Fun Fact:

The name “Rhyolite” comes from the Greek word rhyax, meaning “stream of lava.” Though it’s chemically similar to granite, rhyolite cools above ground, which gives it a completely different appearance and texture.


The Metaphysical Side of Rhyolite:

Often called the “stone of creativity”, Rhyolite is thought to spark inspiration, help with emotional balance, and connection to nature.

It’s perfect for those of us who feel most at peace with a little dirt on our boots and the scent of pine in the air. It's especially loved by artists, writers, and anyone who feels recharged by the outdoors.

So What’s the Difference Between Rhyolite and Llanite?

These two stones are actually related. Llanite is considered a rare variety of Rhyolite but they each bring their own energy, origin, and look. 

Here’s a little side-by-side to help you get to know them:

Which One Speaks to You?

That's my favorite part of gemstones - they connect with each of us a little differently.

Whether you're feeling inspired by Rhyolite's earthy charm or drawn to Llanite's soothing sparkle, these pieces were created full of intention to help you carry their energy with you wherever you go. 

I'd love to hear! Are you Team Rhyolite or Team Llanite?

Or maybe you're like me and can't choose! Drop me a note, leave a comment, or just treat yourself to something that feels good to wear. 

And as always, thank you for letting me part of your jewelry journey. I'm so glad you're here.    

Moonstone belongs to the feldspar family, and its signature glow—called adularescence—comes from light scattering across microscopic layers within the stone.

The different colors of moonstone come from variations in its mineral composition. While the classic moonstone is milky white with a blue sheen, other varieties range from soft peach to deep black, each with its own unique charm.

Aside from its visual appeal, moonstone has long been regarded as a talisman of protection and inspiration.

Ancient travelers carried it for safe passage, and some even believed it was formed from solidified moonbeams.

If you love its celestial glow or its calming properties, wearing moonstone can be a subtle yet powerful reminder to embrace life’s ebb and flow—just like the ever-changing moon.

Hello, friends! I couldn’t wait to share this special gem with you - our new collection of Aqua Green Angelite jewelry!

Whether you're looking to treat yourself or find the perfect gift, these necklaces, earrings, and bracelets are more than just gorgeous accessories. They come with a rich history, fascinating origins, and even a little touch of magic.

What is Angelite?

Angelite is a stunning gemstone that radiates a soft, serene, marbled aqua green hue. Its name is no coincidence; it’s often referred to as the “Stone of Angels,” believed to promote peace, compassion, and connection to higher realms.

Many love its calming energy, making it the perfect stone to wear daily or during moments when you need a little extra serenity.

Where Does Angelite Come From?

Originally discovered in Peru in 1987, Angelite is formed from celestite compressed over millions of years. Peru’s rich geological history and breathtaking landscapes give Angelite its unique and soothing color.

Since its discovery, deposits of Angelite have also been found in other parts of the world, including Germany, Poland, Britain, and Mexico. Each location offers slight variations in color and texture, making Angelite an even more fascinating and sought-after gemstone.

Holding a piece of Angelite is like holding a little bit of nature’s magic.

A Little History

While Angelite was discovered in the 1980s, its predecessor, celestite, has a long history of being treasured by ancient civilizations.

The Egyptians used it to connect with the divine and ground it into powders for healing rituals.

Angelite itself has become a modern favorite for those who love a mix of style and spirituality.

The Metaphysical Side

Do you ever feel like you could use a little more harmony in your life? Angelite is known for its metaphysical properties, which include:

• Promoting Communication: Said to help you express yourself with clarity and kindness.
• Encouraging Peace: A wonderful stone for anyone looking to reduce stress or foster a sense of calm.
• Deepening Spirituality: Many believe it helps connect you with your angels or guides.

Even if you’re not into the metaphysical side, wearing Angelite is like carrying a pocketful of tranquility wherever you go.

Aqua Green Angelite Meets the Pantone Color of the Year

Pantone has just announced their Color of the Year for 2025: PANTONE 17-1230 Mocha Mousse. This rich, warm brown hue evokes feelings of comfort and pleasure, reminiscent of the taste of chocolate and coffee.

You’ll start to see more clothes coming out in this warm Mocha Mousse shade. Aqua Green Angelite pairs beautifully with it, creating a stunning contrast that’s both sophisticated and soothing.

