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What a Wonderful World - New Lapis Lazuli Malachite Jewelry

6/3/2020

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The Inspiration

New Lapis Malachite Jewelry Inspired by a moment on the beach
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.

Lapis Lazuli Malachite Jewelry

Lapis Lazuli Malachite Stones
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....."

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Lapis Lazuli Malachite Jewelry, Earrings, Necklaces

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Which Gemstone Will Help You Keep Your New Year Resolutions All Year Long?

1/20/2019

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I read an article this week that got me thinking. Studies show most people break their New Year resolutions before the end of January each year. (I'm not shocked, I'm one of those people myself. How about you? ;)

But it got me thinking, when I'm feeling low in energy or want to manifest something specific in my life, I've been known to grab my favorite gemstone jewelry to help keep me mindful of what I'm working towards. I thought it would be fun to put together a little quiz to help find the perfect gemstone for keeping your new year resolutions all year long.

Whether you believe in the metaphysical properties of gemstones or not, they are a beautiful way to keep a goal front of mind or carry a reminder to live with courage, happiness, intention or whatever you are wanting to manifest in your life all year.

​Take our quiz and let me know which stone you get in the comments below. Feel free to share with your friends too. 
Happy New Year! xo Ana
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Rose Quartz Jewelry - The Stone of Unconditional Love

8/1/2018

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Rose Quartz Necklace and Earrings - Stone of Unconditional Love
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.

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Rose Quartz Jewelry - The Stone of Unconditional Love
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Ruby Jewelry - The Birthstone for July

7/4/2018

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Raw Ruby Jewelry - Ruby Necklace -  Gold Ruby Earrings
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!

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Ruby Jewelry - Ruby Necklace - Ruby Earrings
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Shopping for Gemstones - Behind the Scenes

6/1/2017

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Gemstone Shopping
It's my favorite time of year! The last spring festival is complete, the Mother's Day gifts are open and being enjoyed and I head to New York City for what I like to call a "worcation". I love what I do and finding new beautiful stones to bring back to you is my own personal Disneyland.

I realized I've never shared with you what this looks like and this trip was a little bittersweet. Many of the huge warehouses I used to get lost in for days have either closed or moved out of New York. The rents are too high and there is so much competition in the gemstone district.

The other discovery is the disappearance of "shapes". I've noticed for a while suppliers at gem and mineral shows in our area weren't bringing those large coin and oval cuts that make my favorite statement necklaces. I thought for sure I would find them in New York but I walked every single warehouse and large shapes are not to be found. I got the last hank (group of strands) of large Lapis Lazuli ovals in any warehouse I visited in NYC (and I went to them all). I was told it is more economical for the stone cutters to cut round so the shapes are not available any more. If you are on the VIP list, you'll get first chance at these last lapis statement necklaces coming soon. Watch your email in the next few weeks!

New Stones Coming Soon

What I'm working on this month from the NYC trip: beautiful new turquoise pieces with color that took my breath away when I saw them, natural blue coral, the last of the Lapis Lazuli statement necklaces, the return of many sold out layering necklaces and a few new designs I have in mind to add to the collection.

If you haven't already, make sure to join our VIP list to be the first to have access to the limited edition pieces coming out over the next few weeks. VIPs always get first looks before they go out to the general public. You also get complimentary shipping codes for you to enjoy every month anywhere in the U.S. It's great for your out of town gift shipping too!

If you are in the Baton Rouge area, come get a sneak peek at the Baton Rouge Arts Market this weekend! Back to work for me so I can bring you these beautiful stones ready to wear! It's Happy Time in the Studio this month!! xoxo Ana

Stone Shopping
Gemstone Shops
A few of the many stone warehouses I visited in New York City this month.
Gems and Pearls
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Aquamarine: The Birthstone of Protection, Courage and Happiness

3/1/2017

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Aquamarine Necklace
Aquamarine, the birthstone for March and the anniversary stone for the 19th year of marriage, has long been prized for its soothing color ranging from translucent pale blue to blue green or teal.  A member of the beryl family, Aquamarine is a sister stone to Emeralds, both beautiful crystals but deriving their color from trace amounts of chromium (emeralds) or iron (aquamarine). 

