Anita's Bead Blog

Plain Kumihimo

2012-01-23T07:53:00.000-08:00

I can't get enough Kumihimo these days. More and more people are getting into it. I'm certainly doing my bit at Anita's Beads! I always have a project going so I can demonstrate at the counter. If you are a fan of this popular type of braiding from Japan and you need supplies, or if you have been thinking about giving it a try, make sure to visit.

I've noticed that my Kumihimo Bracelet Sampler photo, recently added to my Tumblr and pinned a few times by others on Pinterest, has been directing traffic to this blog. Today's photo (can you tell I have cats?) illustrates what can be achieved with one simple color of cord: 1mm cotton/rayon (blue), Japanese waxed cotton (mauve), and 2mm Supreme cotton (black).

Kumihimo with Tex-400 Macrame Cord

2012-01-12T06:19:00.000-08:00

Anita's Beads is now stocking Tex-400 macrame cord in 22 colors. It comes on spools like S-Lon, and it is about twice as thick. There are 35 yards to the spool as opposed to the 77 yards you get with S-Lon. It is available in fewer colors than S-Lon but the colors match the S-Lon line.

This is one of my favorite necklaces. (Some day I may even finish it!) It combines Czech glass beads (knotted with spaces in between like my Illusion Necklaces) on 8 strands of Tex-400 cord. I cut long strands so that after all the strands were knotted I could tie them together after the beads and braid both sides (one at a time) in my small kumihimo disc. I will end by gluing on 4mm barrel caps once I decide how long I want my finished necklace to be.

I made the second version (displayed at the top of the page) in green. This one combines 6 strands of Tex-400 cord with 2 strands of S-Lon. The 5mm round turquoise-green beads had holes too small for Tex-400. When I braided the ends, I mixed in some more of the 5mm beads on the S-Lon cord, leaving the Tex-400 strands plain.

The kumihimo braid on the far right of this last photo was done on Tex-400 with small Antique Copper beads on one strand only added every other turn.

Kumihimo with 3mm Faceted Firepolish

2012-01-09T11:09:00.000-08:00

Kumihimo, or Japanese braiding, is my favorite new method for making beaded bracelets. I have recently begun a series made with 3mm faceted Czech firepolished beads strung on S-Lon cord. The photo above shows my first 3mm firepolish creation, the light aquamarine bracelet second from the bottom.

I use my small round kumihimo disc and make an 8-strand round braid. For a bracelet I cut four 2-yard pieces of S-Lon cord and then fold them in half to get eight strands. Each strand carries about 5 inches of beads (approx. 42). After I string on the beads by hand (the holes in these 3mm beads are not large enough to accommodate a needle) I wind the excess cord onto a bobbin to keep the beads from sliding off the cord. The beads themselves are not wound around the bobbin but sit just above it, below the kumihimo disc.

Because I plan to end my bracelet with antiqued silver tulip caps, I have attached a piece of 20 gauge silver-plated wire to the beginning of my braid by running all the cords through a small wire-wrapped loop. I make one rotation of braiding on my wheel with cord only to secure the wire. Then I slide up one bead each time I bring up a cord.

The loop of wire will be hidden in the cap. The tail of straight wire that comes through the top of the cap will be used to form another wire-wrapped loop securing my clasp. On the second side I will form just a loop, one large enough to clasp to.

Anita's Beads offers Czech faceted firepolished beads by the hank in a wide variety of colors. One hank is enough to make one and one-half bracelets. My plan is to make two different plain bracelets and use my extra beads to combine the colors in a spiral pattern on a third bracelet.

Winter Hours at Anita's Beads

2012-01-06T12:16:00.000-08:00

Anita's Beads is open 10-5 / Closed on Tuesday and Wednesday.

Anita's Beads Open 7 Days

2011-12-09T16:57:00.000-08:00

Anita's Beads will be open 7 days a week from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. through New Years Day.

Take advantage of our Holiday Sales:

All Jewelry 10% Off

All Toad Hollow Minerals 50% Off

(Sale Ends Sunday January 1, 2012 at 5 p.m.)

After the holidays we will revert back to regular Winter Hours: Open 10-5; Closed Tue. & Wed.

Rayon/Cotton Color Chart - Kumihimo

2011-12-09T12:00:00.000-08:00

Available colors include:

A - Antique Gold
B - Gold
C - Camel
D - Medium Brown
E - Silver

F - Dark Green
G - Apple Green
H - Mint Green
I - Dark Olive
J - Turquoise [not pictured]
K - Avocado

L - Williamsburg Blue
M - Navy Blue
N - Royal Blue
O - Teal
P - Gallant Blue

Q - Purple
R - Lavender
S - Plum
T - Mauve
U - Shocking Pink

V - Wine
W - Red
X - Rust
Y - Peach
Z - Luggage

aa - Black [not pictured]
bb - White [not pictured]
cc - Ivory [not pictured]
dd - Coffee [not pictured]
ee - Dark Gray [not pictured]

Our high quality 1mm Rayon/Cotton cord is made in USA. Purchase by the yard, by the 70-yard spool, or by the package. Each package contains four 3-yard lengths (in your choice of up to four colors) to make a 24-inch 8-cord round Kumihimo braid.

Place your order by telephone at 603-522-6529. Visa and Mastercard are accepted. Email Anita to request a Kumihimo Supply Price List.

Advanced Kumihimo Sundays

2011-12-09T06:09:00.000-08:00

Two Advanced Kumihimo Drop-In classes have been scheduled: Sunday December 11th and Sunday December 18th beginning at 9:30 am. Stop by Anita's Beads and learn how to do Japanese braiding with beads. A $25. fee includes instruction and all materials to make a kumihimo braided bracelet using S-Lon cord decorated with size 8/0 Japanese seed beads.

You will receive: 1 mini kumihimo braiding disc, 1 spool of S-Lon cord in the color of your choice (there are 50 different colors to choose from), one 22 gram tube of Miyuki size 8/0 seed beads, a set of 8 bobbins, findings (barrel endings, jump rings and a toggle clasp), and a tube of glue to attach the endings to your completed braid.

You should be familiar with the basic creation of the 8-strand round braid before learning how to create a braid decorated with seed beads. Beginners should attend our Beginning Kumihimo Drop-In class to start.

This invitation to learn beaded braiding is also extended to those who have recently purchased kumihimo materials at Anita's Beads. You are welcome to join us. Contact Anita at 603-522-6529 for more information.

Beginning Kumihimo Saturdays

2011-12-06T12:09:00.000-08:00

Three Beginning Kumihimo Drop-In classes have been scheduled: Saturday December 10th, Saturday December 17th, and Saturday December 31st beginning at 9:30 am. Stop by Anita's Beads and learn how to do Japanese braiding. A $25. fee includes instruction and all materials to make a 24-inch round braid from 1mm Rayon/Cotton ("rat-tail") cord.

You will receive: 1 large round braiding disc, 12 yards of Rayon/Cotton cord in the color(s) of your choice (there are 30 different colors to choose from), a set of 8 bobbins, findings (barrel endings, jump rings and a toggle clasp), and a tube of glue to attach the endings to your completed braid.

Once you become familiar with the basic creation of the 8-strand round braid, learn how to create a braid decorated with seed beads. We will be covering this technique in our Advanced Kumihimo Drop-In classes.

This invitation to learn basic 8-cord braiding is also extended to those who have recently purchased kumihimo materials at Anita's Beads. You are welcome to join us. Contact Anita at 603-522-6529 for more information.

Back To Normal

2011-11-28T11:55:00.000-08:00

The roofing project is finished and things are back to normal at Anita's Beads. We've been demonstrating Kumihimo or Japanese braiding to everyone who comes in. Once our next order of supplies arrives we will begin the Saturday morning drop-in classes again.

We will post more information as soon as Mr. UPS pays us a visit!

Repairs!

2011-10-21T06:27:00.000-07:00

Anita's Beads is getting a new roof and will be closed on Friday October 21st. There will be additional closures until the project is completed so call ahead and check status before you come out. The phone number is 603-522-6529.

We will be open regular hours (10-5) on Saturday Oct. 22nd and Sunday Oct. 23rd.

Kumihimo Class Saturday and Sunday

2011-09-30T11:50:00.000-07:00

Bobbins and other kumihimo supplies are in! Drop in at Anita's Beads Saturday or Sunday morning at 9 a.m. and join us for a beginning kumihimo class. A materials fee of $25. will cover all of the tools and supplies that you will need to make a 20 to 24 inch necklace braid. Our sample above illustrates only one of many color combinations that you can choose from. In addition to your braid, you take with you a set of eight bobbins, Zap Jewelry Gel, and Kumihimo disc for future braiding projects.

