Exploring Ideas for New Pages and Content
Recently, I have been considering adding an info page that lists components I use here as a separate page and also in my Square Online shop. The page would include gemstones with where they are mined, their physical properties, and maybe commonly perceived metaphysical properties. I would also talk about other components, such as the metal I use, different types of wire, chain, that sort of thing. Photos of various pieces I have made would also be included.
Obviously, I am trying to promote the quality of the components that I use and draw attention to my business, I will be totally honest about that. However, through my blog, I also want to pass on whatever knowledge I gain as I move through this journey. I want to educate myself and grow my skills and creative style, and yes, my business, but it makes no sense to gate keep. I think we should support each other as artists, crafters, makers, and humans. I also make every attempt to be transparent and honest about the materials that I use. It is important for me to build trust in both my personal and business life.
Almost as important, it will serve as a database for myself as I create, since it is quite a task to remember everything about every gemstone. I often find myself looking things up as I write my titles and listings. It would be a work in progress. I’m just not sure that I have the time to sit down and type everything out, and as I make new purchases and new finds, I will add. My vision is to sort by component, but beyond that, I may play around with different ideas. I think of how my favorite bead suppliers organize their websites and possibilities seem endless.
While this seems like quite an endeavor, I believe it will help me as well as anyone who is looking to learn more about gemstones, or just those curious about what their necklace is comprised of. I thought I would get started here today and feature a few things I have recently made. Much of my information was found at the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) and the jewelry photos are my own work.
Amethyst: belongs in the quartz group, and is the most valued quartz. It was once thought to be rare until a large deposit was discovered in Brazil. Lovers of this purple gem can now find jewelry at all price points, from high end to affordable. Fun fact: It was once believed to prevent intoxication. It is named for “Amethystos” or “not drunk” in ancient Greek.
Apatite: The apatite group consists of fluorapatite, chlorapatite, and hydroxylapatite. It is mostly associated with the color blue, but can be found in many colors, including green, yellow, brown, pink, and violet. Apatite became more commonly known after deposits of bright neon blue apatite were found in Madagascar. Fun fact: it’s name is derived from the Greek word apate, meaning “to deceive.” Due to it’s mesmerizing beauty, it is often mistaken for other more precious gemstones.
Sodalite: belongs to the feldspathoid mineral group, usually a dark royal blue with calcite inclusions. Sodalite was first discovered in Greenland, and later a vast deposit was found in Canada. Today, it is found globally, including several states in the USA and Brazil. Fun fact: Sodalite is often nicknamed the Thinker’s Stone and is perceived by some to symbolize logic, rationality, and clarity.
This seems like a good start and will definitely take me a while! I probably won’t add so many photos on the info page, but I will have to see what options I have to arrange it. It’s a work in progress.
Don’t forget to check out my new listings: https://mieloabelo.com/category/new-items-listed/
Please visit my secure Square Online shop: https://mieloabelodesigns.square.site/