of black rutilated (not to be confused with the tourmalinated variety which contains different mineral deposits) quartz today. It wasn't traumatic... in fact I intend to cut into a few more strands soon. Picked out one with some coppery tinges and paired it with my last faceted olive topaz brio for a simple lariat in 14K goldfill (pictured left below). This 3-footer is the longest lariat I've ever made, but it can be worn in so many different ways. And well, if you know me, you know I love any kind of contrast or asymmetry - these gems exhibit precisely that.


As for the earrings, I've had the London blue topaz brios for a long time and this was my last pair. LBT is, I think, one of those few gemstones that actually work well with either white or yellow metal and just manages to always look expensive. So here's a set in 14K goldfill, something I've not made before.

Both items are now available in my Etsy shop (only one piece each).