Kumihimo is a popular form of Japanese braiding. We will be making a basic 8-strand braid to introduce this ancient craft. Hope you can join us. Contact Anita at 603-522-6529 for more information.

History of Alphabet Beads

2011-09-26T09:44:00.000-07:00

This morning I discovered this image of an Infant Identification Kit manufactured by Deknatel.

And then I found Deknatel's advertisement in The Modern Hospital magazine from June 1922. I'm wondering what's up with all of those little blue beads. There should be pink ones for the little girls, don't you think?

New Kumihimo Books

2011-09-21T16:23:00.000-07:00

We've added Karen DeSousa's latest book, Braiding with Beads On the Kumihimo Disc. It is the third in her popular series which also includes Necklaces Braided On the Kumihimo Disc, and More Necklaces Braided On the Kumihimo Disc.

Also on our shelf is Braiding for Beaders; Second Edition by Anne Dilker. Here she is on Youtube giving a Kumihimo demonstration.

New Kumihimo Discs

2011-09-21T16:06:00.000-07:00

A shipment of Kumihimo supplies has arrived! Three sizes of braiding discs are now in stock: round, mini round, and square (for flat braids).

The mini round is perfect for braiding thinner cords, like our new Tex-400 cord. About twice the thickness of S-Lon, Tex-400 comes in 35 yard spools and is available in 24 colors. It is thin enough for stringing Czech beads.

Stop in and see my latest modification of the Illusion Necklace strung on Tex-400 cord. I've done an 8-strand version which transitions into Kumihimo braided cord ends around a center of beads. Kits will be available soon!

Online Color Challenge

2011-09-19T11:56:00.000-07:00

I want to share this great color acuity test. Perfect score is zero. Low is 99. My score was 16. I'm off to try again! (Color matching wheel available at Anita's Beads).

Some improvement on the second try. My score was 11.

Kumihimo Braiding

2011-09-09T05:31:00.000-07:00

I was introduced to Kumihimo, the art of Japanese braiding, over a year ago by a friend from South Africa. The idea took some time to incubate but a few weeks ago I decided to order the necessary supplies and finally try it for myself.

Now I am totally hooked! I started with 1mm cotton/rayon cord (usually referred to as "rat tail" cord) in two tones of green plus coffee and gold to make the basic round 8-cord braid. In the photos above you can see that my first braid is slightly irregular. For my next braid I used green only, dark green (6 cords) and chartreuse (2 cords), and then made one with coffee (6 cords) accented with gold (2 cords).

After that I needed more colors of course so I increased my selection to the twenty shown below. I made a 2-tone blue braid, followed by a teal version. I have a few more color combinations to explore before I branch out into cords of different thickness and texture. The addition of beads will allow endless modification as well!

As soon as I receive a back-ordered shipment of supplies, I will be offering Saturday morning Kumihimo classes. Stay tuned for the notification here, as well as future posts on Kumihimo books and findings.

New Metal Beads and Bead Caps

2011-08-05T15:24:00.000-07:00

Check out our new shipment of metal beads and bead caps. I especially like the stars and the spirals! All are available in your choice of antique silver, gold, or antique copper in 8-inch strands. Another favorite is the new large oval cone end which are available in pack of two. Below is a sample with the antique silver finish.

August Illusion Necklace Classes

2011-08-05T06:45:00.000-07:00

If you have been thinking about learning to make our cool Czech Glass Illusion Necklaces, you have two opportunities in August. Classes have been scheduled for Saturday August 6th and Saturday August 13th from 9-10 am. Bring a friend and save. The regular fee of $15. per person is reduced to $12. each for you and a friend. Call Anita at 603-522-6529 or send an email to make a reservation for either class.

More Illusions - Two Dates

2011-07-19T12:47:00.001-07:00

If you missed last Saturday's Illusion Necklace class, here's your chance to take it on Saturday July 23rd or Saturday July 30th from 9-10 am. Bring a friend and save. The regular fee of $15. per person is reduced to $12. each for you and a friend. Call Anita at 603-522-6529 or send an email to make a reservation.

I have become totally addicted to making these necklaces now that I've discovered how fantastic they looked worn layered in multiples!

Visit Anita's Beads for a colorful variety of Czech Glass beads. Beads sized between 6mm and 8mm work well for the Illusion Necklace. We also stock 48 different colors of cord, in addition to finishing kits to complete your project. (Color Charts: Part 1 & Part 2. I will put up Part 3 in a future post.)

Illusion Necklace Class

2011-07-13T08:15:00.000-07:00

Visit Anita's Beads on Saturday July 16th at 9 a.m. for the first in a series of Summer Classes. This session will be a drop-in class so there is no need to pre-register. The class will run for one hour, and the fee is $15. per person, all materials included. There will also be all necessary tools on hand for you to use.

We will be making 25-bead Czech glass Illusion Necklaces. In the class you will learn: knotting between beads, spacing knots evenly, application of fold-over ends, how to open and close jump rings, and the use of a head pin to create a dangle.

This same class will be scheduled on other days and times throughout the summer so watch this blog for further announcements.

Instructions for Anita's Daily Bracelet

2011-07-12T12:39:00.000-07:00

Your Daily Bracelet Bead Kit contains:

Bracelet beads
Dangle beads
Seed beads (you will have extra)

Your Daily Bracelet Metal Kit contains:

1.5-inch 24 gauge headpins (Quantity=40)
2.75-inch 22 gauge half-hard round wire pieces (Quantity=10)
3mm Bali-style heishi spacers (Quantity=60)
13mm lobster clasp (Quantity=1)
7mm soldered jump ring (Quantity=1)
3mm round cable chain (Quantity=1.5 inches)

You will need the following tools to complete your bracelet:

Round-nose pliers
Chain-nose pliers
Wire cutters

STEPS 1-6: CREATE THE DANGLES

Step 1 - Assemble four dangles for each bracelet bead. Daily Bracelets No. 1, 6-10, 12, 14, 16, 18-20, 24, 27, 28, and 34-38 all have 10 bracelet beads/40 dangles. Daily Bracelets No. 3, 4, 11, 25, 30-33, 39, and 42-44 all have 9 bracelet beads/36 dangles. Daily Bracelets No. 2 and 13 have 8 bracelet beads/32 dangles. Daily Bracelets No. 17, 21-23, 40, and 41 all have 7 bracelet beads/28 dangles. On each of the required number (40, 36, 32 or 28) of headpins, add (in order) one seed bead, one dangle bead, and one metal heishi spacer bead. Note: Refer to the photograph of your Daily Bracelet on Anita's Daily Bracelet Blog as you work. Click the photograph for an enlarged view.

Step 2 - Bend one assembled headpin to a 90-degree angle using chain-nose pliers. Pinch the headpin wire just above the metal heishi spacer bead with the TIP of the chain-nose pliers and bend the remaining top section of the wire 90 degrees. The portion of the wire held in the tip of the pliers is the SPACE which will allow you to make three wire WRAPs (3 complete turns) to close the LOOP which will be make in Step 3. The straight piece remaining after the bend is the TAIL.

Step 3 - Turn a LOOP using the round-nose pliers. Position the wire near the tip of the round-nose pliers so a small LOOP will be made. (Make note of this position and use it for all of your dangles so the LOOPs will be of uniform size.) Pinch the wire TAIL just after the bend. With the round-nose pliers in a vertical position (viewed straight on the tips of the pliers will look like this: 8) bend the TAIL up and over the top and then down until it forms a partial Loop. When the TAIL touches the other wire and you cannot wrap it any further, slide the wire off of the top of the pliers and move it to the bottom. Now you can continue wrapping the TAIL around until it forms a complete LOOP.

Step 4 - Using your chain-nose pliers, grasp the LOOP across two wires for a secure hold. With your other hand bend the remaining TAIL around the space which remains between the LOOP and the metal heishi. It should take approximately 3 WRAPS to fill the space.

Step 5 - Using your wire-cutters, clip off the excess wire TAIL that remains, cutting as close to the WRAPs as possible. If a small snag is left, you can push it close to the WRAP with the tips of your chain-nose pliers.

Step 6 - Repeat Steps 2 through 5 to complete the remaining dangles.

STEPS 7-10: FORM FIRST LOOP ON BRACELET WIRES

Step 7 - Using your chain-nose pliers, grasp one piece wire at a point one-third from the end and bend the wire in a 90-degree angle to form the shape of the letter L. Note: One of the wires in your kit has already been bent and looped as a sample.

