The name of the genus is derived from the Ancient Greek word bapto, meaning "to dip" or "immerse", while the specific name australis is Latin for "southern". Additional common names of this plant exist, such as indigo weed, rattleweed, rattlebush and horsefly weed. The common name "blue false indigo" is derived from it being used as a substitute for the superior dye- producing plant Indigofera tinctoria. Description: Hand patinaed bronze, cast glass petals with chalcedony. Chalcedony ( /kælˈsɛdəni/) is a cryptocrystalline form of silica, composed of very fine intergrowths of quartz and moganite. These are both silica minerals, but they differ in that quartz has a trigonal crystal structure, while moganite is monoclinic. Chalcedony's standard chemical structure (based on the chemical structure of quartz) is SiO2 (silicon dioxide). Chalcedony brings the mind, body and spirit into alignment. It sends feelings of generosity and benevolence to you. Chalcedony removes unwanted feelings of hostility and removes sadness. This stone removes self doubt and builds self confidence. Using this stone to meditate will help you become a more open and enthusiastic person. Bronze is a metal highly prized for its strength and durability. It had a variety of uses in biblical times and was employed extensively in both the tabernacle and temple. Throughout history, the pearl, with its warm inner glow and shimmering iridescence, has been one of the most highly prized and sought after gems. In ancient Rome, pearls were considered the ultimate symbol of wealth and social standing. The Greeks held the pearl in high esteem for both its unrivaled beauty and its association with love and marriage. A natural pearl begins life as a foreign object, such as a parasite or piece of sand, that accidentally becomes lodged in the oyster's soft inner body where it cannot be expelled. In an effort to ease this irritant, the oyster's body takes defensive action and begins to secrete a smooth, hard crystalline substance around the irritant in order to protect itself. This substance is called nacre. As long as the irritant remains within its body, the oyster will continue to secrete layer upon layer of nacre around the irritant. After a few years, the irritant will be totally encased by the silky crystalline coatings. The result is the lovely and lustrous gem called a pearl. Cultured pearls are formed by oysters in an almost identical fashion, except that man surgically implants the irritant - a small piece of polished shell - in the oyster, rather than leaving it to chance. The process from then on is the same as with natural pearls.
Made in the USA
Care Recommendations: Pearls should not be exposed to water, cleansers, excessive perspiration or prolonged sunlight. They may be cleaned with a soft cloth. Sterling silver will tarnish over time. To clean, use a polishing cloth, commercial cleaner or sprinkle a fair amount of dry baking powder on a soft cloth. Rub carefully to avoid scratching stones or glass components. When done, shake the powder off.
