Goddess Findings... jewels for the Spirit

A Woman Must Have a Kitchen of Her Own

noreply@blogger.com (Goddess Findings) — Fri, 17 Jan 2014 17:58:00 +0000

I think the key to healing is transcending the dualistic thinking patterns that indoctrinate us (and that includes pitting the genders against each other) for I do believe that at the soul level, we are androgynous. But I get a kick out of this proverb

Nigella Lawson's library

"A woman's appetite is twice that of a man's; her sexual desire, four times;

her intelligence, eight times." ~Sanskrit Proverb

Kitchen Charms!

Order the one you like and hang it amongst your cabinets--so all your recipes turn out divine!

Sterling Mermaid Sisters

Kuan Yin Prosperity

Sarasvati, Goddess of Music

Vintage Gypsy

Let's Buy Joy a New Shower Curtain!

noreply@blogger.com (Goddess Findings) — Fri, 17 Jan 2014 02:04:00 +0000

This is the shower curtain Joy dreams of. Let's get it for her!

Click on the Button to donate!

All Proceeds will go to the purchase of her new shower curtain!

Let's make it happen!

Joy's New Shower Curtain

Bastilla Magic Carpet

noreply@blogger.com (Goddess Findings) — Mon, 13 Jan 2014 22:23:00 +0000

Yesterday I texted a friend in California this simple message "I'm having a terrible time with myself in church." (I work as a pianist). It was one of those S.O.S. texts you send while scrunched in a deserted corner of the room when you're supposed to be circulating and attending to business but you're too distraught and you've cried all your mascara off.

All she sent me was this:

Talk about psychic!

Not only did this portray exactly what was going on (was in "These boots were made for walking" mode), but this picture, of any other EVER, depicts me exactly.

See the uniform?

Here was me in 1st grade (I'm the dark haired little one with the bun).

And then, that evening, a surprise Bastilla was delivered to my door and I magically turned into this:

What is Bastilla you ask?

A divine Moroccan delicacy...a chicken and filo pie basically. However, its the spices make this other worldly, and unlike anything you've ever tasted in your life! Truly one of my 3 favorite dishes in the whole world!

Had it in "Marrakesh" (at Pecott) on Thanksgiving Day

And believe you me, it was heavenly there especially with the fabulous Katie with her Damon and Elijah, but I am sure I am one of MAYBE 4 people in the world who can say they've had a bastilla, (very labor intensive dish made for very special occasions in Morocco), freshly hot from the oven, delivered to their DOOR right at dinner time. All I had to do is pour a Special edition Bellevedeer pomegranate martini and all was right in the world. There is no way to describe how much I felt like a Moorish Princess! Thank you Ubiquitous, the talented! Zingara loves you!

Fairyball Opalescent Bracelet available here!

Amazing exotic turquoise and coral chandelier earrings available HERE!

14 Words

noreply@blogger.com (Goddess Findings) — Sat, 17 Aug 2013 19:22:00 +0000

Many years ago, my mother gave me an interesting bracelet. I haven't worn it much because I prefer sterling, but I realize how that kept me from really receiving the profoundness of this gift. Ah I'm so glad I'm older and wiser because what has languished in a very special place in my jewelry box, is just now hitting me in the fullness and richness of what it is.

First let me describe it... there are 7 oval links with words inscribed on each. And then, there is a completely different set of words on the opposite side, for a total of 14 words. They are as they appear from left to right in the picture:

Loyalty, Unity, Passion, Joy, Kindness, Humor, Hope, Courage, Love, Trust, Honor, Family, Truth, Giving ( I replaced the word charity with giving because it's more expansive and doesn't have a heavy charge for me, but on the bracelet it says Charity)

And I was so struck by this...because these indeed are all the things that are deeply important to me. These are all the things I want in my life and in my relationships. These are all the things I want to give to my life and my relationships, and to the world. And I do play at a Unity church, interestingly enough, and at Unity each and every week, all these constructs are always in play in various combinations.

I think in the infiniteness of a mother's wisdom, she knew I would grow into this bracelet, but she also knew these things were in me either presently or as a part of my potential. Each little link glistens with its own magic, and casts its own spell.

And as I play with these words, I see how they are interdependent.

Courage. It takes courage to be loyal, it takes courage to have unity, it takes courage to be kind, passionate, truthful etc.
Love. Love is present in all things humorous, hope, trust, honor, family, giving...
Kindness. What we must be to ourselves in order to give that to others. Drama and trauma cannot exist where kindness is.
UNITY. to be united in oneself creates all the others..
Loyalty. When one is loyal to oneself, all the rest is possible.
Truth. This what's true....there are no words here like worry, sad, fear--because they are not true.
I would add Spirit, however Spirit is contained in Love and Joy, and probably all the rest too.
Charity. well Giving is a lighter way to express this for me, and even better: Circulation.

And so on....and how deeply symbolic to me that my mother gave me these 14 things to wear around me wrist, the value of which had totally eluded me previously. They are no longer words to me, no longer impatient with the philosophical quality of it all. For these words are not finite, they go on and on in time space and dimension infinitely, they are pure ideals for which to be continuously inspired.

I am so thankful for my mother's wisdom as I learn to be more centered in myself. Everyday.

Changing of the Guard

noreply@blogger.com (Goddess Findings) — Sat, 03 Aug 2013 14:11:00 +0000

some days are not for words,

for words can camouflage what's really there.

And we don't like guises, we like surprises... like this uplifting birthday gift from Ubiquitous--a year of Where Women Create..

Tiki keeps watch as Autumn slithers stealthily up on my porch...

