It has long been associated with fertility, rebirth, and love. Ancient Romans went so far as to dedicate this stone to Venus, the goddess of love and beauty.
The Emerald is May’s birthstone for a reason. Its green colour evokes the freshness of new growth in the springtime. It symbolises vitality, health and prosperity.
Green is also the symbolic colour of fertility. It’s no coincidence that early Romans gave emeralds as gifts to young wives. Even today, the emerald is a popular gift given to new mothers.
Today, it is thought that emeralds signify wisdom, growth, and patience.
Where is the May Birthstone found?
In places where beryllium, chromium, and vanadium are present, you are likely to find an emerald mine. South America has the most well known emeralds.
Colombian emeralds are some of the finest emeralds in the world.
Colombian Emeralds have a low iron content giving them a green colour with a slight blue hue.
Colombian emeralds usually have fewer impurities or inclusions, a quality rarely found in emeralds.
Do have a peek at my other Emerald designs by clicking here...
]]>If you are born in the gorgeous month of April your traditional Birthstone is Diamond. However, if you're looking for an April Birthstone on a smaller budget, then Crystal Quartz is the perfect alternative and much more kind on the purse strings.
Crystal Quartz has long since been regarded as a powerful healing stone by many civilisations. Ancient Egyptians, Romans, Native Americans and Aztecs,to name a few, have all prized Rock Crystal for its healing abilities.
This clear stone is associated with purity and positivity which, when worn, is said to bring about personal growth and inner strength. It's also said to be an amplifier of other stones.
Meanings - balance, clarity, positivity, and energy.
I also have Tourmalinated and Yellow Rutilated Quartz (pictured respectively) back in stock if Clear Quartz isn't quite your thing.
For birthdays for April and beyond, evoke feeling and connection with one of these for your loved ones birthday here.
]]>I've done a little research and some folks say ~ Like many traditions and festivities, Mothering Sunday began with a religious purpose. Held on the fourth Sunday in Lent, exactly three weeks before Easter Sunday, it was a originally a day to honour and give thanks to the Virgin Mary, also known as Mother Mary.
Others say ~ The tradition dates back to pagan celebrations in ancient Greece in honor of Rhea, the mother of the gods. In Rome, too, Cybele, a mother of goddesses, was worshipped as early as 250 B.C.
What we do know is, Mother's Day is fast approaching!
Is there a special mum figure in your life that you are looking to buy a gift for, but maybe you're not sure what to get?
The wonderful thing about birthstone jewellery, is that the colours are already picked out for you. All you need to know is the birth month of the person/people the jewellery represents.
Pictured above ~ A gorgeous set of mum and daughter matching bracelets.
This makes a beautiful and thoughtful Mothers Day gift for mum or daughter. A wonderful reminder for you both of how special your family bond is, by wearing identical bracelets.
Pictured above ~ A beautiful birthstone bracelet for all types of mums for Mothers Day, personalised with the children's or grandchildren's birthstones.
If your mum is no longer here, like mine, take the opportunity to treat yourself to a piece that symbolises both of you, both birthstones in memory of your bond.
I have a lovely range of bracelets, necklaces and earrings for you to choose from in my Mother's Day collection, take a look here...
https://www.daintyrocks.co.uk/collections/gifts-for-mum
And, if you're not sure what size to get, check out my recent blog Sizing for Bracelets here...
https://www.daintyrocks.co.uk/blogs/news/faqs-what-size-should-you-order
]]>From the Latin Aqua Marinus meaning Water ~ Sea
A calming and peaceful gemstone, very light blue in colour, sometimes very pale.
Aquamarine for me, is not always easy to obtain in my favourite gemstone shapes and in a nice blue colour.
However, this year I found some beautiful blue aquamarine, most are pale blue with a few clear aqua beads and some vibrant blue.
With good stocks it should see me through the month, but as always, if you see a March design you like, do not delay a purchase, March always runs out due its beautiful meanings and colour.
This year sees the introduction of some new designs, two new necklace designs, one shown below…
...more Birthstone sets too,
and Mix & Match bracelet sets.
