Lepidolite Carving with Garnet, Carnelian, Sonoran Ryolite and Sterling Silver Pendant

* Custom Carved Lepidolite Pendant - 41/2" x  2"
* 285 carats
* 13 inch leather cording with with 3 inch sterling silver extension chain and lobster hook.
* 2mm leather cording

A simple design that is all about the beauty of the Lepidolite.

Lepidolite as a mineral lacks the hardness and tenacity to be a good gem material. However, it is sometimes impregnated with quartz, and that gives it durability. Lepidolite impregnated with quartz makes an attractive pink to purple gemstone, but what makes these stones even more desirable are the bright flashes that occur when the mica cleavage surfaces reflect light.  This piece has a rich purple color with lots of mica flash!!

I accented the Lepidolite with Sonoran Ryolite a visually striking volcanic rock found in the state of Sonora, Mexico. It is highly prized in the lapidary community for its vivid, abstract patterns in rusty reds, browns, and blue-grays, punctuated by intricate, feather-like "dendrites".  The color contrasts well with the deep lavender of the Lepidolite.