Christmas cactus plants seem to bloom whenever they're in the mood! Mine are blooming in January! This 3 strand necklace, "Christmas Cactus" is an interpretation of my pink blossomed Christmas cactus which is in full blossom mode today!

I used Malachite, Rhodochrosite, Rose Quartz, Delica glass spacer beads and a Silver filled toggle clasp. The short strand is 17 inches and the longest one is 19 3/4 inches. This is a more delicate necklace because the beads I chose to use are smaller sizes. It reflects how lovely and delicate the cactus blossoms really are.

According to my online research, charmsoflight.com says, "Rhodochrosite is a stone that integrates physical and spiritual energies, stimulating love and passion while energising the soul. Rhodochrosite opens the heart, lifting depression and encouraging a positive and cheerful outlook. It improves self worth and soothes emotional stress. Rhodochrosite encourages a positive attitude, creativity and innovation, and enhances dream states.

Rhodochrosite regulates and stabilises the heart beat, balances blood pressure and stimulates circulation, the kidneys and reproductive organs. It alleviates migraines, skin disorders, thyroid imbalances, and intestinal problems. Rhodochrosite purifies the circulatory system and restores poor eyesight.

Rose Quartz is the stone of universal love. It restores trust and harmony in relationships, encouraging unconditional love. Rose Quartz purifies and opens the heart at all levels to promote love, self-love, friendship, deep inner healing and feelings of peace. Calming and reassuring, it helps to comfort in times of grief. Rose Quartz dispels negativity and protects against environmental pollution, replacing it with loving vibes. It encourages self forgiveness and acceptance invoking self trust and self worth.

Rose Quartz strengthens and balances the physical heart and circulatory system, and releases impurities from body fluids. It hastens recovery, reduces high blood pressure, aids chest and lung problems, heals the kidneys and adrenals, and alleviates vertigo. A good energetic support for those with leukaemia. Rose Quartz has the power to increase fertility and to protect both mother and unborn fetus from miscarriage.

Malachite clears and activates the chakras and attunes to spiritual guidance. It opens the heart to unconditional love. Encourages risk-taking and change, breaks unwanted ties and outworn patterns, and teaches how to take responsibility for one's actions, thoughts and feelings."

This is an ideal Valentine's Day gift because all of the healing benefits of these gemstones point to love!