When I first thought about creating an Earth Series, I immediately knew I wanted to focus much of it on trees. When I look at an old growth tree, with its roots deep within the earth I feel so grounded and connected. As I watch a new young sapling grow and develop its roots I am reminded of how the earth holds and nurtures each of us.
“To be without trees would, in the most literal way, to be without our roots.”
― Richard Mabey
This necklace and earrings set is my way of honoring our tree relatives. The earrings and necklace all have beautiful, handcrafted copper focal charms depicting three different species of our tree relatives - Birch and Willow on the earrings, and Redwood on the necklace. See the photos for descriptions of each of these relatives.
The copper tree charms all hang from handcrafted wire spirals, which reminded me of the sun shining down on each of the trees. The earrings are finished off with a copper spiral universe symbol and handcrafted copper ear wires.
The necklace is a beautiful, earthy mix of banded oxidized copper beads, red Jasper tubes, Czech glass leaves and juniper berry beads. These red jasper beads seem to glow with energy. It closes with a 1 inch square hand stamped copper toggle.
The necklace is approximately 21 inches long, not including the 3 inch pendant. The earrings are a statement making 4 inch drop. Each of the tree circle charms measures approximately 1 1/4 inches in diameter. This set is gorgeous on.
THE STONE MEDICINE:
If you are crawling out of a chaotic time in your life, Red Jasper can be used as part of the divine healing process. It’s a stone that is deeply connected to the roots, meaning that it tethers you to the earth beneath your feet, giving you the strength to stand strong as you renew and revitalize your soul. If there was ever a time to feel a new lease of life, Red Jasper works as the calendar turn.
Ghost beads (or Spirit beads) represent interconnection with the earth, trees, animals and humans. Ghost beads are worn to bring about peace, harmony, and safety. Ghost beads are actually dried juniper berries. The juniper berries are collected after ants have found the berries on the ground. They nibble off one end and eat the inside of the berry. The berry is then hollow and dry. Sometimes the berries are lightly smoked to further preserve them. A hole is made in the other end by artisans and then strung.