But until then, the strawberries are sumptuously cooling in a chia seed laced smoothie...

and a smoky quartz medicine wheel shifts the energies by my desk....

while adorned with labradorite and beaded flowers..

anchor me for deep conversations with loved ones

beside Quan Yin and multitude of peacock feathers

and giant iridescent sequins that shifts gently in the crossbreeze

the young living oils are a lifeline

as new incarnations manifest,

with Mother Peace blessings and
Body, Mind, Soul coffee, coconut milk with a sprinkle of Ethiopian spice blend

and other various remedies fit for a Saturday...

with pearls to remind me of the sea

such is the way we wait for what's next.

Love's Prayer

noreply@blogger.com (Goddess Findings) — Wed, 31 Jul 2013 03:03:00 +0000

Robert Holden read this poem on the radio today and it touched a chord in me so strongly- you know how that is when something just hits home at the right time. Am sharing here. Robert Holden, Ph.D. --a most lovely man indeed.

Beloved one

you cannot judge yourself and know who you are.

The truth about you cannot be judged.

Put aside your judgments then

for one sweet holy moment

and let me show you something wonderful.

See what it's like to be you when you stop judging yourself.

What you judge is just an image.

After the last judgment you will know yourself again.

Love will appear in your own mirror

to greet you,

for you are loveable

and you are made of love.

Beloved one,

you cannot judge yourself and know who you are.

The truth about you cannot be judged.

Put aside your judgments then

for one sweet holy moment

and let me show you something wonderful.

Morganite for a Blissful Heart

noreply@blogger.com (Goddess Findings) — Sat, 20 Jul 2013 01:38:00 +0000

I seem to be an expert at distracting myself from my goals, but I am back on track now, and living each moment in bliss. It's just all about getting back to bliss no matter what kind of characters you encounter in life. And bliss to me, always includes Morganite...

Morganite

Morganite is the stone of Divine Love. Oh yes, didn't you know? This delicate yet powerful stone opens one to the frequency of the universal heart. Morganite promotes abundance of the heart & prosperity of love. It helps to release unhealthy emotional patterns, aids in developing trust & brings a sense of joy & inner strength. Morganite is used by healers to counter stress & stress-related illness. Also according to folklore, can assist healers in treating Asthma, heart problems, impotence, lung difficulties.

The element for this stone is water ad the chakra is corresponds to is the heart chakra. Morganite is actually a beryl, or, a light pink sapphire!

While Rose Quartz is the great energizer of personal love and self love, Morganite opens the heart on another level, making us aware of the huge ocean of cosmic love within which we all exist. Morganite goes beyond personal relationship and gives us the opportunity to surrender to the immense power of Divine Love. Divine love allows mutual growth as it show us our life path more clearly.

Working with Morganite can bring an immediate release of old pains and sorrow and a sense of lightness, as though a burden has been lifted. It can make the healing of old consciousness where one can relive them one last time as they are being released. Morganite brings in the frequency of Divine compassion, which gives us what we most need for our growth. It works for those who need to do deep inner healing.

It can help one move out of judgment and separation and into a more holistic emotional paradigm. Morganite is aligned with angelic energies and can be used to connect with and receive guidance from angelic beings. It can aid one in developing trust in Spirit- particularly where one has had a loss or tragedy which has tested one's faith in the Divine.

Morganite is also called the pink emerald and it does speak of the abundance of the heart and the prosperity of Love. It helps attune one to the energy of abundance and to open to receive the love of the Divine. While emerald's frequency stimulates worldly prosperity, Morganite brings a sense of emotional abundance, love, and peaceful acceptance and trust for the Divine's plan for one's life.

AFFIRMATION: Divine love enters this world through the gate of my heart.

The feminine force is intuitive, nurturing, the connecting glue. The feminine is a place inside us where we're reception rather than active. In this country and on this planet, humans have everything we need in order to heal the world and live happy lives. We have information, technology, skills, money, intelligence, and scientific ability but what we are lacking is a meaningful relationship among these things. We have knowledge but little understanding. We lack context. We lack the conscious intention to use our resources for the purpose of love and healing. And without this, we cannot go anywhere. We are like a 747 without fuel.

Love is our fuel. It gives grace to progress and blessing to our will for power. We fail in our deepest responsibility to God and to ourselves each time we fail to declare love and act on love and witness to love. As women, we must keep this message alive: The love in our hearts is the power that matters.

"The purpose of love is to find a partner we can grow with, through the barriers that keep love at bay, to the center of the universe that exists inside all of us. Getting past the barriers, those walls that surround our hearts, means hanging around long enough to get a look at what they are. We must work to find God, not men. Women must stop trying to be good enough, except for the Divine. People judge us, the Divine Goddess does not. When we listen to her, it's very clear to us that we're more than good enough already. We learn from God that we're absolutely glorious--in the image of the Divine, and that's where it's at. " ~ Marianne Williamson A Return to Love

For a daily dose of love stones, take a look at my ....

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**When you purchase your FACETS for Love and Romance HERE, or, Ascenion HERE or Abundance and Prosperity HERE, you receive a complimentary month subscription to gift a friend-that's two Facets for the price of one!

Share the Love and indulge today!

Magnetite

noreply@blogger.com (Goddess Findings) — Wed, 03 Apr 2013 15:39:00 +0000

magnetite

Magnetite is easy to identify. It is a black, opaque, submetallic to metallic mineral with a hardness between 5.5 and 6.5. It is often found in the form of isometric crystals. However, its magnetic properties are distinctive. It is one of just a few minerals that are attracted to a magnet, in fact, it is the most magnetic mineral found in nature!

Magnetite as "Lodestone"

Lodestone is a form of magnetite that acts as a natural magnet. Normal magnetite is attracted to a magnet but lodestone acts as a magnet, attracting iron particles.

