I purchased ten geode slices quite a while back but couldn’t figure out the best way to mount them. I didn’t want to interfere with the beauty of the stone because they are gorgeous. I think this setting solves that problem. I soldered a sterling silver frame and added half round prongs to hold the stone. It’s simple, clean and allows light to pass through the stone. I’ve mounted three of the geode slices this way so far.

Look for this piece and a few others in my Etsy shop soon!

• You must include either some of their Rainbow Amazonite beads and/or Larvikite beads
• You must also include one or more types of their bulk rollo chain
• You can use any other components you want (handmade, store-bought, new, vintage, found objects, etc)
• Entries don’t have to be jewelry.
• Limit: 3 entries per person or design team

Prizes are $250-$75 Rings & Things gift certificates plus lots of bragging rights. And best of all, there’s plenty of time to enter. You have until January 31st, 2012 to get you design in!

The silk knotting technique can be used to create necklaces or bracelets (or even earrings if you want to). Traditionally, most people think of knotting as a method to string pearls. One sign of a “good” strand of pearls has always been their strong, hand knotted silk. The silk knots protect the pearl nacre by preventing individual pearls from rubbing. They also give the strand a liquid or fluid feel that allows them to lay perfectly around the neckline. And should that string of pearls catch on something and break, only one pearl will roll off. Anne, at On A String, mentioned that you can experiment with the color of the silk used to knot crystals or transparent stones for unique and beautiful effects.

I don’t know about you, but I’ve been seeing lots of higher end gemstone necklaces knotted lately. It’s a gorgeous, luxurious look. Hope you can make it!