Known as the “Queen of Gems,” South Sea Pearls from Australia and Tahiti are greatly desired by many around the globe. These pearls are cultivated in the depths of the oceans and come alive with time. The longer they are left to nature’s way and the motion of the tides, temperature of water and movement of sand, the more layers they develop - enhancing the shape, luster and size of the pearl. South Sea Pearls are usually white, pink-white, silver-white or golden in color and are grown one at a time in the bodies of marine pearl oysters.

The cultivation of Freshwater Pearls began in 1935. Initially Japan was the leader in cultivating the Freshwater Pearl, but sadly due to pollution most of the freshwater lakes Japan could not sustain the lives of the freshwater mollusks. Hence, a majority Freshwater Pearls are now cultivated in the lakes of China in the area of Shanghai. Freshwater pearls are best known for their whimsical shapes and wide variety of sizes and colors. They are created in marine pearl oysters making their surface texture soft and lustrous. They symbolize purity.

Traditionally, designers separated stones into two categories: semi precious and precious. Today, there are so many wonderful colors, shapes and cuts available that mixing them only enhances each stone - semi or precious. The variety in color, shape and texture create unique and vibrant pieces that pop. Sourced from all over the world we have found such unique shapes, colors and cuts of the stones.

Every Cameo is a miniature work of art, whether carved in Carnelian Shell, Mother of Pearl, Agate or other hardy unique stones. Cameo’s have an exquisite classic beauty and such a beautiful ambiance of the past. The tradition of carving the carnelian shell began in the fifteenth century and was popularized by Queen Victoria. Early Greek and Roman carvings featured images and themes from mythology and beautiful women. Women began collecting cameos during the Elizabeth period making prestige and culture “portraits” dancing Eros as a seductive invitation to love. I love hunting for period Cameo’s that I can reinvent and design rings, earrings and pendants - making them a little more fashion friendly.