Also, March is very fussy about how it likes to be photographed, most gemstones are a "point and shoot" but March likes to fiddle with my auto light settings and comes out a fake blue hue. So the above picture is actually toned down in colour to make it more accurate. It’s OK March, I love you really ;-)
Do have a peek at my other designs, the most popular is ‘Stardust’ pictured above, which has a beautiful textured silver stardust bead at the centre and is surrounded by aquamarine.
]]>FAQ's ~ Sizing for Bracelets
The most common query is…
What size do I order?
It’s just so hard isn’t it? Dress size has no bearing on wrist size, so how can you possibly guess?
It is guesswork, however there are a few things you can think about;
I work in inches but my handy guide which I have uploaded to each listing converts it to a size in cm and the generalised XS, S, M, ML & L, this should be a good start to your size sleuthing.
Did you know, the most ordered size is 7 - 7.5 inches. Followed by 6.5 - 7 inches.
These are both the most average sizes.
Bracelets tend to be made a smidge over the smallest measurement and they extend to above the upper size.
As an example 6.5 - 7 inches is made just over 6.5 and extends to about 7.5.
Hopefully this helps you pick the right size and you have the extension chain as a back up.
However, if you, as a purchaser or recipient, finds it’s not quite right, just make contact and post back to me so I can change it. I don't charge for this, as it's all part of the service I offer.
November is coming, and it brings a beautiful autumn colour stone of Citrine. Known for its meanings of positivity and joy.
Combine with other warm stones like garnet and carnelian. Or mix with other joyful stones like Amethyst.
Featured in the Chakra Rainbow collection and also in the November Birthstone Collection.
My favourite citrine gem beads this month are the nuggets, pictured below.
See link for more Citrine goodness
https://www.daintyrocks.co.uk/collections/november-birthstone-citrine
]]>
Together they just look like little sweeties with their lush colours
Pink is probably the best known shade, more commonly available for bead jewellery makers like myself, the beautiful dusky pink shade mixes well with the silver
I have made about 20 tourmaline designs ready to be made to you or your recipients requirements; size and initials, have a browse and pick a gift for that October birthday lady, I can wrap up ready for gifting and send direct with a gift note if you are unable to visit due to Lockdowns
Watch out for the next 'new creations' project, I have a couple of sneak previews on the website already, but my lips are sealed till the next blog post
Clicky Link time
https://www.daintyrocks.co.uk/collections/october-tourmaline
]]>August is host to the beautiful green Peridot, a vibrant apple green colour with gentle meanings of Renewal, Protection and Clarity
Readily available in some shapes, which gives me more freedom to create designs of all sorts, this month I have chosen rustic coins, faceted 4mm rounds, 4mm rondelles, 3mm rondelles, 2mm smooth round and the occasional facet oval as centre piece.
Popular as ever, my 4mm facets are the ones that I chose most as they are so Pretty to look at all the little facets.
The personalised initial options have become very popular, so I have created a August birthday bracelets with initials too.
And beautiful wire wrapped Necklaces which I really tried NOT to make them look like a bunch of grapes, but I may have failed on that score, although flat here, they do bunch up once on the neck. Reminds me of nice white wine, so not a bad thing.
Have a look at all 23 designs here:
https://www.daintyrocks.co.uk/collections/august-birthstone-peridot
Enjoy your week :)
Diane
]]>I asked on my VIP Customer Group and 4 ladies immediately offered, this is part 3...
So... Meet Minou who has been a customer for many years and has one of the biggest Dainty Rocks collections that I know of.
1) What are your favourite gemstones and why?
- the diamond in my engagement ring, handpicked by my hubby
- Blue sapphire, I have always loved the beautiful colour, somehow its mystical beauty has always drawn me
- Garnet, my birthstone
- Tourmaline, the variety of colours and meaning
2) Do you choose gemstones for colour or meaning, or both?
Both, I like to research the meaning/properties of gemstones, the colours draw me too. Over the years I have bought very different gem stones from you.
