Rhodochrosite and Lapis Lazuli Harlequin Choker & Earring Set

Set #24

Length: Choker 15.5” Earrings 2 ¼” drop

These gorgeous pink 7mm Rhodochrosite hang with Lapis Lazuli in perfect contrast. They are separated by opposing spacers divided by a 14/20 gold filled CZ bail and pearl drop. The earrings hang from a gold filled ear wire and chain leading to a Rhodochrosite drop.

Rhodochrosite has a mohs mineral hardness of 3.5 – 4.5 and is best worn in earrings and necklaces because of its delicate nature. Care should be taken when storing these in your jewelry box.

Rhodochrosite is found in many places around the world. These are from Argentina and most likely found at the Capillitas and Catamarca deposits where formations are found in sedimentary and metamorphic rock cavities formed in layers giving it concentric pink banding.

Lapis Lazuli is found in many places around the world however it is found in abundance in Afghanistan. The gold flecks in Lapis come from pyrite inclusions. Lapis has been worn for thousands of years and used to adorn royalty. The Egyptians considered Lapis a heavenly stone and used it to decorate statues of gods and burial masks. Lapis was ground into pigment and used by artists during the renaissance.

Leonardo da Vinci used Lapis lazuli in his last Supper.

Lapis has an interesting history; there are volumes of text surrounding this gorgeous deep blue mineral.

Care for your Rhodochrosite by cleaning your necklace and earrings with a damp soft cloth without chemicals or submerging in water.