COPPER – ANCIENT AND ESSENTIAL

With a history of use that is at least 10,000 years old, copper, with it’s distinctive reddish orange hues, was known to some of the of the oldest civilizations on record. Pure copper lumps were used as currency by the Romans, valued at first for their weight alone, until Julius Caeser introduced shape and stamp as significant. It’s lustrous beauty produced ancient mirrors, and by reflecting beauty became associated with the goddesses of love from both Greek and Roman cultures, Aphrodite and Venus.

Copper is one of the most important components of silver and gold alloys, improving strength and hardness without dulling their shine. In purer form, copper eventually corrodes to acquire the characteristic green patina we see in aged architecture and statuary.

Antibacterial and germicidal, copper has long been used in medical science, perhaps beginning with the Egyptians as long ago as 2400BC. They employed copper as jars to purify water for drinking and sterilizing wounds, curing headaches, healing burns and relieving itching. The holistic medical science of India, Ayurveda, used this highly malleable metal to form surgical instruments and other medical equipment as long ago as 1000BC and Hippocrates, the ancient Greek physician, is known to have used copper solutions to dress leg wounds.

The copper ion is an essential trace nutrient to all higher plant and animal life. In all animals it is found in liver, muscle and bone tissue.

Ebony and copper ring from the Nagicia 'Namu' Collection

Silver

A bolt of lightning… The glowing orb we call the moon… Light reflecting on the surface of water.

Silver.

The white, metallic luster of silver is brilliant. Matching extremely high optical reflectivity with total receptivity to polishing, the dazzling shine of silver has been the choice of jewelry makers and jewelry wearers for centuries.

Two and a half thousand years ago, Socrates, the Classical Greek Philosopher, credited as one of the founders of Western Philosophy, and often named the “father of medicine” asserted that that silver had beneficial healing and anti-disease properties. Before this, the Phoenicians are said to have stored water, wine, and vinegar in silver bottles to prevent spoiling. Naturally aseptic, evidence of silver and/or silver-alloy surgical and medical instruments has been found in early Roman and Egyptian civilizations. Contemporary use of silver medically includes wound dressings containing silver, increasing in importance due to the increase of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

Nagicia uses highest quality sterling silver, the industry standard, an alloy containing a small percentage of copper to increase it’s durability. Anyone can wear silver, and for many it is the preferred precious metal.

Kupu Kupu ~ Butterfly

Like delicate flowers in flight, Nagicia’s Kupu Kupu Collection skillfully captures the beauty of the butterfly in brass, silver and gemstones.

Beginning it’s life as an earth-bound caterpillar, this creature works diligently during it’s brief life to build a protective covering , a place to retreat and undergo remarkable change. The time spent inside the chrysalis is when the beauty of both colour and form are forged. The subsequent struggle to emerge from this self-imposed captivity builds the tremendous strength required for flight. This unique life cycle has come to stand as a symbol for personal transformation and emotional maturity, and the freedom they bring.

Kupu- kupu means butterfly in Indonesian, and Nagicia has forged this collection in shimmering brass and silver, adorning cut out wing designs with sparkling cubic zirconia and gemstones.

“TRI DATU: The Beauty and Protective Blessings of Silver, Copper and Brass"

NAGICIA Spring/Summer 2011 Jewelry collection. All NAGICIA collection's are hand-made in Bali; it combines the beauty of silver, copper and brass to express shapes and symbols inspired by nature and architecture of the magical island Bali.

In Hindu cultures, number 3 is the magic number, forming a triangular base for many beliefs, practices and rituals. The collection is inspired by the 3 faces of the Divine God-head, 3 states of being and 3 colors: Red, White and Black of Balinese Hindu tradition re-interpreted by NAGICIA as silver, copper and brass. Circle earrings with 3 color mini balls represent the ceremonial clothing worn by the Bali villagers to signal their readiness for blessing. The charm bracelets in woven rattan symbolize the colored threads placed on various body parts of the prayers to invoke power, strength and longevity. The spiritual pieces in this collection vary from Graviola (Sirsak) Leaf Rings,

3 color pendants resembling the temples, to braided leather necklaces with silver, copper and brass details. Linking the wearer with healing, protection and blessing enjoyed by Balinese, the TRI DATU Collection reminds us of the cyclic nature of our existence with its modern line combined with mystical metaphor.

BIRTHSTONE FOR THE MONTH OF AUGUST

PERIDOT: THE STONE OF REGENERATION AND CLARITY

Mined as a gemstone for an estimated four thousand years or more, peridot occurs as a range of olive greens, from yellowish green to brownish green. The intensity and tint of the green depends upon unique combinations of inclusions in the crystal structure. Iron, magnesium, nickel and chromium each have a role to play in the appeal of the stones, formed as a result of volcanic activity.

