Frozen Disaster

Some of you may remember the wonderful tangerines we had last December.  Pictures of the fruit and trees were posted.

We had record freezing temperatures this month which almost killed the citrus trees.

No tangerines this year from this tree.  What a shame.  The desert isn't structured for long lasting freezes.  Word is that we will lose a lot of our Saguaro Cacti.  Sad.

Pearls with the Giggles

I purchased some lovely dyed, freshwater pearls the other day.  The color and sheen are really good with iridescent shades of green and copper and I felt they would make into something beautiful and elegant for dignified and formal occasions.

Well, I made a little ring with a few of them and discovered my error.  I had mistakenly selected a strand from the 'Giggle' section of the tray.  These silly pearls are bouncing off the walls, won't hold still for a minute and are an out and out embarrassment.

So tell me, how am I to sell a such a ring?  Imagine how it would be if you were sitting down to dinner with the Queen of England and suddenly your pearl ring gets the giggles...how does one explain that away?   

Guess it's back to the drawing board for this bunch.  Sigh...

Happy Valentine's Day

Wow!  The Gem and Mineral Shows here in Tucson have come and gone.  As usual, I spent too much time and way too much money.  I had promised myself that I would work out of my huge stash instead of buying new but we all know how that goes. 

Had a dog event this weekend and as usual, the same people did all the work.  Grumble, grumble.  Seems that's always the way.  Rooster had a fun time and did well.

Coming home (out of town) my van decided it was unto death and barely made it.  Not fun.  It is in the shop now so my husband rented a car.  We go in opposite directions so two vehicles are necessary if it's more than one day.

Still, everyone is fine, I've started on my house chores, the third load of wash is in the machine and I just may take some time later today to finish a couple of bracelets.

Happy Valentine's Day, everyone.

Gaspeite

GASPEITE

I ran across Gaspeite some years ago at the Gem and Mineral Show in Tucson.  The color is the first thing one notices.  It is light green or apple green and is quite unique.  Some pieces almost seem to glow.  Brownish strips and patches give it a distinctive look.
Gaspeite is a rare mineral which was discovered in 1966 and is named for the locality of Gaspe Peninsula, Quebec, Canada where it was originally found. Western Australia became the major source of Gaspeite of good color though it is claimed that none is currently being mined.

Since this is a recent discovery, Gaspeite has no know folk lore though it was thought to bring good fortune.

It is thought to reduce stress and help with heart, lung and gallbladder problems when used as a healing stone.  Metaphysically, it is believed to encourage spirituality in day to day living.

I'll be listing this pillow Gaspeite bracelet, soon.

Promotional Frenzy Team Presents BijiBijoux

Mimi of BijiBijoux is one of our Promotional Frenzy Team members.  She makes wonderful jewelry as well as providing interesting supplies for other jewelry artists.

Looking at the style and scope of her work never know that she is a relative newcomer to making jewelry.  Her talent shows through in every piece.  She tells me that she loves each of her pieces.  This is a sure sign of a creative artist.  She doesn't waste her time putting things together simply to make a sale; she puts her heart into each one.

It is always a treat to visit her shop and see what new treasure she has waiting for us.