Step 8 - Using your round-nose pliers, grasp the wire by the short section just at the bend. You will need to make a LOOP which is approximately 2mm in diameter (like your sample) so you will be grasping further back on you round-nose pliers in comparison to where you formed the LOOPs on your dangles. (A larger LOOP is required to give your dangles room to move around once the bracelet is assembled.) With the round-nose pliers again in the vertical position (8) bend the TAIL up and over the top and down until it forms a partial LOOP. When the TAIL touches the other wire, slide the wire off of the top of the pliers and move it to the bottom. Now you can continue wrapping the TAIL around until it forms a complete LOOP.

Step 9 - Repeat steps 7 and 8 until you have one wire for each of your bracelet beads. The number will vary depending on which bracelet you are making. See: Step 1.

STEPS 10-18: CREATE THE BRACELET

Step 10 - With your chain-nose pliers, open the LOOP of one piece of wire enough to slide on one dangle, then the ring of your lobster clasp, and then another dangle. Close the LOOP with your chain-nose pliers.

Step 11 - Using your chain-nose pliers, grasp the LOOP across two wires for a secure hold. With your other hand, grasp the TAIL and wrap it around one complete turn. Trim off the remainder of the TAIL close to the wrap with your wire-cutters. You should have what resembles an eye pin with a closed LOOP holding your clasp with a dangle on each side of the clasp.

Step 12 - Add a heishi spacer, followed by a bracelet bead, and then another heishi spacer to the wire. Then bend the wire 90 degrees with your chain-nose pliers directly after the second heishi bead. There should be no space between the heishi and the bend in the wire because you will only be wrapping the TAIL once after forming another LOOP.

Step 13 - Using your round-nose pliers, grasp the wire just at the bend. You will make a second LOOP which is approximately 2mm in diameter (matching the size of your first LOOP). With the round-nose pliers in a vertical position (8) bend the TAIL up and over the top and down, forming a partial LOOP. When the TAIL touches the other wire, slide the wire off of the top of the round-nose pliers and move it to the bottom. Now you can continue wrapping the TAIL until it forms a complete LOOP.

Step 14 - With your chain-nose pliers, open the LOOP you just made enough to slide on one dangle, the the first link of your length of chain, and then another dangle. Close the LOOP with your chain-nose pliers.

Step 15 - Using your chain-nose pliers, grasp the LOOP across two wires for a secure hold. With your other hand, bend the remaining TAIL around to form one complete WRAP. Trim off the remainder of the TAIL close to the WRAP with your wire cutters. Then cut the second link of chain (leaving a single link attached to your bracelet) by cutting first one side of the second link and then the other side. You now have the first bracelet UNIT with four dangles and a link of chain to which you will attach another piece of wire.

Step 16 - With your chain-nose pliers, open the LOOP of another piece of wire. Add one dangle to the LOOP, then slide the LOOP onto the piece of chain attached to the previous bracelet UNIT. Add a second dangle and then close the LOOP with your chain-nose pliers.

Step 17 - Using your chain-nose pliers, grasp the LOOP across two wires for a secure hold. With your other hand, bend the remaining TAIL around to form one complete WRAP. Trim off the remainder of the TAIL close to the WRAP with your cutters. You should again have what resembles an eye pin with a closed loop and two dangles attached to the link of chain at the end of your previous bracelet UNIT.

Step 18 - Repeat steps 12 through 17 until you come to the second LOOP of your last bead. Instead of adding chain to the last LOOP, add a dangle, then the soldered jump ring, and then the last dangle before closing the LOOP.

TO KEEP IN MIND:

The most common mistake is to forget to add dangles before closing the loop.

It is easier to keep the piece of chain intact until you add it to your work and then cut the second link of chain to leave a single link attached. Using two cuts to sever the second link avoids stress on cutters and your hand.

I can make a bracelet in about 1.5 yours (one hour to create dangles and then 1/2 hour to assemble). If you have not had much experience working with wire, figure on 3-4 hours to complete.

This is an advanced project. Take frequent breaks if you feel the need.

Visit the shop during business hours with your wire and bead kit materials and I will gladly assist you if you get stuck.

I also offer instruction to individuals by appointment. My fee is $25. per person for a 1.5 hour session. With my assistance you will complete your bracelet in one session. Telephone the shop at 603-522-6529 for more information or to schedule an appointment.

Bead Kits and Metal Kits (in sterling silver or gold-filled) are available at Anita's Beads. Finished bracelets may also be purchased at the shop or on Etsy. See all the designs on Anita's Daily Bracelet Blog.

Art On The Lawn

2011-07-05T05:28:00.000-07:00

Please join us in celebrating Anita's 15th anniversary in business on Saturday July 9th with "Art on the Lawn" at Anita's Beads. Featured will be original art by members of The Art Group and The Plein Air Painters, plus jewelry, vintage items, and collectables. Hours are 9 to 5 and the address is 2517 Wakefield Road (Route 153) just one mile from NH Route 16. Contact Anita at 603-522-6529 for more information.

Anita's Summer Hours

2011-06-25T16:24:00.000-07:00

Summer Hours are now in effect at Anita's Beads: open 10-5 all seven days.

Town-Wide Yard Sale

2011-05-29T06:44:00.000-07:00

Saturday June 4th will be the day for the annual Wakefield, New Hampshire town-wide yard sale. Last year I bought stuff. This year I will be getting rid of stuff! I have invited some friends to join me. My friend Trudy of Trudy's Treasures will be here with vegetable and flower plants that she started from seed in her greenhouse. Her neighbor Diane (who drove Frida to the vets last winter in a snow-storm) will also have a table. And there may be a few last-minute additions.

I will have a few tables of rocks and minerals from a recent basement clean-out. Items will include stone spheres and eggs for $1. to $5. (regularly priced at $5. t0 $95.) and a variety of tagged mineral specimens. I'm doing a clean sweep of the storage attic as well so there will be books and other items. Everything will be priced to move so be sure to stop by. We will begin at 9 am. ***Rain Date: Sunday June 5th.***

Location is 2517 Wakefield Road (Route 153) in Wakefield, New Hampshire. Call Anita at 603-522-6529 if you have questions.

Wakefield Pride Day 2011

2011-05-21T05:20:00.000-07:00

Today is Wakefield Pride Day, an annual celebration. My friends Carol and Roberta have a booth down in Sanbornville ( one of the "villages" of Wakefield) where the festivities are taking place. So make sure you stop by, say hello, and check out their beautiful jewelry. They have some Anita's Beads items at their table including bead and button grab bags for kids, and little bead samplers. Anyone making a purchase of one of these for a token fee will obtain two discount coupons for 10% off of their next purchase at Anita's Beads.

Jewelry on Etsy

2011-05-06T09:28:00.000-07:00

You can now shop for my handcrafted jewelry on Etsy. I've got a few items up, including the turquoise and coral bracelet shown above, along with its matching necklace. More jewelry will be added over the next few days. At some point in the future, I will also be adding original collage art.

Just click the banner below to connect to AnitaNH on Etsy!

About Stones: Lemon Chrysoprase

2011-04-26T11:47:00.000-07:00

Astrological Sign: Libra, Aries

Chakra: Heart, Crown

Lore: Lemon Chrysoprase is an ideal aid for recovering from a long period of illness.

Geology: Lemon Chrysoprase is one of a family of siliceous nickeliferous magnesium carbonates. Gaspeite is another member of this family. The green color is due to the presence of high levels of nickel.

Chemical Composition: MgCO2

Hardness: 3.5-4.0

Locality: Yerilla, Western Australia

About Stones: Leopardskin Jasper

2011-04-26T11:43:00.000-07:00

Astrological Sign: Sagittarius

Chakra: Solar Plexus

Lore: Leopardskin Jasper helps us deal with strenuous life situations calmly with awareness of our strength. Use it to fortify feelings of self-respect. Leopardskin Jasper is emotionally balancing.

Geology: Leopardskin jasper is a type of rhyolite which is sandy colored with glassy black inclusions. The term jasper is misleading. Rhyolite is a volcanic rock consisting mainly of quartz, feldspar, and hornblende.

Locality: Mexico

About Stones: Lepidolite

2011-04-26T11:38:00.000-07:00

Astrological Sign: Libra

Chakra: Throat, Heart, Brow, Crown

Lore: Lepidolite encourages independence and inner peace. It promotes restful sleep, and helps us to preserve our own space in crowds. Lepidolite aids in goal-setting and decision-making while neutralizing distractions.

Geology: Lepidolite is lilac colored mica containing lithium. It occurs in granite pegmatites associated with tourmaline and other minerals and forms as scaly aggregates, cleavable masses, or tabular crystals.

