A sky-blue turquoise Venus forms the centerpiece of this striking necklace, complemented by turquoise nuggets and handmade oxidized copper spiral beads. The oxidization of the copper results in a subtle rainbow on the surface of these metal beads, imported from Afghanistan.
The turquoise goddess and nuggets are Chinese and are stabilized. I am not one hundred percent sure that the goddess has not been dyed. The copper beads are handmade from Afghanistan, and are fire-oxidized. The necklace is hand-knotted on light blue silk and finished with a an oval copper toggle clasp from Bali. This is a longish necklace, just over 22 inches including the clasp.
Disclosure: Please note that the display mannequin in the photo is about half-human scale; the necklace has been draped around the back of the mannequin to simulate how the necklace would hang. Please refer to the other photos for a picture of the entire necklace and an indication of scale. Copper is not hypoallergenic and those prone to skin irritation should consider one of my pieces using sterling silver or vermeil findings. Like all of my jewelry, this necklace is not intended for use by persons under 13.
About the Stones:
Turquoise is hydrated copper aluminum phosphate, and is usually found in association with copper. This blue to green stone (and the origin of the color word, “turquoise”) was one of the first stones to be mined by ancient peoples. The oldest pieces of jewelry set with this gem are four bracelets found on the mummified arm of Queen Zar. She ruled in Egypt about 5500 BC.
Turquoise has taken on profound meaning in every culture it has touched with its sky-blue color. In the Middle East it was believed to foretell danger by changing color. In the Far East, it was said to bring wisdom and wealth. Some Native Americans believe it is a bridge to the spirit world. In Tibet, turquoise symbolizes the cycle of life, because over a long period of time, untreated turquoise can change color from bright and lively green and blue to dark brown and black, representing the life cycle of birth, old age and death. Both Native Americans and Tibetans believe that turquoise offers protection from falling to horseback riders.