Peridot stones carry the fire of their birth with them, flashing brilliantly and reminding us of the mighty power of nature.

• Finding them glittering in black volcanic sand, the Hawaiians named the stone ”Tears of Pele”, for their Goddess of fire and volcanoes.
• Reputed to be the favourite gem stone of Egypt’s most famous ruler, Cleopatra.
• It is said Egyptian rulers and their high priests drank sacred elixirs from cups cut from single large peridot stones, believing this would draw them closer to the power of Isis, Goddess of Nature.
Working with nature to promote life, this stone counteracts negativity –
• Bringing clarity to replace confusion by opening the mind to new positive possibilities
• Stimulating the body to regenerative tissue growth.
• Cleansing and healing hurt feelings, helping to mend damaged relationships
• Supporting the nervous system and promoting good sleep



These briolette cut drop earrings are set in 22 karat gold, hanging delicately at the end of sinuously linked S curves.


From the Mod collection by Nagicia, this 3 in 1 ring in sterling silver pairs the skill of the Indonesian craftsmen with the beauty of the stones : 5 square faceted peridot stones in an intricate channel setting, each stone butted against the other.

Gemstones are crystal structures that focus energies, connecting the wearer with the power of nature. Amplifying the forces of growth and regeneration and reflecting the quality of clarity, the peridot has much to offer it’s owner.

BIRTHSTONE FOR THE MONTH OF JULY

RUBY: THE STONE OF POWER, PASSION AND VITALITY by NAGICIA

Red is the colour of heat and passion, blood and vitality. The many shades of the ruby give full expression to these powerful messages.

Given as a gift, the ruby communicates the warmth of genuine friendship or the fiery passion of love. Red is the colour of sexual energy, and wearing a ruby can boost personal power and sexuality by connecting us more deeply with our self-love. The ruby gives us the confidence and courage to reach our highest potential.

The healing power of the ruby works with the blood as an aid to circulation, clearing the blood of infection or germs.


This ruby seed bead necklace suspends a blood-red ruby at the tip of a baby lotus cross, pointing the way to the heart. The stones in this piece originated in Jaipur, India.


Ruby rings worn on the left hand feed their power to the heart, boosting the life force. Rubies should not be worn near the solar plexus, as they can disturb the energy there.


Set in gold in a simple yet meaningful motif of feminine empowerment, this eternity band features rubies of rich tone and hue. (Pictured here with another in emerald, birthstone for May.)

One of the four truly precious stones (emerald, diamond, sapphire being the others), some rubies can become more valuable because of inclusions in the stone. Known as the ‘silk’ of the ruby, fine needles of rutile, a naturally occurring mineral, reflect the light along lines shining straight back to the admirer.



Sitting delicately on the collarbones, this necklace of rubellite faceted beads offers five beautiful stones up to the light for appreciation.


The faceted cut of this earring and its drop setting give maximum opportunity for light to play.
The red of a ruby is magnetic, drawing attention to the power, passion and warmth of the stone and the one who wears it.

BIRTHSTONE FOR THE MONTH OF JUNE – PEARL

THE SYMBOL OF PURITY, INNOCENCE AND BEAUTY by NAGICIA

The oldest known gem, and for a long time considered the most valuable, the word pearl itself has become a metaphor for something very rare, fine, admirable and valuable.

Each pearl is a unique creation. An organic material produced by living creatures, the pearl’s singular beauty is the result of a process that has fascinated humans for centuries.
A reaction to injury or attack that damages the fragile rim of the shell, a pearl is formed over years as layer upon layer of nacre (calcium carbonate – the same material the shell is made of) is injected into a sac that forms during the healing process. The layers are so fine as to be translucent, giving the pearl it’s iridescence : Light falls on the surface of the pearl and breaks up – reflected, refracted and diffracted in all directions. We call this unique play of light the luster of the pearl, defining it’s individual beauty and value.

Pearls come in many different colours, each colour bestowing the wearer with different gifts.
• All pearls focus personal power in the solar plexus, benefitting immunity and digestion. This wisdom often finds finely ground pearl powder used as an ingredient in Chinese medicine.
• The traditional glowing white orb is associated with the moon – cooling, transforming, reminding the wearer to aspire to be more honest, wise and pure.
• Gold and black pearls communicate prosperity and riches.
• Pink or rose pearls enrich the energy of the heart.



For all of these reasons, pearls have traditionally been a popular choice for the decoration of bridal gowns, jewelry and head-dresses. The pearl becomes a reflection of the flawless beauty, the pure nature and pure intentions of the bride. These south sea pearl pendant earrings set with gold and spinels are designed to hang below the jaw-line, off-setting a bride’s delicate beauty.




