NOVICA, in association with National Geographic, searches the world to work directly with the finest artisan designers. Blue quartz is the stone of hope, a sentiment aptly developed in this seductive choker. The stone hangs almost weightlessly from a simple hoop chain, as folds of silver embrace its natural figure. Encouraging patience, tolerance, and compassion, this crystal is believed to possess powerful calming effects on the mind. An inspirational accessory from the creativity of Carmen Cascon. 900 rating silver. Artisan Info: Carmen Cascon is featured in Keepers of the Arts, a beautiful hardcover book available through Novica. "I have worked as a jewelry designer for 15 years now. I was a ceramist until I took a jewelry course with Marcio Mattar. As they say, in this moment I passed from the Stone Age to the 'Metal' Age. But I never abandoned my roots. When I create I never design; I feel the stone and give form to a new piece. It is like molding clay. I believe in always mixing the two techniques. "Brazilian stones fascinate me the variety and abundance of colors and forms stimulate an artist's creativity. I think that through my work I give value to these little pieces of Brazil. I prefer certain stones: aquamarine, which is very strong and stimulates creativity and communication; pink quartz, which channels the energy of unconditional love (that which everybody needs); and garnet, with which I've had an interesting experience. I was developing a made-to-order collection