GOLD NUGGET

This stone was given to me by a fellow artist who wanted a basket.  It was fun to make and challenging.  I don't know what the stone base is called but it has some quartz, iron oxide and it's not smooth on top.  I put the smooth side on the bottom so it would sit well.  It was a interesting having to set the stone so that the basket would coil evenly.  Beads on the side are two kinds of Jasper.  Did she like it?  I hope so.

Approximate Size:  6 x 6 x 3 inches

FLASH OF GREEN

This basket was inspired by the base as are so many of my creations.  This piece of stone is called Bloodstone and comes in a variety of dark green, ochre red, and bright gold colors.  This piece just happens to have mostly the hotter colors with just a flash of green at one end.  The smaller beads are Rose Lodolite, a very delicate color, while the large pendant balls are Kiwi Jasper, looking like peeled red grapes.  I took this piece to a demonstration at the Wild Child Gallery in Matlacha and sold it!  Luckily I still have the picture to enjoy.  I also have other pieces of Bloodstone, but then no two stones are alike so there will never be a duplicate.

Approximate Size:  11 X 8 X 5 inches

FOX STAR

The base stone is called Septarian or Star Agate.  It is formed from lava mud flowing over quartz crystals.  As the mud ball dried, cracks and crystals were formed. This result in a gray mud with brown Aragonite and a 7 pointed crystal.  Yes, always 7 points.  The mud balls are then cut to show what you see here.  The slice is generous so there is some weight to this piece.
The base is surrounded with Aragonite beads and Picture Jasper pendants.  I was very pleased with this basket as it was formed.  The colors all just make a wonderful blend of earth tones.  So I entered it the Made By Hand exhibit at the Punta Gorda Visual Arts Center.

Second Place!

Approximate Size:  11 X 10 X 5 inches