Tiny crystals of magnetite are present in many rocks. In the crystallization of an igneous rock, tiny crystals of magnetite form in the melt, and because they are magnetic, they orient themselves with the direction and polarity of Earth's magnetic field. This preserves in the rock the orientation of Earth's magnetic field at the time of crystallization.

magnetite

Did you know, that by studying the magnetic properties of rocks of various age, geologists can reconstruct the history of change in Earth's magnetic field and to track the movement of continents over time?

magnetite

Magnetite and Money

Whether you use an actual loadstone, or the more common form of magnetite, it will impart an energy that is sure to stabilize your financial life. Great especially if you're a feast or famine type whose financial lives seem to be in perpetual flux. Magnetite has been used for centuries as a grounding and centering talisman and works very well to attract money and good fortune. Can be used in business to attract customers, and collect on past due invoices. Use magnetite to help you become more generous with your resources and any problems related to being overly possessive with your belongings.

It is said as well, that magnetite can be used to attract those in position of power, when you want to take out a loan, or make other long term financial commitments. Protects against those who may be dishonest in business, allowing one to become aware of any financial deception in all money related matters. (Kennedy, p 82).

Law of Non Resistance

"This law is really very simple but often misunderstood. Courage contains genius and magic. If you face a situation fearlessly there is no situation to face; it falls away on its own grace. Fear attracts the situation, fearlessness removes it. " Florence Scovel Shinn

I remember the only period of time in my life when I didn't fear checking my bank balance (and I fear it whether I have money or not) was when I worked as a teller in a bank while I was completing my Ph.D. I soooo enjoyed that job. It was magical in so many ways...it was just one of the ways the heavens opened up and provided for me. I worked with a delightful cast of characters who really understood the relationship between being a musician and being good with numbers. What an opportunity. They didn't even mind when my choir members came through the drive through (with their parents who were doing their banking) singing the songs from our rehearsals into the microphone. There were many times when whole bank was filled with the beautiful sound of trained children's voices.

Anyway, one of the perks of being a teller was having a free account there at the bank. Anytime I wanted, even during a lull between customers, I could pop onto my account and check to status of my money. I did it everyday fearlessly. Now, this wasn't that long ago, but I tell you, it was JUST BEFORE online banking really became commonplace.

I think the reason it was so stress free at that time, is because I did it everyday. The fear and dread comes from all this estimating that gets done when you're not checking it, and all the purchases that conveniently get FORGOTTEN when you're not on top of it. Too many days go by and suddenly there's all this dread! So that's what I mean about tending to money.

Money is like a garden, it's optimum for the things growing there if it is watered every day.

Can you imagine if you treated your bank account like a garden? What would that look like?

Water it first this every morning when you arise, (check the balances, straighten the wallet, file the receipts)
Talk to your money in a loving way, (meditation)
Visualize -it will growing and flowering, trusting the process, knowing what it will look like then.
Protect your money from pests, weeds, parasites and other dangers that threaten to choke off the life of your money. (watch those hidden fees, the subscriptions you never use, the online memberships that may only be 3.00 a month but you never use)
Waste nothing that is harvested
Replant at the optimal time for future regrowth (savings!)
Prune and cut back when things are getting out of control (budget)
Pick from the garden so as to enjoy the beauty! (spend)
Share with others however you can (take pictures, deliver to a friend, mail out herbs to someone etc)

"Good will produces a great aura of protection about the one who sends it. " --Florence Scovel Shinn

Magnetite Meditation

One can receive the energy of magnetite best by sitting in a comfortable position and holding one piece of magnetite in each hand. This alone will effect the entire auric field, moving it toward symmetrical balance. The energy running through the meridian system initiates hemispheric balance in the brain. When this happens, hidden potentials begin to surface. People who are predominantly rational and linear in their thought will find their intuitive side awakening. Others who are intuitive but not practical may find themselves getting organized. (Book of Stones)

In order to pack a punch and really boost the money situation, combine magnetite with zincite, amber, and jet. Amber and jet are two organic materials that haz the capacity to build up a nice electrical charge, and zincite (see the previous post on that back in early Jan) is great for the root chakra and survival issues, money, providing for oneself.

While all magnetite will display magnetic properties, the true difference between an ordinary piece of magnetite and the legendary lodestone is that the lodestone is magnetite that has been struck by lightening, or has been exposed to its electronic equivalent (Kennedy).

Shiloh Sophia

noreply@blogger.com (Goddess Findings) — Wed, 27 Mar 2013 17:04:00 +0000

I love the work of artist Shiloh Sophia!

Before and After

noreply@blogger.com (Goddess Findings) — Wed, 20 Mar 2013 04:19:00 +0000

I've taken a bit of a respit from writing because I needed it. I always miss writing but honestly, this blog by now is so chock full of things that even if you are a new reader, there's enough here to keep you busy for weeks! So many blissful things swirling about to concentrate on now and I am deep in the midst of conjuring.

But, I thought maybe an update, just to keep in touch..thank you for your emails-you really keep me inspired!

How 'bout few before's and after's with a caption here and there, not to be cryptic, but just to catch you up. I hope you're anticipating spring just as I am--well, I know you are! Perhaps you are like me, encouraged by the lengthening light filled days and your diary is full of plans for gardening, tea making, song writing, music making, talisman creating, oil blending, book reading, workshop teaching, jewelry sales, sun worshipping, day trips, mountain climbing, bike riding, classes, closet clearing and oh a million other things!

But now is now, and I am grateful for the now, just as it is.
And my heart is full of love.

Before

After: New beading room! I can take no credit here!

