Pendant with quartz and chrysolite

Rock crystal is an exceptionally pure, transparent variety of natural quartz, highly prized for its perfect transparency and bright vitreous luster. Its well-formed crystals, often of a characteristic hexagonal shape with pointed peaks (pyramidal terminations), can reach considerable size and are a desirable object for collectors.

Although ideal rock crystal is completely colorless ('water-clear'), it can sometimes contain small natural inclusions of other minerals, gas or liquids, which give each specimen its uniqueness and indicate its natural origin. These inclusions can create interesting internal landscapes or barely noticeable shades. This common mineral forms in a variety of geological settings, including hydrothermal veins, pegmatites and metamorphic rocks. Significant deposits of quality rock crystal crystals are known in Brazil, the Alps (Switzerland, France, Austria), the United States (Arkansas), Madagascar and the Himalayas.

Due to its hardness, transparency and relative availability, rock crystal has long been used by man to make jewelry, carvings, decorative objects and even optical lenses. Its crystalline purity has often been associated with clarity and purity of intention.

Today, rock crystal remains a popular choice for jewelers, designers and mineral collectors. It is a wonderful example of the natural beauty and perfection of crystalline forms, making it a valuable exhibit in any mineralogical collection or an exquisite element of decor.

Peridot, also known as chrysolite, is a precious variety of the mineral olivine that captivates with its unique olive-green or bright green color with characteristic golden or yellowish highlights.

This stone has been prized by jewelers and collectors for centuries for its fresh, vibrant beauty and brilliance. Its signature green color is due to the presence of iron in the crystal structure. Unlike many other gemstones, peridot's color is idiochromatic, meaning it comes from the mineral's underlying chemical makeup, not impurities. Its transparency and bright, vitreous luster make it an excellent choice for cutting and use in jewelry - from elegant earrings to statement rings and pendants.

The most famous deposits of quality peridot are found in Pakistan, Myanmar (Burma), China, Vietnam, Ethiopia and the USA (Arizona). Historically significant is the deposit on the volcanic island of Zabargad in the Red Sea (Egypt), which was mined during the time of the pharaohs. Peridot is formed deep in the Earth's mantle and is brought to the surface by magmatic processes. Uniquely, peridot crystals are also found in some types of iron-stone meteorites - pallasites, making it one of the few gemstones of extraterrestrial origin. Historically, peridot has been associated with light, protection and positive energy. It is sometimes called the "evening emerald" because its green color remains bright even in artificial lighting. It was believed to promote clarity of thought and emotional balance.

Today, peridot remains a popular gemstone due to its attractive appearance and relative availability. It is the official birthstone for August. Its vibrant color and history make it a valuable specimen for mineralogical collections and a great choice for those seeking a unique and beautiful natural stone.