Sakura (NEW)

The identification of the beads starts from the bead in the centre, moving upwards, with measurement for some of the bigger beads, with metal beads named last.

Length: 49.5 cm (19.5”)                   Weight: 134 gm

Sakura agate, 19 mm in the centre, 16 mm the rest

Rose quartz 12 mm

Amber colour transparent glass discs

Flat gold-coloured metal discs

Short gold-plated silver tubes

Gold-filled crimp tubes

Gold-plated silver toggle clasp

Gold-plated silver Manik Identity disc

I hadn’t heard of sakura agate until quite recently, when Mr L showed it to me; I was immediately attracted to its delicate beauty, its soft hazy 3D flower-like inclusions that resemble cherry blossoms (Sakura). It turns out that Sakura agate is a recent discovery in the crystal world, having only been discovered in 2018, and exclusive to Madagascar. It is much sought after for jewellery currently!

In the main, I knew how I wanted to design with these beads – I would keep the design relatively simple, to allow the Sakura agate to take centrestage. It was the supporting cast that took the longest time to decide on. With each iteration, I tried on different glass and metal spacers – some were too bright or too thick, others too dull, and so on. I need d the spacers to support and enhance, not overwhelm or be underwhelmed by the Sakura agate

So finally, here it is – a beautiful luminous 19 mm Sakura agate anchors the centre, while 16 mm beads continue the gentle landscape. The clusters of Sakura agate are punctuated with 12 mm rose quartz while amber glass, flat metal discs and fine metal tubes introduce a subtle shimmer, enhancing the necklace’s elegant finish. The overall effect is graceful, serene, and captivating. A refined gemstone necklace for an effortless, feminine look!

I have simply named it Sakura. Sakura would go well with a soft, muted palette and with pastels, but would also be striking worn against stronger, darker colours like navy, charcoal and black. Experiment and enjoy!