Before
Green Goddess Oil energizing in the jade box surrounded by heart chakra stones....

After: ready to give samples in my Color Class (Green)

Before: Irish breakfast tea with coconut milk...

After: still experimenting with the curtains...

Before: empty driveway

After: Lexus in the driveway!

Before: Pea and Leek Pancake batter

After Pea and Leek Pancake- divine!

various leaves , flowers, and thinkly sliced veggies that have appeared...

An antique brooch or two for the shop...

a little old fashioned dinner music in town...

one last look at winter from my window...

communing with various dieties...

jade buddha amidst gemstone beads

serpentine Buddha and Ganesh, with Sarasvati

spiced curry cauliflower soup

illumined candle light

patterned baskets from downtown

green juice with my juicer sent to me from the coast of CA!

Before: Wheat but delicious Pumpkin bread

After: Wheat free! Chorizo and veggie pizza on Ezekial Tortilla

Before: Ethereal Christmas Tree

After: Peacock feathered Spring

And if I were to add one more thing, and it's a big one, it would be...
MUSIC and MIRACLES.

And also, the miracle of blissful friendship like I never imagined.

And for this gratitude knows no bounds.

Stay tuned, new talismans are coming!

Bauble of the Day

noreply@blogger.com (Goddess Findings) — Wed, 27 Feb 2013 03:39:00 +0000

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enough said! Abundant blessings to you!

Rhodonite

noreply@blogger.com (Goddess Findings) — Mon, 28 Jan 2013 18:55:00 +0000

Rhodonite

You know, we don't really talk about this pretty pink material called rhodonite...its got a simple, uncomplicated rosey, subtly glowing kind of energy when held and its power runs deep. It's a stone that doesn't necessarily jump out at you and lead with the bling (except in the gemmy quality specimens, which just take my breath way) but it's a wonderful stone to work with when you're focusing on heart chakra issues. It's also one of the few stones that work to empower both the first and 4th chakras.

Rhodonite's often intense bicolor comes from black and white manganese. This is truly embedded in folklore going back for generations, and all across the world, as a stone that nurtures love. For example, it was formed into platters and given as royal wedding gift by the czars of Russia.

Key Words: Discovering and developing hidden talents, compassion,

love, generosity, altruism

Element: Fire, Earth

Chakra: Heart, Root

( from Book of Stones)

Rhodonite is prized for its ability to instill emotional balance and heal emotional wounds, particularly those lodged in the heart chakra , gently releasing abuse and self destructive tendencies. It fosters brotherhood and lets you see both sides of an issue to reach conciliation. This crystal turns back insults and makes you aware that revenge and retaliation are wastes of energy; it is particularly useful in dangerous situations. Holding this stone can help with panic attacks and to stay hearty centered no matter what occurs (Judy Hall)

Rhodonite placed over the solar plexus can help heal heart break and open the higher heart to unconditional love. It teachers that emotions are response you make to feelings that are neutral until your mind forms an attitude about them. Such judgements can create an emotional stranglehold, especially when passed on from lifetime to lifetime.

When worked with consciously, rhodonite can also assist in emotional recalibration, according to July Hall, meaning, you won't react to things the way you did before. If you lack trust in yourself, rhodonite encourages self- confidence and assists you in fulfilling your highest potential.

LOVING IT AWAY
Whatever you want to remove in life, love it.

Relax into that sacred, serene place of knowing within you...that place where you are so very safe...and free from all fears. Allow yourself to feel the love that wraps you in its arms.

As you settle in, pull up from the center of Mother Earth a stream of brilliant, shimmering emerald green light, and flow it right up through the base of your spice...to your heart area. While the light dances about in your chest, place there--right in the middle of the light and your chest, one of your problems or negative conditions or Don't Wants.

Now, turn the emerald green light of Mother Earth into the pure, white liquid light of All That Is, and surround your problem with this gift of your divinity. That light is pure love, so high in frequency, so filled with the God of You, the sweet problem in the middle will be altered forever.

Infuse every inch, every side drama of your problems with the light. Now bring up the intensity of the light, make it brighter with your love...brighter yet with a love so filled with joy, and awe, and reverence, that you and the light become one.

As you continue to intensify the frequency around your problem, feel its preciousness, its vulnerability, its frantic struggle to survive. Tell you problem, in your own words, that it has done its job, and from the light of God that you are, you thank it for its lessons and its pain. It has served you well, and now, you are paying it honor.

Now, as you hold the problem within the brilliant light, sen it gently up and out through the top of your head, straight up,up,up, until you can just barely see it, and let it burst itself out in sparkles of joy into the heavens. You and your problems will never be the same, for you have loved it back into Life.

(-From The Excuse Me Your Life is Waiting Workbook by Lynn Grabhorn.)

Love and Bliss in the New Year

noreply@blogger.com (Goddess Findings) — Thu, 24 Jan 2013 21:52:00 +0000

Gosh oh me oh my I've missed writing for you! The blog was not working and I see now that I can again upload photos, so let's hope I can get caught up with the various baubles and gem stories I've been saving up for you! Be back soon I promise! Meanwhile, did you have a fabulous New Year?

It's always fun to go to a party, but this year wasn't like that. It was warm and intimate for many reasons. Fabulous New Year ingredients were... a delectable chicken tagine (recipe to follow)

moon cakes (below)

Rose hips and jasmine tea

Chris Botti's Live in Boston concert, some sublime meditations and a Prosecco bubble bath!

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The word for the year 2013 here at Goddess Findings is...

BLISS.