3) What do you prefer to wear… Bracelets, Necklaces or Earrings or all of them?
Bracelets, bracelets, bracelets (0:
4) What is your main reason for buying jewellery in general?
Mostly gifts for family and friends. If for me, sometimes to match an outfit, often for meaning of gemstones that resonates with me
5) Do you prefer Gold or Silver?
White gold or silver
6) You have followed me for quite a while now, can you remember when and how you discovered Dainty Rocks Jewellery?
Yes, my niece Theresa shared a link to your page and I immediately bought my first bracelet from you.
7) How many pieces do you own and what do you have?
26 bracelets (!), 6 necklaces, 5 necklace & bracelet sets, 6 pairs of earrings, 1 pendant, 3 key chains
😎
Out of the above, do you have a favourite?
Yes, my archangel bracelet with Saint Christopher, which I wear daily without fail and which you have had to repair a few times over the years due to daily use
9) Do you ever gift Dainty Rocks Jewellery to other ladies?
Yes, regularly, anything from earrings, bracelets, necklaces to wish bracelets and meaning bracelets such us the hug bracelet for example or the family initial/birthstone bracelets. My Mum and mother-in-law have several pieces and my gifts introduced a few customers to you, who are now similarly in love with your jewellery as me, in particular Monica and Rita.
10) Have Dainty Rocks Jewellery products helped you in any way, if so, how?
Yes, when gemstones are bought for their meaning to have protective and/or healing properties.
11) What is next on your shopping wish list from my website?
A hug bracelet for a friend, who has experienced a tragic loss.
12) Is there anything in particular you would like to see me make in the future?
Bracelets made of soft leather, either just leather or combining leather with gemstones (you can do it!).
Minou added this at the bottom which made my heart sing!
PS:
Apart from the joy of choosing and owning your beautiful jewellery (in my case bracelets in particular), it is just great fun to work with you on my individual bracelet designs and it is just such a pleasure to support a small business. Over the past nearly 6 years I have seen you and your business developing so very well, it is fantastic! Be very proud of what you have achieved so far and be confident & bold with your choices for your business development going forward.
You are very talented! Go with the flow. You can and will do it!
Thanks Minou, I love your comments, have enjoyed making things for you over the many (5) years
Minous extensive collection:
]]>
Here are some suggestions for what stones to wear, to perfect that dainty summer look and highlight your beautiful skin, no matter what colour or tone.
Ruby: Queen of stones and a summer birthstone, Ruby in the usual cerise pink is a delightful bright colour to liven up a wrist or neck, matched with silver, the beads will be accentuated in colour, stacks well with blues, greens and turquoise.
Turquoise: Another bright colour, perfect for sea scapes and beach moods. Those pics of models on the beach in their flowy dresses, and floppy sun hats, I bet they are all wearing turquoise somewhere. A lovely bright cheerful stone and you can get away with matching other stones you wouldn’t think of, in a boho style stack; ambers, amethysts, Blues, aquas, hot pinks, shiny onyx black... Try it out
Agate: So welcome to the dye process, the agate stone comes in a huge plethora of bright colourings. Although commonly a grey brown white colour, dye recreates agate into beautiful hot pink, black, jade green, moss green, purple, blues, teals, fire orange.
Carnelian: Gorgeous warm orange tones and markings, carnelian is well matched with ruby, amethyst, peridot, lapis lazuli and even turquoise. As shown in this recent creation.
Others to Note:
Fire Opal: Orange like carnelian but super vibrant
Peridot: Another summer colour, quite discreet on its own but mix with other colours as above with carnelian and it comes alive
Amethyst: Mix with other vibrant colours and the purple in the amethyst comes alive, goes well with turquoise, greens and oranges too.
Apatite: Apatite can be a very vibrant teal colour stone, where has this stone been all my life? Shown in the very colourful Chakra Collection here:
Pop what stone you think appeals to you in the search box above and see where it takes you.
I would LOVE comments, thank you
]]>
2. Do you choose gemstones for colour, or meaning, or both?
Both. I have chosen them if I know that they are someone's favourite colour, but usually it's something with a meaning and then I try to choose the colours that are closest to what I know a person likes, or wears a lot.
