Did you know watercolor paint can actually be made from gemstones?! I had no idea until I stumbled across Daniel Smith’s line of gemstone watercolors and WOW, I was instantly hooked. Of course I had to grab the amethyst one, amethyst is one of my favorite stones to work with in jewelry! I couldn’t resist.
So here’s where things got really fun. Not only did I make a brand new sterling silver amethyst necklace (more on that in a minute), but I also decided to include a little extra surprise with each one, a hand-painted card using this incredible amethyst watercolor. Each card is totally unique and feels like a little gift within a gift.
Figuring Out the Prong Setting
I’ve been slightly obsessed with prong settings lately. For a long time it was all trial and error — cutting wire, messing it up, cutting it again. Over and over. Then I finally figured out the math (yes, actual math!) to cut the wire just right so I can form perfect ovals. Game changer.
Now I can build these double-oval frames with hammered texture, solder the prongs in between, and suddenly I have this sleek design where the prongs do double duty. They hold the stone securely and also act as the bail. The chain slips right behind them, which is such a cool little detail. No extra bail to distract from the design, just a really clean minimalist look.
The Necklace
This piece is all about the stone. The amethyst is a natural gemstone in a checkerboard cut, which means it sparkles from every angle. Because the setting is elevated, light comes through the bottom and sides and it just glows. The hammered silver frame adds even more sparkle. It’s simple, it’s modern, and it’s just really beautiful.
The Amethyst Watercolor Cards
Okay but back to the paint because I am still so excited about this. I’ve always been a crafter at heart. Jewelry is my full-time thing, but I sew, I paint, I dabble in anything that grabs my attention. Watercolor has been a favorite lately — I love the way it flows on paper and makes these organic patterns all on its own.
For these cards I tried a fun technique with plastic wrap. You lay the wrap over wet watercolor, scrunch it up, let it dry, and when you peel it off you’re left with these jagged lines and textures. They look so much like crystal structures — which is perfect since this paint is literally made from amethyst. Each one came out different and I loved that. On the back I glued a printed piece with amethyst facts, its metaphysical properties, and a little note about our jewelry.
So every necklace comes with one of these tiny abstract amethyst paintings. A necklace plus a painting — two crafts colliding, and it makes me so happy.
Bringing It All Together
This whole project feels like me in a nutshell: part jewelry maker, part crafter who can’t resist trying new things. Getting to combine silver, gemstones, and gemstone paint in one piece was just so much fun. I’m thrilled to share these amethyst necklaces, and I hope you’ll love them as much as I loved creating them!
Check out the necklaces in the shop! >>