And oh my, we're off to a good start so far. Til soon!
~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~

Mooncakes
(Traditional Goddess Findings New Year confection adapted from an Ancient Chinese recipe)

10 or so lovely and plump organic Medjhoul Dates
Nuts: 2 tbls of each: peanuts, almonds, pine nuts, walnuts, pecans, sunflower seeds and any other exotic nut you would like to include. Be sure the ratio of dates to nuts leans heaviest to the dates. Therefore, the more nuts you add, you might have to add more dates.
1 tbls or more toasted sesame seeds
Pinch salt
2 tabls. sugar (try something new: coconut sugar? raw honey?)
1-2 tbls Fig Preserves (I know, but don't leave this out)
2 tbls dark rum (don't leave this out either I'm telling you)
Tiny splash of Toasted Sesame Seed oil (not too much!)

Combine all with a fork and adjust to your taste.
Cut round segments of the pie crust, place a tsp or so of filling inside and fold over to make a half moon.
Prick with a fork, and put an egg wash on if you feel up to it. I didn't do it. (too much Prosecco).
Bake for just a few min at 375 10-12 min, just until they turn brown on edges
Cool on rack, and serve with rose hips and jasmine tea, or some delicious strong turkish coffee while writing your new year's affirmations!

The Vintage Man

noreply@blogger.com (Goddess Findings) — Sat, 29 Dec 2012 04:08:00 +0000

The

Difference

Between a good artist

And a great one

Is:

The novice

Will often lay down his tool

Or brush

Then pick up an invisible club

On the mind's table

And helplessly smash the easels and

Jade.

Whereas the vintage man

No longer hurts himself or anyone

And keeps on

Scultping

Light.

~Hafiz

(1320-1389)

Quartz v. Amethyst slabbed section of intergrown crystals | Bolivia

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Bauble of the Day: Giant Alien Earrings

noreply@blogger.com (Goddess Findings) — Fri, 21 Dec 2012 02:41:00 +0000

Loving this giant alien earring ensemble!

Perfection

noreply@blogger.com (Goddess Findings) — Thu, 13 Dec 2012 17:53:00 +0000

Via

All the great blessings of my life

Are present in my thoughts today.

~Phoebe Cary

The Jewelry of Anna Karenina

noreply@blogger.com (Goddess Findings) — Tue, 11 Dec 2012 18:28:00 +0000

The movie Anna Karenina --have you seen it? You must. It took my breath away transported as I was to that era that I found so familiar, yet foreign.

Not sure what I was remembering... was it only things I've read in books, the stories studied in my Russian music history courses, the music I've played from Prokofiev, Rachmaninov, Shchedrine, Scriabin and their intimate connection with ballet, experiences from people who've been there... I've visited Russia so often in my mind through all these venues, that seeing this movie on the big screen was a bit disorienting because it was so oddly familiar.

We are torn between nostalgia for the familiar and an urge for the foreign and strange. As often as not, we are homesick most for the places we have never known.

― Carson McCullers

And as you might expect, this movie was indeed, as a dear friend put it, a feast for the senses in every respect. The musical score was brilliant I thought, as the composer Dario Marianelli so poignantly wove distinctive compositional techniques of Prokofiev, Tchaikovsky and others into this score. The classic folk song "Little Birch Tree" which has always been a favorite was used as a kind of leitmotif throughout...it was just beautiful.

No less spectacular was, of course, the jewelry that featured diamond and pearls by Chanel Joaillerie and lots of other baubles to die for designed by costumer, Jacqueline Durran.

Via Guardian

Keira supposedly just called Chanel and asked for jewels. (It helped that she represents Coco Mademoiselle.) They said yes and sent over these exquisite borrowed pieces worth millions. I don't have a picture of it, but there is a stunning large rounded floral brooch that she wears in a scene where she is pregnant..it's valued at approximatedly $2.5 million and glittered like a million stars in the sky. This necklace shown above is called the camelia necklace.
And there were tons of layered pearls casting a luminous tumble of glowing, oceanic magic.

Anna wore deep jewel tone shades throughout except one scene where she's struggling with her "demons" and in that scene she wears white against an astonishingly vibrant turquoise/teal background. And I won't even talk about the furs, you can imagine.

Word on the street is that Banana Republic has come with a collection of clothing and accessories inspired by the movie, (I was a bit disappointed there) and 1928 also just released the Venetian Pearl Collection inspired by the film( the clothing might be better I think).

We loved the pieces at Goddess Findings which are beautifully remeniscent of the time of Imperial Russia and French Haute Coutre (both influences in the film)- check these tidbits out!

Buy now

Purchase or More Info

Purchase Info

Purchase or Look here!

Purchase and More Info

And Chanel Joaillerie can be found here-- where you can also create your own closet by clicking the covet button!

Black Opal

noreply@blogger.com (Goddess Findings) — Sat, 01 Dec 2012 00:20:00 +0000

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Black Opal
Black opal’s magical properties are based in the stone’s absorption of all colors. The stone’s extensive qualities makes it possible to charge it with energies necessary for magical spells. Wear a black opal to aid astral projection and to protect you in your astral travels. The stone leans toward the energy of Neptune, deepening our intuitive knowledge of who we are and the experience of feeling connected to the creator of the universe. It is said that if you dream of Opals, you will receive great possessions.

Metaphysical Properties:
Astrological Sign(s): Scorpio
Chakra(s): Stimulates the root and links it with the crown chakra
Vibration: 8
(via venusmilk)

Bauble of the Day: Lakshmi Cuff with Sword Closure by Dannijo

noreply@blogger.com (Goddess Findings) — Tue, 20 Nov 2012 16:30:00 +0000

ShopBop has some pretty cool findings I must say-- here's Dannijo's Lakshmi Cuff with Sword Closure in gold plate. Donning the right bauble can put a completely different spin on things!

