Opal

October Gem

Opals

October's Gem

Opal

I was asked recently: Are Opals precious?

Later I was asked: Where, where are Opals?

And in the in-between time, I was asked: Are Opals worth much?

I answer: Oh, people, I know well that the Latin word for Opal is Opalus meaning precious stone.

Oh, and I also know that Opal has been found on Mars! Yes. Truth!

On our planet, it is in Australia that most Opal is found. It is Opal, that country's national Gemstone.

Oh, the Black Opal, mesmerizing beauty that shows every colour of the rainbow at changing light. Extravagant, understated luxury rivals the flawless diamond in monetary value. Oh, yes, people, Black Opals are worth much!

The question most asked: Why? Why is Opal the traditional Gemstone for the month of October?

I answer: Famous are Opals for their"play of colours". Oh, yes the stones flash the colours of yellows and reds against the pearly whites. See the changing colours of the leaves in autumnal season during the month of October.

Oh, yes the spectacular black Opal that sometimes flashes green, blue and red is reminiscent of the contrast created against a dramatic indigo sky and the tree canopies festooned in the warm colours of the colour spectrum. Famously, the most valuable Opal pattern is the "Harlequin", large angular patches of red, yellow and green resembling the checks on a clown's costume.

Oh, yes, I answer the Opal is the best choice for the October Gemstone. 

Curious About Birthstones?

Read Septeber's post.

September Gem

Sapphire

September's Gem

Be aware that the sapphire is rich in colour, regal in personality, refractive in its facets, brilliant in its attraction

Be aware that the sapphire is a member of the big four gemstones: diamonds, rubies, emeralds, sapphires

Be aware that the sapphire is all blues, inky blue, light blue, barely there blue, cornflower blue

Oh, that cornflower blue, clean and intense, and oh, that cornflower blue with a very understated hint of violet is the best and most valuable of the blues.

Be aware
Be tempted
Possess it.

 

Curious About Birthstones?

Read August's post.

August Gem

Peridot

August's Gem

Your name, Peridot, is derived from the ancient Greek Peridona, "to give richness", and oh, how rich your attraction, Peridot!

It is, it, that signature green colour, that names you "gem of the sun" by the ancient Egyptians

The Greeks of Old know you by your other title, chrysolite and name you "Goldstone"

Peridot, you are Cleopatra's favourite gem for she believed in your ability to instill power and influence

Peridot gem, you are a thing of Beauty. Your visual allure captivates, pleases and holds

Peridot gem, you are a testament to Durability, set it en cabochon you withstand the test of time.

Peridot gem, your Rarity of colour is the strongest indicator of value.

Peridot!

 

Curious About Birthstones?

Read July's post.

Golden Roses

Our Mother's Day Special Suggestions

Say It with Flowers

Mother’s Day has long been synonymous with flowers, but why? You have heard said, "April showers bring May flowers." Mother's Day gives us the opportunity to celebrate the love we feel every day of the year from our mothers. Perhaps in the past years, you may have felt embarrassment that the expensive bouquet of roses delivered to your mother was not fresh. The flowers faded too soon. Your mother, nevertheless, appreciated the gesture because she practices what she preaches. It's the thought that counts. You, on the other hand, are not willing to take that chance. This year you want the gift to be fade-proof and long lasting and your preference is still flowers.

Trust Howard Studios to deliver that thought in a poetic and lasting way. 

We suggest a variation on the tradition of giving fresh flowers. This year, on Sunday, May 14th, surprise your mother with one or more, beautiful, everlasting Lacquered Roses. Adorned with gold, rose gold, or platinum trim, these elegant and beautiful flower keepsakes always stay open and as fresh as the day they are given.

Order before Mother's Day and your order will be delivered Free to any destination in Canada.

When you purchase items from our Showcase over $250, we will ship to you Free within Canada!