3. What do you prefer to wear.... bracelets, necklaces, earrings or all of them?
I never feel properly dressed without earrings. I love bracelets since finding Dainty Rocks, but I only tend to wear necklaces if I'm getting dressed up.
4. What is your main reason for buying jewellery in general?
I tend to buy jewellery for loved ones. I've bought for my mum, mother-in-law and daughter from Diane. I've also bought quite a few pieces for my sister.
5. Do you prefer gold or silver?
Silver.
6. You have followed me for quite a while now, can you remember when and how you discovered Dainty Rocks jewellery?
I was looking for a specific piece for my sister, and couldn't find exactly what I was looking for. It was very special and important to me, and I couldn't find it so I knew that I had to find somebody who was doing things close to what I wanted and then get in touch with them to see if they could make what I needed. Diane could and did, and the Dainty Rocks love started.
7. How many pieces do you own and what do you have?
I think I have 3 pieces myself, all bracelets but I may think of something else later! I have a bumblebee bracelet, a tourmalinated quartz bracelet, and just this week was given (three months early because she was so excited!!!!) a family bracelet, with the birthstones and initials of my 3 children from my sister.
8. Out of the above, do you have a favourite?
I would normally say no but right now, the family bracelet is my favourite, it's so special.
9. Do you ever gift Dainty Rocks jewellery to other ladies?
Yes, I usually do hahaha. I've bought more for others than myself... and have a few more plans
10. Have Dainty Rocks Jewellery products helped you in any way, if so, how?
Very possibly... one of the gifts that I bought was a fertility stone bracelet
11. What is next on your shopping wish list from my website?
A gift for my best friend. She loves everything nautical so I have a couple of ideas. I daren't look for myself as Diane has so many beautiful things!
12. Is there anything in particular you would like to see me make in the future?
More earrings! Always more earrings! I'd love some everyday wear ones as well as some fancy ones
Thanks so much Emma! I loved reading your answers and looking at your wrist pictures
*Diane*
]]>I asked on my VIP Customer Group and 4 ladies immediately offered, the first of which is below.
So... Meet Monica who has her own business Healing Art of Chi and practises Bowen Therapy. Monica has been a customer for many years and has one of the biggest Dainty Rocks collections that I know of.
1) I will start with an easy one… What are your favourite gemstones and why?
– blues, greens, purples and white/clear… These are my favourite colours in general they are soothing calming and connect with nature. At an energetic level they resonate with heart, throat, third eye and crown chakras… if you believe in this you will understand the deeper meaning behind these… if not feel free to ask and I will happily share
2) Do you choose gemstones for colour or meaning, or both?
Generally I chose what I am drawn to, once I have found what I am drawn to I will look up the meaning, generally I am a trust your gut kind of girl
3) What do you prefer to wear… Bracelets, Necklaces or Earrings or all of them?
Bracelets and necklaces
4) What is your main reason for buying jewellery in general?
– because it is pretty and brings great joy…. It is also meaningful
5) Do you prefer Gold or Silver?
Always Sliver
6) You have followed me for quite a while now, can you remember when and how you discovered Dainty Rocks Jewellery?
– I believe M**** (another DR customer) introduced me to you many moons ago
7) How many pieces do you own and what do you have? Out of the above, do you have a favourite?
About approximately 30 pieces…. Cant find my Unicorn one at the minute. They all take turns being favourites but the one that I really love is where you converted the pearls that my mother in law wanted to give me (I hate pearls by the way) into something so beautiful and contemporary that I love wearing it now
9) Do you ever gift Dainty Rocks Jewellery to other ladies?
Yes often, they make very classic and stylish gifts and because they can be custom made they are personalised and meaningful. Not only that they are beautifully packaged and make a stunning gift for a reasonable price
10) Have Dainty Rocks Jewellery products helped you in any way, if so, how?
I always feel rather grounded wearing my bracelets
11) What is next on your shopping wish list from my website?
