Healing Jewelry: Using Gemstones for Health and Well-Being »

Have you ever been mysteriously drawn to a turquoise or amethyst bracelet, or chosen to wear the same amber necklace for weeks on end? Perhaps you intuitively recognized in those stones the power to heal an ailment or mood—a capacity that has been attributed to many gems for centuries. This approachable, illustrated guide outlines the beneficial properties ascribed to dozens of gems (for example, onyx is said to protect against negativity) and includes instructions for making more than 50 pieces of jewelry using healing stones. Stitch elegant branch earrings of coral and pearl (which reduces irritability), or an intricate citrine bracelet that will improve your disposition. Other projects include a rosary, prayer beads, and a beautiful “circle of life” brooch.

Constance Ashmore Fairchild

Copyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. - School Library Journal

Many people have jewelry pieces that function as sort of personal talismans for good luck or psychological well-being. Over time, a body of folk tradition has grown about the healing properties of gemstones apart from their natural beauty. Baskett (Dazzling Bead & Wire Crafts) summarizes this lore in her "Healing Properties of Stones" chapter. The jewelry projects by several designers incorporate these stones, but except for some using metal good luck charms, these are ordinary, attractive beaded jewelry pieces. The magic may be in the wearing. A good choice for collections needing more beading material.