The Red Moss Agate heart shaped stone caught my eye when Andy stopped by with a new assortment of cut and polished gemstones for sale. I loved how the earthy reds and black swirled together for more drama than you’d find in a plain red stone.
[row][/row]
Agates 
are found in cavities of volcanic rock around the world. Minerals flow and are deposited in the crevices, forming the colors, usually in distinct bands. The red color here is likely from iron oxides. It is said that Moss Agate is not a true agate because the tell-tale banding is not present. But since the geology world still calls it an agate, I will, too.
The silver bezel forms the frame around the stone. I shaped it by hand since fine silver is so soft. It is snugly soldered onto the hammered sterling base.
Sawing the excess sterling from the pendant is a major milestone. The pendant is beginning to look like a real piece of jewelry. And no fingers were lost!
After the bale (the thingy that the chain goes through) is soldered on, the stone is set in the pendant. The fit must be close so there are no gaps around the sides, but that also means it takes a little wiggling to get the agate in just right.
Finally, the fine silver sides are gently nudged up against the stone to secure it. Add a chain and lobster claw closure, and ta-dah!
Happy Valentine’s Day (soon)!
Say “I Heart You” to someone special! The one-of-a-kind Red Moss Agate Heart Pendant Necklace can be purchased on The Brooch & Bangle.
