Inspired by the plants coming back to life in my garden, I created Garden Greens! The Rhubarb, Asparagus, Spring Onions, Tarragon and Lavender have emerged! I used New Jade and Peridot beads and finished the ends with Delica Glass Spacer beads and a round Silver filled toggle clasp.

This is a celebration necklace! Spring seems to be trying to arrive in this neighborhood! The shortest Peridot strand is 17 inches long and the longest New Jade and Peridot strand is 20 inches long.

As per comments by firemountaingems.com, "New "jade" is not actually jade, but actually a type of light green serpentine. The stone earned this tradename for its similarities in appearance to jade as well as similar metaphysical properties. Serpentine gemstones have been used as a source of magnesium, asbestos and for personal adornment or sculpture throughout history. Various serpentine minerals have even been used in architecture for thousands of years. New "jade" and other serpentine minerals are known for being easy to cut and for taking a good polish.

New "jade" serpentine is said to have the same spiritual values as green jade. Because it produces a tranquil mood, it helps ease feelings of depression, especially when we feel stuck in a situation. Serpentine gemstones are said to help with emotional cleansing in general and are believed an excellent stone to use in meditation. Serpentine has long been considered a stone that protects against snakebites, parasite infections, poison and venom. New "jade" serpentine is associated with the heart chakra and the astrological sign of Gemini."

"Peridot, the birthstone for the month of August, is also given in celebration of the 16th year of marriage. Known as the stone of compassion, peridot is believed to bring good health, restful sleep and peace to relationships by balancing emotions and mind. This friendly bright green stone also has the uncanny ability to inspire eloquence and creativity; it also brings delight and good cheer. It attracts love and calms anger by giving renewal to all things.

The epic metaphysical powers that Peridot possesses have been written about much throughout the ages. Legend says that if the gem is set in gold, the stone will develop its full potential as a talisman and will have the power to eradicate terrors of the night such as fearsome visions and nightmares.

However, according to the great Roman philosopher, Pliny the Elder, Peridot must be worn on the right arm to work its most potent dispelling. The stone’s ability to glow like a hot coal under lamplight at night helps chase away foreboding night visions. Peridot has been long considered a powerful aid to repairing and maintaining friendship and, supposedly, it frees the mind of envious thoughts that can damage and strain relationships. It has also been used to protect believers from the evil eye."

Fascinating! I love learning about the stones healing properties that so many people have believed and written about. This little Garden Greens necklace is fun and potentially very beneficial!