Inclusions in stones might be considered flaws by some, especially those chasing perfection. But it’s the imperfections that I am drawn to. Inclusions tell the story of the formation of a gemstone. They are its biography. Its beauty mark. They endow stones with character, personality, uniqueness and rare beauty. Inclusions mean that some other mineral, element or event (such as a fracture) has been included or trapped inside a stone during its development.

So many great stones to wrap, so little time. Here, agate and jasper show off their wonderful patterns.

I’m no geologist (and I definitely have a lot to learn), but, I can’t help it: Clear quartz shot through with golden needles of rutile, black splinters of tourmaline or green shafts of actinolite or chlorite is magical;

Like spun gold, spikes of rutile add a touch of glamour to clear quartz.

inclusions in various jaspers create miniature works of art; moss agate, illustrated with green tendrils formed by inclusions of other minerals, resembles a tiny garden or bouquet; aventurine, spangled with inclusions of mica, shimmers like green satin embroidered with white gold; the black inclusions (stemming probably from a black mica matrix) in a rough, natural emerald punctuate the characteristic green shades in a way no 24-karat setting ever can.

What looks like organic greenery inside a moss agate is actually a mineral inclusion.

Black inclusions add drama to a blue-green natural emerald.

Let’s face it, perfection is, for most of us, unattainable. And who needs it anyway? I believe that, just like human beings, stones that have been touched by life are much more interesting. And that’s why I love using them in my jewelry designs.

As I continue down this road, I’d love to hear of the experiences of others in regard to stones and jewelry design. And, if I get something wrong, please feel free to chime in about that too. This blog reflects a journey of discovery, and I love the idea of sharing knowledge about the art and craft of and jewelry design. And, with a name like “Inclusions,” this blog is designed to examine a wide range of topics.

Bands of quartz enhance the beauty of this amethyst nugget.

Thanks for reading!