Wire Wrapped Iolite Dangle Earrings

These faceted iolite dangle earrings pair tiny natural cube gemstones with hand wrapped Argentium sterling silver for a beautiful mix of soft color, texture and sparkle.

• Materials: Natural iolite and solid Argentium sterling silver
• Size: Approx. 2.4" total length including ear wires with a 1.8" drop from the ear wires; gemstones measure approx. 4 mm each
• Weight: Approx. 4.3 grams per pair
• Ear wires: Secure Argentium sterling silver lever backs

I love the subtle colors in these natural iolite gemstones. The tiny faceted cubes range through soft gray lavender and violet tones, with some stones showing deeper maroon undertones. Paired with sterling silver, the colors feel very neutral and understated, but the faceting gives them a beautiful little flash of light as the earrings move.

Even though these gemstones are only 4 mm, their drill holes allowed me to use a more substantial silver wire than I normally could with such a small stone. I wrapped each cube individually with a decorative silver spiral, making the wirework part of the design rather than simply a way to connect the stones. I love how the heavier silver wraps give the earrings a solid look while still allowing those little flashes of color to come through.

Because the iolite is completely natural, there is some subtle variation in color from pair to pair. I intentionally grouped the stones into combinations that work beautifully together, and I photographed multiple pairs so you can get a sense of that natural variation. I was able to make just nine pairs before running out of the particular mix of colors I wanted for this design.