Variscite Pendant on Wrapped Gemstone Chain

This one of a kind handmade Argentium Sterling Silver necklace features a beautiful icy blue green variscite pendant accented with natural aquamarine, faceted kyanite and tiny dangling apatite gemstones, creating a lovely combination of soft color, texture and movement.

• Materials: Argentium Sterling Silver, variscite, aquamarine, kyanite and apatite
• Pendant: Polished rectangular variscite cabochon set horizontally
• Pendant width: Approximately 0.9 inches (23 mm)
• Pendant height: Approximately 0.4 inches (10 mm)
• Chain length: Adjustable to any length up to 18 inches
• Chain: Hand fabricated silver links with individually wire wrapped gemstones
• Gemstones: Natural aquamarine cubes, faceted kyanite rounds and small dangling apatite accents
• Closure: Lobster clasp that fastens into any chain link
• Total weight: 21 grams
• Metal stamp: 940 with the Argentium unicorn logo on the back of the pendant

I found this beautiful variscite stone at the Denver Gem Show and was immediately drawn to its unusual shape and soft, icy blue green color. It reminds me of turquoise, but with a more subtle, almost misty quality. The stone is a softly rounded rectangular cabochon with a smooth polished surface.

I decided to set the variscite horizontally and build the necklace around its beautiful color. I chose natural aquamarine cubes, faceted kyanite rounds and tiny apatite gemstones because I loved the way their different shades of icy blue, soft green and gray complemented one another.

The kyanite has a softer, slightly chalky appearance, even with its faceted surface, which works beautifully alongside the more opaque variscite. The natural aquamarine has a lovely milky quality, and its facets catch just enough light to add a little sparkle without overpowering the pendant. I added tiny dangling apatite gemstones throughout the design to bring in touches of brighter color, movement and a bit more sparkle.

I hand fabricated the entire chain using Argentium Sterling Silver wire. Each gemstone was individually wire wrapped, and I added a complete spiral of silver wire around each stone. It's a small detail that might not catch your eye immediately, but when you look closely, those little spirals add texture and dimension to the design. I've really been enjoying incorporating this technique into my jewelry.

I also formed the silver links connecting the wrapped gemstones by hand, creating a chain that feels like a natural extension of the pendant rather than something separate from it.

Another feature I love is how adjustable this necklace is. The lobster clasp can fasten into any of the handmade silver links, allowing you to wear it at any length up to 18 inches. You can wear it close to the neck as a choker, with a little extra chain hanging down the back, or let it sit lower for a different look.

I love how all these gemstones work together. The soft, almost matte appearance of the variscite and kyanite contrasts beautifully with the gentle sparkle of the aquamarine and the movement of the tiny apatite drops. It's a one of a kind necklace with so many little details to discover, all brought together by that gorgeous icy blue green variscite.