Plong – A traditional Balinese technique named for the sound of the delicate hammer stamping out each leaf individually - “plong plong plong”. First the motif is carved into the end of a silver pin, and after the hammering, applied individually onto the base. This necklace matches the unique beauty of a baroque pearl with the skill and precision of the silversmith, creating a exquisitely detailed baby lotus setting.





Mabe pearls are dome shaped, and occur when the pearl forms on the inner shell of the mollusk.Jawan is the name given to the balls made from silver wire. Tiny pieces are cut individually, balled under the heat of a flame and applied to the base. This mabe pearl ring setting includes both the jawan and the plong techniques.


South Sea pearls are known for their perfection – round, richly hued and glowing. This ring (pictured with rings featuring the birthstones for May and July) has it all! The simplicity of the setting allows the pearl to stand out as a statement, a mirror for the unique beauty of the wearer.

BIRTHSTONE FOR THE MONTH OF MAY – EMERALD

THE STONE OF LOVE AND HEALING

Glittering faceted cuts, smoothly polished, dark or translucent stones… The diverse beauty of this stone teamed with the skill of the cutters and the originality of Nagicia design makes this stone suitable for daily wear and special occassions, keeping the power of the emerald close.


Sacred to the Goddess Venus, the vibrant emerald glows all shades of green, radiating the colour associated with the energy of the heart.

Wearers of this rare and precious stone are inspired to express the truth of their hearts. Natural creativity is unleashed, promoting abundance and spiritual growth.


With a deeper connection to our heart space, we express ourselves in ways that bring harmony and lift depression. We create a more joyous reality for ourselves and others.
Given as a gift, the emerald can be a bridge between two people, and if the motivation is pure, can draw a true love closer.



A powerful blessing for people born in the month of May under the signs of Taurus and Gemini, this stone has long been recognized as a talisman of prosperity. The stone itself is valuable, as is the fertile spring rains it was once used to invoke.



A favourite of the Christian monarchy, the emerald is found in many crowns, scepters and other royal objects of power and adornment, symbolizing faith and hope. This elegant and distinctive crown setting is a reminder of the emerald’s association with royalty, crowning your personal power.



Often called ‘The Healer’s Stone’ because it both heals the sick and protects healers from absorbing the imbalances of those they endeavour to help. Emerald is considered particularly effective as an aid in the speedy recovery from illnesses connected with liver, intestines, brain, and nervous system.


With powerful gifts to bestow, the emerald is a stone that warrants a place in everyone’s collection. Nagicia has created rings, earrings and necklaces in the many shades and hues the emerald offers, expressing the range and subtlety of your heart’s energy.

Sirsak – Nature’s Offering of Help and Hope

The leaf of the Graviola tree set in resin for you to wear

A potent symbol of Mother Nature’s ability to provide for your every need.

The fruit, leaves, roots, bark and stems of this plant (also known as sour-sop), found in the ancient rain-forests of Indonesia and the Amazon have been used for centuries by native medicine men to treat heart disease, asthma, liver problems and arthritis.



Initial clinical tests showed extracts from this plant to contain powerful agents that :
- Act as broad spectrum anti-microbials against bacterial and fungal infections, intestinal parasites and worms
- Work to lower high blood pressure and alleviate depression, stress and other nervous disorders.
Further tests conducted in 1976 by The National Cancer Institute of The United Sates gave stunning results:
The Graviola's "leaves and stems were found effective in attacking and destroying malignant cells."

10,000 times stronger in slowing the growth of cancer cells than commonly used chemotherapy drugs, this tree’s natural medicine selectively destroys cancer cells only, with no harmful side-effects for healthy cells.

Seven years and millions of dollars later, all efforts to synthetically reproduce Graviola’s most powerful anti-cancer failed and funding for further research was withdrawn. Under federal law natural remedies cannot be patented, so the miraculous, life-saving gifts of this tree have remained hidden.

The medicine and message of the sirsak (as it is known in Indonesia, home of Nagicia) are brought to light beautifully in the Kupu-Kupu collection.

Diamonds are a Gal's best friend and April's Birthstone

A Diamond improves one's finanacial position,

bringer of hope and clarity.

It has many strengths and few weaknesses. It is four times harder than sapphires and rubies.

The name “diamond” derives from the ancient Greek adamas (αδάμας), meaning invincible and from the latin Dia Monde which means gift for oral.

These shimmering stone have a significant impact on one's mental well being. They act as a binding and cohesive factor in relationships and stand for fidelity and commitment. These stunning stones also instill courage and fearlessness besides fuelling imagination and inventiveness.


