Jewelry Facets
Fascinating Facts
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Labradorite
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Labradorite is a variety of feldspar and is in the same family as moonstone. When light hits this gemstone from a certain angle, it can display striking rainbow-colored reflections. This phenomenon is called labradorescence or schiller and is often described as looking like an oil slick. The most common type of labradorite has a green/gray base with a moderate schiller.
Labradorite was officially discovered on St. Paul Island in Labrador, Canada in 1770. However, pieces of this gemstone have been found in Native American artifacts in Maine. During the 18th Century, labradorite was frequently used in jewelry in both England and France. Labradorite is believed to help in goal-setting. It is also said to stimulate the imagination and the development of new ideas. |
Labradorite, Black
(a.k.a. Larvikite) |
Black Labroadorite, a.k.a. Larvikite, is a variety of feldspar which only occurs in the Oslo-rift near Larvik, Norway. It is a dark bluish gray stone with silvery light blue reflections and flecks of black. It is also referred to as Norwegian black moonstone.
In addition to its use in jewelry, larvikite is also used as a facing stone on the interiors and exteriors of buildings. It is used in the United Nations building in New York and numerous banks and pubs in the United Kingdom resulting in it also being known as "pub stone." Larvikite is believed to enhance psychic abilities and maintain vitality. |
Lampworking
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Lampworking is glassmaking using a torch to melt and shape the glass. It is also known as flameworking or torchworking since oil-fueled lamps are no longer used to heat and melt the glass. Lampworking uses two main types of glass borosilicate glass and soft or Moretti glass.
Lampwork artists create a wide variety of beads and pendants that can be used in jewelry. these are often tiny works of art. |
Lapis
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Lapis luzuli (most commonly called lapis) is a rich saturated cobalt blue with inclusions of calcite and pyrite which twinkle like stars. It has been mined for over 6,000 years. Lapis has been used mostly as a gemstone. However, in times past it has been pulverized and used as eye shadow and as the artist pigment, ultramarine blue. The lapis acquired from the Hindu Kush Mountains of Afghanistan is considered the best in the world.
Lapis is considered to be the stone of truth and friendship. It is also reputed to bring harmony to friendships. |
Lava Stone
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Lava stone beads are made from basalt an igneous rock formed during volcanic eruptions. They are commonly treated with paraffin wax to smooth their rough texture and deepen their natural dark gray or brown color. The holes and bubbles in lava stone give it an interesting texture. Lava stone beads are much lighter than they appear.
Lava stone is believed to dissipate anger and provide stability in times of change. |
Lepidolite
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Lepidolite is an uncommon mica and is a by-product of the mining of lithium. Lepidolite is from the Greek word "lepidos" meaning scale because it normally appears scaly. Its violet to pale pink or white color is due to the proximity of lithium. Lepidolite can also contain black markings.
It is said to encourage independence in setting goals and to attract good luck. |