The Stones Behind Alexis Handmade Jewelry: An Introduction

The Stones Behind Alexis Handmade Jewelry: An Introduction

Jewelry is more than just an accessory—it’s a reflection of history, culture, and creativity. At Alexis Handmade, every bracelet begins with carefully chosen stones, selected not only for their natural beauty but also for the stories they carry. From ancient traditions to modern design, stones have always held a special place in the human experience. When I started sourcing materials Ebay, Etsy, and Facebook gave ne access to world from my home outside of Pittsburgh, Pa yet still firmly on the buckle of the rust belt. My intention is always to buy unique items. The most rewarding finds come from around the world from another guy making things and taking pictures with a phone! 

Buying small sample batches of materials allows me to determine quality. It seems that the Natural Gemstone materials formed under conditions unimaginable create the most unique treasures. I find power in the stones if only for their beauty and existence. These stones are not my inventory they are my collection. 

This article introduces the major stones we use—Quartz, Jasper, Sea Sediment, Tourmaline, Amethyst, Garnet, Aventurine, Lava Stone, Persian Jade, and more. Each has a rich history and unique qualities that inspire our creative process. In future posts, we’ll dive deeper into each category, linking back to this introduction as a foundation for your exploration.

Quartz: The Timeless Classic

Quartz is one of the most abundant and versatile stones in the world. Historically, it has been used in carvings, tools, and even timekeeping (think quartz watches). Across cultures, quartz has been associated with clarity and strength, often called a “universal stone.”

In jewelry making, quartz offers endless variety—clear, rose, smoky, and more—each shade inspiring different moods and styles. For us, quartz is a foundation stone: simple, elegant, and endlessly adaptable to creative designs.

With and endless array of colors, stripes, and character they lend themselves to any design. My favorite is the coffee striped and everyone love the pink stripes... 

Jasper: The Stone of Earth

Jasper has been treasured since ancient times, often referred to as a “stone of endurance.” Archaeological finds show it was used in seals, amulets, and ceremonial objects. With its wide range of earthy tones and patterns, jasper reflects the natural world—layered, grounding, and warm.

When used in bracelets, jasper becomes a storyteller. Each bead has unique markings, meaning no two pieces are alike. It’s a reminder that jewelry can be both deeply personal and connected to nature’s artistry.

 

Sea Sediment: A Modern Discovery

Unlike ancient jaspers or quartz, sea sediment stone is a more modern, stabilized composite. Its vibrant colors and swirling patterns bring to mind ocean tides and coral reefs. Designers often use sea sediment beads to add boldness and energy to a piece.

For us, this stone represents creativity without limits—it lets us experiment with striking blues, greens, and purples while still maintaining a natural, stone-like feel. It’s a favorite for pieces that need to stand out.

These stones tell a story that demand an extra second of attention. In a small 10mm there is a lot going on. There is almost a meditative quality to handling them. 

Tourmaline: The Rainbow Stone

Tourmaline is unique for its wide spectrum of colors, sometimes even showing multiple shades in a single stone. Historically, it was mistaken for other gems—green tourmaline for emerald, pink for ruby. Its diversity has made it a favorite among jewelers and collectors alike.

In the creative process, tourmaline is a “muse stone.” Its color variety gives us freedom to match moods—delicate pastels for softness, deep blacks for strength, or multicolor beads for a lively, vibrant feel.

Amethyst: A Royal Legacy

Amethyst has long been associated with royalty and spirituality. From ancient Greece, where it was linked to clarity of mind, to medieval Europe, where it adorned crowns and crosses, amethyst has been a symbol of elegance and devotion.

Its deep purple tones bring richness and depth to jewelry. For us, amethyst inspires designs that feel timeless—bracelets that echo both tradition and modern refinement.

I have been collecting Amethyst in several shapes and styles of beads. I am looking forward to getting everything together and creating the next collection. Subscribe to get first access to the limited production for the initial drop to the public. 

Garnet: A Stone of Passion

Garnet’s history stretches back thousands of years, often found in ancient jewelry and talismans. Its deep red varieties were especially prized for their resemblance to pomegranate seeds (the name garnet comes from the Latin granatus, meaning seed-like).