The name “Aquamarine” comes from the Latin words for water and sea.  In ancient times, Aquamarine was worn by sailors for protection on the ocean. It was also believed to be a healing stone for calming anxiety. It is believed to bring courage and happiness to the wearer, increase intelligence and make one youthful. It is also believed to reawaken love, making it a wonderful gift for any anniversary.

The largest producer of aquamarine is Brazil but it is found all over the world - Australia, Tanzania, Zambia, Kenya, Madagascar, Nigeria, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, Pakistan, China, Russia and several locations in the United States, with India quickly rivaling Brazil for the top spot.

Although the clear variety is the most valuable, I prefer milky aquamarine. It is a naturally occurring aquamarine that is translucent to opaque instead of transparent. Milky aquamarine complements almost any skin tone making it a Jewel of Havana favorite. I’ve never seen it look anything but stunning on anyone regardless of skin tone or hair color.


Jewel of Havana has beautiful aquamarine necklace sets back in stock just in time for March birthdays or anniversaries. I’ve also added new aquamarine clips for our popular Leaf Bell Necklaces and just a few more aquamarine earrings are left as well. Add this stone of protection and calm to your jewelry collection. It is sure to bring you many years of happiness and natural beauty.


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Aquamarine Stud Earrings
Aquamarine Stud Earrings
Aquamarine Earrings
Aquamarine Earrings
Aquamarine Ring
Aquamarine Ring
Aquamarine Leaf Bell Necklace
Aquamarine Leaf Bell Necklace
Milky Aquamarine Necklace Set
Natural Milky Aquamarine Necklace Set
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Black Onyx - The Stone of Protection

10/11/2016

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Black Onyx Slide PendantBlack Onyx Slide Pendant
Formed by deposits of silica in lava, onyx is a microcrystalline quartz called chalcedony. It has been used for carvings and jewelry since ancient times. Ranging in color from white to black and every color in between, onyx was popular for the carving of cameos and Roman seals.

Black onyx is known as a protective stone. Ancient Romans believed it supported courage and carried it into battle for protection. Many believe it repels negative energy and brings good fortune, strength and commitment in relationships. English midwives even used it for pain relief during childbirth.

Black onyx is the birthstone for Leo’s and the
Anniversary Gemstone for the 7th and 10th year of marriage. It is mined in Brazil, India, Peru, Uruguay, Afghanistan, Madagascar, NW Mexico & Baja, California in the US.

The best way to care for your onyx jewelry is to wipe it with a soft damp cloth. Onyx is a relatively soft stone so soap or chemicals can build up inside and cause discoloration. You can rinse onyx in water but don’t soak it overnight and make sure to dry it well with a soft cloth.

This beautiful ancient stone is a classic favorite at Jewel of Havana. Black onyx earrings, slide pendants,
rings, bracelets and necklaces can add a touch of sophistication to your favorite fall and winter fashion that will never go out of style.

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Black Onyx Stud Earrings
Black Onyx Stud Earrings
Black Onyx Leaf Necklace
Black Onyx Leaf Necklace

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Rhodochrosite Jewelry - The Stone of Love and Balance

9/12/2016

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PictureRhodochrosite Slide Pendant
​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.


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Rhodochrosite Chandelier Earrings
Rhodochrosite Chandelier Earrings
Rhodochrosite Diamond Slide Pendant
Rhodochrosite Diamond Slide
Rhodochrosite Necklace Set
Rhodochrosite Necklace Set
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Anniversary Stones Celebrate Special Wedding Milestones

3/4/2015

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Anniversary Gemstones Gift List
Jewelry is a popular gift for wedding anniversaries. But did you know there is a traditional anniversary stone chart similar to that for birthstones? Along with the traditional anniversary gifts like paper, wood and crystal, you can give traditional gem and semi-precious stones on a wedding anniversary to commemorate a special milestone.