Via

I think it's fabulous to design a piece of jewelry around a goddess, as it's a way we can bring a little of that awesomeness into our own sphere effortlessly.

Lakshmi in Sanskrit is derived from its elemental form lakS, meaning "to perceive or observe". This is synonymous with lakṣya, meaning "aim" or "objective". In Hindu sacred texts, the Vedas call Mahalakshmi Lakshyayidhi Lakshmihi which means she is the one who has the object and aim of uplifting mankind.

Forms of Wealth Mother Lakshmi Bestows:

Fame, knowledge, courage and strength, victory, good children, valor, gold and gems, abundant grains, happiness, bliss, intelligence, beauty, higher thinking and meditations, ethics and morality, good health, and a long life.

LAKSHMI AFFIRMATION

"Divine Earth Mother, bless us all. Show us the ways of love that we may heal our selves and our beloved planet."

If you love an armful of bangley bling as much as I do, check out the arm party club at Dannijo!

Goddess Inspiration

noreply@blogger.com (Goddess Findings) — Tue, 13 Nov 2012 02:25:00 +0000

There is nothing for you to go back and live over, or fix, or feel regret about now. Every part of your life has unfolded just right. And so —now — knowing all that you know from where you now stand, now what do you want? The answers are now coming forth to you. Go forth in joy, and get on with it.

-Abraham

Bauble of the Day: Fluttery Breath of Life Necklace

noreply@blogger.com (Goddess Findings) — Sat, 10 Nov 2012 15:42:00 +0000

Fluttery Breath of Life? Darn that's a great name for a necklace.

And butterflies? Well say no more.

This necklace by a Turkish artist takes butterflies to another level though, don't you agree?

Would you wear it? I would absolutely. Who could possibly resist?

(Maybe only those who prefer hippos- hey none of that--hippos are hip. Seriously remember this one?)

I would order one in shades of blue, sea green, indigo and pale pink. Kinda just like this one. And I wouldn't wait til spring to wear it.

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Butterflies have always and forever symbolized transformation. Throughout history, all over the world they have been a powerful symbol in myth and religion.

In early Christianity it was the symbol of the soul. In China, it was used as a symbol of conjugal bliss and joy. There has long been an association in folklore of a relationship between the Fairie Realm and butterflies. In the Hopi tradition, unmarried girls of the butterfly clan wore their hair in the shape of butterfly wings. In Indian lore there are stories about how butterflies come when called by children of the Nez Perce tribe.

To the Native Americans, butterflies area symbol of change. When butterfly shows up, make note of the most important issues confronting you at the moment--what stage are you in in regard to it? Take a moment and reflect on what you wish the outcome to be, and how to best accomplish it.

Look at how much or little joy is in your life. Lighten up. If there is an opportunity to make a change, do it. Transformation is inevitable, but growth from it does not have to be traumatic.

It can occur as gently and as sweetly as we desire it.

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I leave you with some of these exquisite wagashi~ little bejeweled Japanese sweets that look like glowing gemstones to make your transformation as sweet and glimmering as you'd like. Japanese wagashi is a whole other story, click on the via link under the photo for more sublime examples of these tiny, edible works of art.

Sandy: How You Can Help

noreply@blogger.com (Goddess Findings) — Tue, 06 Nov 2012 21:59:00 +0000

Fantastic article offering information on how to contact 9 excellent venues to donate time, money, or prayers to those affected by Superstorm Sandy. Blessings for the upcoming holiday season.

Crisis ALWAYS preceeds every transformation.

Let this be an opportunity for all, and let all see this as golden gift for shift and progress, because no matter how it looks, no matter how it feels, that's what it really is. Love love and more love to all.

Click HERE for the article.

Emeralds of the Mogul Empire

noreply@blogger.com (Goddess Findings) — Tue, 06 Nov 2012 16:51:00 +0000

I have an amazing treasure for you today! Are you familiar with The Mogul emerald? I've got the goods on it.

Breathtaking Mogul emerald

Now remember, India in the 1700's was called the Mogul Empire (there's a map coming up) so naturally, there are many Mogul emeralds, but this gorgeous one in particular because of it's carving is widely regarded as a symbol of the greatest cultural, literary and artistic achievements attained by India during the golden period of Mughal, which also gave us the Taj Mahal, and other architectural master pieces.

This emerald, called "The Mogul" emerald is a magnificent carved emerald, with a rich history, belonging to the period of the last of the four great Mughal Emperors of India. This piece is associated with Aurangzeb who reigned between 1658 and 1707, but is not named after him because his name is not found in the inscription. Note, although this emerald did end up in India, the emerald material itself is Colombian in origin.

Emperor Aurangzeb holding court seated on a golden throne.Shaista Khan stands behind prince Muhammad Azam. The Emperor is holding a hawk with his right hand.

Why and how did India end up with emeralds from Columbia?

Most of the emeralds of the Mogul Empire did come from Columbia, but there is some research that indicates a small quantity may also have been from Afghanistan as well. In spite of the opulence of European monarchies, the real concentration of wealth of the world at that time was found in the courts of Mogul in India. For this reason, it is speculated that Spanish colonialists who controlled the emeralds mines of Colombia preferred to send a significant quantity of the annual production of emeralds to the courts of the Mogul empire rather than the courts of Europe. Spain though had first dibs on the goods and here's how it went.

