Daily Sweetness ~

When the thought counts, let the gemstone speak for you.

Gemstones are rich with history and lore. Some are associated with healing, and spiritual gifts.  Take Tourmaline for example, (since we are just admiring that beautiful tourmaline in the previous post!) did you know it is the gemstone that represents lasting friendship and electricity? It is also the 8th anniversary stone.  I love the vast array of colors but knowing the symbolism of each stone makes it more meaningful.  If you want to know more about the symbolism of gemstones, their healing properties, and spiritual associations look here at one of the best resources for this information.  Find your birthstone and see what it means!

What I did not expect to find on my ski weekend!

As I always say, inspiration is everywhere!  This weekend I took my first trip up to Bethel, Maine for a girl's weekend at Sunday River.  As we were approaching our house, I started seeing signs for "Beautiful locally mined Tourmaline" and "Find Local Gemstones here", I could not believe my eyes!  After visiting a few shops I have learned that although Tourmaline is mined worldwide, it was the first gemstone mined in the United States by European settlers in the 1820s in the state of Maine.

Other  significant sources of tourmaline include Brazil, Italy (elbaite is named for Elba, Italy), Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Russia, and the United States.  Most tourmaline in the US comes from California or Maine.  Maine produces beautiful sherbet colors of tourmaline and spectacular mint greens. California is known for perfect pinks, as well as beautiful bicolor. Tourmaline is amazing for beading, in addition to its durability, most stones are brilliant containing two or more colors. 

I will make sure we find a great source to bring "Maine" tourmaline into Sweet Beads, the color palette is perfect for Spring projects!  Talk about "Shopping Local"!!!