The giving of traditional anniversary gifts dates to Roman times, when husbands would crown their wives with a silver wreath for 25 years of marriage, and a gold wreath for 50 years of marriage. Thus, the silver and golden wedding anniversaries were born. By the last couple centuries of the millennium, most countries had adopted a list of traditional gifts for major anniversaries like 1st: paper, 5th: wood, 10th: tin, 15: crystal, etc.. In 1937, the American National Retail Jeweler Association developed an expanded list of traditional anniversary gifts to correspond to most every year, and most jewelry retailers adopted a list of anniversary stones as well.

Jewel of Havana carries jewelry featuring many traditional anniversary stones, including fresh water pearl, amethyst, onyx, lapis lazuli, turquoise, agate, peridot, and aquamarine. An anniversary stone ring, bracelet, necklace or pendant is a very personal gift, and can help you celebrate and remember a special wedding milestone any time it’s worn.


Anniversary Gemstones Gift List

Year
1    Gold
2    Garnet
3   
Pearl
4    Blue Topaz
5    Sapphire
6 
   Amethyst
7    Onyx
8    Tourmaline
9    Lapis Lazuli
10  Diamond
11  Turquoise

12  Jade/Agate

Year
13   Citrine
14  
Opal
15   Ruby
16
   Peridot

17   Amethyst
18   Cat’s Eye Chrysoberyl
19 
  Aquamarine
20   Emerald
21   Iolite
22   Spinel
23   Imperial Topaz

24   Tanzanite
Year
25   Silver
30   Pearl
35   Emerald, Coral or Jade
40   Ruby
45   Sapphire
50   Gold
55   Emerald or Alexandrite
60   Diamond
70   Saphire
75   Diamond
80   Ruby

SHOP BY GEMSTONE

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Amethyst: Beauty and Protection in one Alluring Package

2/4/2015

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Amethyst Necklace and Earrings
Amethyst, the birthstone for February and the anniversary stone for the sixth year of marriage, has long been prized for its captivating violet color, ranging from lavender to deep purple. A member of the quartz family, Amethyst is both beautiful and durable, making it popular and suitable for jewelry. Relatively abundant, Amethyst is found all over the world, making it an affordable gemstone for many.

The name “Amethyst” comes from the Greek word, “amethystos,” which means, “not drunk.” For centuries, Amethysts were worn by ancient civilizations for protection from intoxication and seduction. In the middle ages, amethyst was a popular wedding gift as it was believed to bless the couple with happiness and good fortune.  European soldiers wore Amethyst amulets in battle, believing they offered protection and healing. And throughout history, both royalty and religious leaders treasured Amethyst for its beauty and value.

Amethyst owes its color to the presence of trace minerals and iron impurities, coupled with exposure to radiation. Because of its stratified crystal structure, some varieties of Amethyst can be not just solid in color, but banded purple and white, giving it a variegated appearance. Jewel of Havana carries
necklaces and rings in Amethyst, that will make a stunning gift or a welcome addition to any jewelry collection.

Amethyst changes color when exposed to extreme heat, and its color can fade with prolonged exposure to intense light. So, care must be taken not to steam clean amethyst, or to sunbathe while wearing it. Amethyst can be safely cleaned with warm, soapy water.

Amethyst is said to promote peace, happiness and contentment. There’s a reason St. Valentine always wore it. Whether you choose a ring,
earrings, or necklace, wearing Amethyst is bound to bring pleasure to you and those you encounter.


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Amethyst Layering Necklaces
Amethyst and Gold Layering Necklaces
Amethyst Wrap Ring
Amethyst Wrap Ring
Cape Amethyst Long Necklace
Cape Amethyst Necklace

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Birthstones: Traditional Gifts of Jewelry in the Modern Age

1/22/2015

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Birthstones Month by Month
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!