Emeralds mined in Columbia in the historic mines of Muzo, Somondoco and Cosquez were loaded on to the Spanish Galleons that continued on to Panama for gold and silver, then Havana Cuba for other exported goodies like silks and perfumes from China, before sailing through the straits of Florida back to Spain to arrive home just before hurricane season. The Royal family of Spain took what they wanted of the emeralds, and while the remainder was exported to other countries in Europe, much of the loot was imported to the three Islamic monarchies of the Middle East and India: the Ottoman, Persian, and Mogul Empires. Emeralds bound for the Mogul Empire (India) would have been carried by vessels around the Cape and across the Indian Ocean and Arabian Sea to ports on the west coast of the Indian sub-continent,although there were other routes as well.

Street Scene in India (about 1884–1888, Edwin Lord Weeks) depicts traders purchasing copper in a bazaar. Painting housed in the Renwick Gallery in Washington, D.C.

How did these jewels get to the West?

War of course! War in two phases. The first of it happened when the Iranian conqueror Nadir Shah and his forces sacked Delhi and Agra in 1739. They carried away an enormous booty that included most of the crown jewels of the Mughal empire.

Nader Shah's portrait from the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. He was born in 1688 or 1698 and reigned from 1736–1747.

Back home about ten years later, poor Nadir Shah was assassinated by his own bodyguards and most of the jewels in the Iranian treasury were stolen by his commanders and close associates. The Mughal emerald and other treasures fell into the hands of ordinary soldiers and were never recovered. Eventually and somehow, they did appeared in the capital of western nations, possibly through Istanbul, in Turkey.

Next, with the decline of the Mughal empire in the mid 1800's and the subsequent rise of British Raj, the entire Mughal treasury was looted again- with most of the valuable jewels and jewelry falling again into the hands of rampaging British soldiers. Thus, most of the stolen jewelry eventually ended up in London and other capital cities of Europe. Many sources indicate that this is how Mughal emerald somehow it reached Paris.

Bahadur Zafar Shah II - Last Mughal Emperor of India

There is a mysterious time lapse here in the records where we don't know exactly what happened, or how it got back to India, so sorry for this fuzzy area here, but I read that Allan Caplan, (1913-1998) supposedly acquired the renowned gemstone during one of his many trips to India where it was again, offered for sale.

Mogul Emerald remained with Allan Caplan until his death in 1998, and was sold by his heir in the year 2001, when the stone was entrusted to Christie's for the sale. The gemstone fetched a record price of 2.2 million dollars at this auction. It is reported that the gemstone is now in the Museum of Islamic Art of the Independent Emirate of Qatar.

Carving Emerald is tricky!

During the Mogul period in India, the art of engraving on emeralds and other precious stones including diamond (much more difficult than emerald) achieved a high level of craftsmanship and precision. The hardness of emeralds is 7.5 to 8.0 on the Mohs scale, which is quite high, but in spite of its hardness, emerald is a delicate stone because the characteristic presence of many inclusions--even the best stones are known for them. This is why cutting emeralds is so incredibly difficult even for the most skilled gem-cutter. Raw crystals are very expensive so the stakes are very high. The Mogul emerald is one of the largest of all inscribed emeralds and the only known carved and dated emerald of the classic Mogul period, so it has become a sort of standard for dating all other Indian carved emeralds. By the way, the emerald-cut which is a rectangular or square shaped step-cut with beveled corners was specially developed by gem cutters not only to bring out the intrinsic beauty of the gemstone, but also to protect it from mechanical strain.

Today, engraving like this is done with a fullerite pen or by laser technology. The Mughal craftsman had used a material harder than diamond to achieve this rare feat, but modern-day researches have not been able to uncover the precise material used for this purpose. Some examples of diamonds engraved with Arabic inscriptions are the Shah Diamond, the Akbar-shah/Jehangir Shah diamond, and the Taj Mahal Diamond.

What exactly are the specs for The Mogul Emerald?

COLOR
Mogul Emerald is of Colombian origin with a dark green color weighing 217.80 carats. Emerald falls under the category of silicates and belongs to the beryl family. Pure beryl is actually colorless and called Goshenite, and so, the color of beryls (including rubies, sapphires, aquamarines) result from the presence of minerals. This deep-green color of emerald is actually caused by chromium and the paler green colors caused by vanadium.

SHAPE and INSCRIPTION
The emerald has been deliberately cut by the Indian cutters and polishers of the period, as a table-cut, rectangular shaped gemstone, with two parallel flat rectangular faces, with intricate floral designs on one side and beautiful Arabic calligraphy in the Naksh script on the other. The dimensions of the emerald are 52 x 40 x 12 mm, and the mid-point of each of the four sides of the rectangle has been drilled for attachments, so that the gemstone could be mounted and worn as a talisman, with the Arabic inscriptions facing outwards.The inscription represents an invocation of the Shia sect of Islam invoking the blessings of God, the Holy Prophet Muhammad and the twelve Imams that followed after him.

*all photos of Mogul emerald courtesy of Christie's

TRANSLATION
According to Internet Stones, the translation of the Arabic invocation into English reads as follows :-

Line 1 - Yah Rahman - Oh merciful one! Yah Raheem - Oh compassionate one! Yah Allah - Oh God!Allah-humma salli ala Muhammad wa Ali - God bless Muhammad and Ali
Line 2 - Wa Fathima wa al-Hassan wa Hussain wa Ali - and Fatimah and al-Hassan and al-Hussain and Ali
Line 3 - Wa Muhammad wa Ja'far wa Musa - and Muhammad and Ja'far and Musa
Line 4 - 11.V - 1107, Wa Ali wa Muhammad wa Ali - and Ali and Muhammad and Ali
Line 5 - Wal Hussain wal Mahdi al ka'hirah - and al-Hussain and the steadfast Mahdi

The 12 Imams (Leaders of the faith) of Shia Islam after the death of Prophet Muhammad are :-

1) Imam Ali Ibn Abu Ta'lib (4th Caliph of Islam) 2) Imam Hassan (son of Ali) 3) Imam Hussein (son of Ali) 4) Imam Ali Zain-al-abdeen 5) Imam Muhammad al-Baqir 6) Imam Ja'far as-Sādiq 7) Imam Mūsa al-Kazim 8) Imam Ali al-Ridā 9) Imam Muhammad al-Jawād 10) Imam Ali al-Hādi 11) Imam Hassan al-Askari 12) Muhammad al-Mahdi al-Hujjah.