Localities: California, Maine, Madagascar, Brazil

About Stones: Lingam Stone

2011-04-26T11:33:00.000-07:00

Astrological Sign: Scorpio

Chakra: All

Lore: The Tantric Lingam, one of the oldest religious symbols, is associated with the Hindu deity Shiva, the Lord of Creation. It unifies and balances male and female energies within us and activates the movement of kundalini energy throughout the chakras.

Geology: Lingam stone consist or a rare form of chalcedony or crypto-crystalline quartz with inclusions of iron oxide and goethite. Naturally tumbled and shaped by the river, they are ceremoniously gathered on the full moon.

Locality: Narmada River in India

About Stones: Malachite

2011-04-26T11:30:00.000-07:00

Astrological Sign: Capricorn, Scorpio

Chakra: Solar Plexus, Heart, Sacral

Lore: Malachite was a woman’s mineral dedicated in numerous cultures to the goddess. It can help create an unobstructed path towards personal goals.

Geology: Malachite is a carbonate formed through a secondary process in the oxidation zone of copper ore deposits. It often occurs in botryoidal masses with a fibrous, banded structure that shows concentric internal banding when cut and polished. Avoid acids, ammonia, and salt water when wearing malachite jewelry.

Localities: Zaire, Chile, USSR, Arizona

About Stones: Marbled Jasper

2011-04-26T11:25:00.000-07:00

Astrological Sign: Sagittarius

Chakra: Root

Lore: Marbled jasper assists in the healing of animals. It is useful to promote the flow of chi energy during acupuncture or acupressure and to energize the hand chakras. It brings strength to those living in close proximity to the earth and may be used to facilitate astral travel.

Geology: Jasper is fine-grained quartz containing particles which were suspended in the original silicic acid solution giving it an opaque color and markings.

Locality: Africa

About Stones: Mochi Marbles

2011-04-26T11:20:00.000-07:00

Astrological Sign: Libra, Aquarius, Aries

Chakra: Root

Lore: Mochi marbles were sacred among the shamanic members of ancient tribes who used them for contact with the extra-terrestrial, for visioning, and for journeying. They have been found in archaeological excavations on several continents. Mochi marbles can be used to align the energy centers, to relieve energy blockages, to stimulate ch’i, to ground and center, to provide protection, and perform healing for the earth. Use in pairs is recommended.

Geology: Mochi Marbles are concretions of iron which consist of an outer shell of hematite (iron oxide) with a center of sandstone. They occur in the lower part of the Navajo Sandstone formation in southern Utah and northern Arizona. It is believed that the venting of hot volcanic gases caused the mochi marbles to form.

Localities: Utah, Arizona

About Stones: Mookaite

2011-04-26T11:17:00.000-07:00

Astrological Sign: Leo

Chakra: Sacral

Lore: Mookaite provides a shield in situations of danger. Strengthening communication with animals, it also stimulates contact with loved ones who have passed on to the next plane. Promoting energy and new ideas, it serves as a catalyst for emotional growth. It is good for those who take life too seriously or isolate themselves due to fear.

Geology: Mookaite is a type of varicolored chert named for its locality in Mooka Station near the Gascoyne River in Western Australia. Mookaite was created by the weathering of a silica rich sediment containing fossilized marine micro-organisms.

Locality: Western Australia

About Stones: Mother-of-Pearl

2011-04-26T11:13:00.000-07:00

Astrological Sign: Pisces

Chakra: Root

Lore: Mother-of-pearl carries the gentle, peaceful healing energy of the sea. It relaxes, soothes emotions, lessens feelings of sensitivity and helps reduce stress. Healing to those who are idealistic or realists, it aids in the attainment of acceptance. Mother-of-Pearl is a strong healer of the instinctive center, lessening survival-oriented fears. It is a source of cohesive energy when used in a group.

Geology: Sometimes referred to as MOP, mother-of-pearl is derived from the glossy inside of the pearl oyster shell.

Locality: Oceans

About Stones: Nunderite

2011-04-26T11:09:00.000-07:00

Astrological Sign: Taurus

Chakra: Heart

Lore: Use nunderite to protect from discovery and to keep secrets. Nunderite increases ability in activities related to water and provides safety in water travel. Place on third eye to aid in remote viewing.

Geology: Nunderite combines andalusite, quartz and green epidote.

Locality: Nundle, New South Wales, Australia

About Stones: Ocean Jasper

2011-04-26T11:05:00.000-07:00

Astrological Sign: Leo

Chakra: Heart

Lore: Ocean Jasper contributes to healing the emotions and is a supreme nurturer reminding us to bring joy to others. It strengthens the mind and supports courage.

Geology: An orbicular jasper full of circles or orbs of contrasting colors, the green, pinkish and white patterns often contain tiny cavities lined with crystals. It is mined along the seacoast of Madagascar near Marovato. First documented in 1922 and then forgotten, ocean jasper was re-introduced at the 2000 Tucson Show.

Locality: Madagascar

About Stones: Orthoceras

2011-04-26T11:00:00.000-07:00

Astrological Sign: Virgo

Chakra: Root

Lore: Orthoceras fossils help to heighten accomplishments in the world of business.

Geology: Orthocerids are the most common of the straight Paleozioc cephalopods. Cone shaped, they consist of a central siphuncle filled with calcareous deposits and are ornamented with transverse ribs. Their age is Lower Ordovician through Upper Triassic. Their phylum is Mollusca and their subclass is Nautiloidea. Orthoceras is the name for European species; those found in North America are called Michelinoceris.

Locality: Morocco

About Stones: Peridot

2011-04-26T10:56:00.000-07:00

Astrological Sign: Virgo, Leo, Scorpio, Sagittarius

Chakra: Heart, Solar Plexus

Lore: Peridot, also called Olivine, helps to regulate physical and emotional life cycles. It allows detachment from outside influences and helps us live our own lives. Peridot also encourages us to admit mistakes and to forgive ourselves.

Geology: Peridot is formed in deep rock out of ultra-alkaline magma. Often brought to the surface during volcanic eruptions and found as an ‘olivine bomb’ embedded in volcanic rock.

Localities: Arizona, Hawaii

About Stones: Picasso Stone

2011-04-26T10:52:00.000-07:00

Astrological Sign: Sagittarius

Chakra: Heart

Lore: Picasso stone can assist in the development of creative talents. It strengthens self-control, supporting serenity and pure thought. Use picasso stone to enhance common sense in matters of the heart and of the home.

Geology: Picasso stone is a type of marble which is a metamorphosed limestone of recrystalized dolomite or calcite. The color range includes a combination of black, brown, tan, yellow, and gray.

Locality: Mexico

About Stones: Pipestone

2011-04-26T10:48:00.000-07:00

Astrological Sign: Sagittarius

Chakra: Brow

Lore: Pipestone is used by Native American Indians for the carving of sacred pipes, fetishes and totems. Look to the spirit world to provide guidance in using pipestone in an intuitive manner. A stone for those drawn to the “old ways,” pipestone will empower ceremonies and enhance pursuits when handled with respect.

Geology: Pipestone, also known as Catlinite, is a fine, compact siliceous clay colored red by iron. The principal locality is in Minnesota, where a large quarry has been worked for hundreds of years. Even warring tribes came to the quarry, now a National Monument, in peace.

Locality: Minnesota

About Stones: Polychrome Jasper

2011-04-26T10:45:00.000-07:00

Astrological Sign: Leo

Chakra: Solar plexus

Lore: Worn by shamen for protection, jasper's solar energy helps in the practice of magic. It brings awareness which allows celebration during periods of isolation.

Geology: Polychrome Jasper is a form of opaque, multi-colored chalcedony which occurs in massive formations. Polychrome Jasper sometimes goes by the name "Royal Savannah Jasper."
Localities: Madagascar, Australia

About Stones: Rainbow Calsilica

2011-04-26T09:44:00.000-07:00

Astrological Sign: Cancer

Chakra: All

Lore: Rainbow Calsilica is a recently discovered multi-colored layered stone being used for Zuni fetish carvings as well as beads and cabochon cut stones.

Geology: Rainbow Calsilica is a microcrystalline calcite bonded with the amorphous clay mineral allophane. Silica is also present. It has been described as vein matter or fracture fill formed when a copper push cut into volcanic rhyolite host rock. A stabilization process similar to that used with turquoise has been applied to it.

