Supernova Necklace

A prismatic array of full-specturm color.

I found this amazing Aurora Borealis Quartz Crystal at the Lizzadro Lapidary Museum and had to have it. The multicolored coating (read more below) is a statement on its own. 

I didn't know at first what I wanted to make out of it. I had some ideas but ultimately decided to go a simple route.

I wrapped in gold wire and attached to a 14K gold chain, finishing with 14K gold clasps and jump rings for a high-quality piece. The 14K findings were all part of Cousin's Elegance Metals line, which features affordable 14K gold, sterling silver, platinum and more supplies that add a total luxe touch to your jewelry. The dainty cable chain was perfect and held up to the high quality of the stone.

The tutorial below exhibits the steps I followed. If you have a quartz-type stone you could always do something similar!

Step 1: Gather materials. Needed are round nose pliers and wire cutters, E6000 glue, Cousin Elegance Metals 14K gold cable chain, Cousin Elegance Metals 14K gold jump rings and clasps, and Cousin 26 gauge gold wire.

Step 2: Decide at what two points you want to wire-wrap your stone. My stone had two clear high points on either side, which made it easy. If you are buying a stone, make sure it's not too heavy and has good quartz "spears" to wrap with. I created a loop on a 5" piece of wire with my pliers, then started wrapping around the spear. Wrap VERY TIGHTLY. Wrap both around the spear then back up by that first loop you made, and wrap below it to finish. Cut flush.

--Some info on the stone--

Once you've wrapped both sides, use the 14K gold wire and attach to the loops on each side. You can use a small dot of E6000 glue on the back of the stone to hold the wire.

I finished the ends by attaching jump rings and a clasp.

I don't usually like to wire wrap like this, but because of the lightweight stone and easy wrapping points  it was better than gluing on a bail!

And those who don't know what "lapidary" means-- a quote from Wikipedia:

"A lapidary (lapidarist, Latin: lapidarius) is an artist or artisan who forms stone, minerals, or gemstones into decorative items such ascabochons, engraved gems, including cameos, and faceted designs.^[1][2] The primary techniques employed are cutting, grinding, and polishing.^[2][3] Carving is an important, but specialised technique.^[3]"

^{The Lizzadro Museum in Elhmurst, Illinois is super-cool, and anyone in the area should go. Carved jade, cameos, stones and other amazing sculptures, statues and jewelry pieces are on display. The shop at the bottom also houses stones/gems galore and they are so affordable. I would recommend it to anyone!}

Delicate yet full of interesting texture and major color! I have a couple more stones I picked up the museum, so stay tuned for more pieces!

All photos copyright Allison Beth Cooling. DO NOT post or use without crediting and linking to me.