Star Carnelian, Crystal & Pyrite Vermeil Necklace

The design of this necklace is  inspired by the captivating desert night sky.

In Zoroastrianism, the ancient Persian religion, light and purity are central symbols of goodness and truth. Rock crystal, because of its transparent and flawless nature, was sometimes associated with Asha, the divine order of truth and righteousness.

Rock crystal is a transparent, colourless variety of quartz, one of the most common minerals on Earth. Its name comes from the Greek word “krystallos,” meaning ice, as ancient people believed it was eternally frozen water.

In the time of the Achaemenid Empire (550–330 BCE), rock crystal was highly prized among Persian nobility. It was used to craft elegant drinking vessels, jewellery, and ritual objects. Persians believed in the purity and divine clarity of rock crystal—an embodiment of truth and spiritual light. It was thought to be connected with the heavens and was often associated with royalty and sacred power.

Carnelian is a translucent reddish-brown gemstone which was once thought to still the blood and calm the temper. The colour can vary greatly, ranging from pale orange to an intense almost-black coloration. It is widely used in the region for prayer beads (Tasbeh) and worn by both women and men as pendants and rings, which often feature beautifully engraved calligraphy.

In ancient Egypt, polished Carnelian crystal was a favourite contrast with Onyx and Lapis Lazuli used in collars and necklaces designed for royalty. The ancient Romans were also known to use large Carnelian stones set in gold for men and women’s rings.

Materials: Silver, vermeil, crystal, carnelian and pyrite