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Chalcedony
Chalcedony is quartz formed not of one single crystal but a number of finely grained microcrystals. Many gemstones are types of chalcedony, including agate, onyx, carnelian and chrysoprase. Click here to view chalcedony jewellery at Astley Clarke.
The different types of chalcedony have widely differing characteristics. Agates are banded, moss agate has a plant-like pattern and onyx, a staple of the jewellery industry, is an even, solid black.
Chalcedony was among the earliest raw materials used by mankind, because of its abundance, durability and beauty. The earliest recorded use of chalcedony was for knives, tools and containers such as cups and bowls. From these practical devices, the earliest form of ornamentation was born – on special occasions, early man would use his finest looking weapon or object as decoration, and from these early beginnings jewellery as we know it today began. Chalcedony was thus probably the first material to be elevated from functional use and used in a gem capacity.
The Native Americans used chalcedony as a sacred stone that could promote stability within the ceremonial activities of the tribe. Chalcedony is said to augment emotional balance and vitality and to alleviate hostility. New York jewellery designers Como Blonde, exclusive to Astley Clarke in the UK, use chalcedony for their gorgeous beaded necklaces and hand-carved drop pendants.
Geographically, chalcedony is very wide spread, being found almost everywhere in the world.
The ch is pronounced hard, and the c soft, giving kal - sed - ony.
Click here to view Contemporary Designer Jewellery at Astley Clarke
The different types of chalcedony have widely differing characteristics. Agates are banded, moss agate has a plant-like pattern and onyx, a staple of the jewellery industry, is an even, solid black.
Chalcedony was among the earliest raw materials used by mankind, because of its abundance, durability and beauty. The earliest recorded use of chalcedony was for knives, tools and containers such as cups and bowls. From these practical devices, the earliest form of ornamentation was born – on special occasions, early man would use his finest looking weapon or object as decoration, and from these early beginnings jewellery as we know it today began. Chalcedony was thus probably the first material to be elevated from functional use and used in a gem capacity.
The Native Americans used chalcedony as a sacred stone that could promote stability within the ceremonial activities of the tribe. Chalcedony is said to augment emotional balance and vitality and to alleviate hostility. New York jewellery designers Como Blonde, exclusive to Astley Clarke in the UK, use chalcedony for their gorgeous beaded necklaces and hand-carved drop pendants.
Geographically, chalcedony is very wide spread, being found almost everywhere in the world.
The ch is pronounced hard, and the c soft, giving kal - sed - ony.
Click here to view Contemporary Designer Jewellery at Astley Clarke
