Q: What are Tahitian pearls?

A: Tahitian pearls are among the most coveted pearls on the market today. An organic jewel formed by the black lip oyster Pinctada margaritifera, the Tahitian pearl is farmed in the warm, azure waters of French Polynesia. The "black" pearl perfects its beauty and luster over long years of patient cultivation. Only a small number of oysters produce a fine pearl. Over the years, layer upon layer nacre is slowly added, giving the Tahitian pearl its prized depth of color and iridescence. Although often described as black, Tahitian pearls can range from almost-black to metallic silver, from graphite to sliver-white, and nearly every color in between... including layers of dark or green, pink, blue, bronze and peacock. Each is cool against the skin, unparalleled in shape and color, and is as uniquely beautiful as the person who wears it.

Q: What can you tell me about your leather?

A: The Greek leather cording that I use is made from high quality hides and is color saturated with dyes that are certified 100% Lead-Free.  The natural dye process is a multi-step one where the cord is dipped in dye, absorbs the dye, and then is heat sealed. Because the dye is absorbed into the leather rather than coated, the cord is softer and more flexible than regular cord. This process allows the natural color of the leather to come through. In some colors, it presents a somewhat antiqued look. All natural dye colors have a matte versus a shiny finish.

I like the natural dye process because it retains the inherent color variations of the leather, adding to the unique warmth of each piece.

Q: What are Boulder Opals?

A: Found only in the state of Queensland, Australia, the Australian Boulder Opal is the second most valuable type of opal in the world (second only to black opal). Although Australia produces 90% of the world's opals, Boulder Opals account for only 2% of the total! First discovered in Quilpie, West Queensland, in about 1870, the Boulder Opal is found embedded in ironstone boulders. The opal usually forms as thin veins within these boulders, and most stones are cut to include some of the host ironstone matrix. Boulder Opal is sometimes referred to as opal in matrix for this reason. Boulder Opals are completely natural and can display and color of the spectrum in beautiful, one of a kind gems.

Due to the dark backing provided by the ironstone, boulder opals generally have a dark body tone which leads to an incredibly beautiful and vibrant play of gorgeous, saturated color. Play of color refers to a display of rainbow-like hues that change with the lighting or angle of observation. Boulder opals have a higher density because of the ironstone content, and can be more durable as well. They are almost always cut free-form shape, adding to their unique, unparalleled, stunning beauty. I love using them in my pieces because each lends itself to a design created for it alone:)