Many parts of the Alaskan wilderness are rugged and cold. However, the state is home to some of the most attractive gems in existence. Alaskan jewelry can be made from amethysts, jade, epidote or garnets. Some stones from this intriguing state are more unusual than others, but each one boasts unique characteristics and a beauty all its own.
Numerous individuals favor Alaskan amethyst. This beautiful, lavender stone is found in Northway, Alaska and in certain parts of Tok County. When observed in their natural state, such amethysts are shaped like single crystals. Pink variations are also mined in some areas of the state and the gem is most often seen in a silver or white gold setting.
Epidote was first mined from Alaska's Green Monster Mountain. It is rich in lime and classified as a sedimentary rock. When the latter was covered with magma for the first time, these exotic stones were formed. The crystals feature a shiny, black appearance, and are usually set in rose or yellow gold. They sometimes measure up to eight inches long when found in their natural environment and are held in high regard by both gem collectors and museums.
Nephrite jade has been taken from Alaska's Kobuk River since the vein was discovered in the 19th century. Many fans of the gem find it appealing, even though its quality is not always as consistent as jade that is mined in other parts of the world. Nephrite Jade is frequently set in yellow gold; however, some consumers feel it is more attractive when placed in settings that feature a silver tone.
Wrangell garnet is mined from various areas in Southeastern Alaska. It is well known for its dark raspberry color, which is somewhat different from the deep red hue featured by traditional garnet gemstones. The stone is rich in aluminum and iron, and for this reason often features slight imperfections. However, the gem is still popular with many jewelry lovers, as its distinct shade lends itself well to virtually any setting.
Rutilated quartz was first discovered in the Nolan Creek region of the state. Pockets of this attractive gemstone were found nestled in rock cavities, also referred to as vugs. They range in color from brown to coppery red and typically grow in the form of needle shaped crystals. When made into jewelry, they are often placed in rose or yellow gold settings.
Strong veins of fluorite are also found in Alaska and are frequently used in jewelry making. Huiu Island is home to approximately 90% of the state's fluorite. The gemstone is a member of the quartz family and can be found in purple or green variations. Fluorite is another example of a stone that looks beautiful in virtually any type of setting.
Traditional stores do not always carry such jewelry, but it can be ordered quite easily online. However, care must be taken to select only a reputable merchant with whom to do business. Regardless of which gemstone one chooses, Alaskan jewelry is virtually guaranteed to stand out in a crowd at any social event where it is worn and bring its owner pleasure for many years.
Numerous individuals favor Alaskan amethyst. This beautiful, lavender stone is found in Northway, Alaska and in certain parts of Tok County. When observed in their natural state, such amethysts are shaped like single crystals. Pink variations are also mined in some areas of the state and the gem is most often seen in a silver or white gold setting.
Epidote was first mined from Alaska's Green Monster Mountain. It is rich in lime and classified as a sedimentary rock. When the latter was covered with magma for the first time, these exotic stones were formed. The crystals feature a shiny, black appearance, and are usually set in rose or yellow gold. They sometimes measure up to eight inches long when found in their natural environment and are held in high regard by both gem collectors and museums.
Nephrite jade has been taken from Alaska's Kobuk River since the vein was discovered in the 19th century. Many fans of the gem find it appealing, even though its quality is not always as consistent as jade that is mined in other parts of the world. Nephrite Jade is frequently set in yellow gold; however, some consumers feel it is more attractive when placed in settings that feature a silver tone.
Wrangell garnet is mined from various areas in Southeastern Alaska. It is well known for its dark raspberry color, which is somewhat different from the deep red hue featured by traditional garnet gemstones. The stone is rich in aluminum and iron, and for this reason often features slight imperfections. However, the gem is still popular with many jewelry lovers, as its distinct shade lends itself well to virtually any setting.
Rutilated quartz was first discovered in the Nolan Creek region of the state. Pockets of this attractive gemstone were found nestled in rock cavities, also referred to as vugs. They range in color from brown to coppery red and typically grow in the form of needle shaped crystals. When made into jewelry, they are often placed in rose or yellow gold settings.
Strong veins of fluorite are also found in Alaska and are frequently used in jewelry making. Huiu Island is home to approximately 90% of the state's fluorite. The gemstone is a member of the quartz family and can be found in purple or green variations. Fluorite is another example of a stone that looks beautiful in virtually any type of setting.
Traditional stores do not always carry such jewelry, but it can be ordered quite easily online. However, care must be taken to select only a reputable merchant with whom to do business. Regardless of which gemstone one chooses, Alaskan jewelry is virtually guaranteed to stand out in a crowd at any social event where it is worn and bring its owner pleasure for many years.
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