Diamonds work wonders for allergies and build one's stamina, besides being beneficial for dizziness and vertigo. So now you know how multifaceted diamonds actually are. For all the ladies out there, you now have more reasons than one to wear and flaunt your best friend, the forever diamond.


Recycle them if you have them sitting in your safe collecting dust! This means taking your old diamond jewelry that you no longer wear to a reputable Jeweler. You can sell the gold for cash, which will enable you to refresh your diamonds into pieces that you will love to wear and show off.

The diamond above belonged to the owner's great-grandmother and was in the safe for a very long time. She finally got it out, it was set in the most tiniest band. We went for a clean modern new mounting.

The above is an example of an 18K gold ring consisting of diamonds from three different rings. They had been sitting in a safe for 10 years and now have a new lease on life as it never comes off the finger of the wearer.

Nagicia Jewellery at Alun Alun Indonesia

Nagicia jewellery is now available exclusively in Jakarta at Alun Alun .

In February, Nagicia was asked to showcase their jewellery along with China Blue to commemorate the Chinese New Year. Here I am along with Gillian Arnold, designer of China Blue.Now you can find our collections in the permanent cases in their Fabulous Jewellery section. Nagicia is featuring selections from the Kupu Kupu - Butterfly, Root and Naga - dragon Collections.

March's Birthstone is Aquamarine

The name aquamarine was derived by the Romans, "aqua" meaning water and "mare" meaning sea, because it looked like sea water. They were considered sacred to Neptune, god of the sea. This association with and safe voyages as well as protection against perils and monsters of the sea. Its first documented use was by the Greeks between 480-300 BC. They wore aquamarine amulets engraved with the god Poseidon on a chariot.

The aquamarine was believed to possess medicinal and healing powers, curing ailments of the stomach, liver, jaws and throat. During the Middle Ages, it was believed to be an effective antidote against poison. Aquamarines were thought to be the source of power for soothsayers, who called it the "magic mirror", and used it for telling fortunes and answering questions about the future. It is said that Emperor Nero used it as an eyeglass 2,000 years ago, and much later, aquamarines were used as glasses in Germany to correct shortsightedness. In fact, the German name for eyeglasses today is "brille", derived from the mineral beryl.

February birthstone is Amethyst

The name "amethyst" comes from the Greek and means "not drunken." It is also the Zodiac stone for the constellation of Pisces.

Amethyst as a healing stone contains sobering and calming qualities which allow this stone to be commonly associated with peace.

Amethyst has identified as a crystal that functions favorably in clearing certain types of blockage and in aligning the Chakras.
It is related to and found to heal and align ailments of the the 6th and 7th Chakras, which are the Third Eye or Brow (6th) and the Crown (7th).

Power Stone
It is used as a dream stone and to help insomnia. Put an amethyst under your pillow to bring about pleasant dreams, or rub it across your forehead to offer relief from a headache.


Protection Stone
Ancient Egyptians used the amethyst guard against guilty and fearful feelings. It has been worn as protection from self-deception, as well as a protection against witchcraft. The amethyst has long been used to open the spiritual and psychic centers, making it one of the power stones. It is also used as a meditation aid when worn as a necklace.

Wisdom Stone
The amethyst is known as the Bishop's Stone and is still worn by Catholic Bishops. The amethyst symbolizes piety, humility, sincerity and spiritual wisdom. It is thought the amethyst is the perfect stone to symbolize The Age of Aquarius.

Healing properties of Amethyst
Amethyst is a gemstone often worn by healers, as it has the power to focus energy. A healer will usually wear several pieces of jewelry with amethysts set in silver, especially an amethyst necklace. The person to be healed will have an Amethyst to hold while the healing is being done. The healer will place another piece of Amethyst on the area of the body in need of healing, the heart or lungs usually.
Amethyst is used for problems in the blood and in breathing problems. Amethyst crystal clusters are used to keep the air and life force in the home clean and positive.
Amethyst clusters, points or several tumbled Amethysts placed in a window that receives sun most of the day are very beneficial to use in healing and to heal negativity in the home. Place Amethyst clusters, points or several tumbled Amethysts in moonlight and everyone in the home will be feeling calmer. Using an Amethyst as a meditation focus will increase the positive spiritual feelings. Amethyst helps overcome fears and cravings. It also helps relieve headaches.

The Power of Gemstones - January birthstone is Garnet

The Garnet's emotional, physical and mental healing is associated with purification, regeneration and warmth. As a healer and protector from toxins, a garnet can be used as a remedy in the body's fight against food poisoning and blood toxicity.

With respect to the Chakras, garnet is associated with the (2nd) Centre and the Base/Root/Spine (1st) Centre. Garnet not only clears the blockage of negative energy from these areas, it also is used in the healing and enhancing of the activities that occur within and via the centre.