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If you’ve ever held a piece of geode jewelry or admired the sparkle of crystal-lined stone, you know there’s something magical about these formations. But what you might not know is how that magic is made—slowly, patiently, and entirely by nature.

Let’s peek inside the journey of a geode, from rough rock to hidden gem.

It All Begins with a Hollow

Every geode starts as an empty space. This hollow might form in volcanic rock (from trapped gas bubbles in lava) or in sedimentary rock (where organic material like tree roots or shells once lived and decayed away).

No matter how the space appears, it becomes the perfect little cave for something beautiful to grow inside.

Then Comes the Mineral-Rich Water

Over time, groundwater or hydrothermal fluids seep into the cavity, carrying dissolved minerals—like quartz, calcite, or amethyst. These minerals settle onto the walls of the hollow, one tiny layer at a time.

This is the start of crystal formation.

Crystals Begin to Grow—Slowly

Inside that dark, undisturbed space, crystals begin to take shape. As water continues to move through, more minerals are deposited and the crystals grow, sometimes for thousands or even millions of years.

Their final shape and color depend on the minerals present, the temperature and pressure, and how much space they have to grow.

Some geodes stay lined with tiny shimmering crystals (called druzy), while others develop large, dramatic points. Each one is entirely unique.

The Outside Never Tells the Whole Story

One of my favorite things about geodes? You can’t tell what’s inside just by looking at the outside. The rough exterior gives no hint of the sparkle, texture, or color hidden within.

That mystery is part of what makes working with geode slices and crystal-lined stones so special. When I choose a piece for a design, I’m drawn to that sense of hidden beauty—what’s been forming quietly beneath the surface for ages, now ready to be seen and worn.

Jewelry That Tells Earth’s Story

When you wear a piece of jewelry that features a geode or crystal-lined stone, you’re carrying a little piece of that story: of time, transformation, and the beauty that grows in hidden places.

Whether it’s a bold geode slice or a delicate drusy accent, these stones are a reminder that true beauty often comes from within—and that some of nature’s best treasures take time.

When you see the term recycled gold, what comes to mind? Some people imagine scraps or lower-quality metal, but the truth is: recycled gold is real gold. Just like water can be purified and reused, gold can be refined and reworked—again and again—without ever losing its value or purity.

So what exactly is recycled gold, and why should we consider it over newly mined gold? Let’s dive in.

What Is Recycled Gold?

Recycled gold refers to gold that has been recovered from old jewelry, electronics, dental work, and even industrial components. It’s melted down, refined to remove impurities, and then reused in new designs. Once refined, recycled gold is chemically identical to newly mined gold. Whether it's 14k, 18k, or 24k—it’s still gold.

In short, there’s no visual or material difference between recycled and freshly mined gold. The only difference is its story.

Why Choose Recycled Gold?

1. It’s More Environmentally Responsible

Mining for gold is a resource-heavy process. It requires vast amounts of energy and water, and often leads to environmental degradation—deforestation, contaminated waterways, and massive carbon emissions. By choosing recycled gold, you’re reducing the demand for new mining and helping minimize its environmental impact.

2. It Avoids the Human Toll of Mining

Gold mining is not only tough on the earth—it can also be devastating for communities. Many gold mines around the world are linked to unsafe working conditions, child labor, and unethical labor practices. Choosing recycled gold helps avoid contributing to these supply chains.

3. Gold Is Infinitely Recyclable

Gold doesn’t degrade. It can be melted down and reshaped indefinitely without losing its quality. That means the gold in a vintage ring, a 1980s necklace, or even an old computer chip can be made new again—without ever needing to dig another ounce out of the earth.

But… Is Recycled Gold Less Valuable?

Not at all.

This is one of the most common misconceptions about recycled gold—and it's simply untrue. Once refined, recycled gold is exactly the same as mined gold. The karat, color, and quality are all equal. If you’ve ever owned a beautiful vintage ring or inherited a family heirloom, you’ve already seen the lasting value of gold that’s been around the block.

In fact, many ethical jewelers intentionally source recycled gold as part of their commitment to sustainability and integrity. It’s not a downgrade—it’s a mindful choice.

In a world where we’re all trying to tread a little lighter, recycled gold offers a way to enjoy the beauty and durability of gold without the environmental and ethical costs of new mining. And that’s something worth treasuring.

Further reading and resources: Responsible Jewellery Council, World Gold Council, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Earthworks, OECD Due Diligence Guidance, Human Rights Watch, Amnesty International, LBMA (London Bullion Market Association), and U.S. Geological Survey

I’ve been thinking a lot about how lucky I am to do what I do—to create jewelry that finds its way to the people who truly love it. It didn't take me long to realize something: my collectors aren’t just customers. You’re the heartbeat of my business.

A while back, I made the decision to step away from wholesale. It was the best choice for me, but it also meant something really important—every sale, every piece I make, goes directly to you. No middlemen, no markups, just a connection between my hands and yours.

And that’s why I’ve launched the Insider's Club.

This is my way of saying thank you to my most loyal collectors, the ones who have supported my work, shared it with friends, and made it part of their lives. As an Insider, you’ll get:

✨ 20% off every piece, always—because I want to pass on a little savings to my best customers
✨ Free USPS Priority shipping—because waiting for jewelry is the worst
✨ Exclusive Insider-only designs—pieces created just for you
✨ Surprise freebies + special events—because I love making your day
✨ Access to custom design slots—for one-of-a-kind pieces no one else will have

You can find these exclusive Crazy Lace & Amethyst Samba Earrings here. This limited edition piece will remain available until all eight pairs are sold out..

I know that handmade jewelry is an investment, and please know that I don’t take it lightly that you choose to invest in my work. The Insider Membership is my way of giving back, making collecting my pieces a little easier, and creating an even deeper connection between us. I promise, you won't feel disappointed if you join.

xoxo - Christine

Let’s talk about pearls.

They’ve been around forever—seriously, humans have been obsessed with them for thousands of years. Unlike gemstones that have to be mined and cut, pearls just happen inside an oyster or mollusk, layer by layer, like a tiny piece of magic formed over time. There’s something about that slow, organic process that feels really special to me.