Not a fan of brown clothing?

No problem! Aqua Green Angelite’s dreamy hues pair wonderfully with a variety of other colors:

• Soft Neutrals: Shades like cream, ivory, and light gray create an elegant, understated look.
• Deep Blues: Navy blue offers a striking and complementary contrast.
• Earthy Greens: Olive and sage green harmonize beautifully with the stone’s natural tones.
  
• Blush Pinks: A subtle pink adds a touch of romance and femininity.
• Rich Purples: Plum or lavender tones make for a regal and bold combination.
• Vibrant Orange or sunny yellow: Shades of orange or yellow bring a cheerful and energetic contrast that makes the aqua green pop.

With so many options, you’re sure to find the perfect palette to suit your style.

The Perfect Gift for Yourself or a Loved One

The refreshing dreamy hues of angelite pair beautifully with both casual and elegant outfits, making it a versatile addition to your jewelry collection.

Treat yourself or surprise someone special with a gift that’s truly unique. Angelite’s tranquil beauty brings a touch of peace and elegance into your life or to someone you love.

Spiny Oyster Turquoise is a composite gemstone made by combining three of nature's treasures: the spiny oyster shell, turquoise and copper.

Once the shell and turquoise are bonded, the composite material is cut and shaped into cabochons or beads for jewelry. Each piece is polished to a smooth, glossy finish, bringing out the vibrant colors and patterns that make oyster turquoise so unique.

Together, these elements create a gem believed to provide harmony, strength, and a deeper connection to oneself and the world.

Like the stone, we are a mosaic of the experiences and challenges that have shaped us.

Let oyster turquoise celebrate your journey - a symbol and reminder of your beauty, resilience, and moments in life worth cherishing.

​The beauty of Labradorite jewelry lies in its unpredictability. Each piece is one-of-a-kind, with its own distinct pattern of colors. Whether you choose a Labradorite necklace, statement ring, or earrings, I hope the magic of the Northern Lights brings a little luck and sparkle to your jewelry collection.

So as we dive into the holiday season, I wanted to highlight our blue gemstone jewelry collections in honor of our namesake and her 'Blue Christmas' tree. I hope you find your own special connection to these blue pieces and a meaningful gift to share.

So for all those on your list who love our Mom's favorite color, I hope one of these blue gemstone pieces becomes that special present you can't wait to share. The gift of a Blue Christmas in all the best ways💎🎄

First things first, let's get acquainted with River Jasper, the star of this cozy show.
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Origin and Looks: River Jasper stones get their name from those smooth, rounded stones you'd find in riverbeds. It's a type of Jasper, which is known for its various colors and patterns and tends to show off earthy tones like brown, beige, gray, red, and sometimes a hint of green.

River Jasper is mined in several regions worldwide including India, Brazil, Madagascar and Australia, but one of the most famous sources is the Pacific Northwest of the United States.

The Oregon landscape, with its rugged beauty, is home to some of the most exquisite River Jasper specimens. These stones are known for their vibrant reds and intricate patterns, making them highly sought after by jewelry connoisseurs and we were lucky enough to source the stones for our new statement earrings from this region.

Ancient civilizations were no strangers to this gemstone's allure. It was often used for amulets, talismans, and ceremonial items because it was believed to have protective and grounding qualities.

Imagine wearing River Jasper jewelry during sweater weather. It's like having your personal cozy corner wherever you go:
​
​Nature's Hug: 
Just like autumn leaves and your favorite sweater, River Jasper connects you with nature's warm embrace. It amplifies the cozy feeling you get during this season.

Stylish and Grounded: 
River Jasper's earthy colors and patterns are like the perfect fall accessory. It effortlessly matches your autumn wardrobe, adding a touch of sophistication and down-to-earth vibes. The red hues of these statement earrings can even carry you straight through the holiday season.

Stress Buster: 
As the days get shorter and the hustle and bustle increases, River Jasper's nurturing energy keeps you emotionally resilient. It's a reminder to pause, breathe, and take care of yourself amid the seasonal rush.
​
Stay Present: 
Sweater weather often makes us appreciate the simple joys – a cup of hot coffee, a crisp morning walk, or the warmth of a good book. River Jasper stones encourage you to be present and savor these moments.

