The inspiration for these ribbed barnacles came from a wharf overlooking Carver’s Harbor on my home island of Vinalhaven, Maine. Stuck to the brick weight of a lobster trap drying out next to a piling, was one of the biggest barnacles I had ever seen. Very gently, I was able to get it out and bring it home to study it in my studio while I carved a similar piece in wax.
These hand carved barnacles enclose 6mm tanzanites weighing just over a carat and a half. These stones are known as transformational gemstones, aiding us in ending old habits and manifesting our energy and strength. They are said to boost our immune system, and are known to be the rarest gemstone in the world, as tanzanite is only found in a three square mile section at the base of Mount Kilimanjaro.
Hanging from these barnacles are nearly thirty-three carats of boulder opals uncovered at the Koroit mine in Quilpie, located in Queensland, Australia. Completing these one of a kind earrings are hand fabricated prong settings, each holding a shimmering diamond totalling over a quarter carat. These opals have the ability to improve mental clarity and physical well-being, and are even known to stabilize one’s emotions.
These earrings measure 2 1/4” tall by 5/8” wide, and while they may look heavy, they are surprisingly light when on the ear.
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