Gemstone Spotlight ~ Red Creek Jasper

Last week we looked at ocean jasper which is one of my favorite gemstones.  This week, I will tell you about red creek jasper which is even higher on my list of favorites.  Actually right now, it is my very favorite!

Just look at all those rich colors!  Red creek jasper is commonly mined near the Red River in China (thanks for that info, Lima Beads).  The most common colors found in this type of jasper are red, sage green, and tan.  It has a distinct lined pattern that runs through the stones.

When I was asked if I would consider donating a piece of jewelry once again to the Highland Retreat Auction, I immediately knew what stones to use in the design!  When I think of Highland, particularly in the fall, the colors in this stone couldn't be more appropriate.

This design is called "Red Oak Lodge" in honor of a beautiful facility at Highland by the same name.

The main feature of this necklace is, of course, the red creek jasper stones.  They are wire wrapped using antiqued brass wire.  The chain and the circle pendant in the center are from Vintaj Natural Brass.  I made the hook clasp which can be hooked into any of the chain links, making the length adjustable.   

This necklace will only be available at the Highland Retreat Auction.  If you are local and interested in bidding on this item and many others, head over to Shady Oak on Saturday, February 25.  

One of the other items up for bid is a fraktur print artfully created by my very own Aunt Drollene.  I have a copy of the print in my sunroom, which also doubles as my studio.