The Mystery of September Gems September 03, 2026Jan Maitland September arrives with a quiet elegance, carrying with it a collection of gemstones that have captivated cultures and artisans for centuries. While most people associate September with birthstones like sapphire,...
The Art of Water Gilding on Glass and Stone June 21, 2026Jan Maitland Water gilding on glass and stone represents a specialized branch of an ancient craft, one that demands a fundamentally different approach than gilding metal. What distinguishes water-gilded glass and stone...
The Timeless Art of Gilding April 19, 2026Jan Maitland Gold leaf has captivated artisans and craftspeople for thousands of years. The practice of gilding—applying ultra-thin sheets of gold to surfaces—represents one of humanity's most enduring techniques for adding luxury...
The Natural Power of Lava Stones: Properties and Benefits March 04, 2026Jan Maitland Discover the fascinating properties of lava stones, from their volcanic origins to their grounding energy and aromatherapy benefits. Learn why these unique porous stones make meaningful jewelry pieces.
The Singer's Stone - Carnelian January 27, 2026Jan Maitland1 comment What makes Carnelian the “Singer’s Stone”? Carnelian is believed to enhance creativity and boost confidence, making it a popular choice for singers, artists, and performers.
Czech Republic - The Hidden Treasure Trove of Garnets January 03, 2026Jan Maitland When it comes to gemstones, the Czech Republic is a hidden treasure trove of stunning garnets. These deep red gems have been prized for centuries for their rich color and...
New Beginnings with Turquoise December 03, 2025Jan Maitland1 comment Have you ever wondered why turquoise is the birthstone for December? Let's delve into the fascinating history and significance behind this beautiful gemstone.
The Moral and the Magic: Apollo and the Topaz November 01, 2025Jan Maitland The moral and the magic: The tale of Apollo and the topaz is a meditation on light: the light we seek, the light we cast, and the light we shield...
Opals for Good Luck! October 17, 2025Jan Maitland Opals have long been associated with good luck and fortune. But what is it about these mesmerizing gemstones that make them so special?
Sapphire’s Shifting Significance September 04, 2025Jan Maitland The Myth of the Birthstone: Sapphire’s Shifting Significance - For centuries, sapphire has stood as September’s emblem, a symbol of wisdom, virtue, and protection. But birthstones aren’t fixed in stone;...
Peridot’s Cosmic Connection August 21, 2025Jan Maitland Peridot isn’t just a gem; it’s a bridge between our planet and the cosmos.
Ruby: Why July's Fiery Birthstone? July 07, 2025Jan Maitland2 comments Rubies have long been associated with qualities such as passion, protection, and vitality, which are often linked to the summer month of July.