Modern Birthstones

Garnet


January - Garnet


Amethyst


February - Amethyst

Aquamarine


March - Aquamarine

Diamond


April - Diamond


Emerald


May - Emerald

Pearl


June - Pearl /                             Moonstone

Ruby


July - Ruby

Peridot


August - Peridot

Sapphire


September - Sapphire

Opal


October - Opal /
                 Tourmaline


Citrine


November - Citrine /
                     Topaz


Turquoise


December- Turquoise
                    Blue Topaz
                                Tanzanite 



Traditional Birthstones

Garnet


January - Garnet


Amethyst


February - Amethyst

Bloodstone


March - Bloodstone /
              Jasper


Diamond


April - Diamond


Emerald


May - Emerald


Agate


June - Agate /                                        Alexandrite


Ruby


July - Ruby

Carnelian


August - Carnelian /
                Sardonyx


Sapphire


September - Sapphire


Tourmaline


October - Tourmaline

Citrine


November - Citrine


Lapis Lazuli


December-Lapis Lazuli
                   Zircon

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Turquoise Jewelry: Ancient Beauty Still Rings True

12/3/2014

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Natural Turquoise Necklace Set
Turquoise is a stone that continues to find its way to the height of fashion. In ancient times it was considered a holy stone: worn as a talisman, and for protection. It decorated royalty, and was commonly used in grave furnishings. The Aztecs used it to decorate ceremonial masks, and the Native American Indians, believing the blue gemstone cosmically connects the sky and sea, still produce a steady quantity of turquoise and silver jewelry today.

Turquoise is a copper aluminum phosphate, and is found in the largest quantities in Mexico, Israel, the USA, China, Iran and Afghanistan. Distinguished by it’s heavenly blue hues (created by copper) and brown or black veins, each sample of turquoise is unique, making it a splendid choice for creating one-of-a-kind pieces of jewelry.

Jewel of Havana carries a full line of hand-crafted turquoise jewelry, including
turquoise earrings, turquoise layering necklaces, and the very popular turquoise wrap rings in fine silver.

In many ancient cultures, turquoise was considered a symbol of wealth, and if it’s given by a loving friend, it is said to bring good fortune to the wearer. It is the birthstone for the month of December and the Anniversary Gemstone for the 11th year of marriage but the beauty and uniqueness of turquoise is enough to warrant a piece -- or a few -- in anyone’s collection.

Turquoise is relatively soft, and should be protected from cosmetics, harsh light, and heat. It should be cleaned regularly with a soft cloth. The distinctive mottling in each turquoise stone ensures that any piece of turquoise jewelry will have a character all its own. You can no doubt find one that harmonizes with your own individuality.

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Turquoise Ring
Turquoise Wrap Ring
Turquoise Layering Necklace Collection
Turquoise Layering Necklace Collection
Turquoise Wrap Ring
Turquoise Wrap Ring

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Lapis Lazuli Jewelry: Deep Blue Beauty

9/17/2014

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Lapis Lazuli JewelryLapis Lazuli Jewelry
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.

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Lapis Lazuli Necklace
Lapis Lazuli Ovals Necklace
Lapis Lazuli Wrap Ring
Lapis Lazuli Wrap Ring
Lapis Lazuli Stud Earrings
Lapis Lazuli Stud Earrings
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Peridot Jewelry: Brilliant Beauty Forged by Earth's Fire

8/13/2014

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Peridot NecklacePeridot Layering Necklaces
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.

Peridot and Pearl Layering Necklace Set
Peridot and Pearl Layering Necklace Set
Peridot, Moonstone, Smokey Quartz and Jade Quartz Necklace Set
Peridot, Moonstone, Smokey Quartz and Jade Quartz Layering Necklace Set
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Coral Jewelry: Organic Allure from the Deep Blue Sea

7/23/2014

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Coral Layering Necklace with GoldCoral Necklace from the Layering Necklace Collection
Coral jewelry has a dramatic beauty that comes directly from nature. Along with pearl and amber, coral is considered an organic gemstone. Despite its rich radiance, coral is actually the aggregated skeletal remains of thousands of tiny marine invertebrates. Individual animals called polyps create exoskeletons, which when amassed together in a colony, create beautiful coral heads that have been prized for jewelry and decoration since the earliest history of man. Victorians carved coral into delicate cameos and roses, and American Indians also integrated red coral into their jewelry designs. 