Today, garnet continues to symbolize strength and beauty. When we incorporate garnet beads, they lend warmth and intensity to our designs, creating bracelets that feel both bold and classic.

These are the most expensive of all my stone purchases. The beads are of high quality and are actually heavier by enough to feel it. Available in stone while supplies last. 

Green Aventurine: The Stone of Opportunity

Green aventurine has been admired for centuries, particularly in Asia, where it has often been used in carvings, jewelry, and talismans. Its shimmering effect, known as aventurescence, gives the stone a soft sparkle that seems to glow from within.

For jewelry makers, green aventurine is a versatile stone that pairs well with both warm and cool tones. Its fresh green color makes it a favorite for spring-inspired designs or calming, everyday wear. Each bead feels like carrying a piece of nature’s renewal.

Volcanic Lava Stone: Fire and Earth Combined

Lava stone is formed from molten rock that has cooled after a volcanic eruption—a direct connection to the raw power of the earth. Ancient cultures used porous lava rock in tools and ornaments, valuing its grounding presence.

In jewelry, lava stone beads are lightweight, matte, and uniquely textured. Their porous surface also allows them to hold essential oils, giving modern wearers a way to combine fashion with fragrance. To us, lava stone is about balance—melding rugged origins with refined, wearable art.

These basic black beads quietly play best supporting bead in a bracelet. It's character is only surpassed by the sea sediment. While quietly blending in its crates and flaws. 

Persian Jade: A Stone of Elegance

Though technically a form of serpentine often mistaken for true jade, Persian jade has earned admiration for its soft, soothing green hues. It has been used historically in ornaments, carvings, and beads, particularly in regions of Central and Western Asia.

In our collections, Persian jade adds a sense of understated elegance. Its smooth surface and subtle tones lend themselves to minimalist designs as well as intricate pairings with silver or gold accents. Persian jade bracelets carry an old-world refinement that connects tradition with modern style.

Other Stones in Our Collection

While these are some of the cornerstone materials in our designs, Alexis Handmade also works with a wide range of stones—from calming rose quartz to striking tiger’s eye. Each stone brings something unique to the creative process: a color palette, a texture, or a story that inspires the final piece.

The Creative Process: Stones as Inspiration

Every bracelet begins with the stone. Sometimes it’s the deep purple of amethyst that inspires a regal design, or the swirling blues of sea sediment that suggest a modern, ocean-themed piece. We pair stones with accents like sterling silver, brass, or gold to balance natural beauty with craftsmanship.

This process is less about rules and more about flow—selecting stones that “speak” together, just as an artist chooses colors for a painting. The final jewelry is a fusion of history, beauty, and personal expression. My personal mood seems to fluctuate and watched over months and years my creations develop style. I build what I like and hope you find in not on beautiful and durable but affordable. 

If you don't like a design, I welcome you to guide my hands and be my muse. I will build your design, from beads you select, with accents, charms, and a style all your own. Please Dm and we can set a time slot for your project. 

What’s Next: Deep Dives into Stone Stories

This introduction is just the beginning. In upcoming blog posts, we’ll explore each of these stones in detail—covering their history, cultural significance, and role in modern jewelry. Each article will also highlight pieces from our collection, so you can see how these stones come to life in wearable art.

Stay tuned for:

  • The Many Faces of Quartz

  • Jasper: Earth in Your Hands

  • Tourmaline’s Rainbow Spectrum

  • Amethyst: From Ancient Altars to Everyday Elegance

  • Garnet: A Gem with Fire Inside

  • Green Aventurine: Spark of Renewal

  • Volcanic Lava Stone: Beauty from Fire

  • Persian Jade: A Subtle Treasure

Closing Thought

Jewelry is more than a finished piece—it’s a connection to the natural world, human history, and individual creativity. By learning about the stones that shape our designs, you’re not just discovering materials, but entering into a timeless tradition.

Explore our bracelet collection to see how these stones come together in unique creations, handmade with care and intention.

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