Locality: Mexico

About Stones: Rainforest Jasper

2011-04-26T09:40:00.000-07:00

Astrological Sign: Aquarius

Chakra: Heart, Solar Plexus

Lore: Rainforest jasper is the “Stone of Resolution,” helping clear issues of the past and bring the unresolved to completeness. It eliminates distractions and dispells procrastination. It enhances ability in the fields of architecture and construction. Rainforest jasper supports listening as well as all forms of communication. It is calming to animals.

Geology: Rainforest jasper is a spherulitic rhyolite exhibiting shades of green with tan, yellow or blueish "eyes." Rhyolite is a microgranular form of granite that has cooled quickly.

Locality: Australia

About Stones: Ruby

2011-04-26T09:37:00.000-07:00

Astrological Sign: Cancer, Sagittarius, Scorpio, Leo

Chakra: Heart, Root

Lore: Ruby stimulates mental concentration and enthusiasm. Stone of the Sun in ancient European and East Indian cultures, it represents the life force, inner fire, love and passion.

Geology: Ruby is the name for red corundum. It is an aluminum oxide and can range from rose to a dark purplish red color from traces of chromium. It forms hexagonal, barrel-shaped crystals found in alluvial deposits. Ruby is heavy and is mined by panning.

Localities: Burma, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, East Africa

About Stones: Selenite

2011-04-26T09:32:00.000-07:00

Astrological Sign: Taurus

Chakra: Crown, Brow

Lore: Selenite, named for the ancient Moon Goddess Selene, provides for mental clarity. Like a sharp sword of awareness, it cuts through unconscious assumptions about ourselves and our surroundings. Lovers can trade selenite crystals to help reconcile differences. Selenite activates the aspect of our nature that is true spiritual feeling.

Geology: Selenite, a crystallized form of gypsum, is a hydrous calcium sulfate. It is one of the first minerals formed by evaporating salt water in land locked bodies isolated from the open ocean. Pictured are three varieties of selenite: a cluster known as "Desert Rose," white selenite, and brown "Hourglass" selenite from Jet, Oklahoma.

Localities: Chihuahua, Mexico, Oklahoma, Texas

About Stones: Serpentine

2011-04-26T09:28:00.000-07:00

Astrological Sign: Gemini

Chakra: Crown, Root

Lore: Serpentine enhances the meditative state and is useful in the rise of kundalini. Calming in cases of stress and nervousness, it aids in balancing mood swings. It helps to establish boundaries and find inner peace.

Geology: Serpentine forms during the metamorphosis of alkaline igneous rocks. The color may range from olive green, yellow-green, to light green. It is often called "New Jade."

Localities: Arizona, China, Peru

About Stones: Staurolite

2011-04-26T09:25:00.000-07:00

Astrological Sign: Pisces

Chakra: Root, Sacral, Solar plexus

Lore: Staurolite, also known as the “Fairy Stone” or “Fairy Cross” is used as a good-luck talisman. Legend tells that the tiny cross-shaped crystals were formed from the crystallized tears of fairies bearing news of the death of Christ. Staurolite is used to combat stress, depression and addictions, particularly to tobacco.

Geology: Staurolite forms reddish brown to black stubby prismatic crystals, frequently occurring in characteristic cruciform twins in either a Greek or St. Andrew’s cross.

Localities: New Hampshire, Virginia, Russia

About Stones: Stromatolite

2011-04-26T09:20:00.000-07:00

Astrological Sign: Sagittarius

Chakra: Root

Lore: Stromatolite helps free the mind from suspicions built on the past, encouraging invention and discovery. The energy of Stromatolite serves to cleanse the environment in which it rests, and stimulates positive behavior modification in children.

Geology: Stromatolites are fossil algae, sometimes called “picture algae,” that thrived in warm aquatic environments and built reefs similar to today’s coral. The specimens below from England, with their unique pictures created by algae in limestone, are over two billion years old. As well as being the oldest record of life on earth that can be seen without magnification, stromatolites are also the longest living forms of life on this planet. They can be traced back 3.5 billion years to the early Archean eon. The photosynthesizing cyannobacteria that formed the stromatolites’ colonial structures are believed to have been responsible for the creation of the earth’s oxygen atmosphere. They were the dominant life form on earth for over two billion years. Now nearly extinct, modern stromatolites were first discovered in Australia in 1956. They live a precarious existence in only a few localities worldwide. Known locations include the thermal springs of Yellowstone National Park, lakes in Antarctica, and the ocean off the Bahamas.

Localities: England, Utah

About Stones: Sulfur

2011-04-26T09:16:00.000-07:00

Astrological Sign: Leo

Chakra: Solar plexus, Crown

Lore: Sulfur has been used by South American and Mexican Indians in ceremonial healings and is thought to synthesize the four directions, Mother Earth and Father Sky. It eliminates depression, negative thoughts and emotions, and serves as a channel linking the soul with the physical world.

Geology: Sulfur is an elemental mineral with an unmistakable deep yellow color and a hardness of 2. Specimens should be protected from moisture.

Localities: Mexico, California, Italy

About Stones: Sunstone

2011-04-26T09:10:00.000-07:00

Astrological Sign: Libra, Leo

Chakra: Root, Sacral, Solar Plexus

Lore: Sunstone can be used to clear and energize the chakras. It increases vitality, independence and originality, and provides luck in games. In medicine wheel rituals, it is placed at the center for contact with spirit guides.

Geology: Sunstone or oligoclase is an aventurine feldspar which shows brilliant metallic reflections due to light interference on tiny included hematite or goethite platelets. It is sodium calcium aluminum silicate.

Localities: Norway, Canada, Russia

About Stones: Thunder Eggs

2011-04-26T09:06:00.000-07:00

Astrological Sign: Gemini

Chakra: Heart

Lore: Thunder eggs are named after a myth which tells that they were thrown upon the earth by angry gods. They are used to attract like-minded people, instill a sense of community, and to decrease anger and hostility.

Geology: Thunder eggs are spherical agate-filled nodules. All of them have a characteristic star frame, but no two are ever alike. Agate, a form of chalcedony, belongs to the quartz family of minerals. Volcanic action created cavities and gas pockets that were later filled by silica. The cavities then became solidified, producing the agates dug today.

Locality: Oregon

About Stones: Variscite

2011-04-26T09:01:00.000-07:00

Astrological Sign: Scorpio, Taurus, Gemini

Chakra: Heart

Lore: Variscite encourages truthfulness and authenticity. It lifts the spirits, but also has a calming effect. It supports sobriety and rational thinking. Variscite helps us become spiritually aware and perceptive.

Geology: Variscite is a translucent green phosphate with a vitreous or waxy luster. It commonly occurs in massive form, or as crusts, veins, or concretions where water containing phosphates has altered aluminum-rich rocks.

Localities: Australia, Nevada

About Stones: Wild Horse Magnesite

2011-04-26T08:56:00.000-07:00

Astrological Sign: Aries

Chakra: Crown, Root

Lore: Magnesite encourages dynamic ideas and vivid imagery. It eliminates self-deceit and instills peace during meditation. Use magnesite to ground the intellect and allow the crown chakra to open. Magnesite is used in crystal healing to relieve the symptoms of PMS.

Geology:Magnesite is magnesium carbonite. “Wild Horse” magnesite is the marketing name for a new find mined in southern Arizona. Predominantly brown with white plumes, it is magnesite mixed with hematite. Its appearance resembles the pattern on the Appaloosa horse.

Localities: Arizona

About Stones: Yttrium Fluorite

2011-04-26T08:50:00.000-07:00

Astrological Sign: Leo

Chakra: Heart, Brow, Crown

Lore: Yttrium fluorite supports the state of self fulfillment. Its energy helps service oriented professionals maintain an attitude of understanding and detachment. Yttrium fluorite is used by psychics and clairvoyants to calm and focus the mind, often in combination with lapis lazuli, sodalite, amethyst, and clear quartz.

Geology: Yttrium fluorite, or yttrofluorite is a rare and extremely dense form of light purple fluorite exhibiting a fine translucency. In this variety of fluorite, yttrium has partially replaced the calcium in its structure.

Locality: Little Patsy Quarry, Jefferson County, Colorado

About Stones: Zebra Serpentine

2011-04-26T08:45:00.000-07:00

Astrological Sign: Gemini

Chakra: Crown, Root

Lore: Serpentine enhances the meditative state and is useful in the rise of kundalini energy. Calming in cases of stress and nervousness, it aids in balancing mood swings. It helps us to establish boundries and find inner peace.

Geology: Zebra stone is a banded form of serpentine. It forms during the metamorphosis of alkaline igneous rocks. The color varies from dark to light green.