Not sure really I am sure something will tickle my fancy
12) Is there anything in particular you would like to see me make in the future?
– Rings
Thanks so much to Monica for answering my questions, take a look at the pictures, that collection! :o
*Diane*
]]>
Deep wine-red coloured garnet gemstone earrings and equally as beautiful Christmas or January birthday gift. These delicate, festive coloured earrings are in a drop style with French wires, in all sterling silver.
A dainty wish bracelet made with a gemstone of choice, tied into waxed cotton cord or hemp cord. The idea of this sweet little gift is that you tie this bracelet on your wrist: make a wish as you do and it's designed to stay put until the cord frays: which is when your wish should come true…as legend says.
Colourful Stacking Bracelet - from £13.50
A beaded bracelet made with tiny seed beads in various choices of twelve colours. The Japanese seed beads are 2mm in size, a stunning and dainty addition to the wrist and any stack of bracelets.
A chakra (pronounced “cha”-“kra” with a resounding “ch”) is a centre of energy. Originating from Sanskrit cakra ‘wheel or circle’. The rainbow effect of these earrings alone is very pretty however, these sterling silver earrings are made with gemstones specially chosen to represent each one of the seven chakra's.
Which piece would you like most in your stocking this year?
Best wishes,
Di x
]]>…When you buy from a small business (such as mine) a real person does an excited happy dance.
If you’d like to contribute to my happy dancing this winter, be sure to check out my top pick of Dainty Rocks Gift Ideas under £30…
Family Tree – Personalised Pendant
Because Christmas is about Family. This pendant necklace is a new edition to the Dainty Rocks collection and can be personalised with your choice of two birthstones.
Family Birthstone – Personalised Bracelet
Keep your loved ones close this Christmas with a dainty gemstone handpicked to represent each of your nearest and dearest. A sweet and thoughtful reminder that your family are always with you.
Turquoise for December Birthdays – Stacking Bracelet
December babies can choose from Tanzanite or Turquoise as their Birthstone. I love turquoise, it reminds me of a warm, tropical ocean and is bright enough to light up the coldest of winter days.
A Christmas Bracelet made with sparkly swarovskis and birthstone of choice, with a personalised card perfect for Christmas
I’ve been working on a Dainty Rocks Stocking Filler Blog too.
Keep your eyes peeled for that in coming weeks…
Take care,
Di x
]]>
“Moonstone is a sodium potassium aluminum silicate with the chemical formula (Na,K)AlSi3O8 and belongs to the feldspar group.”
Now we know what we’re dealing with, let’s explore some fun facts…
Moonstone got its name from its magical appearance. It’s misty, translucent and somewhat otherworldly. Apparently, the Romans believed that Moonstone was made from solidified rays of the Moon.
What a wonderful thought!
A firm favourite for Handmade Jewellery
This gorgeous gem has been used in jewellery making throughout the ages by many modern and ancient civilizations and movements. Moonstone was particularly popular in the Art Nouveau period and today it’s a firm favourite among Dainty Rocks customers!
I recently learned that Moonstone is the Florida State Gemstone. Although it doesn’t naturally occur in Florida, it was named the official gemstone of the state to commemorate the moon landings.
So, where does Moonstone come from?
Different types of Moonstone can be found all over the world, they’re typically mined from ancient mountain rock. In places like Sri Lanka, India, Mexico and Switzerland. Some believe this stone brings hope and strengthens intuition. Moonstone is considered to be a stone of protection. It is said to calm and bring relief from emotional stress. It’s also symbolic of femininity and motherhood.
Here’s a few of my personal favourite moonstone pieces:
Have a great after-moon 😉
Best wishes,
Di x
]]>
What an amazing month I have had!
Not for sales, or marketing, but for inspiration, and getting things done. I feel so motivated, so I am harnessing that feeling and have been creating frantically in the background
So what have I done? After my little boy went back to school I buttoned down, pulled out of most daytime social events (Sorry to my tea and cake friends!) and really put my all into this to prepare for Christmas.