The names given are the names appearing on the invocation carved on the emerald and are names of 12 Imams in the chronological order in which they succeeded one another. The invocation bears only the first name of each Imam, except for the 12th Imam Muhammad al-Mahdi al-Hujjah, whose name appears as Mahdi, which in Arabic means the "divinely guided one." Muhammad al-Mahdi al-Hujjah is also known as Muhammad al-Muntazar, the hidden Imam, as the Shia Muslims believe that in the year 878 A.D. the Imam disappeared without any trace. His material body is believed to have transformed into the spiritual world and shall remain hidden until a few years before the day of judgment, when it is said he will re-appear as a messianic deliverer known as the Mahdi, who is hoped will fill the earth with justice and equity, restore true religion, and usher in a short golden age lasting about seven years before the end of the world.


Floral pattern on the reverse side of the Mogul emerald

The reverse side of the emerald-tablet is carved with floral and foliate decorations, typical of the naturalistic decoration of the period, reflecting the Mughal love of nature. The decoration consists of a central rosette, with a single large poppy flower with basal foliage leaves on either side, situated above and below, with a line of three smaller poppy flowers with basal foliage leaves, on either side. The edges of the rectangular faces are carved right round with cross pattern incisions.

Allan Caplan, acquired the renowned gemstone during one of his many trips to India where it was offered for sale.

Allan Caplan married Miss Brazil while over there, but they were later divorced with no children.

Mogul Emerald remained with Allan Caplan until his death in 1998, and was sold by his heir in the year 2001, when the stone was entrusted to Christie's for the sale. The gemstone fetched a record price of 2.2 million dollars at this auction. It is reported that the gemstone is now in the Museum of Islamic Art of the Independent Emirate of Qatar.

Here are some other examples of Mogul carved emeralds....

Moghul emerald and diamond necklace and pendant

Agra Emerald - Programa Royal Collection

*Mogul, Moghul, Mughal, all terms for the same thing, are used throughout interchangeably. My apologies if that's bad form, it's just the differences from the Persian translation and typical English usage spelling.

Speechless Blessings after Sandy

noreply@blogger.com (Goddess Findings) — Sat, 03 Nov 2012 18:16:00 +0000

Haven't managed to put anything together that adequately conveys my thoughts on the recent upheaval that was Sandy. But it will come. I've actually written pages and pages, but none of it can be published yet.

So, instead, for now, I will offer my thoughts and prayers... what affects one affects us all. Things are forever changed for many who lost their homes, for those of us who have deep ties to the areas affected, and for the magical, iconic city of New York.

This I know, from the ashes we all will rise. It may take time, but it will all reimerge and heal.

In this difficult meantime, let Grace be present for all.

When you are in tune with the unknown,

the known is peaceful.

Halloween Cauldron of Haunted Jewels

noreply@blogger.com (Goddess Findings) — Sat, 27 Oct 2012 17:35:00 +0000

Halloween Party Fun!

Well, hello enchanted ones!

So pleased to meet you.

Welcome to the party at Goddess Findings!

Let me show you around my

Halloween Collection of Haunted Jewels

and other enchanting things...

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Shall we have some music?

There are so many tasty treats to whip up during this season..kitchens are so important! Have you decorate yours? This one inspires me...such down to earth simplicity...

perfect for whipping up Nigella's Roasted pumpkin with jeweled rice on a chilly October eves...

Roasted Stuffed Pumpkin with Gingery Tomato Sauce

And who know, after this post you might come away with some awesome bling to walk on the dark side with this season...I'm known for finding the most unique jewel selections for my clients... can't think of spookier bling than these haunted black diamonds....

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And of course it's the country, so all sorts of spooky things have been happening around here lately... for example, just as dusk fell last night, a single bat flew in a circle 8 pattern above my head as I stood out on the deck and the moon was rising...

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bats are amazing you know....you might have to take to wearing one around your neck...

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And wouldn't this be perfect for that new outfit?

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Or, if that's a bit too scary, what about a spider on the shoulder? Do you dare?

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Healing crystal grids are so perfect for cleansing your jewels, simply put your bauble inside the circle (take out the large center stone), and leave for as long as your intuition tells you.

This works especially well with antique or vintage jewels, unless of course, you'd like to keep the energy it's come to you with and get to know it a little!

Ghost of Marie Antoinette Necklace

But nothing beats a little vintage bling...

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I mean these jewels are enough to put a smile on anyone's face!

This year, I've gone a little crazy with the skeletons...my distressed skeleton lights are everywhere!

They are alot of company while I'm practicing!

Scary piano music by Henry Cowell "The Banshee"

Naturally, I take off all my jewelry whenever I play, it's very distracting..especially the larger pieces!

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But the time grows nigh when I must say good bye...for now...thanks for coming....I've ever so much enjoyed giving you a glimpse of my bejeweled world here, and do so hope you might return for more baubles and trinkets...

I am a bit of a gypsy here, and am always stumbling onto the most amazing confections to adore the body, mind and spirit and other kinds of secrets to enchant your stones...

am hoping the 31st brings you all good fortune your way...!

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