Localities: China

About Stones: Zoisite

2011-04-26T08:38:00.000-07:00

Astrological Sign: Aries & Gemini

Chakra: Crown

Lore: Zoisite with ruby is said to be a strengthener of the heart and general health. Supports trust in the universe and assists in releasing fears. Increases utilization of talents and is a power stone for those in service.

Geology: Zoisite is calcium aluminum silicate. Chrome green massive zoisite from Tanzania is embedded with dark red ruby crystals and has black chromite and hornblende inclusions. Also called anyolite, it occurs in alteration areas of basic igneous rock.

Localities: Tanzania

About Stones: King Cobra Jasper

2011-04-25T14:28:00.000-07:00

Astrological Sign: Leo

Chakra: Root, Sacral

Lore: King Cobra Jasper is considered to be a supreme nurturer, increasing feelings of contentment and promoting deep relaxation. When untidiness and inefficiency cause problems, King Cobra Jasper will support organizational skills to help restore order. This form of jasper is recommended for therapists and counselors and is believed to provide “ultimate protection.”

Geology: King Cobra Jasper is a variety of opaque micro-crystalline quartz distinguished by patchy, sometimes orbicular patterns in combinations of soft purples, greens and creams mixed with earthy browns, oranges and beiges.

Localities: India

About Stones: Kansas Pop Rocks

2011-04-25T14:22:00.000-07:00

Astrological Sign: Aquarius, Scorpio, Leo & Taurus

Chakra: “All”

Lore: Kansas Pop Rocks, also called “Energy Stones,” are used for auric healing and chakra balancing. They generally have either smooth (female) or bumpy (male) surfaces. The two “sexes” may be used together or separately to balance or emphasize chosen polarities. Kansas Pop Rocks provide good grounding of high energy states.

Geology: Kansas Pop Rocks are pyrite concretions. Bridging organic and inorganic worlds, they are crystalizations of pyrite over a nucleus of fossilized seashell.

Localities: Western Kansas

About Stones: Hemimorphite

2011-04-25T14:15:00.000-07:00

Astrological Sign: Libra

Chakra: Heart

Lore: Hemimorphite assists in self-transformation and personal evolution, fostering joyousness and creativity. It teaches us to take control of our own happiness and to reach our highest human potential. Used since ancient times, hemimorphite helps in the understanding and utilization of the powerful ancient healing techniques to maintain or regain health.

Geology: Hemimorphite is a hydrated zinc silicate. It forms transparent colorless crystals common in lead, zinc and silver deposits. It also occurs as blue botryoidal crusts.

Localities: New Jersey, China, Italy, Mexico

About Stones: Hematite

2011-04-25T14:11:00.000-07:00

Astrological Sign: Aries, Aquarius

Chakra: Root

Lore: Hematite is a stone for the mind. Enhances memory and mental dexterity. Dissolves negativity and provides for smooth grounding, peace, and inner happiness. It attracts kind love and loving relationships.

Geology: Hematite occurs as a hydrothermal and replacement mineral, and in igneous rocks as an accessory mineral. Common habits are massive, fibrous, stalactitic and botryoidal. It is heavy and opaque with a dull metallic luster.

Localities: Quebec, Venezuela, Brazil, Angola

About Stones: Gaspeite

2011-04-25T14:08:00.000-07:00

Astrological Sign: Virgo

Chakra: Brow

Lore: Gaspeite brings spirituality to everyday living, attracting sanctity and enchantment. Used by Aboriginal tribes to gain visions, raise consciousness and communicate with spirits, gaspeite is thought to strengthen healing powers and provide protection from danger. Its energy can attract people in friendship or business “for the good of all.”

Geology: Gaspeite forms rich limey green masses as a secondary mineral in nickel sulfide deposits. Named for the Gaspe Peninsula where it was first discovered in 1966, it is known as “Allura” in Australia where it also occurs.

Localities: Quebec, Canada and North of Perth, Australia

About Stones: Emerald

2011-04-25T14:03:00.000-07:00

Astrological Sign: Taurus, Gemini & Aries

Chakra: Heart

Lore: Known as the stone of successful love, emerald supports sensitivity, loyalty and domestic bliss. It brings harmony to all areas of life, quieting the emotions and opening the heart. It helps maintain rhythmic breathing for meditation. It brings a beneficial outcome to legal matters.

Geology: Emerald is a green beryl colored by chromium. They have been treasured since the time of Cleopatra. The most famous mines are those of Colombia. Emeralds of various localities can be recognized by their inclusions.

Localities: Colombia, Brazil, North Carolina, Russia

About Stones: Dalmation Stone

2011-04-25T13:59:00.000-07:00

Astrological Sign: Gemini

Chakra: Heart

Lore: Dalmation stone encourages playfulness and strengthens our lighter side. A good stone to share in relationships, it supports constancy, fidelity and devotion. It helps us disengage from outmoded behavior patterns. It is useful in the calming of animals.

Geology: Dalmation stone is massive tan quartz microcline containing black tourmaline of volcanic origin scattered throughout. It was named based on its resemblance to a dalmation’s fur.

Localities: Mexico

About Stones: Crazy Lace Agate

2011-04-25T12:32:00.000-07:00

Astrological Sign: Aries

Chakra: Root, Solar Plexus

Lore: Crazy lace agate helps us to reach extremely high physical levels. It helps to recover from bio-rhythmic lows. It encourages laughter and provides insight into the many paths leading to awareness.

Geology: Crazy Lace Agate, or Mexican Lace Agate, is a variegated form of chalcedony displaying lace configurations or paisley patterns in a combination of red, white, gray and yellow.

Localities: Mexico

About Stones: Cowrie Shell

2011-04-25T12:27:00.000-07:00

Astrological Sign: Pisces

Chakra: Sacral

Lore: The cowrie is an ancient symbol for creation, birth, and re-birth. It can help us actualize a spiritual re-awakening. Used for manifestation, it will bring good fortune and affluence. The cowrie can inspire the creativity of excellence. They are a favorite element of female adornment in the African culture, and are a symbol of power in the Fiji and Solomon Islands.

Biology: Cowries are snails in the family Cypraeidae. There are over 250 known species living in warm sea areas.

About Stones: Copper

2011-04-25T12:20:00.000-07:00

Astrological Sign: Taurus, Sagittarius

Chakra: Root, Sacral

Lore: Copper stimulates initiative, optimism, diplomacy, and independance. It can magnify the transfer of energy from other minerals or from a healer due to its ability to conduct electrical impulses. Reputed to bring luck, especially in the recovery of property.

Geology: Copper is a native element forming in volcanic rocks and sulfide deposits. The usual habits are dendritic and massive, rarely crystaline in the form of cubes and octahedrons. Michigan’s native copper is used to form these interesting sculptures which are man made on the Keweenaw Peninsula. Molten copper at 2200 degrees Fahrenheit is poured into straw which is immersed in water. The straw is burned away and the copper solidifies. On New Years day, according to custom, early miners used lead in the same process as a method of fortune telling. Good or bad luck for the year to follow was determined by the shape and size of the sculpture formed.

Localities: Michigan, Arizona, Germany

About Stones: Chrysocolla

2011-04-25T12:16:00.000-07:00

Astrological Sign: Gemini, Virgo, Taurus

Chakra: Throat, Heart

Lore: Chrysocolla eases emotional heartache and increases our capacity to love. Native American tribes used it as a healing stone for calming upset feelings. It helps re-build relationships and is purifying to the home and the environment.

Geology: Chrysocolla is formed in the oxidation zone of copper ore minerals where surface water containing acid dissolves copper out of the rock. It is called Eilat stone when intergrown with turquoise and malachite.

Localities: Peru, Chile, Arizona, Nevada, Russia

About Stones: Chiastolite

2011-04-25T12:10:00.000-07:00

Astrological Sign: Libra

Chakra: Throat, Heart

Lore: Chiastolite gives us persistence in realizing our identity and our life’s task. It enhances conscious awareness and is used as a sign of devotion. It calms fears, nervousness, and feelings of guilt.

Geology: Chiastolite is an andalusite occurring in long prisms formed in carbonaceous clay slates. Growth occurs in layers with carbon deposited along the crystal edges as diagonal cruciform shapes are formed. It is also known as cross-stone.

Localities: China, Massachusetts

About Stones: Charoite

2011-04-25T12:06:00.000-07:00

Astrological Sign: Sagittarius, Scorpio

Chakra: Heart, Crown

Lore: Charoite brings spiritual truths to dispel illusions and worst fears. Helps to cope with profound changes.