I make one Christmas specific product, so I have reworked that and its now back up for sale, luckily my products are very gift worthy, so I tend to sell a wide range of items in the run up.
Also I have created not 1, or 2 but 3!! new product ranges. All of them have been on the to do list for over a year and I had still not got them completed, so as it has been slightly quieter, I have just got on with them, setting myself targets and deadlines. All ranges can be built on and I hope to add to them again shortly.
So introducing:
As we head into December and my busiest time of year, please keep an eye out for my posts with Gift ideas (for Sister, Mum etc.) and Budget Posts (Under £20 etc.)
That's it for now, I am off for a well deserved rest and maybe a little glass of wine
Diane x
]]>A chakra (pronounced “cha”-“kra” with a resounding “ch”) is a centre of energy. Originating from Sanskrit word ‘cakra’ meaning ‘wheel or circle’.
We commonly count seven Chakras (or centres of energy) which are positioned throughout the body. Each with its own colour, frequency, symbol and sound. The chakras run from the base of the spine to the crown of the head.
Each energy centre has its own associated colour, word, purpose and function. It is believed that Chakras are responsible for regulating certain functions with the body which impact the wellbeing of our body, mind and spirit. It is thought that our energy centres can be influenced positively or negatively by our surroundings.
I created this collection of Chakra jewelllery for others to enjoy a divine assortment of pretty rainbow gemstones. Each perfectly unique little crystal has been specifically chosen to represent each one of the chakras:
Crown Chakra – Violet – Wisdom - Amethyst
Third Eye Chakra – Indigo – Intuition - Lapis Lazuli
Throat Chakra – Blue - Expression - Aquamarine
Heart Chakra - Green – Compassion - Peridot
Solar Plexus Chakra – Yellow – Power - Citrine
Sacral Chakra – Orange - Creativity - Carnelian
Root Chakra – Red – Protection - Garnet
These stones are thought to give a subtle vibration that uplifts and harmonises us.
Whatever your beliefs, I hope that they bring as much joy and happiness when worn as I get from making them.
View the complete Dainty Rocks Chakra Jewellery Collection here: https://www.daintyrocks.co.uk/collections/chakra-jewellery-1
If you’re interested in reading more about Chakras this is a great article: https://chopra.com/articles/what-is-a-chakra
Best wishes,
Di x
]]>Grounding Moss Agate is thought to be a stone of new beginnings. Encouraging prosperity, success and abundance. Ranging from rich, deep forest green to light minty tones, usually carrying flecks of yellow, brown or black making up the appearance of moss. An earthy stone in appearance and energy.
Calming Amethyst is one of my favourite stones, it is believed to promote balance and peace. It’s indulgent rich violet tones are almost regal in appearance. A stone renowned throughout the ages for its beauty and believed properties to soothe the body and soul.
Sparkling, oceanic Aquamarine is a stone alleged to be useful when welcoming change and to overcome resistance or fear. Cooling and cleansing, a stone associated with the element water.
Here are a few handmade Dainty Rocks stacking bracelets which incorporate some of these gemstones:
Courage Bracelet: https://www.daintyrocks.co.uk/products/courage-gemstone-bracelet-calming-strength-protection-meaning-gemstone-bracelet-8747
Inner Peace Bracelet: https://www.daintyrocks.co.uk/products/inner-peace-bracelet-sodalite-labradorite-apatite-gemstone-bracelet-sterling-silver-blue-green-8731
A Big Hug Bracelet: https://www.daintyrocks.co.uk/products/a-big-hug-bracelet-gift-for-friend-for-peace-love-courage-symbolic-bracelet-meaning-jewellery-pastel-bracelet-7960
Essential Oils can bring an abundance of benefits to students and not just to mask the questionable smells that arise from shared accommodation 😊 Whilst I am not a qualified Aromatherapist, I do know that some people enjoy using oils to help aid focus for study, promote improved concentration and aid relaxation. If your little one is flying the nest and you use oils at home, why not pack them off with a few bottles that you use? A comforting and familiar fragrance will surely help ease the transition to student life.
