Handmade gemstone necklace - express yourself!

I would guess that people have been wearing necklaces from the time early man found a way to tie a knot. A necklace can make a statement, whether you are wearing a small pendant, or a big chunky bunch of rocks. 

I'm not a real "out there" sort of person in terms of wanting to be noticed, but I've seen some necklaces that are gorgeous and huge and definite conversation starters. I appreciate the artistry of such necklaces, and of course I adore the gems. A single gemstone on a silver chain, or on leather, is also a wonderful addition to any outfit - exquisite simplicity.

One of my favorite necklaces of all time was one I saw in a gallery here in Sonoma. It was made of smooth gray pebbles drilled and wired together, rosary style, on antiqued metal. It wasn't something you see every day, and it was more of an artistic statement than it was wearable art. I'd wear such a necklace once in a while if I owned it. But then I really like gemstones that are close to their natural state and maybe a little funky, even though I realize most people don't. I live in California, after all. We're all a bit strange here.

Necklaces are keepsakes too. I have necklaces and other jewelry given to me decades ago. I may not wear the jewelry at the moment, but I remember where each piece came from or who gave it to me and the occasion. That's one reason jewelry is such a nice gift - small remembrances of your life, wearable keepsakes, like old snapshots.