Geology: Charoite originates from Siberia where it was first discovered in 1978. Occurring as violet masses, charoite is formed in the zone of contact between magmatic and metamorphic rocks from the combination of alkaline magmatic solutions with mineral-forming substances of the surrounding rocks.

Localities: USSR

About Stones: Carborundum

2011-04-25T12:01:00.000-07:00

Astrological Sign: Capricorn

Chakra: All

Lore: The silicon content in laboratory produced silicon carbide has similar properties to that of natural quartz. It has been employed for memory enhancement and to improve manual dexterity. Use to amplify positive feelings.

Geology: Carborundum, or silicon carbide is a man-made mineral invented in Pennsylvania by Edward Goodrich Acheson in 1890. The result of a failed attempt to create diamonds, carborundum was formed from electrically fusing a mixture of clay and carbon. Carborundum, used as an industrial abrasive, is hard enough to scratch glass. More recently it has been employed as a semiconductor. Silicon carbide, found in Arizona within a Canyon Diablo meteorite by Dr. Ferdinand Henri Moissan, has been named Moissanite. With a tetrahedral crystalline structure and an appearance similar to diamond, naturally occurring moissanite is rare. Gem quality moissanite is being manufactured and sold as a low cost alternative to natural diamonds.

Locality: Man made in Poland

About Stones: Bronzite

2011-04-25T11:56:00.000-07:00

Astrological Sign: Leo

Chakra: Solar Plexus

Lore: Bronzite is the stone of courtesy. It is helpful in all facets related to service and assistance. It stimulates decisiveness and courage.

Geology: Bronzite, or ferroan enstatite, is a magnesium iron silicate. It forms stubby prismatic crystals and, more commonly, greenish-brown or bronze-brown compact masses with a submetallic luster. A member of the pyroxene group, its associated minerals are serpentine, magnetite, enstatite and olivine.

Localities: Germany, Austria, North Carolina, Arizona

About Stones: Botswana Agate

2011-04-25T11:52:00.000-07:00

Astrological Sign: Scorpio

Chakra: Heart

Lore: Botswana agate encourages love. It stimulates exploration of the unknown, helps to release repressed emotions, and enhances creativity.

Geology: Botswana agate is composed of layers of finely fibrous quartz. It is found in the form of nodules, its thin parallel bands following the contour of the cavity where the silica gel solidified. The name is derived from the African country in which it is found.

Localities: Botswana

About Stones: Blue Lace Agate

2011-04-25T11:46:00.000-07:00

Astrological Sign: Pisces

Chakra: Throat, Heart, Brow, Crown

Lore: Blue lace agate is a highly inspirational influence when used for inner attunement. Helps one reach high spiritual spaces and enter into high-frequency states of awareness. Useful for building confidence in public speaking. Encourages focus and calm centeredness.

Geology: A variegated form of chalcedony or microcrystalline quartz, blue lace agate displays a blue and white lace pattern.

Localities: Brazil, Uruguay, Mexico

About Stones: Bismuth

2011-04-25T11:41:00.000-07:00

Astrological Sign: Aquarius

Chakra: All

Lore: Bismuth is a stone for transformation, allowing for orderliness and calm during the state of change. It stimulates cohesiveness in groups and relationships, supporting progression towards a common goal. Relieves feelings of emotional and spiritual isolation.

Geology: Bismuth is a silvery-white metal. Lab-grown “Hopper” crystals have a stairstep shape resulting from the edges growing more quickly than the crystal faces. Irridescent surface colors are due to surface oxides.

Localities: Laboratory grown in Germany

About Stones: Bertrandite

2011-04-25T11:33:00.000-07:00

Astrological Sign: Pisces, Capricorn, Aquarius

Chakra: Root, Sacral

Lore: Bertrandite supports a smooth transition when undergoing change. It assists in the verbalization of hidden feelings. Beryllium Opal is reputed to enhance sexual energy.

Geology: This relatively new material, an opalized fluorite, is also called "Tiffany Stone" and Ice Cream Opalite. It occurs in a mixture of cream or white opalite with purple fluorite, traces of yellow bertrandite, along with other red or black mineral inclusions. Mineralized beryllium nodules altered by a fluorine-rich solution form in the sequence dolomite-calcite-chalcedony-opal/fluorite. The nodules are recovered from an area where the bertrandite rock is mined commercially for the recovery of beryllium used in the manufacture of satellites and aircraft. Bertrandite is beryllium silicate hydroxide.

Composition: Be4Si2O7(OH)2

Hardness: 6-7

Locality: Brush Wellman Beryllium Mine, Juab County, Delta, Utah

About Stones: Azurite-Malachite

2011-04-25T11:19:00.000-07:00

Astrological Sign: Sagittarius, Capricorn

Chakra: Brow

Lore: Azurite-malachite encourages an interest in our
surroundings and fellow human beings. It encourages harmony between the intellect and feelings, and helps to release suppressed emotions.

Geology: Azurite-malachite is a rare alkaline copper carbonate formed by rainwater containing carbolic acid in the oxidation zone of copper ore deposits.

Localities: Arizona, West Germany

About Stones: Aventurine

2011-04-25T11:14:00.000-07:00

Astrological Sign: Aries

Chakra: Solar Plexus, Heart

Lore: Aventurine enhances creativity and amplifies leadership qualities. It reveals what makes us happy or unhappy, stimulates dreaming, and helps make our dreams come true.

Geology: Aventurine is a massive green quartz that obtains its sparkling color from inclusions of fuchsite, a chromium mica. The name is from the Italian a ventura meaning randomly, a reference to the random deposits of mica contained within.

Localities: India, Brazil, Russia

About Stones: Apophyllite

2011-04-25T11:08:00.000-07:00

Astrological Sign: Libra, Gemini

Chakra: Brow, Crown, Heart

Lore: Apophyllite helps create a conscious connection between the physical and the spiritual. It allows the recognition of truth and encourages tranquility, a calm attitude, and honesty. Facilitates astral travel.

Geology: Apophyllite is a sheet silicate that is formed hydrothermally. Tabular crystals are cubic or octahedral, sometimes dipyramidal or platy. May be colorless, white, or light shades of pink, green and yellow.

Localities: India, Mexico

About Stones: Apache Tear

2011-04-25T11:00:00.000-07:00

Astrological Sign: Aries

Chakra: Root

Lore: Traditionally, the Apache tear is said to be one of the tears shed by Native American women in mourning for their warriors who were driven from a cliff by the U.S. cavalry. It is used for comfort in times of grief, providing insight and acceptance.

Geology: The Apache tear is a small black nodule of obsidian or volcanic glass. The main obsidian flow has been altered to a whitish porous rock called perlite containing unaltered transparent glassy nodules.

Localities: Arizona

About Stones: African Bloodstone

2011-04-25T09:36:00.000-07:00

Astrological Sign: Cancer, Leo, Taurus

Chakra: Root, Sacral, Solar Plexus

Lore: Bloodstone is also known as heliotrope, Greek for “solstice,” referring to its powerful healing power. It aids in the renewal of physical and emotional states. A stone of courage, it helps to revitalize love relationships and friendships. Bloodstone has the capacity to clear scattered thoughts in preparation for meditation.

Geology: Bloodstone is a chalcedony, a microcrystalline variety of quartz. It is colored an opaque green with red spots caused by hematite and other iron oxides. African Bloodstone is sometimes called "Seftonite."

Localities: India, Africa, Australia

About Stones: Abalone Shell

2011-04-25T06:38:00.000-07:00

Astrological Sign: Pisces

Chakra: Root, Solar Plexus

Lore: Abalone shells are used to enhance smudging activities. The shells, one of the earliest forms of wealth, were revered by ancient tribes as magical gifts from the sea. They stimulate fertility of mind and body, improving self-image and physical power.

Biology: Abalone are mollusks with one-piece shells. They belong to the genus Haliotis which means "sea ear." They are rounded or oval with a row of respiratory pores along one side.

Locality: Mexico, Philippines.

Valentine Heart Special

2011-01-21T12:08:00.000-08:00

Our 25% off Toad Hollow Mineral Sale continues at Anita's Beads. This week's special (beginning Saturday January 22nd and ending Friday January 28th) is on hearts. All gemstone hearts in stock are 50% off. So choose your Valentines Day gifts early for the best selection!

A Little History of Anita's Beads

2011-01-17T05:59:00.000-08:00

I was updating my Toad Hollow Minerals information page the other day because I noticed the links to most of the photographs were broken. This activity got me thinking about the history of Anita's Beads. I started my first business, "Designs On You," back in the late 70's when I was living in Beverly, Massachusetts. I produced silk-screened t-shirts, batik (the wax resist dye technique that was my major self-taught discovery for that decade) pillows and quilted wall hangings, quilted ornaments, and objects embellished with applique and/or embroidery.

