I created this necklace by first making the beautifully intricate mandala component in sterling silver metal clay cast from a stamp created for the use of metal clay. I set a small 3mm round deep blue green apatite in the center of the star shaped mandala.
Once the clay is fired in my kiln it becomes pure silver and it burnished for several hours, oxidized and buffed to bring out the detail, burnished again and hand polished and then finished with oxidized sterling silver chain with an extender and spring ring clasp so that you may adjust the length with any neckline. The necklace can be worn at lengths anywhere from 16 to 18 inches long. The mandala measures just over 1/2" (14mm).
Apatite is an alternative birthstone for those born in the month of December. It is associated with the throat chakra and is known as the "stone of manifestation" and is thought to bring motivation, ambition, self-confidence and self-acceptance to the wearer.