If you don’t have any favorites, here’s a couple of suggestions:
To help quiet the mind and wind down at the end of the day, enjoying a hot cup of naturally caffeine-free herbal tea can be just the ticket. Chamomile is a popular choice for relaxation. Peppermint is also good for digestion after all student meals aren’t always the healthiest!
Hmm, I think I might just take my own advice this evening. A hot cup of tea and an even hotter bath sounds dreamy…
Best wishes,
Di x
]]>
So, hello, I’m Diane. I’m 44 (how did that happen?) with a little boy called Charlie who has additional needs and a crazy sense of humour. I am nearly full time in my business now. I was previously a cook, which I miss but no-one would employ me now as I have so many appointments for Charlie. So, I make do with eating scones instead of making them. My business fits around my life perfectly and I can’t think of anything else that I’d rather do.
I live and work in Northampton, right in the middle of the country and at least two hours from the seaside which doesn’t make me feel lovely, but it is home. After moving around the country chasing dreams for 10 years I finally settled here. We have the countryside on our doorsteps, we’re also blessed with stately homes, amazing parks, historical sites, a lift tower, a famous shoe industry and some delightful small businesses.
My business started in 2007 when I made my own wedding necklaces, invites and cake. I loved the idea of having a ‘homemade’ wedding. It changed my life; my crafty streak was back! I realised that I wanted to craft as much as I could and try to make a wage from it. For a year or two I made wedding invites. ‘Handmade by Di’ was formed in 2009 when I used all sorts of materials, chunky stones to create statement jewellery.
Over the years I’ve homed in, refined, improved and eventually found a style I love, I wear and I’m really passionate about. My all-time favourite piece to make is the Family Birthstone Bracelet launched last year. A completely unique bracelet, handmade to order with a birthstone to represent each family member.
https://www.daintyrocks.co.uk/search?q=birthstone+bracelet
Best wishes,
Di x
]]>
Best wishes,
Di x
]]>What are you looking forward to most about the warmer weather?
For me, I love getting the washing out on the line. A simple thing that brings me huge pleasure. My new ‘moods’ collection has been inspired by many things, including the ever-changing seasons.
One of my favourites is the ‘serene’ bracelet which evokes the tranquillity of a moorland walk. Creating peace, calm and a deeper connection to nature. Each bracelet is handmade with beautiful faceted stones chosen for their inspiring colourings reminiscent of a Scottish Moorland. Green apatite, purple amethyst and blue aquamarine.
Another slightly contrasting ‘mood’ is a bracelet inspired by that distinct and unforgettable vivacious Festival feeling! The gems in this bracelet have been specifically chosen for their vibrant, spirited playfulness. Colourful fire opal, citrine and ruby. Perfect to pop on when you need a little confidence boost or reminding of happier times.
Whatever the weather the next few months brings, I hope you find yourself making lots of happy memories.
Di x
I think number 4 has to be my favourite, how about you?
Di x
]]>
I hope you find these tips helpful, so you can enjoy your handmade jewellery for years to come.
Take care,
Di x
]]>If you do feel the pull towards these earthly treasures or you’re curious about their alleged powers. I’ve put together a little more detail about three stones which are considered uplifting, amplifiers for positive energy.
Tranquil azure Turquoise is a mineral that is a hydrous phosphate of copper and aluminium. It is perfectly mottled with russet markings is believed to bring solace to the spirit. A purification stone, it is said that when given by a loving hand, turquoise brings happiness and good fortune to the wearer.
Joyful Citrine is believed to promote success, magnify personal power and welcome abundance. It’s warm, yellow tones welcome optimism and light. This sunshine stone is traditionally believed to help promote a vibrant flow of positive energy and to help support healthy self-esteem.
Lapis Lazuli is dusted with gold speckles. It is almost celestial in its appearance, reminiscent of stars twinkling in the inky blue night sky. Lapis Lazuli symbolises wisdom, honesty and friendship. A protective stone of truth, it is believed to encourage deep, loving communication which supports harmonious relationships.
What a lovely trio of gems!
Here are a few of my favourite recent pieces which have been created with the intention of encouraging positivity.