With its earthy tones and comforting benefits, these statement earrings are a perfect match for this cozy time of year. Let them serve as a reminder to stay centered, nurture your well-being, and find peace amid the adventures of life.

So, as you snuggle up in your comfiest sweater and leggings this season, consider topping off your sweater weather vibe with a piece of River Jasper.

Stay cozy, Gem Lovers! 🧣 🍂

​Let's start with the story behind these beauties. Ethiopian opals weren't really on anyone's radar until the early 1990s when something amazing happened in the Wollo Province of Ethiopia. Miners, on the hunt for something else entirely, stumbled upon these hidden treasures. Talk about a happy accident! Ethiopian opals burst onto the scene with their incredible play of colors and have been mesmerizing us ever since.

​Now, let's get to the juicy part – what do these opals mean and what can they do for you? Well, folks have been attributing all sorts of mystical qualities to them:
 
Unleash Your Creativity: If you're feeling a creative block, Ethiopian opals might just be your muse. They're believed to spark your imagination and get those creative juices flowing. Perfect for artists, writers, and dreamers!
 
Heal Your Heart: These opals are like emotional healers. They're said to help you let go of past traumas and find inner peace. So, if you're going through a rough patch, consider them your emotional support gem.
 
Stay Protected: Opals, in general, have a reputation as protective stones. They're thought to shield you from negative vibes and bad energy, making you feel all safe and cozy.
 
October Babies, Rejoice: If your birthday falls in October, you're in luck! Ethiopian opals are one of your birthstones, giving you a unique and meaningful option for your birthday bling.  And if you happen to be celebrating a 14th anniversary soon, these are the anniversary  gemstones for you!
 
So, as you start pulling out the fall clothes and pumpkin spice everything takes over, why not treat yourself to these Ethiopian opal earrings? These gems truly capture the magic of this cozy, colorful season, and that's something to treasure.

​Happy October, gem lovers! 💎🍂

Happy New Year!

I’m just back from time off to clear and refresh after Jewel of Havana’s best year since our inception. I am so grateful to all of you for your support in 2021 and looking forward to a wonderful year ahead!

Every year Pantone releases the color of the year and this year it’s a brand new color called “Very Peri” (PANTONE 17-3938.) Pantone states, “This particular warm purple delivers an empowering combination of newness as well as the carefree enthusiasm and curiosity of what's to come in the future.” 

Basically… it’s a fresh and happy color full of hope and vibrance!  Of course, I’m from Louisiana and this beautiful color is one of two we love here (for those who know what I mean 😊)

Let me know if any of these picks resonate with you. Would you like to see more Very Peri jewelry or more contrasting pieces?

I’m creating like crazy over here & getting lists together for my next stone shopping trip, so now’s the time to weigh in. Which colors or stones would you like to see this year? Let me know in the comments or shoot me an email. I'd love to hear from you before the next gem show. Happy 2022!! xo Ana

It was a beautiful day. My toes in the white powdery sand, the sun shining, a cool breeze blowing under the shade of a huge umbrella. My parents who I hadn’t been able to hug in over 2 months were sitting to my left, my sister to the right, 3 year old niece building a sand castle at my feet and our Chief Children's Jewelry Consultant running and laughing in and out of the crashing waves just ahead. We gathered for the first time in months to celebrate her 8th birthday.
 
It was a perfect day and it was not lost on me how lucky we were to have safely made it to this moment when there was so much fear and suffering in the world leading up to it.
 
Just as I was looking around at all this beauty, feeling such gratitude, I put my headphones in and hit play on a random shuffle playlist. Up comes Louis Armstrong’s undeniable voice...

”I see leaves of green...Red roses too...I see them bloom for me and for you...and I think to    myself, what a wonderful world.”

I mean... you couldn’t have dreamt a better soundtrack for the moment.

I’m embarrassed to say how many years I’ve had these gemstones. They were so pretty I wanted something special for them. When we got back from our trip, I knew exactly what they were meant to be. I grabbed my sketchbook & played the song again while I worked filled with the love and gratitude from the trip with family I had missed so much during these crazy times.
 
Lapis lazuli is considered the stone of friendship, goodwill and harmony and malachite, the stone of wealth and abundance so I like to think that when they grow together you will have a wealth of friendship & abundance of love. They are also both calming stones and who couldn't use that right now?
 