Coral occurs in just about every color, including pink, white, yellow, orange, lavender, blue and black. But red coral is by far the most sought after color for gemstones. It is the most rare color, as well, due in part to over-harvesting. Jewel of Havana only carries coral that is legally and sustainably harvested.

Jewel of Havana has unique coral necklaces that beautifully pair coral stones with fine or sterling silver or gold.  Our red coral earrings and coral layering necklaces are a vivid, eye catching addition to any jewelry collection.

Coral is very soft and needs to be treated with care. Do not put coral in jewelry dips or ultrasonic
cleaners. Instead use a clean, soft cloth on it, and rinse it in warm, soapy water. Store your coral jewelry in an individual cloth pouch, or in its own compartment in a jewelry box to avoid scratches. Wrap larger pieces in tissue for extra protection.  As with all your hand strung jewelry, always store flat to prolong the life of your necklaces.

The anniversary gemstone for 35 years of marriage, coral symbolizes joy and happiness, and is believed to calm emotions and provide protection. Wear it, and the vibrancy of coral will certainly bring joy and happiness to you, and affect the spirits of anyone you meet.

Sponge Coral Necklace
Sponge Coral Necklace
Coral Layering Necklace
Coral Layering Necklace
Natural Blue Coral Necklace Set
Natural Blue Coral Necklace
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Pearl:  The Natural Beauty

6/16/2014

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Throughout human history, pearls have been sought after for their elegance and beauty. Before the advent of cultured pearl farming in the early 1900s, natural pearls were incredibly rare, and only the nobility or extraordinarily rich could afford them. Today, with more affordable cultured pearls making up the bulk of what’s produced, pearls are
more accessible to everyone.

Pearl is a “natural gemstone,” and the only gemstone created by a living creature. When a foreign object (like a grain of sand) gets into a pearl producing mollusk, like a mussel or an oyster, that mollusk’s natural defense mechanism coats the object with nacre. As layers of nacre build up, a pearl is born. Both cultured pearls and natural pearls are “real.” The difference between them is how the foreign object is introduced. In natural (wild) pearls it happens naturally, and in cultured pearls, it’s introduced by humans. You can’t tell the difference between a cultured and a natural pearl without an x-ray!

Traditionally, the ideal pearl was round, smooth, and white. But there’s a wide variety of shapes and colors available. Jewel of Havana’s pearl jewelry collection features fresh water pearl earrings and freshwater pearl necklaces and bracelets in white, gold, rose, peridot, black and even chocolate tones. Fresh water pearls are also prominent in the Children’s Jewelry Collection, with our christening baby bracelets, and ballerina bracelets being among the most popular.

Makeup and hairspray can build up and affect the luster of pearl, so let your pearls be
the “last thing on, first thing off” in your routine. Clean your pearl jewelry with mild soap
and water (or our recommended all natural jewelry cleaner) with a very soft cloth.
Dry them completely, and store flat.  Never hang your hand knotted jewelry.  Storing flat avoids stretching your silk and prolongs the time between restringing.

Pearl is the June birthstone, and considered the “stone of sincerity.” Historically, pearls  have been symbolic of purity and faith, and many believe pearl can boost personal integrity and help clear the mind. Regardless of why you choose to buy or wear it, the luster and iridescence of pearl is irresistible. Let us help you add to your collection!

Christening Gift - Freshwater Pearl Bracelet with Sterling Silver Cross - Children's Jewelry Collection
Christening Gift - Freshwater Pearl Bracelet with Sterling Silver Cross from our Children's Jewelry Collection
Pearl Jewelry Collection - Freshwater Pearl Earrings, Necklaces and Bracelets
Pearl Jewelry Collection - Pearl Earrings, Necklaces and Bracelets
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    Ana Maria Andricain

    Ana is a metal clay certified artist creating handcrafted nature inspired artisan jewelry from her Baton Rouge studio.  If you love natural gemstones and metal, welcome home!

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