These denim lapis oval post earrings have a simple, classic and elegant look that can be worn every day. Stones measure approximately 7/8 inches from top to bottom.
These delicately inlaid earrings have a unique look that is both distinctly southwestern and contemporary at the same time. The 1 inch by 3/4 inch slab earrings are comprised of lapis on one side and sugilite on the other side, and divided by a mosaic of colored stones. These earrings are a masterpiece of inlay work. Stones vary in size, shape and color.
These delicately inlaid earrings have a unique look that is both distinctly southwestern and contemporary at the same time. The 1 inch by 3/4 inch flat teardrop is comprised of lapis and turquoise on one side joined by a single jet stone to a mosaic of colored stones on the second side. These earrings are a masterpiece of inlay work. Stones vary in size, shape and color.
This striking necklace combines some of the most colorful stones used in Native American jewelry with a contemporary design on a sleek silver snake chain. With its use of gaspeite, turquoise, sponge coral, bamboo coral, lapis and denim lapis, this pendant can be worn with a wide variety of clothing and jewelry styles.
This beautiful set includes 1 1/2 inch drop earrings and a pendant on a 16 inch silver chain. The bright, subtle colors of the gaspeite, Sleeping Beauty turquoise, bamboo coral and denim lapis are a perfect combination in an elegant, contemporary design. This set is ideal as a gift for somebody with a classy and creative style. Stones vary in size, shape and color.
This eye-catching, multi-stone bracelet shows off a complete collection of typical southwestern gem stones, including turquoise, gaspeite, lapis, bamboo coral, sponge coral, and spiny oyster. With the fabulous combination of colors and shapes, this signature piece pairs well with almost any jewelry. Cuff can be adjusted to fit most sizes.
The creative design and variety of colored stones in these multi-stone dangle earrings makes them a versatile and stylish addition to a jewelry collection. Stones include bamboo coral, spiny oyster, gaspeite and turquoise. Earrings hang approximately 1 1/2 inches from wire.
These whimsical charm earrings showcase a variety of precious stones in beautiful colors. The pink spiny oyster, light orange bamboo coral, bright blue turquoise and deep blue lapis come together nicely to make these earrings versatile and unique. Stones measure from 1/4 inch to 3/8 inches across. Stones vary in size, shape and color.
$160.00
Lapis Jewelry
Lapis jewelry has long been admired by many civilizations throughout history. Lapis is an extremely versatile gemstone that historically has served a multitude of purposes. Among its early usages were utilizing ground lapis powder for perceived medicinal and spiritual uses, and employing ground lapis in a water mixture to serve as colored paint for artists. In its solid form, lapis, long used as an ornament for jewelry, continues to captivate the viewer’s imagination with its beautiful color. Mined in Afghanistan for over six thousand years, the gemstone's incorporation into Native American jewelry occurred at a later, more modern date, when Native American artisans embraced this ancient and distinctive gemstone and often include it in contemporary styles of Native American jewelry.
Although there are minerals present in lapis, such as calcite and pyrite, its majority makeup consists of lazurite, therefore classifying lapis as a rock. The presence of minerals, however, determines the value of the gemstone, either increasing or devaluing its worth. For example, pyrite, also known as “Fool’s Gold”, creates a stunning spectacle of gold to bronze tones that, when in small inclusions, raises the value of the particular piece of lapis jewelry. Whereas small specs of pyrite enhance the desirability of lapis jewelry, large or abundant streaks of white calcite or pyrite devalues the gemstone, decreasing its economic worth. The primary color of lapis is a dark deep-ocean blue that results from the presence of sulfur. The dark blue contains hues of purple and sometimes a hint of green.
The strikingly beautiful canvas of the dark blue of lapis and the presence of stunning pyrite specs inspired Native Americans to incorporate the gemstone into magnificent forms of lapis jewelry. The familiarity of working with softer gemstones, such as turquoise, made the use of lapis an easy means of broadening existing styles. Whether cut and shaped into round and flat beads for necklaces , inlayed on bracelets, as a centerpiece to rings and earrings, or in shell mosaics, lapis jewelry adds a distinct look to traditional yet contemporary Native American jewelry.
Stones from the famous Royston turquoise mine have long been coveted for their rare mix of both blue and green turquoise. We love these stones and couldn't resist putting together a beautiful jewelry collection based on the turquoise from this noted mine.