The shapes & textures from this new jewelry collection capture the feelings of those precious moments on the sand, the sounds of crashing waves & children playing, the perfect song on the radio & a deep, deep gratitude for the beauty in the world around us.

May this jewelry bring you peace and calm, a wealth of friendship and an abundance of love.

"And I think to myself...what a wonderful world....."

Known as the Stone of Unconditional Love, Rose Quartz dates back as early as 7000 BC.

As folk lore would have it, rose quartz derived it's color from the blood of Aphrodite as she tried to save her love, Adonis. The dying lovers blood on the stone became the symbol of eternal love. The Egyptians believed the stone could prevent the effects of aging. Native Americans continued the tradition of the "Love Stone" believing it could calm anger, heal disappointments and bring love to the wearer.

Rose quartz is a crystal made of silicon dioxide. It's soft pink color is the result of trace amounts of iron, titanium or manganese combined with microscopic inclusions of pink fibers within the stone that keep it from being completely transparent.

Rose quartz can be found in mines all over the world. The most common sources are in Madagascar, Brazil, South Africa and India.

This heart chakra stone brings the energy of compassion, tenderness, peace and healing and supports the capacity to truly give and receive love from others. It attracts love and aides in developing closer bonds with friends and family.

A great gift to exchange between friends and loved ones, Jewel of Havana has a nice selection of sweet rose quartz pendant necklaces and earrings as well as new rose quartz clips for our popular Leaf Bell Necklaces or Calla Lily Earrings. Add this stone of love to your jewelry collection. It's is sure to bring you many years of happiness and contentment.

Beautiful red ruby is the birthstone for July and the anniversary stone for the 15th, 40th and 80th year of marriage. It is one of the four precious stones along with Emeralds, Diamonds and Sapphires. The name comes from the Latin word “ruber” which simply means “red”.

Ruby is red corundum and derives its color from the presence of chromium. Corundum is a mineral that produces sapphires of every color. All other corundum colors are called sapphires. Depending on the iron content, rubies can range from pinks and purples to orange and brownish reds; the most desirable being deep blue red which is referred to as “pigeon’s blood”.

The largest producers of rubies are Thailand, Madagascar, India and Sri Lanka but they can be found in Africa, Australia and the U.S.  Rubies are the second hardest natural stone after diamonds which makes them perfect for jewelry.

Larger high-quality rubies are rarer than diamonds of the same size and for that reason can sell for a significantly higher price. The “Hope Ruby” Ring sold for 6.74 million at 32.08 carats and Elizabeth Taylor’s 8.24 carat ruby ring sold for 4.2 million at auction. (That’s $500k per carat!!)

Ruby jewelry was a favorite among royalty around the world. They were a symbol of power and believed to be a stone of protection. In India, rubies were believed to help them stay at peace with their enemies. In the Bible rubies are associated with wisdom and beauty.

Today, rubies are said to attract good luck to the wearer, protect you from misfortune and shield against negative energy. They symbolize passion and love, release limitations, help with focus and clarity and strengthen energy, courage and joy.

Who couldn’t use a little ruby jewelry in their life? Check out Jewel of Havana’s new raw ruby necklace and earrings just in time for July birthdays!

​First described in 1813 in what is present day Romania, Rhodochrosite whose name means “Rose-Colored” is a rare mineral. In its pure form it is typically rose-red in color. The Incas believed it was the blood of their past Kings and Queens turned to stone and called it Inca Rosa.

The most interesting occurrence is in Argentina where Rhodochrosite forms in the 13th century  Inca Silver mines into large stalagmites and stalactites. They formed as water dripped from rock rich with manganese inside the ancient mine tunnels and combined with carbonate material, growing over the centuries into large stalagmites beautifully banded with concentric growth layers in pink and white bands.

The Argentinian Capillitas mine is the only rhodochrosite deposit that produces banded rhodochrosite instead of crystals like other rhodochrosite mines. It had to be mined mostly by hand. This mine was recently closed so banded rhodochrosite stones have been steadily going up in value.

Rhodochrosite is the national gemstone of Argentina and the official state mineral of Colorado which produces a beautiful crystal form of rose red rhodochrosite. It can also be found in Montana, Peru and Quebec, Canada.
​
Rhodochrosite is a stone of love and balance. It is thought to bring love to the wearer, relieve stress, increase self-confidence and the ability to handle problems in life.  Visit the Jewel of Havana Rhodochrosite page to see our collection of necklaces, pendants and earrings in this beautiful unique natural stone.

