Fiery Carnelians

Of all design forms, jewellery design and interior decors are my most favourite. In jewellery, silver finds a pride of place in my collection. And when combined with colourful semi-precious gemstones, the pieces exude a sophisticated charm. I myself often try my hand at making my own necklaces-- combining small silver beads with coloured stones. That I will show you later some time.

Today I would exhibit some of my favourite pieces made of fire red Carnelian.

Carnelian is available in colors ranging from orange to reddish brown.The Planetary ruler of this stone is Mars. Carnelian is the Zodiac stone for the signs of Aries, Taurus, Leo, Virgo and Capricorn.


  
Designed with silver, antique silver, or pewter and off-set with black or green onyx, blue Lapis Lazuli or Sodalite, or green Adventurine or blue-green Turquoise,the rich tones of  Carnelian become more vibrant.




Amber, Turquoise and Carnelian

 


Black and Green Onyx, Carnelian

 


Carnelian Hearts

 




Red and orange Carnelians







Turquoise and Carnelian

  

Jade and Carnelian




Green Adventurine and Carnelian

 



Carnelian and Black Onyx

Most of these you can buy at http://www.novica.com/



Do let me know if you like these pieces. More gemstone pieces are here. I would love to hear from you. So, pause for a moment and leave your mark!!!

  Images courtesy: Novica

Goa's Natural Treasures

Hi! I am just back from a vacation in Goa-- the small south-western state of India, that is famous for its beaches. As we soaked into the natural beauty of the place, we realised why the 40 beaches of Goa are ranked among the top beaches of the world.

Splashing water : On a speed boat

The azure blue water, the lashing waves, the powdery golden sand, the swaying palm and coconut trees, the green hillocks meeting the sea, several boats sailing at a distance -- the total view was stunning.

The moment we entered our hotel, Miramar Residency, we were mesmerised by the greenery and the thoughful landscaping-- something that cannot be equated with other government hotels. Situated on Miramar beach, this was an abode of peace and tranquility.

Since we had visited Goa earlier also, this time we were keen to explore the hidden treasures of the place instead of the usual beach hopping. During a visit to Panaji market, we spotted these Mario Miranda illustrations on the wall!!

Like all tourist attractions, Goa also has lots of artefacts and souvenirs for the tourists.I was particularly attracted by these silver ornaments...

And more blings....

Mirror-embroidered belts....

And vibrant jholas (totes)

Decorative plates.

An interesting Mario Miranda plate!!

Being a Portuguese colony till 1961, Goa also boasts of intersting houses with a distinctive architechtural style. I could only get pics of a very few since most of them I had noticed from a moving vehicle!!

A school building

At a supermarket in Miramar, we spotted these intersting shopping bags printed with the map of Goa.

 

And finally, I got this bag at a steal at a shop having 25-70 % discount.

And this leather messenger bag we found at shop run by a Bengali. He even offered a discount to us fellow Bengalis!!

Craft Melas: Colours and Forms

Craft Melas attract me in a special way. The riot of colours, the variety of forms, interacting with the artisans, touching the fabrics and absorbing the designs-- all are very therapeutic. And bargaining is an additional attraction!!

Here are glimpses from my recent sojourn to such a mela at Bandra in Mumbai.

Embroidered and appliqued bedspreads

Embossed leather handbag from Shantiniketan



More such bags



Ceramic Napkin-holders, pots and mugs

Cute leather purses



Orissa Patachitra




Stool made of clay



An earthen elephant with an intricate work

Giraffe, dogs, frogs,tortoise....