Bead Necklace~Banded Natural “Zebra” Sardonyx

THE STORY BEHIND THE JEWEL

Strikingly beautiful, Sardonyx has been prized since ancient times and is associated with courage, happiness and clear communication, lending success to interpersonal relationships and partnerships.

Roman soldiers wore Sardonyx talismans engraved with portraits of Hercules or Mars, the god of war, wanting to transfer the bold courage associated with these gods to themselves and bring good fortune.  Renaissance jewelers drew inspiration from the ancient Roman and Greek worlds, and jewelry featuring Sardonyx carved into depictions of classical beauty and symbols was fashionable and eloquent.

It is often carved into cameos and intaglios, and it is unusual to find fine Sardonyx beads this size that is not dyed.  Cynthia purchased these rare and sizable beads decades ago and held them back in her stash.

THE ELEMENTS

Bead necklace consisting of 35 pieces of natural black and white “Zebra” Sardonyx strung on knotted dark royal blue thread.This necklace is 24 inches long and features 27 pieces of 15 mm beads and 9 pieces of 20 mm.This is a continuous no clasp strand that easily fits over the head.

HOW TO WEAR

Striking, chic and simple, this bead necklace will have so many uses in your wardrobe.

Wear it with the wools of winter and the linens of summer; layer on tonal black and white clothing or feature on crimson, green or purple…for starters.