Sunset Over the Rio Grande Gorge was inspired and informed by a photo I found on Facebook, taken by an extraordinary and talented photographer from New Mexico. It was taken looking back at the bridge over that gorge outside of Taos, New Mexico. Honestly, my necklace barely does justice to the phenomenal photo!

I used tiny faceted round Garnets, Iolite rondelles, Rose Pearls and Rose Quartz triangles. There are Delica Glass spacer beads also, and a Sterling Silver oval toggle clasp at the ends. The short strand is 17 1/2 inches long and the longest one is 20 1/4 inches long.

Garnet are January's birthstone and Pearls are June's birthstone. I've used Iolite in place of Sapphires for September's birthstone. The subtle blue gray really offsets the pink and cranberry colors of the other gemstones.

crystalvaults.com states, "It has been used to reduce body toxins, purify vital organs and blood, and assists in assimilation of vitamins and minerals. Emotionally it provides a protective and calming influence during use and is thought to heal melancholy and depression, strengthening the survival instinct, and bringing courage and hope into critical situations.

Garnet balances energy, bringing serenity or passion as appropriate, and can inspire love and balance the sex drive. Garnet is considered a lucky stone, for love, success, and for business relationships. It helps you let go of old behavior patterns and boosts self-confidence.

All Garnets honor Sekhmet, the Egyptian Goddess of War, and is the traditional birthstone of those born in January. It is the stone of those born under the zodiac sign of Aquarius, and as an Enhancer Strengthener crystal, it has been worn for centuries as a protective and powerful talisman."

"Iolite helps in recovering balance, and is recommended for those suffering from disorientation, lack of motivation, chronic disorganization, and distraction. [Megemont, 96] It strengthens the resolve to take on responsibility and carry through, and provides self-assurance and endurance in adverse situations. [Gienger, 32] It is an excellent source of energy when used for the elimination of debt and the responsible management of money. [Melody, 336]

Iolite restores a sense of perspective to those who feel they are jinxed, and inspires anyone with a chaotic life to start to bring order in small practical ways. [Eason, 377]

Iolite resonates with the energy of twilight, a beautiful violet-blue that stimulates the astral bodies and psychic awareness. It reveals realms beyond the usual waking consciousness and is ideal for astral projection, dimensional and other inner vision works, and is excellent for past- and alternate-life work. [Ahsian, 207]

Iolite is a stone of the muses, activating the visionary, creative side of the mind, and accessing thoughts and ideas beyond the ordinary. It inspires creative self-expression through writing, song, movement and other artistic endeavors. [Ahsian, 207]

Use Iolite to strengthen family dilemmas. Place in the living area if sibling rivalry or the presence of a new step-parent is causing a child to feel excluded. Use Iolite if family members have over-high expectations of you, or if your career path was chosen for you because of family connections. As an amulet, Iolite brings travelers safely home. Give a piece of Iolite jewelry or a tumblestone as a farewell gift to students leaving home or emigrating family members. [Eason, 377]

Iolite aids in understanding and releasing the causes of addiction, allowing for the expression of one’s true self, freed from the expectations of others. [Hall, 147] "

As er crystaldigest,com, "Pearls have been known to be a symbol of purity, innocence, and faith. In ancient times, they were thought to be the tears of the gods. While pearls differ from other crystals as they are not true minerals, they are still considered, by many, to have similar metaphysical powers to other precious stones.

The crystal Pearl is said to be a symbol of purity, innocence, and faith. It is said to have metaphysical properties that can help to boost the immune system, protect against negative energies, and promote spiritual growth. The Pearl is also said to be helpful in promoting fertility and easing the birthing process. Pearl necklaces are thought to be timeless and have been in vogue for decades.

Pearls can be used to promote mental clarity, attract wealth, increase fertility, and much more. In addition, pearls are said to be helpful in treating a wide range of ailments, including digestive problems, joint pain, and respiratory issues."

Finally, according to crystalviden.com, "The main Rose Quartz meaning is all about love. If you could capture the beauty and warmth of that emotion and package it into a tangible object, it would be this rock!

It permeates with comforting and compassionate energy that makes you want to spread love wherever you go. The properties and meaning of Rose Quartz promote emotional harmony, allowing you to become tuned-in with your loved ones (making it a good choice for empaths too).

Many turn to this stone to address love-focused issues. Whether you’re experiencing emotional stagnation and find yourself too jaded to give love, or you want to find romance in the hustle and bustle of everyday life, the meaning of Rose Quartz is said to do that. It invites love’s embrace into your life, which can help you find inner peace and joy."

Personally, I've had great success wearing all of these gemstones! The blue Iolite helps you to speak your truth, Garnets help with circulation and Rose Quartz is said to heal the heart on all levels!