Most, if not all, of the jewelry I make is for someone. I make it with the person in mind. When I thought of making this, I haven’t met Kristina yet. In fact, we only talked online. We both were going to Blogher Food and we were going to be roommates. Of course, to those who are not familiar with social networking and building relationships online, this sounds…well, a bit insane. Yet, we exchange emails online as if we were long-time friends. I mean, I know this is starting to sound like a 20/20 segment, but trust me, it’s perfectly normal.
To cut the long story short, we shared a timeshare suite in San Francisco for the conference we were both attending, and it was free of charge thanks to the powers-that-be called her dad. [Haha, what would us girls be without our Pops, eh?] I am so grateful for that, and so I wanted to give her something since she wouldn’t let me pay. This asymmetrical necklace was the product of brainstorming for ideas for meaningful gifts:
I bought the spherical black onyx beads the week before our conference and the almond-shaped beads have been with me for the past 3 years since I ordered them because I haven’t had the inspiration to use them. Until this necklace, that is. The beads are held together by sterling silver wire with a sterling silver toggle clasp. There’s a Swarovski crystal at the end, followed by cut crystal that I’ve also kept over the years, waiting for the piece that would call it. The crystal was just for that extra touch of sparkle, and an option to use in front as a dangling pendant.
I wanted to make a necklace that she can wear to jazz up a casual jean attire, and be an understated piece for a more semi-formal event, both of which are reasons I picked a black stone.
Aside from practical wardrobe considerations, I chose black onyx for its metaphysical properties. Black onyx enhances self mastery, steadfastness, and determination, setting one’s mind to a task. It is a grounding stone and can be used to deflect or absorb the negativity of others, and in that way is a good stone for protection from negative forces and influences. It’s good stone for entrepreneurs (Kristina and her husband founded FishingForDeals.com), repelling negative energy surrounding other people’s opinions or ideas. It helps absorb whatever energy is needed from the Universe.
When I met Kristina, she was bigger than life. She is a breathing, walking party. Fun! She’s also passionate about a lot of things, including food, gardening and tomatoes! I was so happy that she liked the necklace — I think I was more relieved more than anything. Part of the fun of making jewelry (for me) is creating it — thinking of what to make, what would fit the person, and how to put all those ideas into a tangible piece, but the bulk of it is seeing the recipient enjoy it. 