Wishing you a happy, uplifting and positive day!
Di x
]]>
I am a firm believer that you should be ruthless in the pursuit of your own happiness and wellbeing. This is so important, especially when you have a young family and a business. I think we’re all guilty of not prioritising ourselves properly from time to time. So, I’ve put together a short list of simple things you can do today to bring yourself a little peace...
I started my business in 2010 and I’ve handmade some beautiful, personalised jewellery in that time. Here are a few of my favourite recent pieces which have been created with the intention of promoting peace.
https://www.daintyrocks.co.uk/search?q=peace
Wishing you a happy and peaceful day,
Di x
]]>
I am sure you’ve read about the recent UK ban on microbeads. It breaks my heart that thousands of tonnes of plastic microbeads from products such as exfoliating face scrubs and toothpastes end up in our oceans every year where they harm wildlife and ultimately end up in our food chain.
All the press coverage of this welcome movement got me thinking more about the environmental impact of my handmade jewellery business, Dainty Rocks. I care about our beautiful planet and this year I am making a conscious effort to reduce waste, in particular plastic wrapping.
My ‘Green Ethos’ is to take small, conscious steps every day both in my personal life and in my business. Bigger plans include, simplifying the way I package my crystal bracelets and necklaces, to only ever use one piece of plastic wrap per order. I am also looking at shifting the majority (if not all) of my packaging to recyclable and sustainable options. I am in the process of removing ‘boxed as standard’ from most of my listings, again to help reduce unnecessary waste and help keep my carbon footprint as low as possible.
I have a deep routed love of nature and have made a personal commitment that as my business grows, an ethical and eco-friendly ethos will remain at its heart.
Read more about the Microbeads ban here.
Di x
]]>
Calming Amethyst is the traditional birthstone for February. It’s a variety of quartz that vastly ranges in colour, from deep indigo-violet to a much lighter and softer lilac shade. It promotes balance and peace. It’s indulgent rich violet tones are almost regal in appearance. A stone renowned throughout the ages for its beauty and is believed to possess properties to soothe the body and soul. Some think that it’s restful energies can help relieve tension and headaches. It’s certainly one of my favourite stones to make into jewellery.
Whether it be your home décor or your wardrobe, here’s three inspiring colours to help you welcome more amethyst into your world.
Cool turquoise – really tapping into those calming vibes. Blend violet amethyst with tones reminiscent of warm tropical seas or the vibrant feathers of a bird of paradise.
Moss Green - how could you not love a little added earthiness to those violet healing hues. Bold emerald green carries a luxurious confidence, further amplifying amethyst’s exquisiteness.
Rich Brown – warm, bold brown really enhances the regality of amethyst. Think; steaming hot, rich espresso, a lustrous piece of mahogany furniture or perhaps a pocket full of glossy russet conkers in autumn.
View the Dainty Rocks amethyst jewellery collection here:
https://www.daintyrocks.co.uk/collections/february-birthstone-amethyst
Di x
]]>
I have made 4 new pieces with said emerald and they now reside in the shop, or home page as the feature monthly birthstone. 3 Bracelets and one necklace, all pretty, but one stands out as i have used the most gorgeous (and expensive) emerald I bought, and you can tell
It is clearer and darker than the rest and teamed with tiny silver balls, they match each other so well on the bracelet. It is ultra dainty and light, but despite it's daintiness, you can see the quality of the stones on it, you don't need it too big. which is great for your pocket too. Big emeralds, big money
So embrace dainty ...
]]>
I am testing out a new website provider, I have to confess I am totally taken with Etsy as a platform, yet wouldn't be without a website. As most of my Jewellery is listed in Etsy, I was looking for something with an Etsy import and I found it. I've taken to Shopify like a duck to water, loving it so far
I'm still adjusting my listings so bear with me whilst I finish this (300 listings to sort through)
the problem with Etsy is the titles are long to capture your keywords, so it now looks like my titles on here are mini essays, so I'm simplifying them
Apart from that I'm getting ready to switch on in the next few days....
]]>