Rhodochrosite Beaded Necklace in STERLING SILVER

In ancient times, it was believed that transparent colorless quartz, known as rock crystal, was a form of permanent ice. The word “crystal” comes from kristallos, the Ancient Greek word for ice. Colorless quartz, or rock crystal, has long been cherished for its clarity. Some people have long believed that gazing into a large round crystal ball gave clairvoyants an ability to “see” the future. With a beautiful range of colors, Crystalline quartz gems include amethyst, citrine, prasiolite, rose quartz, smoky quartz and rutilated quartz, also called “hair of Venus,” for its beautiful golden needles of rutile inclusions, no two alike. Translucent quartz gems include onyx, carnelian and agate.

Cool and elegant, silver is the whitest and most reflective precious metal. The ancient Incas called it “the tears of the moon.” Silver also has natural antibacterial properties: babies are given silver spoons to keep them healthy. Sterling silver is a combination of 92.5% silver and 7.5% copper that’s named after the British Pound Sterling. To keep your silver shining, polish away the dark oxide that forms on its surface over time.

Ben Kho is one of the most talented gemstone cutters in the world. By carefully positioning each facet, he sculpts light into brilliance. After mining rubies and sapphires in Cambodia as a teenager, he fell in love with the fascinating process of transforming rough into sparkling gems. Collectors from around the world commission Ben to create one-of-a-kind treasures. He has received 25 prestigious Cutting Edge Awards from the American Gem Trade Association. Wear Ben Kho jewelry for a cut above.