Our Gemstones
LAPIS LAZULI
Lapis lazuli, a vibrant deep-blue gemstone, has a rich and fascinating history that spans thousands of years. Its story begins in ancient Afghanistan, where it was mined as early as the 7th millennium BC. Renowned for its rarity and beauty, lapis lazuli became highly sought-after and was traded along the Silk Road, reaching as far as Mesopotamia, Egypt and even Europe. In ancient Egypt, it was used to create exquisite jewellery and amulets, while in Mesopotamia, it adorned statues and royal tombs. Lapis lazuli held significant cultural and religious importance, with ancient civilisations believing it possessed mystical powers and associated it with gods and the heavens. In more recent history, lapis lazuli has continued to captivate artists, from the Renaissance painters who ground it into pigment for ultramarine blue – used to depict the Virgin Mary's cape – to modern artisans (like Moonstone & Wolf!) who incorporate it into jewellery and decorative objects. Today, lapis lazuli remains a symbol of timeless beauty and ancient culture.
DRAGON VEIN AGATE
Dragon vein agate, a unique and mesmerising gemstone, carries a captivating history that intertwines with ancient Chinese mythology and the natural wonders of the earth. Originating from the Yunnan Province in China, dragon vein agate derives its name from the intricate patterns resembling the scales and sinuous lines of a dragon. Believed to be formed by the fluid movements of Earth's energies, this agate variety has been treasured for centuries. In Chinese folklore, it is thought to bring good luck, protection and the power to ward off evil spirits. Dragon vein agate has been used in traditional Chinese medicine as a talisman for healing and harmonising energy. With its striking and vibrant colours, ranging from deep reds to vibrant blues and greens, dragon vein agate continues to captivate collectors, jewellery artisans, and those seeking a connection to ancient tales and the beauty of the natural world.
PINK BANDED AGATE
Pink banded agate is a captivating variety of agate known for its striking bands of pink and white hues. This beautiful gemstone is formed from the slow deposition of mineral layers within cavities of volcanic rocks. The formation of pink banded agate can take a significant amount of time, occurring over thousands or even millions of years. The process begins when hot magma from volcanic activity cools and solidifies, creating cavities or gas bubbles within the rock. Over time, mineral-rich fluids containing silica seep into these cavities, and as the silica-rich water evaporates or undergoes chemical changes, it leaves behind deposits of silica minerals. The distinctive banding patterns are a result of different mineral compositions and variations in the conditions during the stone's formation. Pink banded agate is coveted for its stunning colours, ranging from pale pink to deep fuchsia, often creating a mesmerising swirl of bands that resemble intricate natural artwork. With its gentle and soothing energy, pink banded agate is believed to promote emotional healing, harmony and inner peace. This gemstone is a popular choice with jewellery lovers, since its unique patterns create pieces of outstanding beauty.
GREEN BANDED AGATE
Green banded agate is a head-turning stone that showcases a spectacular palette of green hues coupled with distinctive white banding patterns. The banding is formed through the slow deposition of layers of silica in volcanic rocks over many years and its attractive colouration is often caused by the presence of minerals, such as iron or chromium. This gemstone is treasured for its soothing and balancing energy, and is believed to promote emotional healing, harmony and abundance. Its natural beauty and energetic properties make it a sought-after gemstone for those seeking a spiritual connection to nature and the grounding energies it embodies.
BLUE BANDED AGATE
Blue banded agate is highly regarded for its calming and soothing properties, known to promote tranquillity, balance and clarity of thought. It is often associated with communication and self-expression, encouraging honest and open dialogue. This could be the perfect stone for those wishing to improve their expressive qualities. The blue coloration of this gemstone is typically caused by traces of minerals, such as iron or copper. The dramatic bands of blue and white in this agate variety make it a very popular choice for jewellery, especially in the form of beads, pendants and cabochons. Whether worn as a fashion statement or used for its metaphysical benefits, blue banded agate radiates beauty and conjures up the serene essence of the sky and sea.
ROSE QUARTZ
Rose quartz is a gemstone that has long been cherished for its soothing energy and association with love and compassion. It belongs to the quartz family and gets its soft-pink color from traces of titanium, manganese or iron in its crystal structure. Rose quartz is believed to carry a nurturing and comforting energy, promoting self-love, emotional healing, and harmony in relationships. It is often used in jewellery and crystal healing practices, where its serene and calming properties are highly sought-after. The ethereal translucence of rose quartz is a key aspect of its subtle beauty, and its smooth, polished surfaces make it a popular choice for gemstone beads, pendants and carved figurines. Whether gifted as a token of affection or used as a personal talisman, rose quartz continues to captivate with its gentle and loving vibrations, reminding us to embrace love, compassion and inner peace.
OPALITE MOONSTONE
Opalite moonstone, also known as sea opal, is a unique and captivating gemstone that exhibits a tantalising play of colours and an ethereal glow. Despite its name, opalite moonstone is not a natural gemstone but rather a man-made material, often composed of a type of glass known as opalized glass or opalite. It is crafted to mimic the appearance of moonstone, displaying a milky translucent quality with subtle flashes of blue, purple and other iridescent hues. Opalite moonstone is revered for its mystical and spiritual properties, believed to enhance intuition, emotional healing and inner peace. Due to its attractive aesthetics and affordable price, opalite moonstone is often used in jewellery designs, including pendants, earrings and bracelets, where its delicate charm can be showcased. Whether chosen for its metaphysical properties or for its unique beauty, opalite moonstone continues to capture the imagination with its otherworldly aesthetics.
AMETHYST
Amethyst, with its jaw-dropping deep-purple hues, is a gemstone that has captivated people for centuries. It is a variety of quartz and owes its stunning colour to traces of iron and other impurities within the crystal structure. The colour of amethyst can range from delicate lilac to deep violet, with the most prized specimens exhibiting a rich and vibrant purple. Throughout history, amethyst has been highly regarded for its beauty and legendary metaphysical properties. It has been associated with qualities such as clarity of mind, spiritual growth and protection against negative energies. Amethyst has adorned jewellery, crowns and regal ornaments, symbolising royalty and nobility for millennia. Today, it remains a popular gemstone, often featuring in rings, necklaces and earrings. Its alluring and calming presence continues to make amethyst a cherished gemstone, captivating both the eye and the spirit.