The practice of wearing a stone associated with your birth month is a popular and ancient tradition. Most gem scholars concur that this custom was originally inspired by the Breastplate of Aaron, which was set with twelve gemstones representing the twelve tribes of Israel, also corresponding to the twelve months of the year, and twelve signs of the zodiac. Each stone was thought to have heightened influence during the time of the year to which it was attached, so many people collected all the stones, and wore them in successive order.

Wearing a single birthstone associated with the month you were born is a more recent custom, beginning several centuries ago in either Germany or Poland. The modern birthstone chart was not developed until 1912, when the National Association of Jewelers adopted the official list most people are familiar with today. Either list can guide you to a special piece of jewelry to celebrate the birth of a special someone.

Jewel of Havana carries jewelry featuring many modern and traditional birthstones, including ruby, amethyst, jasper, agate, opal, peridot, turquoise, and lapis lazuli. A birthstone ring, bracelet, necklace or pendant feels special to wear and makes a very personal gift, whether you purchase it for a friend, a loved one -- or for yourself!

Lapis lazuli has been prized by humans for thousands of years. Its deep blue color, flecked and mottled with golden pyrites, is rich and beautiful. Lapis lazuli was inset in the eyebrows of King Tutankhamun’s funeral mask. And the ultramarine paint, used by the Old Masters to create so many classics, was made by grinding lapis lazuli into powder and mixing it with binding agents.

The best raw lapis lazuli stones come from Northeast Afghanistan, high in the Hindu Kush. There are also deposits in Russia, Chile, Italy, Mongolia, Canada and the USA (California and Colorado). Once it is mined, its crystalline marble properties allow it to be worked into vases, bowls, boxes, ornaments, mosaics and jewelry.

Jewel of Havana carries a variety of lapis lazuli jewelry in layering necklaces, earrings, and rings. The brilliant blue of lapis lazuli looks particularly stunning set in fine silver in the lapis lazuli wrap ring.

Lapis lazuli is one of the birthstones for December (along with Turquoise). But no matter which month you were born, a piece of lapis lazuli will soon become a favorite in your collection. It symbolizes prosperity, and is said to promote friendship and goodwill. It encourages harmony, and enhances wisdom.

Care for your lapis lazuli jewelry the way you do other gemstones. It should be protected from acidic substances and not be exposed to too much sunlight. A lapis lazuli that has grown dull from wear can be re-polished at any time. Any piece you own will be sure to be noticed, and will be treasured by you and anyone to whom you pass it down.

Peridot is the August birthstone and the anniversary stone for the 16th year of marriage.  It has a long history adorning both people and famous architecture. Cologne Cathedral’s shrine to the Three Holy Kings is bedecked with 200 carat peridots. And some historians believe that Cleopatra’s notorious collection of emeralds may have actually been peridot instead. Originally mined on an island owned by Egypt now called Zabargad, in the Red Sea, peridot is also found in China, Tanzania, Myanmar, Vietnam, Pakistan, Norway, Australia and Arizona. Some of the most precious and beautiful specimens of peridot are currently coming from Kashmir. 

Peridot was created in the early formation of the Earth. As the earth’s hot magma cooled to igneous rock, peridot came to be. It has also been found in meteorites that have fallen to Earth.  Unlike many gemstones, peridot only comes in green -- though its color varies from light yellow to dark olive, and even brownish green. The depth of color is a result of the iron content in the stone.

Though peridot is very old, it is regaining popularity today. Jewel of Havana celebrates peridot in layering necklaces and earrings. With its vibrant green color, it’s the perfect compliment to a summer wardrobe. It is considered the stone of truth, faithfulness and loyalty.  It’s energy has many positive effects, including bringing a sense of peace to the wearer, and helping to release ego, anger and jealousy. The person who wears peridot will be helped by its joyful energy in making and keeping friendships.

Care for your peridot the old fashioned way -- with warm, soapy water. Do not clean it in ultrasonic or steam cleaners. It is a relatively soft stone, and can be damaged by sharp blows or scratches. So, take care to protect it, and it will bring you many years of beauty and happiness.