Then came major discovery number two: minerals and beads. I began selling quartz crystals and beaded sterling silver jewelry with a partner as "Underground Sterling & Stone." My partner was a salesman and the jewelry I produced was sold, for the most part, to New Age/Alternative Healing gift shops.

When I moved to New Hampshire in 1996, I decided to look for a place that could accommodate a home-based retail shop. I purchased the property then known as "Toad Hollow" in Wakefield. I moved in June and by the fourth of July I had established "Toad Hollow Jewelry" in the carriage house attached to the barn. By October the unheated space was too cold for comfort so I moved the operation into house occupying the room which is now Studio 2. Once filled with display cases, the room seemed very small!

At the time I was working as a children's librarian in the nearby town of Wolfeboro so in March 1997 I decided to open "Venus Rising," a mineral, crystal, bead and jewelry shop with a decidedly New Age flavor there.

Venus Rising closed in May of 2000 when I shifted my focus back to Toad Hollow full-time and expanded the business to occupy the barn (for minerals) and the carriage house once again (for jewelry and beads). Only this time the buildings were heated! Below is a photo of the carriage house as bead room.

Then bead part of the business became more popular than the rest and required more space, so the barn became a bead shop. In September 2006 I officially started "Anita's Beads" and added a large selection of Czech glass beads to the inventory.

And having made major discovery number 3 which was collage, the carriage house became my gallery.

Below is a recent photo of the bead shop as it looks today:

I'm working on a new display for the check-out counter on the right to show some of the lovely Toad Hollow crystals on sale this winter and will put up photos here soon!

Toad Hollow Coprolite

2011-01-16T16:32:00.000-08:00

I'm excited to report that one of my photographs of Coprolite or "petrified dinosaur poop" has been included in Exotic Gems, Volume 2 by Renee Newman. The book is due to be released next month at the Tucson Gem and Mineral Show. You can see more photos of Toad Hollow coprolite, in addition to other fossil and mineral specimens online. Specimens are available for purchase at Anita's Beads in Wakefield, New Hampshire. Don't forget our 25% off Winter Sale on all Toad Hollow minerals, crystals and tumbled stones which runs through March 21st.

Toad Hollow Mineral Sale

2011-01-15T08:39:00.000-08:00

At Anita's Beads we are having a sale on our entire collection of Toad Hollow Minerals. Take 25% off of tumbled stones, rough stones, crystals, and mineral specimens beginning today. The sale will continue through March 21st but supplies are limited to stock on hand so shop early for the best selection. In addition, weekly specials will be offered at an additional 25% off.

This week's special is tumbled stones. Wire-wrappers take note: stock up on tumbled stones at 50% off now through Friday January 21st. Watch for our next weekly special to be announced on Anita's Bead Blog!

I've also been doing some long overdue revision work on the Toad Hollow Minerals site. All broken links on the Site Index page have been updated or removed to eliminate the annoying "404 Page Not Found" error messages. Additional work will be forthcoming!

Anita's Customer Appreciation Sale

2010-12-02T06:07:00.000-08:00

20% Off - Toad Hollow Minerals

15% OFF - All Czech Glass Beads

10% OFF - Anita's Jewelry and Collage Art

10% OFF - Just About Everything Else (*)

(*)Not on sale: Sterling Silver items; Gold-Filled items; Soft Flex and Soft Touch Wire; Power Pro; Fire-Line

Sale Ends - Friday December 31, 2010

Seven New Daily Bracelets

2010-09-14T13:34:00.000-07:00

Seven new designs have been added to Anita's Daily Bracelet blog. Bead kits and finished bracelets are available at Anita's Beads.

New designs include an Apollo Gold rosebud design (detail above), a Czech "Stone" diamond bracelet, and two designs featuring our new synthetic stones: Azurite/Malachite and the incredibly popular Pink Rainbow Stone.

Happy Birthday!

2010-07-04T16:46:00.000-07:00

Today is the 14th anniversary of what is now Anita's Beads. I opened as Toad Hollow Jewelry on July 4th, 1996 just three weeks or so after relocating here. Miss Pearl moved in about the same time and has been a loyal mascot ever since.

New Camera & New Daily Bracelets

2010-07-01T08:06:00.000-07:00

I just got a Nikon Coolpix digital camera with my credit card miles (happy birthday to me!) and I took some photos of a few new Daily Bracelet designs to test it out. All of the bracelets are available as kits at Anita's Beads.

Mixed Fruit a la Carmen Miranda

2010-04-14T05:27:00.000-07:00

A lovely mix of bananas, grapes, apples, pears, strawberries and peach pits available by the 50-piece assortment.

Spring Special! (ends May 31st) - purchase three strands together as pictured and receive a 30% discount.

Bohemian Trade Beads

2010-02-12T11:23:00.000-08:00

I absolutely adore the color and shape of these beautiful old glass cylinder beads known as Bohemian. We have two strands available. The first strand (outside) is an interesting mix of oranges with a few darker red beads. Strand length is 32 inches and the bead diameter is between 14mm to 18mm.

The second strand (inside, detail shown below) has larger (16mm to 20mm) predominantly red beads. The strand is 27 inches long.

Stop by Anita's Beads in Wakefield, New Hampshire to see more Trade Beads just received for Winter 2010. Shop hours are 10-5; closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

Old Ornate Brass Beads from Nigeria

2010-02-11T10:49:00.000-08:00

This is a very special strand of lovely hollow African Brass Beads from Nigeria. There are 43 beads on the strand. Visit Anita's Beads to see more Trade Beads just received for Winter 2010.

Baoule Brass from Africa's Ivory Coast

2010-02-11T10:44:00.000-08:00

We have only two strands of lovely Baoule Brass beads from the Ivory Coast of Africa. Each strand is 28 inches long with 24 brass 15x22mm beads separated by 5mm black glass beads on each strand. Visit Anita's Beads to see more Special Trade Bead Offerings.

Antique Coin Silver Telsum

2010-02-11T10:36:00.000-08:00

We just received this lovely one-of-a-kind strand of Antique Coin Silver Telsum from Ethiopia. There are 40 amulets of varying styles (ave. width 14mm) separated by 8mm hollow beads on a 36-inch strand. Visit Anita's Beads to see this this and other Special Trade Bead Offers.

New Books for Knit Wits!

2009-12-16T06:31:00.000-08:00

Here are some great books on crocheting and knitting with beads. Projects include scarves, sweaters, holiday ornaments, and jewelry items. Stop in and see them in person. Anita's Beads will be open every day of the week from 10-5 beginning December 17th through New Years day (closed Christmas Day).

Ann Benson's Beaded Crochet Designs shows beautiful necklace, bracelet and earring projects built on seed-beaded tubes or ropes. Learning this technique is item no. 2 (after getting organized) on my list of resolutions for the new year. My favorites are the "rainbow" and "diamond" bangles, and the "argyle" earrings.

I'm sure you will love the beautiful wearable items (including shawls, scarves, and sweaters) that can be created by knitting and crocheting as shown in Lily Chin's Knit and Crochet with Beads and Scarlet Taylor's Knit With Beads: Stunning Shawls and Wraps.

And these popular books from Bead & Button are back in stock:

I should also mention that we have the popular "Big Eye" needle in both the 2-inch and 5-inch lengths:

Holiday Hours & Gift Certificates

2009-12-16T06:16:00.000-08:00

Beginning December 17th Anita's Beads will be open from 10-5 every day (except Christmas Day, December 25th) through New Years Day.

Gift certificates are available in any amount desired.

Regular hours (open 10-5; closed Tuesday & Wednesday) will resume on January 5th.

What Happened To November?

2009-11-30T06:41:00.000-08:00

I'm sorry for neglecting this blog for so long. October was Daily Bracelet month, and then I took up collage again after that. November went so fast. I suddenly realized this morning that I had actually skipped a whole month. I might back-date this post but only because I can. I'm not delusional (yet). I know it's December.

Czech Rainbow

2009-10-13T12:28:00.000-07:00

We just received a new shipment of our favorite Czech matte glass beads in the ten colors shown above plus black. All are now available in strings of 20 beads.

Look for your favorite color in Anita's Daily Bracelets and Daily Bracelet kits offered at Anita's Beads.

Kits and Counter Classes

2009-10-06T06:25:00.000-07:00

Limited edition Daily Bracelet kits are now available in both sterling silver and gold-filled. Anita will be giving free "counter classes" in wire bracelet construction through the month of October.